Now that you've bought an RV, you may want to consider some aftermarket upgrades for the exterior of your RV to add both comfort and convenience. While some of these items should be considered before you roll off the dealership lot, others can be added as you gain experience traveling, helping you decide which are the most useful to you. Sometimes, even the little upgrades can make a big difference in your camping experience.
If you aren’t particularly handy, don’t worry! Your dealership or local service center can help you with the purchase and installation of the more complex items on this list. If you decide on some aftermarket RV modifications before finalizing your purchase, your dealer may offer service center discounts and the benefit of rolling the costs into your financing.
10 Great RV Aftermarket Upgrades for Your Exterior
1) Sway Control Bars and Weight Distribution Hitch
- For most RVs towing a travel trailer, the first aftermarket upgrade is a proper weight distribution hitch with sway bars, as these may be essential for towing your new rig home. They add essential stability for the safety of yourself and others on the road. Weight distribution hitches help keep your trailer level by distributing the weight across the trailer and tow vehicle axles for a smoother tow experience. Sway control bars help reduce side-to-side movement caused by crosswinds and passing vehicles. This also improves handling and security.
- Recommend Product: Blue Ox
2) Camera System
- Another of the most important upgrades you can immediately make is to add a backup camera, if one didn’t come pre-installed. These are essential for backing into camping spots and for navigating tight spaces while driving. While back-up cameras are primarily focused behind the RV, a full observation system allows you to monitor the side of your RV, eliminating blind spots. Some models can be used as a security system for added protection while your RV is parked. A variety of models are available, with amenities such as night vision, LED marker lights, motion detection, and large monitors.
- Recommended Product: Furrion
3) Keyless Entry
- Never worry about lost or misplaced keys again. Keyless entry units allow you to use a passcode for entry. Many electronic models light up when in use, making it easier to enter your RV at night. A variety of models are available to fit almost any RV. Many users are pleasantly surprised by the ease of installation. These are also helpful if you’re traveling with older kids and want them to have independent access to the RV, without the need to carry keys.
- Recommended Product: RVLock
4) Solar Power
- Let go of the power-cord tether by adding a solar power system to your RV. This increases your opportunity to camp off-grid by adding an additional way to power your essentials. Solar power is much quieter than a generator. Plus, you can keep your house batteries charged while in storage (as long as you are in a sunny location). A variety of solutions exist to help you create a system that best fits your RV, your needs, and your budget. Some RVs come pre-wired for plug-and-play solar power systems, while others may need electrical work.
- Recommended Product: Go Power!
5) Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- A tire pressure monitoring system can help you keep an eye on one of the most important pieces of your RV by alerting you if you lose pressure. Some also monitor the tire temperature. Real-time data can be instantly reported to your phone, allowing you to get off the road safely before you encounter a problem. This inexpensive aftermarket upgrade adds an immeasurable level of safety.
- Recommended Product: Lippert Tire Linc® PRO
6) Permanent Jack Pads
- Permanent jack pads make it quicker and easier to set up your RV by eliminating the need to carry and use extra leveling pads. With their increased surface area, they also add more stability, preventing your jacks from sinking into soft surfaces. This is an inexpensive DIY aftermarket upgrade that adds convenience.
- Recommended Product: SnapPad
7) Premium Steps
- If your RV comes with the traditional fold-out steps, consider upgrading to premium steps offering more stability and deeper treads. While traditional steps hang from the RV, premium stairs offer adjustable legs that anchor to the ground to reduce the amount of bounce. Deeper treads provide more space for your feet to solidly land, increasing the steadiness
- Recommended Product: MORryde Step Above RV Entry Steps or Lippert Solid Steps
8) Grab Handle
- Another way to add stability to your RV entrance is with a grab bar. These can be installed in minutes and offer a secure way to balance yourself while using the stairs. When not in use, the handle folds against the side of RV.
- Recommended Product: Camco Grab Handle
9) Towing Locks
- Security locks are a tiny-but-mighty upgrade. Hitch locks can help secure the trailer to your hitch to prevent decoupling and to reduce the chance of theft. Trailer wheel locks also help prevent theft while your RV is in storage or at a campsite. Protect your investment by properly outfitting it with locks.
- Recommended Product: CURT
10) Propane Tank Covers
- While some RVs come with propane tank covers, others do not. These help protect your exterior propane tanks from the elements and from road debris while towing. Plus, a cover adds visual appeal by hiding away unattractive tanks. These come in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes.
- Recommend Product: Camco Propane Tank Covers
