As a full time RV'er, there are some tools you need to survive, and some absolutely useless tools that you don't need. I've have lived this lifestyle for three years and see some god-awful choices of items from fellow RV'ers. It is unbelievable to me what others bring along on the journey, most of which should have been tossed in the fucking trash (I'd personally find a better place than the trash.)
Item number one that you WILL need, Toolbox and accessories. This is equivalent to a purse. Everything you have should be used to fix items around your rolling earthquake, aka your rig. You will need a tool box with ratchets, wrenches, a hammer, screwdrivers, and electrical items to fix basic wiring (don't forget duct tape). You will probably not need a lot of power tools, but I keep a handy cordless drill and plug-in drill for emergencies.
Item number two that you WILL need, Air Compressor. Yes, I lug around an old one hundred PSI (not large enough to air Motorhome tires, but I use it for the Tow Dolly and Car). I really need to upgrade this, but haven't budgeted for said upgrade since going full time. Most of the truck stops have free air so I use their air for the Mothership (easy in and out). I do recommend getting a trucker's tire gauge because a normal tire gauge is too small for a Class A.
Item number three that you WILL need, A ladder, it's essential. I had very bad luck with my telescoping ladder (video here on youTube) it bent under my weight, but this is an option. I bought a Franklin 17' ladder. It folds nicely and fits in my basement storage. It's rated to hold my weight and gets me to my roof in case the Mothership needs caulked, resealed, or just inspected for a leak that might have sprung up. The weight and storing of the Franklin ladder can be cumbersome, and if weight is an issue you could also go with a telescoping ladder for ease of use.
Okay, now that I've discussed three tools I can't live without, I'm sure there's a longer list, but these are my staples and what I use the most for repairs, or dire situations. Now for the things you DO NOT FUCKING NEED, list. You might disagree, but read on first, please.
You WILL not need this: A fucking HONEY POT. These little plastic things can be seen dangling off the back ladders of every rig on the road. In the three years I've been RV'ing, I have never had use for one. I boondock a lot as you can see in my small amount of money spent on camping fees. If sewage or gray water gets full there are a ton places scattered off the hi-ways and bi-ways of the United States where you can dump (a great free website: rvdumpsites.net). Please do not strap one of these cumbersome monsters on your rig, unless you have a nineteen seventies or older trailer that has no gray tank and you absolutely need to use a honeypot. You will thank me later by not investing in one.
You WILL not need this: "A" frame ladder from your home. Don't bother taking a ladder from your house. Donate it before becoming full time. Do not attach one of these to your rig's ladder, it could come loose, and and if you go with the telescoping ladder or Franklin I mentioned above, they store safely. They are also designed for tight or small spaces. Please keep the stress out of your life by leaving the "A" frame behind.
You WILL not need this: A skill saw and several other power tools. I say this loosely because some full timer's live on the road and work in construction. In that case find space for your tools and keep organized. If I need power tools I find a local hardware that rents them out so that I don't have to take up storage. I think that most power tools will not be needed inside a rig, unless a major renovation has to happen. I have a nineteen year old Class A and have never done a project warranting "power tools". I did re-accommodate my battery tray, but I was driveway surfing at my Dad's winter home and used his skill saw. I can't justify hauling the power tools around adding to the GVWR of my MOTHERSHIP.
I hope this helped you before making the decision to hit the road and calling it quits to the "sticks and bricks." Thanks for stopping by. If I missed anything comment below. Be sure to share the blog with your family and friends on the socials. I appreciate all of you. If you liked this blog, my fiction, or my merchandise, make sure you leave me a tip by buying me a coffee. Every bit of cash helps me along on this full time life, and prevents me from adding commercials and annoying pop up ads.
Thanks for reading.
Tim Eagle
Tim Eagle is an author of the novellas Stolen Seed, Life Ship, and the Vasectomus Collection. He lives full time, on the road, with his wife, Maria and their dog, Cocoa. He grew up in Michigan and is inspired by the dysfunction of America. His books are available on Amazon, godless and this site timeaglefiction.com
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