The 7 Worst RV Accessories This Year

RV camping promises freedom, adventure, and the joy of the open road. But the RV accessory market is a minefield of gadgets and gizmos, many of which promise to revolutionize your trip but end up collecting dust in storage.

From overpriced novelties to downright impractical tools, some accessories are more trouble than they’re worth. Drawing from real RV owners’ experiences—straight from X posts—and industry insights, we’ve compiled a list of the seven worst RV accessories that you should avoid. Buckle up, and let’s dive into the gear that’s better left on the shelf.

1. Magnetic RV Door Screens: A Flimsy Promise of Bug-Free Living

Magnetic RV door screens are marketed as a must-have for keeping bugs out while letting fresh air in. These mesh screens attach to your RV’s doorframe with magnets, theoretically snapping shut after you pass through. Sounds great—until you try one. RV owners on X frequently complain about their poor durability, weak magnets, and inability to withstand even mild wind.

One X user, @RVRoadie22, posted in June 2024: “Bought a $50 magnetic screen for my RV door. Lasted one trip before the magnets fell off and the mesh tore. Total waste!” This sentiment echoes across RV forums and X threads, where users report screens ripping after a few uses or failing to seal properly, letting bugs sneak through. The magnets often lose strength quickly, especially in humid or dusty environments common to campgrounds.

The bigger issue? Installation can be a hassle. Many screens require precise fitting, and if your RV doorframe isn’t perfectly flat, gaps form. For a product averaging $30–$60, the lack of durability is a dealbreaker. Instead, consider a retractable screen door, which costs more upfront ($100–$200) but offers sturdier construction and easier operation. If you’re on a budget, a simple tension-rod curtain with fine mesh works just as well for half the price.

2. RV Toilet Tank Treatments: Overpriced Chemicals That Don’t Deliver

RV toilet tank treatments—liquids, pods, or powders designed to break down waste and control odors—are a staple in RV camping. Brands like Camco and Thetford dominate the market, but many RVers find these products overhyped and overpriced. A single bottle can cost $10–$20 for just a few uses, and X users often question their effectiveness.

In a March 2025 X thread, @CampLife4Us wrote: “Why do I bother with these tank treatments? $15 for a bottle that barely lasts a week, and the smell is still there. Baking soda works better.” This frustration is common, with users noting that treatments often fail to eliminate odors in hot weather or during extended trips. Some even report clogs or residue buildup in their black tanks, which can lead to costly repairs.

The science behind these treatments is shaky. Most rely on enzymes or chemicals to break down waste, but studies from RV industry blogs like RVLife suggest that proper tank maintenance—regular flushing and adequate water use—matters more than additives. Environmentally, these products raise concerns, as many contain formaldehyde or other chemicals that can harm septic systems at campgrounds.

For a cheaper, greener alternative, many RVers swear by a DIY mix of baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap. A quick search on X reveals dozens of users sharing similar recipes, costing pennies per use. Save your money and skip the fancy pods.

3. Portable RV Satellite Dishes: High Cost, Low Reliability

Portable satellite dishes promise to bring TV and internet to remote campsites, but their high cost and spotty performance make them a frequent target of RVer complaints. Brands like Winegard and King sell these dishes for $300–$600, plus monthly subscription fees for satellite services. Yet, X posts highlight their sensitivity to weather, trees, and setup errors.

@OffGridNomad posted in August 2024: “Spent $400 on a satellite dish for my RV. Takes an hour to set up, and one cloud kills the signal. My phone hotspot is faster.” This reflects a common issue: satellite dishes require a clear line of sight to the sky, which is tough in forested campgrounds. Misaligning the dish by even a few degrees can result in no signal, and setup often involves trial and error with a compass or app.

For occasional campers, the cost-to-use ratio is abysmal. A $500 dish used a few times a year doesn’t justify the investment, especially when alternatives like mobile hotspots or streaming services are more reliable. Starlink, while expensive ($599 upfront plus $120/month), has gained traction among RVers for its plug-and-play setup and stronger signal, as noted in X discussions from early 2025. If TV is a must, a simple digital antenna ($20–$50) can pick up local channels in many areas without the hassle.

4. RV Solar Shower Bags: Impractical and Inefficient

Solar shower bags are pitched as an eco-friendly way to get hot water off-grid. These PVC or nylon bags heat water using sunlight, typically holding 5–10 gallons and costing $15–$40. While the concept is appealing, X users and RV blogs consistently call them out for being slow to heat, prone to leaks, and awkward to use.

In a July 2024 X post, @RVWanderlust said: “Tried a solar shower bag on our last trip. Waited 4 hours for lukewarm water, then it leaked all over the campsite. Never again.” This is a recurring theme: solar bags often take hours to reach a usable temperature, especially in cloudy weather or cooler climates. The bags are also heavy when full, making them hard to hang securely without a sturdy tree or pole.

Capacity is another issue. A 5-gallon bag might sound sufficient, but it provides only a few minutes of shower time, leaving users cold and frustrated. For boondockers, a propane-powered portable water heater ($100–$200) is far more reliable, heating water on demand. Alternatively, many RVers on X recommend heating water on a camp stove and using a handheld sprayer for a budget-friendly setup.

5. RV Awning Lights: Tacky and Short-Lived

LED awning light strips are a popular accessory, promising to add ambiance to your campsite with colorful, customizable lighting. Priced at $20–$100, these strips attach to your RV’s awning or exterior, often with remote controls or app integration. But X users frequently report issues with adhesive failure, water damage, and short lifespans.

@CampfireTales posted in May 2024: “My RV awning lights looked cool for one night. Then the adhesive peeled off, and rain fried the strip. $40 down the drain.” This is a common complaint, as many budget light strips aren’t weatherproof, despite being marketed for outdoor use. Higher-end models fare better but often require complex wiring or battery packs, adding to the cost and hassle.

Aesthetically, awning lights can also annoy fellow campers. Bright or flashing LEDs disrupt the natural vibe of a campground, earning glares from neighbors. For a more durable and subtle option, solar-powered lanterns or string lights ($10–$30) provide charm without the maintenance headaches. X users often share photos of their lantern-lit campsites, proving you don’t need flashy LEDs to create a cozy atmosphere.

6. RV Leveling Blocks: Bulky and Overpriced

Leveling blocks are essential for stabilizing an RV on uneven ground, but many branded sets—like Camco’s yellow plastic blocks—are criticized for being overpriced and cumbersome. A set of 10 blocks costs $30–$50, and X users frequently complain about their bulk, weight, and tendency to crack under heavy RVs.

In a January 2025 X thread, @RVFullTimer griped: “Why are leveling blocks so expensive? Paid $40 for plastic that cracked on the first use. Cut some 2x4s instead—works better.” This highlights a key issue: the plastic used in many blocks isn’t durable enough for repeated use under heavy loads, especially for larger RVs like fifth-wheels or Class As.

Storage is another pain point. A stack of blocks takes up valuable space in an RV’s storage bay, and their awkward shape makes them hard to pack efficiently. For a fraction of the cost, DIY solutions like pressure-treated wood planks or composite decking scraps are just as effective and more durable. X users often share tips for cutting custom leveling boards, which can be tailored to your RV’s weight and tire size.

7. RV Surge Protectors: Overhyped for Most Campers

RV surge protectors are marketed as essential for safeguarding your RV’s electrical system from power surges at campgrounds. Priced at $100–$400, these devices plug into the campground’s power pedestal to monitor voltage and protect against spikes. While they sound useful, many RVers on X argue they’re unnecessary for casual campers and overpriced for the protection they offer.

@RoadTripper99 posted in April 2024: “Bought a $200 surge protector for my RV. Used it for a year, never tripped once. Feel like I wasted my money.” This reflects a broader sentiment: unless you’re camping at poorly maintained or remote campgrounds, power surges are rare. Modern RVs often have built-in surge protection, and many campgrounds have upgraded their electrical systems to meet RV standards.

For full-time RVers or those boondocking in questionable power setups, a high-quality surge protector might be worth it. But for weekend warriors, a basic power monitor ($20–$50) can alert you to voltage issues without the hefty price tag. X threads often recommend checking campground reviews for electrical reliability before investing in expensive gear.

Why These Accessories Fail the Hype

The common thread among these accessories is a mismatch between marketing promises and real-world performance. Manufacturers capitalize on RVers’ desire for convenience and comfort, but many products are poorly designed, overpriced, or redundant. X posts reveal a community of savvy campers who value practicality over gimmicks, often sharing DIY alternatives or budget-friendly substitutes.

Before buying any RV accessory, consider these tips, drawn from X discussions and RV blogs:

Research User Reviews: Check X, RV forums, and YouTube for real-world feedback. A quick search for “RV [product name] review” on X can uncover honest opinions.
Prioritize Durability: Opt for products with robust materials, especially for outdoor use. Cheap plastic or flimsy adhesives rarely last.
Test Before Committing: If possible, borrow or rent an accessory to see if it fits your needs. RV rental platforms like Outdoorsy often include accessories you can try.
Embrace Simplicity: Many X users advocate for minimalist camping, using multi-purpose tools instead of single-use gadgets.

Spend Wisely and Camp Happily

RV camping is about freedom, not frustration. The seven accessories listed here—magnetic door screens, toilet tank treatments, satellite dishes, solar shower bags, awning lights, leveling blocks, and surge protectors—often fall short of their promises, leaving RVers with lighter wallets and heavier regrets. By learning from the X community’s experiences, you can avoid these duds and invest in gear that truly enhances your adventures.

Next time you’re tempted by a shiny new RV accessory, pause and ask: Does it solve a real problem? Is it built to last? Could a cheaper alternative do the job? With a little research and a lot of skepticism, you’ll keep your RV trips hassle-free and your storage bays clutter-free. Happy camping!