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Essential RV Tools for Maintenance and Repair

Essential Tools for RVers
A hand of a man is holding wrench. The background shows a white van with an open side door.

No one wants to think about their RV breaking down while on a road trip, but it’s always better to be prepared. That’s why it’s important to have the essential tools for general RV maintenance and repair in your RV tool kit. This includes tools for fixing the RV chassis, as well as tools for fixing the actual RV, including plumbing. Some RV manufacturers do include tools, but I don’t think I have seen an all inclusive kit that I’d be comfortable with. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the essential tools that every RVer should carry on every trip.

Lights

One of the most essential tools you’ll need for RV maintenance and repair is a good set of lights. This will allow you to see what you’re working on, even in tight spaces. You should have both a flashlight and some lanterns to provide light in different situations.

  • Flashlight – I keep one tactical flashlight in the front and back of my vehicle. I choose rechargeable flashlights, and the tactical lights usually handle weather and rough usage better.
  • Work Light – A work light is another essential tool for RV maintenance and repair. This will allow you to see what you’re working on, even in tight spaces. You should choose a bright and durable work light. type of screw you’re dealing with. I keep Warsun rechargeable lights (Affiliate links) in my vehicles because they are rechargeable and shine a lot of light. Also, you can also use a camp lantern as well. These Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Powered Lanterns (affiliate link) work well because they can charge via a solar panel
  • Headlamp – A headlamp is also a good idea, as it will allow you to keep your hands free while working. You probably already would have a headlamp for hiking and exploring, so it’s a bonus, as it can serve double duty. I like the Liteband ACTIV 520 by Optimal Ventures Wide-Beam LED Headlamp (affiliate link) because it casts a wide band of light for task lighting and it also has a red LED light mode to preserve night vision when necessary.
Rechargeable lights that can serve multiple purposes is ideal in your RV.

Mechanical Tools

Mechanical tools are essential for you to properly repair and maintain RVs. You can build your own toolkit, which I have done for my 4×4, but given the limited space in an RV, I want to make sure I have the following essentials.

  • Pliers
  • Channel Locks
  • Needle Nose Pliers
  • Vise Grip Pliers
  • Wire strippers
  • Needle Nose
  • Multi-Bit Screwdriver
  • Adjustable Wrench
  • Socket and Ratchet Set
  • Allen Wrenches
  • Wire Cutters
  • Utility Knife

Mechanics Tool Kit

I have been shopping for my perfect mechanics tool kit that has all the tools I need in a single all inclusive back. The closest I have found is the Mechanic’s Tool Kit 225 Pc from Harbor Freight. It’s not perfect, and you are trading cost and organization for quality tools. I also keep an eye out on mechanic’s tool kits on Amazon. The picture below is from Crescent, but they no longer have it in stock. I do have my eye on this 205 piece tool kit from BeeStand on Amazon (affiliate link), which is a close second, but reviews state the tool quality is not of that high caliber.

Essential Mechanics Tool Set
A compact comprehensive mechanics toolkit includes the essentials in a space-efficient toolbox.

Tire Pressure Gauges

One of the most important tools for maintaining your RV is a tire pressure gauge. Having the correct tire pressure will help improve fuel efficiency and extend the life of your tires. You should also carry a set of deflators, which can be used to quickly and easily deflate your tires when needed.

Tire Deflators

I like tire gauges that double duty as tire deflators, as I air down when I am driving on the North Carolina beaches. I also like Staun Tire Deflators (Airdown to 6-30 PSI) Standard Duty (Affiliate link)

Bottle Jack

I am not a big fan of the OEM jacks that come with my heavy duty vehicles. That’s why I like to have a well-built jack that is well reviewed. The last thing you need is your vehicle coming down on top of you as you work. You will also need a jack that can handle those heavier vehicles and extend enough for vehicles with higher clearance due to enhanced suspension.

Bottlejack for 4x4s
A bottle jack from Safe Jack is a sturdy option for lifting heavier vehicles.

Electrical

Your RV is essentially a small home on wheels, and the electrical system is expansive, so you should have the tools to troubleshoot electrical problems.

  • Multimeters – Multimeters are essential for troubleshooting electrical problems in your RV. They allow you to measure voltage, current, and resistance, which can help diagnose and fix electrical problems. You should have a multimeter in your toolkit for every trip.
  • Electrical Tape – This is another essential tool for electrical repairs. It can be used to fix wiring, cover exposed wires, and much more.
  • Fuse Kit with a Fuse Puller – Fuses are used to protect your RV’s electrical system from overloads. A fuse kit with a fuse puller will allow you to replace blown fuses quickly and easily.
  • Extension Cords – Extension cords are essential for RVs because they allow you to plug into shore power or generators when necessary. You should have at least one extension cord.

Power Tools

While power tools may not be essential for every tool kit, they can definitely come in handy. So if you have the space in your RV, consider packing a few power tools along with the essentials. You never know when you might need them.

Power tools can be a luxury, but they are also useful in an RV. If you have a power drill, for example, you can use it to loosen and tighten bolts. You can also use it to tighten bolts and screws that may have come loose. And if you have a saw, you can use it to cut through metal or plastic. Also, if the tools are battery powered, you can use them in your tools and power other things like lights.

  • Air Compressor – When you air down for sand or soft soil, you will need an air compressor to air back up. There are numerous air compressors for the 4×4 market, and I carry one that’s compact and runs off the battery in the truck. If you are a serious adventure van owner, you may want to even consider an onboard air compressor with air chucks to save space and make things more convenient. I use a Air Armor
  • Impact Wrench or “Rattlegun” – If you are going into rough areas where you potentially damage tires, having an air wrench to loosen and tighten the lug nuts when you change a tire can be a handy tool. I have a Dewalt 20V MAX Impact Wrench (affiliate link) that I carry in my truck, and I even gifted one to my father so he’d stop borrowing mine.
  • Power Rachet – My favorite luxury is my cordless ratchet, as it allows me to tighten things easily when holding onto something with my other hand. For the most part, it resides in my garage, but if you have the room, it’s invaluable for fixing various rattles.
  • Cordless Drill – This is a luxury item for most vanlifers in my opinion. But if you live full-time in your van versus just road tripping, you may want to consider this. Also, the drill’s batteries can be used to power other devices, like work lights.
  • Chainsaw – I have an electric chainsaw that I carry when going offroading. It’s a luxury and probably not a requirement unless you plan to be places where you will be cutting a lot of firewood. Because it’s electric, I don’t need to carry special gas mixed with fuel. I can easily recharge it from my vehicle while it’s running, and the only special fluid I need is chain oil.
Air Armor Air Compressor
Air Armor Compressor and air hose for airing up your RV tires after going off-road.

Miscellanious Tools

  • Mechanics Gloves – If you have ever been stranded in the frigid winter, wearing gloves while working on your vehicle are a must. I like Mechanix brand gloves (affiliate link) to protect my hands and when necessary help protect me from frigid cold or hot parts.
  • Multitool – I always keep a multi-tool in my vehicle for quick repairs. You probably have one in your kit already.
  • Pocket Knife – Especially when you are camping, I can’t imagine not having a pocket knife. I keep one in my center console of my vehicle at all times.
  • Battery Jump Box – I keep a jump box in all my vehicles in case of dead batteries. I am also a fan of this battery system, because it can pull double duty to charge my electronics. I picked up NOCO Boost Plus GB40 (affiliate link) during Amazon Prime Day for a huge discount
  • Tape Measure – I suggest having both a winding tape longer than your adventure van along with a steel tape measure smaller to measure cabinets and drawers to ensure any gear you have along the way fits into your storage place.
  • Duct Tape – Duct tape is invaluable for making quick repairs in
  • Thread Seal Tape – If you have plumbing in your van, fixing leaking pipes is useful for keeping threaded pipes from leaking.
  • Telescoping ladder – If your van doesn’t have a ladder attached to the body, you can benefit from a telescopic ladder to access your roof. Especially if you rely heavily on solar and need to keep your panels clean.
  • Hatchet Hammer Combo – I love Hardcore Hammers and their
  • Water hose – A water hose to fill your water tanks and potentially hose out your waste tanks is also important. One that is sturdy and takes up a small amount of space is ideal. Though it’s a tough bill to find one that is both. I have no experience with this hose, but I plan to get a Zero-G RV & Marine House (affiliate link). It’s collapsible and kink resistant and has good reviews but still not sure it’ll hold up.

Recovery Tools

If you are going to do some off roading. They probably should have a set of recovery tools. I keep most of my recovery tools in a large tool bag to make them easy to find and pull out.

Recovery gear and tools for your adventure van will help you out of tricky spots.

Tool storage

The thing I have struggled with most in planning which tools to bring is how to store them so they take up the least space. In my truck, I have used tool rolls that allow me to pack things better, but frankly, it makes it harder to find tools. I feel like having a well designed mechanics tool set is the way to go for the Airstream Interstate 24x.

What if you need a tool that you don’t have?

What if you need a tool just once or don’t want to buy a tool. Some auto stores, like Autozone, have a Loan-a-Tool program with over 100 tools to get the job done right. They ask for the purchase price of the tool as a deposit, and once you’re done with its use, bring the tool back for a full refund – keep it as long as you like!

Keep Your RV Running with the Right Tools

Being prepared for any situation while on the road is key, and that includes having the right tools in your RV tool kit. Whether you’re fixing a broken chassis or repairing a leaky pipe, these essential tools can help you get the job done and get back on the open road. The best RV tool kit is the one that works best for your rig. Make sure to pack them in your RV so you’re always ready for whatever comes your way. Are there any other essential tools that we missed? Let us know in the comments below!