From unexpected leaks and engine failures to loose hinges, we’ve experienced it all. We have also fixed almost everything ourselves while living on the road and had the tools to do it. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of must-have tools to help you tackle any issue that may arise on the road. Whether you’re a full-time RVer or just planning a short trip, these tools will ensure you’re ready for anything, reducing your reliance on professionals and getting you back on the road in no time. Let’s dive in and explore the tools that can make your RVing experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Why You Need An RV Tool Kit
Driving an RV down the road is frequently compared to owning a home that goes through a continuous earthquake and hurricane at the same time. Because of this, things frequently go wrong and need to be repaired. Whether you are handy or not, you will find it helpful to have a set of tools for simple fixes or even major repairs. Often a problem can at least be patched up to prevent further damage until a proper fix can be made. If you don’t have the tools or supplies on hand, you might just be out of luck.
Pro Tip: Keep your tools in one of these 7 Best Low Profile Truck Tool Boxes for Increased Visibility.
How to Decide What to Put in Your RV Tool Kit
When figuring out what to bring along for tools, there are a few things you need to consider.
How Handy Are You?
If you don’t have much experience fixing things and wouldn’t take on advanced repairs, then you only need the basics. But, for example, if you know how to diagnose and fix electrical problems, then you’ll want a basic electrical set in your RV tool kit. How about advanced mechanical repairs or maintenance? Well, that’s me, and in that case, you need to find the tools that take up the least amount of space and do the most amount of work. We have replaced bearings, airbags, steering linkages, hydraulic hoses, and even engine injectors while on the road!
How Much Space and weight Do You Have?
A huge consideration is how much space you have in your RV and how much weight you can carry. Someone traveling in a small truck camper cannot bring the same amount of tools as someone in a large fifth wheel. As someone who wants to carry as many tools as possible, I have had to scale my toolset depending on the RV we are in. Our truck camper can only carry the most basic toolsets needed, where in our motorhome I carry a full set of wrenches, impact and other very heavy tools.
General Tools All RVers Should Have
My wife and I have been on the road full-time since 2015 and have worked on everything from simple fixes all the way to rebuilding our truck’s axles and engine. Based on our experience, the following tools are what we would recommend carrying.
1. Viair Air Compressor
All RVs roll on tires and tires need air. We have found the Viair to be the best on-demand air compressor by far. We tried cheaper models for years and had many failures. Now that we’ve finally upgraded to the Viair, we would not go back. We personally own and recommend the 400P-RV unit.
- Tire Inflator Kit: Say goodbye to tire troubles with the VIAIR...
- Easy-to-Use: Featuring a built-in pressure cut-off sensor, the...
- RV Accessories: Ideal for inflating tires up to 35" in diameter,...
2. Tire Pressure Gauge
If you get the Viair, it comes with a built-in tire pressure gauge. But a simple handheld unit to quickly check tire pressure is a good idea to have onboard.
- ▲Check out our VIDEO on the left side and take a quick tour of...
- Designed to maintain correct tire pressure, reduce tire wear and...
- Nozzle easily forms a seal with the valve stem on Schrader valves...
3. Fix-a-Flat Kit
It’s always best to replace a tire with a spare if you have one. But what if you blow two tires or find someone on the road in need of assistance? These kits can keep you rolling until you can get a proper tire repair.
- Emergency flat tire repair solution, connect, inflate and go! The...
- Fix-a-Flat is designed to seal small tread tire punctures up to...
- Flats happen, so be prepared with Fix-a-Flat, an...
In addition to the Fix-a-Flat kit, we carry tire repair strips. I have even had success using these for permanent repairs if the puncture is mid-tire. Learn how to use them and you can save a lot of time, effort, and money by repairing a leak roadside. This is also when the Viair compressor can come in handy!
- SIMPLE BUT COMPLETE--- Includes 1pc T-handle insert tool & 1pc...
- PLUG AND GO--- “T”handle is made of heavy steel, provides...
- UNIVERSAL TUBELESS TIRE REPAIR---Ideal for cars, jeeps, trucks,...
4. Jacks (Rated for RVs)
If you have a towable or smaller drivable RV, it’s important to be able to lift a tire to change it or service bearings. Jacks can also be used to assist with getting unstuck, leveling, and anything else that requires more force than you can apply manually. We carry a bottle jack with an additional screw lift.
- The product is 8Ton bottle jack
- Easy and simple use kit
- The product is manufactured in china
5. Breaker Bar
If you need to change a tire, make sure you can get it off. An extending breaker bar is essential.
- Telescoping handle extends to 21 inches for maximum leverage
- Compacts to 14 inches for easy storage
- Hardened steel and precision construction
6. Cordless Drill Set
One of the most important tools in my opinion, is a drill. Screws come loose all the time in RVs, and trying to screw them back in with a screwdriver just doesn’t work. I also recommend having an impact driver for more challenging situations. The brand is a matter of opinion. We use Ryobi for our small tools, but most other brands will do the trick. We also carry the harbor freight Bauer 1/2 inch drive impact for big tasks on our motorhome, where a large torque is needed for some bolts.
- 🎁 Perfect gift for Christmas, Birthday, Anniversary,...
- Efficient Drill/ Driver: This 20V Drill Driver can provide...
- 130Nm Efficient Impact Driver: Powerful motor delivers 1150 in-lb...
7. Drill Bit Set
Don’t forget drill bits and drivers along with your drill. The cordless drill set above comes with bits, but having extras is never a bad idea.
- 【Industrial Grade S2 Alloy Steel】 - Our drill bits are made...
- 【Hex Shank & Quick Change】: Hex shank fit quick-change and...
- 【Complete Specifications】A complete set of screwdriver bits...
8. Screwdrivers
9. Hammer
10. Pliers
11. Utility Knife
12. Hex Set
13. Basic Socket Set
The above items are general tools that come in handy for numerous tasks and should be considered the bare minimum for basic fixes. Many of these tools come in sets with bags or boxes to help you keep them organized.
- 322-Piece Basic Tool Kit For Everyday Chores And Repairs
- Chrome Vanadium Steel Tools With Heat Treated For Strength And...
- Packed In 18" Durable Nylon Bag For Easy And Flexible Storage
14. Headlamps
Good flashlights are a must for RVers. You will frequently find yourself looking into dark spaces or needing good light at night. Headlamps are amazing because they keep both hands free.
- LIGHT FOR EVERYDAY ADVENTURES: The Petzl TIKKA (300 lumens) has...
- LIGHTWEIGHT and COMPACT: At only 82 g 2.9 oz, the TIKKA will...
- HYBRID CONCEPT: Petzl headlamps can run on either the CORE...
15. Magnetic Flashlight
Along with a headlamp, I recommend having a flashlight you can mount to RV surfaces. Not only will this keep your hands free to work, but you’ll also be able to shine consistant light in areas your headlamp won’t reach.
- 💡【Powerful COB Light】The rechargeable work light...
- 💡【3 Modes For Widely Use】Switch the led work lights...
- 💡【Convenient Hook And Magnet】Featuring a built-in...
16. Folding Hand Saw
It’s just a matter of time before you come across a branch that’s too low to get under or a tree limb across the road. Having a good sharp hand saw can get you out of a lot of “sticky” situations.
- 3 SIDED RAZOR TEETH FOR EFFICIENT CUTTING: 10" blade is ideal for...
- ERGONOMICALLY DESIGNED, COMFORTABLE, CO-MOLDED HANDLE: Provides a...
- EASY TO LATCH BLADE PREVENTS INJURY WHEN NOT IN USE: Folding...
17. Shovel
Like the hand saw, sooner or later you may find something soil-related that needs tending. You might get stuck or need to fill in a hole. Having a shovel in your RV tool kit can be a huge help in these situations.
- Folding survival shovel w/ pick - heavy duty carbon steel...
- Military style e-tool - 2lbs of powder coated carbon steel, tough...
- Compact & portable - full 23" long extended but only 9" x 6" when...
Adhesives – Sometimes You Just Need Things to Stick
18. Eternabond
It’s not a matter of if but when an RV will leak. Sometimes, it’s a small crack or tear in the roof. Other times, it’s a seam that has opened up. One of the easiest and best ways to patch a quick leak is with Eternabond. This is super sticky roof tape that seals up most leaks permanently.
We have used a lot of this Eternabond tape over the years and love it! In addition to patching leaks, it holds our solar wires to the roof and has patched our RV’s underbelly – among other things. It’s not cheap, but I ALWAYS have a roll in the RV.
- MULTI-USE: Perfect for use on metal buildings, trailer/RV roofs...
- NO ADDITIONAL SEALING REQUIRED: Aluminum backing, combined with a...
- DURABLE SURFACE: Industry leading one step repair system that...
19. Lap Sealant & Caulk Gun
There will also be situations where Eternabond won’t cut it, like weird curves or areas that need new caulk. I recommend Dicor products, but make sure you have a caulk gun, too.
- Color: White
- Create watertight seals
- Remains flexible
- Steel half-barrel (also called cradle) frame caulking gun for...
- Thrust ratio of 10:1 for use with low viscosity materials
- Smooth pressure rod requires less force and is quieter than a...
20. Rubber / Nitrile Gloves
If you own an RV, you’re going to be messing with caulk, sewer, fuels, and other nasty things. That’s why you need a good set of rubber gloves. We keep cheap gloves for the sewer, but for handiwork, I really like the thicker nitrile gloves.
- HEAVY-DUTY PROTECTION: Our premium 8 mil nitrile gloves provide...
- RAISED DIAMOND TEXTURE: Provides 60% more surface area than...
- BOLD COLOR: High-visibility green demands to be seen even in...
21. Zip Ties
Zip ties can be unusually helpful. You don’t even know you need them until you do. We have found so many uses around the RV for zip ties; they’ve become a staple in our RV tool kit.
- Standard Duty Cable Ties in black for home, office, garage,...
- Outdoor and Indoor Use Wire Ties are designed with rounded edges...
- Durable Single-Use Ties are rated with a 50 lbs tensile strength;...
22. Gorilla Tape
Duct tape, gorilla tape, gaff tape…it doesn’t matter. Just have a strong tape onboard!
- Heavy duty and double thick, Gorilla Tape offers over-the top...
- Great for indoor or outdoor use and made to stick to rough,...
- Double-Thick Adhesive; Grips smooth, rough and uneven surfaces
Specialty Items for Your RV Tool Kit
23. Cat’s Claw / Pry Bar Multitool
If you find yourself updating cabinetry or performing other RV renovations, a prybar is essential. I personally like what I call the cat’s claw design, as it serves multiple purposes.
- Drop forged carbon steel for added strength and durability
- The head indexes about 90 degrees and locks in 5 positions....
- The raised striking surface of the head allows for striking as a...
24. Ratchet Straps
Think you will be strapping something down? My guess is yes! Strapping down cargo is a fairly common occurrence out on the road. For that, you’ll need a good set of ratchet straps.
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work...
25. Tow Strap / Chains
I always carry a tow strap or chain because we tend to get in situations where we may be stuck or need to help others. The choice to carry a tow strap is up to you, however. Just keep in mind that many tow services won’t rescue you off-road. Also, make sure if you do carry one that it has plenty of capacity for rescuing an RV.
- AMERICAN OWNED AND OPERATED: All GearAmerica products are...
- TACKLE TOUGH TOWING TASKS: With a massive 46076 lbs MBS (Minimum...
- REINFORCED LOOPS WITH PROTECTIVE SLEEVES: Our large...
For the Electrically Inclined (and Not)
26. Multimeter
If you’re going RVing, it’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of DC electricity. With this multimeter tool, you can at least figure out if you have power or not. I highly recommend everyone have a multimeter and know the basics of how to use it. This is the one I use, and I love it!
- 【Multifunctional Clamp Meter】 Accurate AC/DC voltage, AC/DC...
- 【LoZ& LPF Function】Low Impedance (LoZ) Mode Identify and...
- 【Ultra-clear LCD display】Made of High-quality Materials,...
27. Soldering Iron
If you know how to fix electronics, make sure to have a soldering iron in your RV tool kit. I have used mine more times than I would have guessed. Check out Go North Episode 9 to see a crazy fix we did with one in the middle-of-nowhere Yukon.
- 【10S Fast Heating Soldering Iron】 This 120W soldering iron...
- 【Comprehensive Soldering Kit】This soldering iron kit includes...
- 【Intelligent Temperature Setting】The soldering iron equipps a...
28. Electrical Tape & Connections
If you’ve ever tried to fix an electrical problem without electrical tape and wire connectors, you probably didn’t get too far. These items are a must-have if you plan on doing electrical work on your RV.
- HIGHEST QUALITY PVC ELECTRIC TAPE: Each electric tape in this 6...
- PERFECT FOR ALL KINDS OF ELECTRICAL WIRING: Whether you are a...
- 600V, 80 DEGREES MAX RATING: SoundOriginal’s flame retardant...
- 【PREMIUM QUALITY】: Thick copper barrel ensures strong secure...
- 【DURABILITY】: Each butt, ring and fork terminal features a...
- 【WATERPROOF】: Insulation tubing has unique dual-walled...
29. Wire Cutters
Of course, no electrician’s toolbox is complete without a pair of wire cutters! Even if you wouldn’t call yourself an electrician, you’ll probably find yourself using wire cutters more often than not.
- Wire cutter with induction hardened cutting edge stays sharp...
- Strips and cuts 10-22 AWG
- Pliers style nose allows wire stripper to pull and loop in wire
For the Mechanically Inclined
30. Socket & Ratchet Set
If you’re going to take on larger projects or do extensive maintenance on your rig, you will need a better ratchet set. Here are the two sets we have, and let me tell you, we love both.
- 22 ASSORTED DRIVE SOCKETS INCLUDE: 11 Metric (14mm, 13mm, 12mm,...
- 20 ASSORTED SCREWDRIVER BITS INCLUDE: 3 x Slotted (5/32”,...
- EXTENDABLE RATCHET: This has both a 1/4" and 3/8" drive head. It...
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31. Torque Wrench
It’s not uncommon for nuts to be over-tightened, which can cause damage to the nut itself or the connecting parts. Make sure you always use a torque wrench to properly torque your nuts.
- ➤Mini design easy to carry, only occupy a small position....
- ➤Large LCD display which provides measurements in N-m, kgf-cm,...
- ➤Set target torque and the LED & Buzzer indicator provides...
32. OBDII Vehicle Diagnostic Scanner
If your vehicle starts throwing warnings, sometimes an OBDII scanner can help you figure out what’s going on. Because most vehicles have electrical sensors these days, the scanners are cheap and easy to use. Go ahead and get one for your RV tool kit – you’ll be glad you did.
- NOT COMPATIBLE WITH IOS DEVICES (iPhone or iPad)! Works with...
- Save time and money by finding out why the check engine light is...
- Access a whole new world of information about your vehicle...
33. Dremel Tool (Cut-off Wheels / Grinding)
Having a rotary tool for small cutting and grinding can be very helpful. We use ours so often that I don’t even keep mine in a case. It just sits in the tool bag, waiting for the next use.
- Corded Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit: Includes 3000 high-speed...
- Speed range of 5,000 to 35,000 RPM with 6 variable speeds,...
- High performance 1.2 amp motor – Provides maximum power and...
I also recommend getting good cut-off wheels for your Dremel tool.
- Cut-off Wheels are reinforced with fiberglass for increased...
- Ideal for easily cutting or slotting bolts, screws or sheet...
- Dremel EZ406-02 includes one EZ402 EZ - Lock mandrel and five...
Power Tools for Advanced Work
34. Angle Grinder
It may seem crazy, but we have used our full-sized angle grinder a lot. We’ve also done some extensive repairs, so maybe we’re a bit out of the norm. If you predict a lot of repairs in your RV’s future, though, you will find it helpful.
- 41/2 in. Grinder powered by 6 amp motor producing 12, 000 RPMs
- Tool-free guard makes for quick and easy adjustments
- Spindle lock for quick and easy wheel changes
35. Heat Gun
Believe it or not, this is one tool I would not leave home without! You just never know when you might need localized heat. We even took a heat gun all the way to the Arctic Ocean (and used it!). From heat shrink to breaking bolts loose, you’ll find plenty of uses for this tool.
- 1500/750 Watt Heat Gun with Powerful 12.5 Amp Motor
- High and Low Temperature Settings for Versatility
- Deflector Nozzles Protect Glass and Other Surfaces.BTU Heat...
36. Oscillating Multitool
We carry a circular saw and a jigsaw but originally started with an oscillating multitool because they can do the job of many different tools. I highly recommend having one in your RV tool kit with a few different cutting bits.
- Powerful and durable: The powerful 2.4A motor provides 21000...
- Variable speed control: The speed settings are located on the...
- Fast blade installation: The quick release lever allows for...
Tools Will Come In Handy On Your RV Journey
While this gives you an idea of what’s in our RV tool kit, each RVer’s needs are different. If you have a particular hobby or craft you plan to do on the road, make sure you have the specific set of tools you need (like bike tools or woodworking tools). If you’d like to see the actual tools I carry, check out our RV tool kit video.
Pro Tip: Check out these 5 Best Pocket Chainsaws: Small in Size, Big in Cutting Power perfect for your tool kit.
As I mentioned earlier, not all these tools could stay in our tool kit for our small RV adventures, like when we took a Lance truck camper to Alaska. If you travel in a smaller RV, watch Go North Episode 3, where we talk about downsizing our tools.
A properly thought-out RV tool kit can make life a lot easier when you need to fix something, and it lessens your reliance on professionals for repairs. Whether you find yourself in an emergency on the side of the road or you just need to make a quick RV repair as a full-timer, having some (or all!) of these 36 important tools will get you back up and running again.
Have a favorite RV tool? We’d love to hear about it! Drop a comment below and share what’s in your RV tool kit.
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Johnny Lightning
Monday 18th of September 2023
I'm not a big fan of battery powered tools like electronic torque wenches, air gauges etc. The batteries always seem to be dead when you need them and there are good non-electric substitutes. The one exception to that are Li-ion drills and impacts. Li-ion batteries hold charges for months unlike the older Ni-Cad batteries which go dead in a week or two. Otherwise a great list Tom.
John Lockhart
Sunday 25th of September 2022
I'm not too far from matching your list...I must say the multimeter was the real lifesaver for me on my last 6,000 mile trip! I am going to add a couple colors and gauges of auto primary wire. Last trip I had to sacrifice a 3' extension cord because I was desperate for wire! I also found that with the extreme high temperatures that have become commonplace, if you have the ability to use the multimeter, having a couple of the thermal fuses used by your appliances like the refrigerator or HWH could allow for a quick fix! Many are available on Amazon or eBay!
Digitalman
Monday 22nd of February 2021
I'm searching for wheel bearing grease advice, and your whole site doesn't mention have it on a Google search. Have you greased them lately? How often? What grease do you recommend
Albert Minten
Monday 18th of September 2023
@Mortons on the Move, we recently hit 6 years in our Airstream, which has never-lube bearings. It was in the Airstream shop and they said it was time to lube the bearings eventhough the name. The cost was almost $2000! So, I asked and the advisor said it's just something they offer after 5 years but not mandatory. He also said a way to check on the state of bearings is to get a temperature gun and check the tire temps (or maybe the rims) after being on the road for a few hours. He said that you'll notice a signifigant temp increase on a single tire if the bearings are going out/need lube. So, I got an inexpensive Infrared Thermometer on Amazon and will be trying this out on our next trip. Thanks for the informative article. I'm adding more to our new tools boxes! Cheers. Bert
Mortons on the Move
Tuesday 23rd of February 2021
That is a great topic we need to write an article on! We recommend greasing them once a season as even in storage the oil can separate. We do ours about once a year, and I just did two of mine when replacing brake magnets. With yearly greasing any heavyweight grease will work but I personally use Redline CV2 and have found it holds up very well.
Rick Madison
Sunday 3rd of January 2021
On your bottle Jack carry a small bottle of Jack fluid too in case your jack leaks which most do..
Mortons on the Move
Sunday 3rd of January 2021
Great feedback! My jack is actually leaking right now :(
Sandra
Thursday 17th of December 2020
Very helpful to know and I have most of them too!
Mortons on the Move
Thursday 17th of December 2020
We're glad it was helpful! :)