Whether you use solar panels, a generator, or electric hookups at campgrounds, you need power to run appliances like the fridge and charge devices like your phone. These are some of the useful items you’ll want to have on hand for safe connections.
1. Adapters
Camco’s 30-amp to 50-amp adapter, $19 on Amazon
Most campgrounds have both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups, but some places only offer one or the other. Keep an adapter on hand (30-amp to 50-amp or 50-amp to 30-amp, depending on your RV) so you can use the electrical connections no matter where you’re staying.
2. Surge protectors
Camco’s PowerDefender surge protector for 30-amp connections, $54 on Amazon
Surge protection is essential in keeping your RV safe from improperly wired electrical boxes. The popular brand Camco makes a heavy-duty PowerDefender with indicator lights to warn you of faulty connections before you plug in your cord. They also make 30-amp and 50-amp dogbone circuit analyzers with grip handles to make plugging in and unplugging easier.
3. Extension cords
Camco’s 25-foot extension cord for 30-amp power, $43 on Amazon
Extension cords are convenient for RV power cords that are too short to reach an outlet. Camco’s extension cord is well constructed and easy to plug in and unplug with power grip handles. They’re sold in a range of sizes from 12 feet to 50 feet for both 30-amp and 50-amp connections.
4. USB outlets
Magnadyne USB & 12-volt outlet, $19 on Amazon
USB outlets make it easier to charge devices like your phone. Magnadyne’s USB wall mount also has a 12-volt outlet so you can use it with other accessories like a heated blanket, fan, portable coolers, or even a CPAP machine. Install an outlet by the side of your bed or near a counter where you can set down charging devices.
5. Portable power
GoalZero Yeti400 Portable Power Station, about $450 on Amazon
Portable powerpacks are about the size of a small cooler and can charge several devices all at one time. Not only that, but they can also jumpstart a dead battery and work as a light, air compressor, and more. Unlike USB wall mounts, they can easily be moved around and taken to the park, beach, or wherever you may want portable power.
Goal Zero’s Yeti 400 can charge up to seven devices at once including phones, laptops, cameras, and other small appliances. It can recharge from AC, 12-volt, or solar panels (sold separately). The portable power station is a safe, gas-free alternative to using a generator and saves you money and from having to buy as much propane.
The Magnadyne USB & 12-volt outlet is a GREAT idea. I was looking to add a 12V outlet on ‘my’ side of the bed for my CPAP machine. FR already put in a 110V receptacle and a 2-port USB charger in our Sunseeker 2400R, but the nearest 12V was on the other side of the bedroom, for the TV. It was PITA to work in the cramped space, but the result looks very clean and neat.
I’m thinking of adding another USB/12V combo unit in the dinette area, to be able to plug in my 12V laptop charger. Manufacturers seem to think we’ve got 110V power all the time.