When you’re getting ready to hit the road in your RV, it’s important to be prepared for potential issues. From broken seals to tire blowouts, many common RV repairs are preventable. However, sometimes you need to handle a quick fix on the road. In this guide, we provide our top items you need to include while packing your RV tool kit!

RV Tool Kit Essentials

It’s always a smart idea to pack a tool kit in your RV, regardless of skill level. An RV tool kit is important to have available in case minor issues need to be addressed. Although it may be unlikely you’ll even need it, having it on hand will provide some peace of mind on the road!

Keep in mind that a more advanced RV tool kit will include specialized items that would not be necessary for an everyday auto or general repairs.  For example, additional material for awning repairs would be smart to keep available. Additionally, full-time RVers and boondocking enthusiasts may prefer to address repairs and maintenance themselves, so they may need a greater selection of tools. For the average RV traveler, here are our top 8 essentials to include in your RV tool kit:

1. Screwdriver

Screwdrivers are essential for dismantling and tightening a broad range of components and appliances. Dismantling allows the user to investigate and troubleshoot problem areas. Be sure to include both flathead and Phillips head attachments.

2. Wrench & Socket Set

A wrench serves a similar purpose to a screwdriver, allowing the user to loosen and tighten components that require attention. Consider including a set of open-ended wrenches in order to set custom sizes. Wrenches are especially important for RVs with slide-outs, as they are prone to issues that can be resolved with a wrench.

3. Pliers

Pliers are important for working with wire and small metal components, providing the leverage needed to work them into place. Pliers can bend objects that would otherwise be difficult or painful to work by hand.

4. Cordless Drill

Although this item may be the costliest in this list, a cordless drill and assorted drill bits are important for addressing many minor issues in a timely manner. Cordless drills allow for ease of operation without being limited by a cord. We recommend finding a drill kit that includes two rechargeable batteries to alternate between. If you’re comfortable with a cordless drill, it is worth the investment.

5. Hammer

A hammer is essential for many simple fixes. In addition to driving nails into wood, hammers are helpful for tasks involving driving, shaping, breaking, or striking various objects.

6. Tape Measure

A tape measure is an inexpensive, essential tool useful for aiding in simple repairs, renovation projects, and even crafts. Tape measures are portable, capable of extending a long, flexible ruler with a small hook at the end. Consider a carpentry-grade tape measure for longer length and greater durability.

7. Assorted Adhesive Materials

The quickest fixes can be addressed with seals and adhesive of various kinds. Sealant and caulk will help fix any damaged seals or temporarily mitigate leaks. Duct tape and plumbing tape are great to have on hand: duct tape creates a solid temporary hold, and a strip of plumbing tape could easily save a road trip.

8. Assorted Small Parts

Small parts sometimes need replacement due to corrosion. It’s a good idea to include nuts, bolts, screws, and nails of various sizes in an RV tool kit.

Other Basic Tool Kit Items to Consider

For handy RVers, many additional tools may be helpful to keep in your RV tool kit. These include ratchets, Allen wrenches, a rubber mallet, torque wrench, air compressor, caulk gun, and jacks and blocks for trailers. For handling electronic repairs, consider keeping a pair of wire cutters or crimpers, various connectors and fuses, spare wire, bulbs, electrical tape, and a voltmeter. Jumper cables and a portable battery power pack are especially important for tow vehicles.  To make sure you’re ready to hit the road, check out our complete RV packing checklist.

RV Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your RV is important for preventing breakdowns and saving money over time. Plus, it’s an important way to remain eligible for extended warranty company, as providers will not cover preexisting conditions or regular wear-and-tear. Here are some key tips for simple routine maintenance.

Inspect Seals

Inspect window, roof, and slide-out seals for dryness, gaps, cracks, or mold damage. Damaged seals may lead to water damage, which is much costlier to address than purchasing sealant and re-caulking.

Check Tires

Check tires for proper tread depth and replace as recommended, or roughly every three to five years. Inspect the sidewalls for any signs of cracking or uneven bulging. Use a pressure gauge to ensure the tires are inflated to the correct PSI as identified in the user manual. Underinflated tires can lead to blowouts, which pose a risk to passenger safety and lead to expensive repairs. Be sure to secure an emergency roadside assistance plan, along with wheel and tire protection for maximum coverage.

Change Motor Oil

For motorhome owners, change the engine oil at the interval recommended by a reputable service provider. You will need to change the oil either by a specified mileage or date—ideally whichever comes first. To know when to change or add oil without electrical indicators, conduct a depth test by reading the oil dip stick. The oil should fall between the markers on the stick. In appearance, the oil should be clear or golden. Brown motor oil indicates that it is time for a change, as it has lost its effectiveness. For those who change their own oil, be sure to use the type specified in the user manual. It will either be synthetic oil, conventional oil, or a synthetic blend.

Cover Vents & Change Filters

Keep vents covered to prevent pests and check any uncovered vents for evidence of damage or infestation. Change filters in accordance with the owner’s manual, or as recommended by a service provider. Replacing cabin air filters is an inexpensive and straightforward task to complete yourself—just follow the model specifications to know which filter you need.

Test, Recharge, & Replace RV Battery

Use a voltmeter to test the battery. The energy store should fall within a particular range specified in the owner’s manual. A weak battery may need to be recharged or replaced. For replacement, you will need to use a socket wrench and follow instructions carefully to prevent electrical discharge.

Inspect Safety Equipment

Ensure all safety equipment is functional. Test the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Locate the fire extinguisher, check for any obvious physical damage or defect, and ensure any inspection tags are up to date. Keep the fire extinguisher secured in an accessible location at all times.

Flush Wastewater System

Regularly flush out the holding tanks as recommended and, if applicable, winterize them to prepare for freezing temperatures. Comply with the appropriate dumping frequency, emptying the black water tank at approximately two-thirds capacity. Always use RV-friendly toilet paper. These maintenance rules prevent backups and clogs.

Check HVAC Systems

Check the AC, ventilation system, and water heater for functionality. Run the AC and hot water heater briefly to ensure smooth operation.

Addressing these routine maintenance items will save you money and extend the lifetime of your RV. To learn about the most common RV problems and how to address them, be sure to review our guide. Find our complete RV maintenance checklist here.

DIY RV Repairs and Extended Warranty Coverage

If you prefer to conduct your own routine maintenance, you are in luck: this will not impact your extended RV warranty coverage! As long as you are not making mechanical upgrades that impact the functionality of the vehicle, you will not void your policy.

Similarly, this flexibility enables warranty policyholders to conduct their own minor repairs as well. To ensure best practices, keep an updated record of all repair work. For major repairs, consider consulting a licensed RV repair professional.

An extended warranty will keep you covered in the event of an unexpected breakdown or defect. For matters that cannot be addressed with a tool kit, the warranty will provide protection!

Even if you never open it, there is no harm in keeping a tool kit in your RV during your travels. You can find a basic tool kit for under $100 with the option to customize it later however you see fit. The cost of a kit is worthwhile, allowing you to keep your rig intact and conduct preventative maintenance, potentially saving you money on bigger repairs.