Last Updated on September 10, 2024
When it comes to RV living, the market is flooded with countless gadgets and gizmos promising to enhance your experience. However, not all of these products are worth your hard-earned money. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of RV gear that you should avoid, based on a fantastic video we found from the RV Odd Couple YouTube channel. They’ve shared their top products they will never buy again, and we’ve highlighted the key points below. Be sure to check out the full video at the bottom of the article for more in-depth insights and some hilarious bloopers!
1. Tires
Tires are literally and figuratively the foundation of your RV journey. Skimping on quality here can lead to disastrous consequences. The RV Odd Couple warns against cheap air compressors, especially those from Harbor Freight. Imagine being stranded with a flat tire and a useless air compressor. They recommend investing in a Viair compressor, which is specifically designed for RVs. As they say, "Stop tripping over dimes to get to nickels!" You don't want to be that person shaking their fist at a deflated tire while muttering, "I should have listened to the RV Odd Couple."
2. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
Monitoring your tire pressure is crucial for safety, but not all TPMS are created equal. The RV Odd Couple initially used the TireMinder system, which failed them within three months. They now swear by the TST system, which is robust enough for truckers and offers stellar customer service. Plus, it can monitor up to 115 tires! If you’ve got more tires than a monster truck rally, this is the system for you. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to impress their neighbors with a tire monitoring system that could practically serve a small fleet?
3. Propane Safety
Propane is essential for many RV functions, but it can also be dangerous if not properly managed. The RV Odd Couple recommends the GasStop device, which automatically shuts off the propane in case of a leak. It also comes with a gauge to let you know how much propane you have left. Forgetting to shut off your propane can lead to fiery disasters, and nobody wants their RV to become a mobile BBQ pit. So, take their advice and get a GasStop—your future self will thank you.
4. Power Management
Power management is a headache for many RVers, especially when downgrading from 50 amp to 30 amp power. The RV Odd Couple discovered the SoftStart, a magical device that makes it easier to start your AC without needing as much power. This gadget can transform your camping experience from a sweaty nightmare to a cool paradise. They even had a showdown with a competitor, Micro-Air Easy Start, and the SoftStart came out on top. If you want to avoid the "hot and bothered" look, this is the gadget for you.
5. Water Filtration
Water is life, but not all water filtration systems are created equal. The RV Odd Couple advises against cheap inline Camco filters, which only filter for taste. Instead, they recommend the ClearSource RV water filter, which filters down to 0.2 microns. This ensures that even the tiniest contaminants are removed. They even use this filtered water in their Berkey drinking system, proving its effectiveness. If you don't want to play "Guess that contaminant" every time you take a sip, invest in a ClearSource filter.
6. Insurance
Insurance is one area where you definitely don't want to cut corners. The RV Odd Couple learned this the hard way when they initially opted for the cheapest insurance available. They now recommend RV Odd Squad Insurance, which offers coverage specifically tailored for RVers. Cheap insurance might save you a few bucks now, but it could cost you dearly in the long run. So, unless you enjoy living on the edge, get comprehensive coverage that actually protects you.
For more detailed information and to see the RV Odd Couple in action, be sure to watch their full video below. You’ll not only get valuable insights but also enjoy some entertaining bloopers that show just how much they care about helping fellow RVers.
