Having the right tools for RV living is essential. But, how do you know what tools to bring and what tools to leave behind?

Well – we’re here to help you with that!

After 3 years of living and traveling full time in a vintage camper, we’ve learned the essential tools for RV living. Keep in mind – everyone travels differently. These are the tools that work for us…we’d love to hear what works for you.

Before we dive too deep – let’s address a few ground rules:

1: Don’t be cheap. Buying the cheapest tool at Walmart will only frustrate you once you have to use it.

2: Don’t carry your entire sticks & bricks garage with you! This will destroy your Mile Per Gallon on a travel day.

Watch The Tools for RV Living Video

#5 Hammer

A hammer might not be the sexiest tool, but it sure does come in handy. We use the hammer for many tasks – least of which is actually nailing things. You can usually find us knocking the trailer hitch or under belly with a hammer

We like this middle-of-the-road hammer from Estwing. It’s durable and has a good grip.

It doesn’t weigh much and is easy to store!

#4 Mallet

Some tasks need just a little more finesse than a hammer can offer. In these cases we think a rubber mallet it the perfect tool.

Just like a hammer, we use the mallet pretty regularly.

Most mallets have a wooden handle – this has been an issue more than once. If you can, try to get a durable mallet like this one!

#3 Power Drill

A power drill is one of the mandatory tools for RV living. It can give you that extra elbow grease that you need to get the job done.

The hard decision is whether you carry a wired drill or a cordless drill. We prefer wired – but, we know that our RV batteries & inverter will always have enough power to operate the drill.

A battery powered drill is great because you never have a cord getting in your way. But, don’t for get to keep those batteries charged!

We use a Dewalt power drill. Here is their corded drilland here is their cordless drill.

#2 Screwdriver

This is such a boring tool! But, it is one we use so often. You don’t need me to tell you about a dang screw driver. Just take our word and bring one with you.

#1 Crowbar

We love our crowbar. It took us a year to realize we needed one, but once we bought this simple tool – our lives were much better!

The crowbar can pry anything off of our rig…and for some reason, it seems like we have to pry things off pretty often.

Get this classic crowbar for your RV life.

BONUS TOOL

OK – so this isn’t a tool, but it will help you with your late night repairs. These Eastwood LED Lights are perfect for working on your truck or your RV. They have a magnetic base for easy placement and use!

10 Gifts for RVers

With holiday season right around the corner – here’s a list to help you find the perfect gift for the RVer you love!