How to Choose the Right Accessories for Your Motorhome

To get the most out of the motorhome lifestyle you’ll need to make sure you’ve got the right accessories. These are items that’ll enhance your comfort (the most important thing, of course) but they’ll also address the practical challenges you’ll face. From making sure your motorhome is stable when parked on uneven ground to having hot water for your morning brew, a suite of well-selected extras will elevate your experience.

There are many essential accessories available at our Accessory Store, and we’ve previously written about 50 of our favourite specific products. Here, in this edition of our blog, is our general on how to choose the right accessories to make sure your motorhome travels are safe, comfortable and highly enjoyable.

• Levelling blocks

You’ve arrived at your campsite or stop location after a long drive and you’re ready to chill out or even go to bed, but the ground you’re parked on is actually uneven. When this happens it’s not just uncomfortable, it can affect the overall stability of your motorhome and prevent the fridge from working properly, which relies on being level. It’ll also probably affect your sleep! To solve this problem, levelling blocks are a must. These portable ramps are really simple to use and allow you to park your motorhome on sloped or uneven surfaces and keep everything level. They come in a variety of designs, from simple wedge blocks to more complex multi-tiered systems.

• Wheel chocks

While levelling blocks keep your motorhome stable, it’s also very important to make sure it stays absolutely secure when it’s parked, especially if you’re on an incline. This is where wheel chocks come in. Chocks are placed behind or in front of the wheels of the vehicle to prevent any unintended rolling. A good pair of chocks provides extra safety and gives peace of mind that your motorhome will remain stationary.

• Water hose / pump

Access to fresh water is essential when travelling in a motorhome. Most campsites have water hook-ups, so a reliable water hose is crucial to fill up your onboard water tank. These hoses are designed specifically for potable water and come in a variety of lengths, depending on how far the water source is from your pitch. At campsites where the water pressure might be low, a water pump can come in handy. A portable, submersible version allows you to draw water easily from external sources into your tank, so it’s a great companion when facilities might be more basic. Additionally, you should always opt for a food-grade hose that won’t impart any unwanted taste to the water.

• Sat nav

In ye olden days people would navigate using the stars or the sun, but they eventually graduated to folding out giant paper maps while trying to find the right turn-off. These days, sat nav systems use the network of satellites floating in orbit above our planet to send maps and directions to sat nav systems in their vehicles. In the simplest terms possible, a sat nav system will ensure that you’re never lost, and always know exactly where you’re going.

• Solar panels

Modern motorhoming isn’t just about basic survival. It’s also about enjoying the comforts of your on the road home. For, in particular, motorhome enthusiasts who like to venture off-grid, having a reliable power source is key. Solar panels offer a truly sustainable solution, collecting and storing energy from the sun, to power your appliances and electronics. Portable or roof-mounted solar panels can keep your leisure battery charged and they will reduce your reliance on campsite hook-up electricity. You’ll be able to enjoy the freedom to explore more remote destinations, or stay away from site for much longer.

• Portable generator

Though solar panels are great for sustainable energy, they don’t always provide enough power, especially in cloudy or shaded conditions, or the power that you have collected and stored may not last long enough. This is where also having a portable generator is essential, as it offers you a vital back-up. A quiet, efficient generator can supply additional power when solar energy is insufficient, so your motorhome will remain functional even in adverse weather or during those extended stays off the grid.

• Wastewater carrier

When you’re out and about, managing wastewater is an unavoidable part of the motorhome experience. Whether the water is from the kitchen sink, shower or bathroom, grey water needs to be properly disposed of. A wastewater carrier is an essential so that you can capture grey water and transport it to a disposal point. The most efficient models of wastewater carrier can be wheeled for ease and some fold away when not in use, saving valuable space.

• Awning

Truly making the most of your living space is a real priority when it comes to the motorhome lifestyle. An awning is one of the best ways to do this as, essentially, you’re creating an extra room – a covered outdoor area where you can relax, cook and dine. Awnings come in several styles, from lightweight pull-out varieties to more substantial ‘air awnings’. Not only does an awning protect you from the elements, but it also extends your potential living space without the need for additional equipment.

• Camping chairs / table

Once your awning is up and running, make the most of it. Good camping chairs and a sturdy table turn your outdoor/indoor space into a really comfortable personal dining or lounge area. Folding models are the most suitable for motorhomes as they can be easily stored when they’re not in use. Look for furniture that’s lightweight but highly durable, as it needs to be portable, able to withstand varying weather conditions and easy to clean and maintain.

• Gas bottle and regulator

Most motorhomes rely on gas for cooking and heating (and sometimes refrigeration) so making sure that you’ve got a reliable gas bottle with a proper regulator is crucial for a hassle-free trip. Gas bottles come in various sizes, so you can choose one that meets your needs without taking up too much space. The regulator ensures gas is delivered at the correct pressure, making it safe to use with your motorhome’s appliances. You should always carry a spare gas bottle to avoid running out in the middle of a trip, especially if you’re travelling in colder climates where heating is critical.

• Portable BBQ

There’s nothing quite like dining al fresco. Enjoying a barbecue under the open sky in a beautiful location is one of the motorhome lifestyle’s special pleasures, and with a portable BBQ you can make the most of your outdoor cooking. These easy-to-store grills are perfect for motorhoming – compact enough to not take up much room and very simple to set up and use. Pick a model that suits your cooking style, whether that’s a gas, charcoal or electric barbecue (some motorhome models come with an external BBQ point so check what that supplies). Some portable BBQs even come with foldable legs and carry cases for really easy transport.

• Tyre pressure gauge / air compressor

Just like with every other vehicle, safety should always come first when you’re travelling in a motorhome. Ensuring your tyres are at the correct pressure is very important, and a tyre pressure gauge is the tool for this. It helps you check the pressure so that you can avoid under-inflated tyres (which can lead to poor fuel efficiency, difficult handling or even potentially dangerous blow-outs). For convenience, a portable air compressor will allow you to adjust tyre pressure when you’re out and about and don’t have access to a larger version. Many small air compressor models can be powered via a cable which inserts into your motorhome’s 12V socket.

• Motorhome security

When you’re on the road, the safety and security of your vehicle (and the contents within it) are paramount concerns. Getting security devices will help deter thieves and will give you some peace of mind. Options for security include things like steering wheel locks, wheel clamps and alarm systems designed specifically for motorhomes. You could also consider a tracking device that allows you to locate your motorhome in the event it’s stolen, for an added layer of security. Making sure your motorhome is kitted out with the right accessories can make all the difference between a stressful trip and a smooth, enjoyable adventure. From the practical items we’ve included in this edition of our blog, like levelling blocks and water hoses, to lifestyle enhancers, like solar panels and awnings, accessories can ensure you’re ready for anything the open road offers up. Before you set off on your next trip, take stock of what you need and make sure to invest in quality from our Accessory Shop!