Whether you’re new to RVing or you’ve been traveling for years, owning an RV water bladder is an absolute necessity.
If you enjoy boondocking frequently, this lightweight and versatile tank is a clever way to store water for emergencies or dry camping. In fact, during our most recent boondocking trip, an RV water bladder allowed us to camp off-grid for 14 days without breaking camp.
Let’s delve into learning more about this exclusive form of water storage.
What Is an RV Water Bladder?
Anytime you can avoid the hassle of refilling your RV at a water station, it’s a win.
That’s where the invention of this unique device saves the day.
It removes the unnecessary stress of moving your entire rig just to obtain more water. This nifty device is made of durable plastic, so it won’t rust and is ideal for any journey.
Pro Tip: This is the exact model we use. It holds 30 gallons and easily fits on our truck bet.
What Is an RV Water Bladder Used For?
Owning an RV water bladder is a dual-purpose investment because it can store extra fresh water or refill your fresh tank while boondocking.
It’s comforting to know that whether you’re in the bare, desert sands of Arizona or the lush, scenic campgrounds along the coast of California, you’ll have your fresh water needs covered.
Types and Sizes of RV Water Bladders
When considering the types of material for storing water, you might wonder which option is best. It’s hard to know which material is safest and lightest.
Most often, an RV water bladder’s material is either polyurethane or polyethylene. Of the two types, polyethylene typically has a longer lifespan.
Regarding size and shape, the range is relatively broad. Sizing starts as small as 0.5 – 1 L increasing to 10L and up; the design typically resembles a square or rectangle. Frequently, the larger the bag’s capacity, the more likely it is to be rectangular.
Our friends, Mortons on the Move, have used an RV water bladder that holds 100 gallons!
Benefits of Using an RV Water Bladder
There are three specific advantages to using an RV water bladder while you’re camping.
First, the amount of water that this petite contraption can hold is priceless. You can forget having to leave the campground during a rainstorm at 5 AM because you’re out of water.
Second, we know how valuable space is when you’re in an RV. When not in use, you can fold the water bladder and tuck it away, thanks to its flexible material and design.
Lastly, when you can’t imagine leaving the majestic scenery of your boondocking destination, take comfort knowing you can stay longer because of your spare water bladder storage.
5 Tips for Using an RV Water Bladder
Properly sanitize the water bladder. Before using your RV water bladder, it is essential to sanitize it properly to eliminate any bacteria or contaminants that may be present. You can do this by using a mixture of water and bleach and let it sit in the bladder for at least an hour. Afterward, rinse it out thoroughly with clean water.
Fill it up properly. When filling up the water bladder, ensure that you do not overfill it, as this may cause it to burst or leak. The recommended fill level is typically indicated on the bladder, so make sure to follow these guidelines.
Secure it properly. Make sure that the water bladder is properly secured and anchored in place to prevent it from shifting during travel. A loose bladder can cause damage to the RV and cause water spillage.
Monitor water usage. To avoid running out of water unexpectedly, monitor your water usage and be mindful of how much water you have left in the bladder. This will help you plan for water refills accordingly.
Store it properly. When storing your RV water bladder, make sure it is empty and clean before storing it in a dry, cool, and dark place. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can cause damage to the bladder and shorten its lifespan.
How to Transport an RV Water Bladder
The size and material of your RV water bladder will ultimately determine the transportation you’ll need to use. You might be able to carry it on the floorboard of your towing vehicle or in the bed of your truck.
If you choose a heavier material, consider the increased vehicle weight and the loss of flexibility for storage purposes. A pickup truck bed is often necessary for a safe and secure travel experience.
If you don’t want a bulky, massive water bladder, there are lighter, more space-friendly choices. They’re a BPA-free, thick plastic material that’s most practical for camping and the RV lifestyle in general.
How to Fill Your Freshwater Tank from an RV Water Bladder
If you’re ready to fill your freshwater tank from the water stored in your RV bladder, you’re probably facing a conundrum. How do you get the water from your storage bladder into the tank? It’ll likely be too heavy to lift, and you don’t want to waste water while you’re transferring it.
You have a few choices for transferring the water. Your first option is to use a water pump. You’ll attach the pump to your RV battery and use a hose to transfer the liquid.
You might also try using a drill pump. You can purchase a drill attachment water pump. You’ll hook it to a battery-operated drill and a hose, and you can pump up to 25 gallons of water into your tank on a single battery charge, depending on the type of drill you have. It’s inexpensive and highly efficient.
Finally, you can use gravity to your advantage by attaching one end of the hose to the bladder and the other to the tank nozzle. Let gravity do its work for a cost-friendly way to fill your tank.
Don’t Run Out of Fresh Water: Use an RV Water Bladder
As a whole, there are many obvious benefits to investing in this handy storage container. Most, if not all RVers, regardless of how often they travel, dislike packing up and moving their rigs unless necessary.
Not many RVers enjoy hauling their rigs and running around town searching for water. Instead, spend your time doing activities you enjoy. That’s what camping in an RV is supposed to be about, right? Should you decide that an RV water bladder is a wise addition to your rig, we recommend researching and choosing the best one for you.
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