Life on the road,sorted.
Buying guides and reviews for hookups, leveling, towing, off-grid power and van builds: the specs, ratings and setups that keep a camper running.
Equip your rig
Start with the job, then match the gear to your RV class, trailer weight and how far off-grid you go.
Know your rig
12 volt compressor fridges vs propane absorption RV fridges compared on power source, efficiency, leveling, cooling in heat, noise and van life use.
30 amp vs 50 amp RV hookups explained: plug types, how much power each delivers, what you can run at once, and how to use adapters safely.
Lithium iron phosphate vs AGM batteries for RVs and vans compared on usable capacity, weight, cycle life, cold charging, charging setup and upfront cost.
- 04
How to Level an RV: Blocks, Ramps, Chocks and Stabilizers
Setup
- 05
RV and Van Solar Sizing: How Many Watts Do You Need?
Solar
- 06
RV Surge Protector vs EMS: Which Do You Need?
RV electrical
- 07
RV Drinking Water Hose, Filter and Pressure Regulator Guide
RV water
- 08
Trailer Hitch Classes and Tongue Weight Explained
Towing
RV and Camper Gear questions, answered
Which fridge is best for van life?
Most van builds use a 12 V compressor fridge, because it runs from the house battery and solar and does not need propane or level parking.
Read: 12V Compressor Fridge vs RV Absorption Fridge →Can I plug a 30 amp RV into a 50 amp outlet?
Yes, with a 50-to-30 amp adapter. You still only get 30 amps, because the RV's own wiring and main breaker are rated for 30.
Read: 30 Amp vs 50 Amp RV Service →Can I drop lithium batteries into my RV?
Often, but check your converter, solar controller and alternator charging. Many need a lithium charging profile or a DC-DC charger.
Read: Lithium vs AGM RV Batteries →Can stabilizer jacks level an RV?
Most stabilizer jacks are made to steady an RV, not lift it. Level with blocks, ramps or leveling jacks first.
Read: How to Level an RV →How many solar panels do I need for an RV?
It depends on daily use and sunlight. Estimate watt-hours per day, divide by sun hours, then add a margin for losses.
Read: RV and Van Solar Sizing →Do I need a surge protector for my RV?
Campground pedestals can be miswired or deliver low voltage. A surge protector or EMS is cheap insurance for your RV's electrical system.
Read: RV Surge Protector vs EMS →Straight answers for RVers and van lifers
Every recommendation checks the ratings that matter for your RV class, trailer weight or van, using the manufacturer's published specs.
Each review says who the gear suits, who should look elsewhere, and what to know before you buy. No filler, no hedging.
Brands cannot buy a review or a spot on a list. Partner codes save you money; they never decide what we recommend.
Prices are dated, codes are updated across the site at once, and pages are revised when a product or rule changes.
The RV and camper gear index
- 01RV essentialsPower cords, surge protectors, water and sewer hoses, leveling blocks and stabilizers.4 pages
- 02TowingHitches, weight distribution, sway control, brake controllers and towing mirrors.1 page
- 03Off-grid powerSolar panels, lithium batteries, inverters, portable power stations and generators.2 pages
- 04Van lifeCampervan builds, beds, 12V fridges, roof fans, heaters and storage.1 page