Outdoor

Steps to Mobile Living: Essential Camper Accessories for Life on the Road

September 25, 2023 — by Richard Dawson

Are you eager to embark on outdoor adventures with your campervan, but find yourself uncertain about the essential accessories that can truly elevate your life on the road? Rest assured, we understand the excitement and challenges of mobile living, and we’re here to guide you through the process. 
In this guide, we’ve curated a comprehensive collection of must-have accessories that will not only enhance your journey but also make every moment on the road more enjoyable and convenient. Whether you’re a seasoned road-tripper or a novice camper, keep reading to uncover valuable insights that will ensure your camper is equipped with the right tools for an unforgettable mobile lifestyle. 

Camper Awnings 

camper awnings
Source: Pexels

Camper awnings are a pivotal accessory for those embracing the nomadic lifestyle on wheels. These retractable shelters extend your living space, providing shade and a cozy outdoor environment while on the road. Choosing the right awning requires careful consideration of various factors, from your travel style to the awning’s features and compatibility.
Begin by assessing your travel habits. Are you a weekend warrior seeking short getaways, or an avid explorer embarking on lengthy journeys? Your travel frequency and duration will influence the type of awning best suited for your needs.
For example, you can buy roll-out camper awnings as they offer a range of benefits for outdoor enthusiasts. Providing essential shelter from the elements, these awnings quickly transform into a comfortable oasis, shielding you from the sun, rain, and wind. Their easy setup, often utilising retractable or telescoping mechanisms, ensures hassle-free deployment. 
The versatility of roll-out awnings, compatible with various vehicles like camper vans and trailers, makes them an ideal choice for enhancing your outdoor camping experience. They extend your usable living space, creating room for relaxation, cooking, and socialising while maintaining a well-ventilated environment. When selecting a roll-out caravan awning, consider your specific needs and preferences. Manual awnings require your physical effort to set up and are budget-friendly, making them suitable if you’re comfortable with hands-on operation. 
On the other hand, motorised awnings enhance your convenience with electric mechanisms, ideal for hassle-free operation. However, keep in mind that motorised options might demand more maintenance due to their electrical components. Assess your budget, desired level of automation, and willingness to maintain before deciding which type of awning best suits you and your camping style.
Before you purchase any RV awnings, you also need to evaluate the dimensions of your camper and the available mounting space. Ensure the awning size complements your RV’s size without hindering mobility. Additionally, consider the awning’s fabric material. High-quality materials such as vinyl or acrylic-coated polyester provide durability against weather elements.

Levelling Blocks

Levelling blocks are essential for stabilising your camper on uneven terrain, ensuring comfort and functionality. They provide a solid foundation, preventing rocking and maintaining appliances’ optimal performance. Level surfaces enhance sleep quality, prevent water pooling, and support slide-out sections. 
When purchasing levelling blocks, consider weight capacity, material durability (plastic, rubber, or wood), adjustability, surface grip, ease of use, and storage. Some sets even include ramps or chocks for added convenience. 
It’s beneficial to look for blocks that offer multiple height options to accommodate different levelling requirements. Also, make sure that they are compatible with the type and size of your caravan’s tires. 

Outdoor Chairs and Tables

camper awnings
Source: Pexels

Outdoor chairs and tables enrich your life on the road by creating comfortable and functional spaces for relaxation, dining, and socialising. They transform campgrounds into cozy havens, allowing you to fully embrace the outdoor lifestyle. 
When selecting outdoor furniture, consider portability, durability, and weather resistance. Opt for lightweight, foldable designs that fit your camper’s storage space. Look for materials like aluminium or weather-resistant woods, ensuring longevity in diverse conditions. 
Moreover, look for adjustable features, cup holders, and easy setup to enhance convenience. Prioritise comfort and aesthetics to create an inviting outdoor area that can improve your driving experience, making each stop a delightful place to unwind and connect with the natural world.

Portable Grills and Stoves

Portable grills and stoves are must-have accessories for mobile living. They offer versatility, letting you prepare a variety of meals while embracing outdoor cooking. The cost-effectiveness is noteworthy, allowing you to save money by cooking your own meals. 
Plus, the ability to make healthier food choices is a great advantage. These compact appliances are designed for convenience, making them easy to transport and store. Cooking outdoors becomes a social activity, fostering connections with fellow travellers. 
To select the best product, consider fuel type, size, cooking capacity, cleaning, and durability. Opt for a portable grill and stove that can amplify your on-the-road experience, adding flavour, convenience, and social interaction to your outdoor lifestyle.

Solar Panels and Water Filters

camper awnings
Source: Pexels

Solar panels and water filters are indispensable accessories for outdoor living. Solar panels provide sustainable energy, liberating you from traditional power sources. Water filters ensure clean, safe hydration regardless of your water source. 
To select appropriate filters, consider filtration type, flow rate, portability, maintenance, compatibility, and certifications. Similarly, you can choose the best solar panels by figuring out how much power you need, assessing your budget, checking the available space, going for trusted brands, and installing them securely on your RV’s roof or elsewhere.

RV GPS or Navigation System

Having an RV GPS or navigation system significantly enriches your RV living experience by providing specialised routes tailored to your RV’s size, helping you avoid low bridges and narrow roads. It offers real-time traffic updates, locates RV-friendly campsites, and assists in finding amenities, making travel safer, more efficient, and stress-free.
To select the appropriate RV GPS or navigation system, prioritise features like RV-specific routing, real-time traffic updates, and RV-friendly points of interest. A user-friendly interface, regular updates, suitable screen size, effective mounting options, clear voice guidance, and offline capabilities are crucial considerations. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from other RV enthusiasts can help you make an informed decision, ensuring a smoother and safer journey on the road.

Camping Lights

camper awnings
Source: Pexels

Whether you’re preparing meals, reading, or simply enjoying the evening outdoors, camping lights significantly contribute to your comfort, convenience, and safety during your adventures. They provide vital illumination for safe movement inside and around your RV, enhancing visibility during evenings.
Additionally, they create a warm ambience, turning your caravan into a comfortable haven. You should consider getting LED options as they’re energy-efficient with extended battery life or opt for rechargeable flashlights for greater convenience and long-term cost savings.

Final Words

Mobile living can be a wonderful adventure, an experience that you can enhance simply by investing in these essential caravan accessories. From awnings and lighting to outdoor furniture and grills, each of these items serves a vital purpose in improving your life on the road. 
By following the steps we have provided, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and select the ideal accessories that align with your needs and camping style. So, choose wisely, embrace the nomadic lifestyle, and enjoy the open road!