After two years of full-time RVing, we’ve discovered which easy RV upgrades truly make a difference in daily life. These aren’t the fancy, expensive modifications you often see – just practical solutions that improved our comfort, safety, and enjoyment of RV life. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or full-timer like us, these tested upgrades won’t break the bank but will transform your RV experience.
Why These RV Upgrades Matter for Real-Life Travel
When we first hit the road, we quickly learned that small improvements could make a huge impact on daily life. We’ve focused on upgrades that solve real problems: reducing movement, improving safety, and making our RV more livable. These aren’t just theoretical improvements – they’re solutions we’ve tested through thousands of miles of travel and daily use.
A Safer Power Solution: The Smart Plug Upgrade
After watching our original RV power inlet deteriorate, we realized how critical a reliable power connection is. The stock power inlets that come with most RVs use outdated technology with basic plastic components that can wear out quickly, especially with frequent use. The Smart Plug is a complete redesign that eliminates these common failure points – no more worrying about loose connections or worn-out threading.
The Smart Plug’s solid metal construction and multi-point locking system provides a much more secure connection than traditional twist-lock designs. We’ve created a detailed installation video showing the step-by-step process [SMART PLUG INSTALLATION VIDEO LINK]. While installation requires some basic electrical work, we’ve found it to be a straightforward upgrade that dramatically improves safety.
Smart Plug RV Power Inlet and Connector
50 AMP- https://www.etrailer.com/RV-Power-Inlets/SmartPlug/SM76FR.html?etam=b0009
30 AMP- https://www.etrailer.com/RV-Power-Inlets/SmartPlug/SM27FR.html?etam=b0009
Here’s Barry’s Smart Plug Install Video- Smart Plug Installation- GAME CHANGER! RV SMART PLUG INSTALL | Is it worth it? 2 month review
Stop RV Movement: Our Three-Part Solution
We’ve implemented three key upgrades that work together to significantly reduce RV movement:
- A Kingpin stabilizer that noticeably improves stability
- X-chocks between our triple axle tires that prevent shifting
- Adjustable patio supports that eliminate movement when we’re using our side patio
The difference is remarkable – especially when we skip using them during quick overnight stays. For longer stays, this combination makes our RV feel solid and stable, whether we’re cooking on the Blackstone or just moving around inside.
The Truth About Truck Suspension: Timbren vs. Sumo Springs vs. Airbags
When you’re towing a large fifth wheel with an F350, managing weight and suspension is critical. After extensive research and testing, we chose the Timbren SES (Suspension Enhancement System) for our truck, and it’s proven to be the perfect solution. Here’s why Timbren stands out from other options:
Timbren SES Advantages:
- Specifically designed for heavy fifth-wheel towing
- Eliminates squat when hitching your RV
- Reduces suspension wear and tear
- Provides a more stable turning radius
- Zero maintenance with lifetime warranty
- More affordable than comparable solutions
- Improves safety during emergency maneuvers
While Sumo Springs and airbags have their place, Timbren’s firm, purpose-built design excels at what matters most – protecting your truck’s suspension while towing a heavy fifth wheel. Sumo Springs offer more give, which might feel better without the RV, but that’s not what we needed. We wanted maximum stability and protection while towing, and that’s exactly what Timbren delivers.
Worth noting: We couldn’t detect any difference in ride quality when not towing, but we immediately noticed improved stability with the fifth wheel attached. The system prevents that uncomfortable “porpoising” effect over hills and provides confident handling during wide turns.
Here is a more detailed video on Timbren (and the installation process)- Money-Saving Truck Upgrade for RV Towing | Better Than Airbags? | 60 Minutes Install
Transform Your RV Office: The HappiJack Desk Conversion
The HappiJack desk system has completely transformed our toy hauler’s office space. After removing the original seats (definitely a two-person job – trust us!), we installed this versatile system that functions as both a desk and standing workspace. The installation was straightforward, using the original mounting points, and the result has been fantastic. In fact, we loved it so much, we added a second one as a workbench for projects, music, and extra workspace.
Pro tip: While the desk system itself is excellent, the keyboard tray is sold separately. For travel days, we simply strap down the keyboard tray and remove our equipment – a five-minute process that keeps everything secure.
Pullout Keyboard and mouse tray for desktop
Water Quality on the Road: Quick Connects and Filtration That Works
Clean, soft water is crucial for full-time RV living. We’ve created a comprehensive water system using quick connects for easy setup and breakdown, paired with a three-stage Ultra filter system and on-the-go water softener. The quick connects from Amazon are much more affordable than hardware store options – we recommend buying extras to create a versatile system.
Our filtered, softened water makes a noticeable difference in daily life (especially for Darlene’s hair!). While the filtration system is an investment, the quality of your daily water supply isn’t something to compromise on when living full-time in your RV.
ClearSource 3-Stage Water Filtration System
The 50-Pound Weight Loss Secret: Our Shower Door Upgrade
One of our most impactful upgrades was replacing the heavy three-panel glass shower doors with the Nautilus retractable shower door. This simple change eliminated about 50 pounds of weight and solved the constant battle with foggy, hard-to-clean glass. The retractable design is practically weightless, includes a built-in squeegee effect, and we’ve never had issues with mildew despite over a year of use.
We also added adhesive shower baskets that eliminate the need to pack up shower supplies during travel, and a shower head with a shut-off valve – perfect for conserving water while boondocking.
Shower Baskets & Shower Head are in our Amazon Store Bed and Bath Section
Barry’s Bougie Bidet: An Unexpected Upgrade
Here’s Barry’s favorite “luxury” upgrade – a bidet from Go.com that adds a touch of sophistication to our RV bathroom. While installation was a bit challenging, requiring connection to both hot and cold water lines, their customer service provided excellent support with detailed instructions and parts lists. Though the hot water connection might have been overkill, the end result has been… well, let’s just say it’s an upgrade that keeps on giving!
Ready to Start Your Own RV Journey?
After two years on the road, we can honestly say that despite the challenges, this lifestyle has been worth every moment. Yes, there are trade-offs, but the freedom to explore, connect, and live life on our own terms far outweighs the occasional stress of travel days or RV repairs.
That’s exactly why we created “Your Path to Full-Time Freedom.”
Think back to when we started – we spent countless hours researching, watching videos, and making expensive mistakes along the way. We built this comprehensive course to be everything we wish we had when we began our journey. From handling your mail and choosing a domicile to managing your finances and maintaining your rig, we cover every aspect of transitioning to full-time RV life.
But it’s more than just a course. You’ll also join our private Facebook community where you’re surrounded by others who are either planning their transition or already living the life. No judgment, no silly questions – just real support from people who understand exactly what you’re going through. We’re there too, actively answering questions and sharing insights from our ongoing journey.
Whether you’re planning to hit the road this year or five years from now, this course will help you avoid costly mistakes and build a solid foundation for your full-time RV life. We’ve packaged everything we’ve learned – both the victories and the hard lessons – into a resource that will save you time, money, and stress.
🔥 Special Offer:
We’re currently offering a discount plus 2 months free access to our Private Facebook Group for the next 5 people who join! Learn more about Your Path to Full-Time Freedom
