Life on the road with an RV is a thrilling experience. Consumers get to travel at their preferred speed and stop whenever or wherever they like with a cozy hotel within arms reach.
But not every recreational vehicle presents a practical living space, especially when missing important accessories. As a result, consumers ready to transform their RV experience will be hunting for some must-have accessories before they hit the road.
This article is here to help businesses leverage this demand. Dive in to explore the top seven RV accessory trends that will keep consumers safe, warm, and well-organized in 2024.
Table of Contents
Is the RV accessory market profitable in 2024?
Top must-have RV accessory trends for enthusiastic campers
Capitalize on these trends
Is the RV accessory market profitable in 2024?
The RV accessory segment is linked to the global recreational vehicle market and shares its huge growth potential. According to reports, the RV market grew to US$ 60.70 billion in 2022. Experts also suggest the industry will grow at an 11.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2023 to 2030.
The market owes its growth to the sudden shift toward ecotourism and sustainable travel globally. Leisure and recreational activities in camping sites/parks are gaining momentum, which helps to boost the market’s growth.
Regionally, North America led the market with an impressive 57% share in 2022. Experts also anticipate the region will experience the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. Europe comes in second, as reports suggest the region will register the second-fastest CAGR.
Top must-have RV accessory trends for enthusiastic campers
Carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous greenhouse gasses—and unfortunately, it’s everywhere. The worst part is that the gas has no smell or taste and can be deadly if inhaled. Despite being impossible to identify naturally, proper detectors can help detect the gas’ presence.
Although CO is dangerous when people create flammable gas, it’s even more risky in small spaces like RVs. That’s why RV enthusiasts must invest in a dedicated carbon monoxide detector. It’ll keep them and their families safe by sending alerts if the gas is present.
These compact and discreet battery-powered accessories use electrochemical or biometric sensors that will sound alarms to warn or wake consumers when CO levels enter the danger zone.
Dehumidifier
Hitting the road will see consumers going through different weather conditions and climates. But one that requires special attention is when things get hot and stuffy in humid climates. Such situations make it easy for mold and mildew to grow, which is a big no-no.
That’s where dehumidifiers come in. These devices will help campers eliminate musty smells or unhealthy damp conditions in RVs. Plus, they’re portable and space-saving enough for consumers to always carry on their trips.
Here’s how they work: these simple accessories suck in damp air and recycle it to create a comfortable living environment. Campers can opt for compressor (or refrigerant) dehumidifiers that use cold coils to draw in air before reheating and then push it out as warmer or drier air.
Or, they can choose desiccant dehumidifiers. These variants utilize absorbent materials to extract water from the air, keeping the environment dry and mold-free.
Garbage can
RVs are amazing, but they offer limited living space, so making them tidy and garbage-free is super important. Space-saving and compact garbage cans are the perfect accessories for the job—and there are various styles to choose from!
One of the best styles for campers is rectangular-shaped trash cans. They’re more practical for setting up small spaces in various capacities. Consumers will always go for the largest capacity their RVs can handle to increase the time between bag changes.
Another style worth mentioning is trash cans with pedal mechanisms. These garbage cans are the go-to for hygienic and hands-free use—and the flip-up lid will keep all those nasty smells inside the can.
Generators
Campers don’t have to sacrifice electrical benefits for their nature trips. They can invest in RV generators to provide power and serve as plug-ins for 120v AC power outlets. But to ensure the chosen equipment powers up their modern comforts, campers will shop for RV generators with how much wattage they need in mind.
Here’s a table showing different RV generator watt ranges and what campers can power with them:
| RV generator wattage | Appliances/devices it can handle |
| 1000 to 1500 watts | Small appliances, like microwaves, coffee makers, blenders, toasters, laptops, and lights. |
| 2000 to 2500 watts | Additional appliances, like TVs, refrigerators, small air conditioners, and water pumps. |
| 3000 to 4000 watts | Multiple appliances simultaneously, including larger air conditioners, microwaves, refrigerators, and water pumps. |
| 5000 to 6000 watts | Powering RV essentials, plus additional appliances, like hair dryers, stoves, and washers. |
| 7000+ watts | Large RVs with multiple high-wattage appliances, including air conditioners, refrigerators, and stoves. |
Note: RV generators can run off propane, gasoline, and diesel, so consumers will gravitate towards the type they can easily find the fuel for.
Heaters
RVs can drop to freezing temperatures in winter—which may lead to the worst camping experience for consumers if they don’t have proper heating systems. Some RVs have built-in heaters that run on propane gas to combat this—they’re usually simple but effective enough to combat the cold.
However, not all RVs come with this feature. Thankfully, consumers can still keep their vehicles warm with a plug-in heater. And the best part is these accessories offer different heat levels to keep the chill at bay.
One option popular among RV owners is electric oil-filled heaters. They generate sufficient heat without sacrificing portability.
Propane tank covers
Despite being volatile, propane tanks are essential for trips in RVs. Since they’re must-haves, campers must find a way to protect them on the go. That’s where propane tank covers come in.
These accessories protect propane tanks from various conditions when consumers store them outside. They can stop freezing conditions, debris, UV rays, heavy downpours, and dirt from affecting the tasks.
As a bonus, a properly fitted cover protects the propane tank from rust, mildew, and fungus. The most convenient variants have an easy-open flap for consumers to slide the hose and attach it without removing the cover.
Surge protectors
RV electrical systems are not immune to power surges—they could even fry the camper’s valuable electronics. Surge protectors can keep things safe by protecting all devices from voltage spikes.
Even better, surge protectors are incredibly easy to use. Some variants have simple plug-in designs that consumers can install between their RV and power pedestal. Other models require hardwiring into the RV’s electrical systems.
Note: RV surge protectors come in different varieties that match various power levels. So, be sure to offer the correct ones for the target consumer’s RV rating.
Capitalize on these trends
Riding and camping in an RV doesn’t have to be all too different from being at home. Consumers can easily upgrade their RV experience by combining various accessories to get unrivaled convenience.
RV owners are always ready to buy these necessary accessories, so it’s up to businesses to get the right products to satisfy their demand. Consider prioritizing carbon monoxide detectors, dehumidifiers, garbage cans, generators, heaters, propane tank covers, and surge protectors to offer a truly authentic home-away-from-home feeling.
