RV Clarity

Learning Center

Explore in-depth guides, step-by-step how-tos, helpful videos, and expert insights designed to give you real clarity and confidence at every stage of your journey. We break down complex topics into easy-to-understand information, without the pressure, pushy sales tactics, or confusing jargon—just honest guidance to help you make informed decisions at your own pace.

Learn More About:

Add a short subtitle or supporting text here.

Types of RVs

This page provides a clear, organized overview of the major RV and camping rig types—covering drivable motorhomes, towable trailers, and overlanding setups—with brief explanations to help readers understand the differences, use cases, and lifestyles each option supports.
Learn More

FAQ

This FAQ page answers common questions about RV Clarity’s inspection services, explaining pricing, inspection scope, timelines, reporting, how their inspections differ from dealership PDIs, and where inspections fit into the RV buying process to help buyers make informed, low‑risk decisions. 
Learn More

RV Manufacturers & Brands

Not all RV manufacturers operate the same way. Some are massive conglomerates producing dozens of brands across multiple price points, while others remain independent, niche‑focused, or boutique builders known for craftsmanship and specialization.
Learn More

RV Beginner (Required) Stage 1: The Essentials

RV Beginner (Required) Stage 1: The Essentials Don’t get caught at the campsite without the basics. At RV Clarity, we’ve simplified the process by identifying the "Stage 1" essentials—the gear every first-time owner needs to handle water, waste, and weight. While this list is designed to work for about 90% of all RVs, please take a moment to confirm the specific sizes and connection types required for your particular model before checkout.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

https://amzn.to/4bLXRTV - Tire Chocks

https://amzn.to/41CdDdY - Leveling Blocks

https://amzn.to/4chZV61 - Hose 2 Way Splitter

https://amzn.to/41Gk6Ve - Camco EVOFlex 10-Ft RV Drinking Water Hose

https://amzn.to/4bLV0dE - Camco EVOFlex 4-Ft RV Drinking Water Hose

https://amzn.to/4bLZgd9 - Camco Tastepure RV Water Filter

https://amzn.to/3PYLrPT - RVGUARD RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve

https://amzn.to/4m1jD9w - Camco Camper/RV Gate Valve

https://amzn.to/4s9Uxqv - Camco RhinoEXTREME 20’ Camper/RV Sewer Hose

https://amzn.to/4tgDOTb - Camco Rhino 25-Ft Clean-Out Camper/RV Black Water Hose

https://amzn.to/4bNdz0U - Camco Rhino RV Sewer Adapter PRO

https://amzn.to/41FBB89 - Liquified RV Toilet Treatment - Black Holding Tank Digester - Odor Eliminator

Compatibility Disclaimer: The supplies listed above are industry-standard and compatible with roughly 90% of RV setups. However, since RV specifications can vary, we recommend verifying your rig's specific hose lengths, diameters, and weight ratings to ensure these items meet your needs.
 

Essential Safety Gear

The Redtiger 4K Dash Cam
"When you’re towing a rig or driving a motorhome, visibility is everything. That’s why I trust the Redtiger 4K Dash Cam system. With both front and rear coverage, it’s an essential tool for any RVer’s safety kit.

The video quality is high enough to catch license plates and road signs clearly, which is vital if an incident occurs.

Gigastone 256GB Micro SD Card
To ensure I never run out of space, I pair mine with a Gigastone 256GB Micro SD Card. I make it a point to keep an extra card in the glovebox at all times. On more than one occasion, I’ve been able to provide my spare SD card to law enforcement to help with accident investigations. It feels good knowing I can help keep the roads safer for everyone."

Shop the Setup:

Driving / Navigation / Safety

The Navigator: Professional RV Guidance

Standard GPS apps often overlook critical details like bridge heights and weight limits. The Garmin RV 895 is specifically built to solve this, offering a massive 8-inch display that can be used in portrait or landscape mode to fit your dash configuration.
It provides custom routing based on your rig’s size and weight, alerting you to steep grades and sharp curves before they become an issue. It also includes a preloaded directory of RV parks and services, making it much easier to find campsites or fuel stops that can actually accommodate a large vehicle.
https://amzn.to/4cW0qlo
 

The Foundation: A Secure Dash Setup

A large navigator like the RV 895 needs a stable base, especially when driving on uneven roads or through construction zones. While the Garmin comes with its own mount, a specialized dashboard holder like the Randconcept GPS Mount (utilizing the 17mm ball pattern) can offer more flexibility.
A dedicated dash mount helps keep the screen at eye level without obstructing your view of the road or your vehicle's instrument cluster. This ensures your navigation is always in your line of sight while remaining securely attached even during bumpy rides.
https://amzn.to/4dj6jJV

Pro Tip for RV Planning

While the Garmin RV 895 is excellent for safe routing, many experienced travelers use it in tandem with a smartphone app for real-time traffic density. Use the Garmin for your primary safety navigation and a secondary app to check for live accident delays or quick detours.

The RV Safety Essential: TST 507 Series TPMS
Maintaining correct tire pressure is one of the most important safety checks for any RVer. I’ve had extensive personal experience with the TST 507 Series TPMS, and the build quality is truly top-tier. It provides real-time alerts for both pressure and temperature, giving you enough time to react before a blowout occurs.
What sets this specific model apart are the Flow-Thru Sensors. Unlike traditional sensors, these allow you to add or remove air from your tires without having to unscrew the sensor every time. It’s a massive convenience for quick morning adjustments.
Pro Tip: For the best results and long-term durability, make sure you have metal valve stems installed on your wheels. The added weight of any sensor can cause rubber stems to flex and fail over time.
 
Key Features for RVers:
  • Real-time monitoring: Tracks up to 110 PSI with high/low pressure and temperature alerts.
  • Flow-Thru design: Check and adjust air levels without removing equipment.
  • Clear Display: Includes a color monitor with a suction cup mount for easy dash placement.
If you’re planning on towing a larger trailer or fifth wheel, I can also look for signal boosters or repeaters to ensure your sensors stay connected over longer distances.

https://amzn.to/4uddSs5 TST 507 Series TPMS - RV Tire Pressure Monitoring System with 4 Flow Thru Sensors.
 

RV 50 AMP Power
Protect Your Power: The 50-Amp Electrical Kit

RV 50 AMP Power
Protect Your Power: The 50-Amp Electrical Kit Reliable power is the difference between a comfortable trip and an expensive repair bill. This setup is designed to do two things: protect your RV from faulty park wiring and adapt your connection to any pedestal you encounter. While these tools will work for approximately 90% of all 50-Amp RVs, always check your rig's specific voltage requirements and plug types before connecting for the first time.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
 
 
Recommended 50-Amp Equipment
 
Pro-Tip: Why the "Dogbones"?
We call these "Dogbone" adapters because of their shape, but their function is vital. You will eventually run into a campsite where the power pedestal doesn't match your cord. Having these three specific adapters ensures that whether you’re at a premium resort or in a friend’s driveway, you can always stay powered up.

 

RV 30 AMP Power
Essential Power for 30-Amp RVs

RV 30 AMP Power
Essential Power for 30-Amp RVs A proper electrical setup ensures your lights stay on and your electronics stay safe. This curated selection includes everything you need to monitor your power in real-time, extend your reach at the campsite, and adapt your connection for home or storage use. While these items fit approximately 90% of all 30-Amp RVs, always verify your specific model's plug configuration before your first trip.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Recommended 30-Amp Equipment
The Hughes Power Watchdog Smart Surge Protector 30 Amp is a "smart" unit that provides 3,000 Joules of surge protection. It features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to monitor live voltage, amperage, and wattage directly on your smartphone. If it detects a hazardous fault, it will alert you via the app, making it a vital first line of defense for your coach.
For those long reaches, the Camco PowerGrip 50-ft 30-Amp Extension Cord provides the necessary distance without sacrificing power quality. It is built with 10-gauge copper wires for superior conductivity and protected by a heat-resistant, flame-retardant PVC jacket. The patented Power Grip handles and 90-degree heads make plugging and unplugging effortless while reducing stress on the cord connections.
The Camco RV Electrical Adapter 15A Male to 30A Female is an essential "dogbone" style connector for non-campsite use. It allows you to plug your 30-Amp RV into a standard 15-Amp household outlet, which is perfect for maintaining your batteries or running light-duty items like lights and fans while parked in a driveway or storage unit.
Pro-Tip: The "Home" Connection
Using the 15-Amp adapter at home is incredibly convenient for pre-cooling your fridge before a trip, but remember that a standard household outlet cannot handle the high draw of an RV air conditioner. Stick to battery charging and basic electronics when using this adapter to avoid tripping your home's breakers.


 

Travel Trailer Equipment and Supplies

Master Your Resources: Travel Trailer Propane Essentials When you’re towing a travel trailer, being prepared means knowing exactly what you have in the tank. Our Travel Trailer Equipment list focuses on the specialized tools needed to manage your fuel and safety on the road. While these supplies are compatible with roughly 90% of travel trailer setups, always verify the specific size of your propane tanks (typically 20lb or 30lb) and your connection types before purchasing.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Featured Propane Management Gear
The Mopeka Pro Check Universal Bundle is the gold standard for digital tank monitoring. It uses ultrasonic sensors to measure your propane levels with 99.5% accuracy, sending live data to a wireless LCD display or your smartphone. This bundle includes Tank Halos—sturdy sleeves that elevate the tanks to protect the sensors and ensure a clear signal, even on bumpy roads.
https://amzn.to/3Ofw9FW - Mopeka Pro Check Universal Bundle - 2 Pro Universal Sensors, 1 LCD Display, 2 Tank Halos - Wireless Propane Gauge for Your Dual RV Tanks

For a mechanical safety solution, the GasStop Propane Tank Gauge with Emergency Shut-Off is a must-have for peace of mind. Beyond acting as a standard pressure indicator to show when you're low on fuel, it features a specialized emergency shut-off that instantly stops the gas flow in the event of a major leak or hose failure. It also doubles as a minor leak tester, allowing you to verify your system's integrity before you start your trip.
https://amzn.to/4tn9CWG - Propane Tank Gauge with Leak Detector & Emergency Shut-Off - Pressure Indicator Universal Meter - RV & Camper Accessories

5th Wheel Trailer Equipment and Supplies

High-Tech Fuel Management for 5th Wheels When you’re managing a large 5th wheel, staying on top of your fuel levels is essential for comfort and safety. Our 5th Wheel Equipment list focuses on the specialized tools needed to monitor your propane supply accurately. While these supplies are compatible with roughly 90% of 5th wheel setups, always verify your specific propane tank size (often 30lb or 40lb on larger rigs) and connection types before purchasing.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

https://amzn.to/4difpIm - Propane Tank Gauge with Leak Detector & Emergency Shut-Off - Pressure Indicator Universal Meter - RV & Camper Accessories
Featured Propane Management Gear
For the ultimate in convenience, the Mopeka Pro Check Universal Bundle is the premier choice for 5th wheel owners. This system uses ultrasonic sensors to measure exactly how much propane is left in your dual tanks, transmitting the data to an LCD display or your smartphone via Bluetooth. The included Tank Halos provide a secure base that protects the sensors from ground contact and ensures a consistent, accurate reading.
If safety and simplicity are your primary goals, the Propane Tank Gauge with Leak Detector is a vital addition to your rig. This gauge features a color-coded pressure indicator for quick fuel level checks and an emergency shut-off that automatically triggers if a major leak is detected. It is designed for a universal fit and tool-free installation, providing an immediate layer of protection for your propane system.

https://amzn.to/4dYCX5b - Mopeka Pro Check Universal Bundle - 2 Pro Universal Sensors, 1 LCD Display, 2 Tank Halos - Wireless Propane Gauge for Your Dual RV Tanks

Motorhome Equipment and Supplies

Essential Safety for Motorhome Propane Systems Driving a Class A or Class C motorhome requires specialized equipment to ensure your fuel systems are secure. Our Motorhome Equipment list highlights the specific tools needed to monitor your propane supply and protect your rig from leaks. While this gauge is designed to fit approximately 90% of motorhome propane configurations, always verify that your rig uses a POL connection (common on larger chassis-mounted tanks) before purchasing.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Featured Propane Safety Gear
The GasStop Propane Tank Gauge with Emergency Shut-Off is a vital safety upgrade specifically engineered for the high-capacity tanks found in Class A and Class C motorhomes. This high-quality mechanical gauge provides a clear, color-coded pressure reading so you can check your fuel levels at a glance. More importantly, it features an automatic emergency shut-off valve that instantly kills the gas flow if a major leak or hose failure is detected, providing critical protection for you and your passengers.

https://amzn.to/3OicyF7 - Propane Tank Gauge with Emergency Shut-Off - Color Coded Pressure Meter, Propane Gas Gauge - POL Connection for Cylinder, Class A & Class C Motorhomes

RV Stage 2 Supplies (Optional) Niceties
Level Up Your Comfort: Stage 2 Upgrades

Once you have the essentials covered, Stage 2 is about refining your lifestyle on the road. This collection focuses on advanced stabilization to stop the "RV rock" and high-end water filtration for a residential-quality experience. While these items fit approximately 90% of RVs, please pay close attention to sizing—especially for leveling pads—to ensure they match your specific rig's weight and dimensions.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

https://amzn.to/4m5Gn8s - SnapPad Xtra RV Leveling Pads
                NOTE: this is not a one size that fits all, so be sure to select the ones that best fit your specific RV.
Enhanced Stability & Leveling
For a permanent solution to leveling, SnapPad Xtra RV Leveling Pads snap directly onto your metal landing feet. They provide a durable rubber grip that protects your driveway and increases stability on uneven ground. Note: These are not one-size-fits-all; be sure to measure your jack feet to select the correct diameter.
To eliminate the "bouncy" feeling inside your trailer, the X-Shaped RV Stabilizer Wheel Chocks sit between your tandem tires. By applying outward pressure, they lock the wheels in place and significantly reduce the front-to-back swaying caused by people walking inside.
https://amzn.to/4sd0v9T - SnapPad StakPad RV Leveling Blocks

https://amzn.to/4tqKDlu - ANDERSEN HITCHES | 3604 RV and Trailer Accessories

https://amzn.to/4c1mr1R - ANDERSEN HITCHES | 1-Pack Trailer Jack Block w/ Magnets

https://amzn.to/3OfAXer - X-Shaped RV Stabilizer Wheel Chock
Advanced Water Management
Upgrade your utility connection with the McKillans® Automatic Garden Hose Quick Connects. These allow you to snap your hoses on and off in seconds without tiresome threading, featuring solid brass construction for a leak-free seal every time.
For those who want home-quality water, the GoBluTech AR3 RV Water Filter System offers multi-stage filtration to remove sediment, chlorine, and odors. Pair it with the GoBluTech RV Water Softener to prevent hard water scale from damaging your RV’s plumbing and to make showering and dishwashing much more pleasant.
https://amzn.to/4bVvUYs - McKillans® 2025 Automatic Garden Hose Quick Connect

https://amzn.to/3O29wVj - Kesfitt Garden Hose Quick Connect 3/4 Inch GHT Solid Brass Hose Connector
Pro-Tip: Protecting Your Hoses
The Camco 90-Degree Hose Elbow is a small but mighty "nicety." By attaching it to your RV's city water inlet, you prevent your heavy water hose from kinking and putting excessive strain on your rig's internal plumbing connections.
If you are interested in further protecting your water system, I can look for a heated water hose to ensure your pipes don't freeze if your adventures take you into colder climates. Would you like to see some options for that?
https://amzn.to/4v4O0jz - Camco 90-Degree Hose Elbow for RVs — Solid Brass Construction— Certified Lead-Free

https://amzn.to/47EDGoh - RESTMO Water Flow Meter with Brass Inlet & Outlet, Measure Gallon/Liter Consumption and Flow Rate for RV Water Tank Filling

https://amzn.to/4sdb11d - GoBluTech AR3, RV Water Filter System

https://amzn.to/4sLTePw - GoBluTech Trio RV Water Filter Recharge Pack

https://amzn.to/4sKFnZI - GoBluTech RV Water Softener

https://amzn.to/4cFXhr6 

GoveeLife Upgraded Smart Water Leak Detector


Adding Govee sensors is a smart preventative move. In the context of RV Clarity’s recommendations, these are being included to protect your investment from the common plumbing failures that occur due to road vibrations and temperature shifts.

Why they are a "Stage 2" RV Essential:

  • Remote Monitoring: Since RVers are often away from their rigs exploring, the Wi-Fi gateway allows you to get an alert on your phone the second a leak is detected, rather than finding a flooded floor hours later.
  • Compact Placement: These sensors are small enough to slide under the RV water pump, behind the toilet, under the kitchen sink, or near the water heater bypass valves—all common failure points.
  • Audible & Digital Alarms: Even if you don't have Wi-Fi at a specific campsite, the local 100dB alarm will wake you up if a pipe bursts in the middle of the night.
  • Expandability: You can link multiple sensors to one gateway, covering every "wet" area of the coach (bathroom, kitchen, outdoor shower, and basement storage).
It's a high-value upgrade because water damage is one of the leading causes of RV "total loss" or expensive mold issues. Thanks for correcting that!
 

General Topics

Ball Hitches & Weight Distribution

Understanding the difference between weight-carrying and weight-distributing hitches is critical for safe towing and staying within legal weight limits.

Download "Ball Hitches & Weight Distro.pdf"

Military & Veterans

Base Access Guide

Before you roll: Measure your rig height, confirm gate hours, and keep your entry folder on the dash. Plan to arrive during daylight if possible.

Download "RV_Clarity_Base_Gate_Access_Guide.pdf"

PCS Travel Expense Log

Purpose: Accurate documentation to maximize PCS reimbursement and
prevent Finance delays.

Download "RV_Clarity_PCS_Travel_Expense_Log.pdf"

The RV PCS Finance Script (2026
Edition)

Purpose: Provide clear, consistent language to explain RV based PCS moves to Finance so that PPM, TLE or
TLA, and MALT entitlements are processed correctly.

Download "RV_Clarity_RV_PCS_Finance_Script_2026_Clean.pdf"

Person going over a checklist on a tablet

Clarity Close-Up Videos

Coming Soon!

Quick, actionable video lessons that break down essential RV systems, safety features, and routine maintenance in a clear, easy-to-follow way. Each video focuses on what matters most, helping you understand how your RV works without overwhelming you with technical jargon.

From everyday upkeep to common troubleshooting scenarios, these close-up guides are designed to build your confidence and awareness. Whether you’re preparing for your next trip or trying to prevent costly repairs, you’ll gain practical insights you can use right away—so you feel informed, prepared, and in control.