matt's top rv prodcut picks

TST 507 Tire pressure monitoring system

What is it?   The TST507 wirelessly monitors your truck, RV, trailer and towed vehicles tire temperature and pressure.

Pros - TST 507 is 100% customizable, set your tire pressure and temperature ranges to alert you if there is a sudden loss of pressure or specs go outside of your preset ranges.  Each axle can have independant settings.  Works up to 50ft wirelessly.  Installation is quick and easy.  The monitor is detachable so you can have it with you when setting tire pressures.  There is also a repeater available (see item below) that greatly increases the strength of the signal for better reception or longer distances .  The monitor is clear and has a small footprint.  

Cons - It is a little pricent (but 100% worth it)

Why this and not that? - TST is the leader in TPMS systems.  They are proven and reliable.  This model has all the bells and whistles you need in a small footprint.  

Trukeela 10.1" Camera System

What is it?  This wired camera system provides unparalleled clarity and options.  It is a 4 camera (wired) system that also loop records all 4 camera, regardless of display set up.  The 10.1" screen is bright and resolution. 

Pros - Large 10.1" screen is bright and easy to see even with 2x2 camera display on.  Comes with ALOT of cord, easily enough for up to a 50ft RV.  Mount can be attached using provided double sided stick pad, or attached using screws. Being wired, you will never lose the picture, have delays or gaps in the picture, and never have to change camera batteries.  Allows loop recording of all 4 cameras regardless of what cameras are being displayed.  For what you get, and its quality, the price is very reasonable.  

Cons - The system and cameras are all hardwired, so installation is moderately difficult.  

Why this and not that? - Despite the eaes of installation of wireless systems, the advantages end there... once installed, this system blows all the other options out of the campsite.  This system will not disappoint.  When turn signal is on, the display goes to full screen for that side, and the same goes for reversing.  The options are numerous for how you set up your split screen as well.  I highly recommend this system.  

Flojet 18555-000A Portable RV Waste Pump 

What is it? Connects directly to the RV waste outlet, eliminates 3" sewer hose Dump longer distances and drain holding tanks at home using any convenient sewer receiver Garden hose discharge port, fresh water rinse capabilities Remote handheld on / off switch with 6' wire harness, run dry protection Easy clean up and storage, includes rugged portable storage case Run dry protection up to 30 seconds Motor: 12 Vdc Permanent Magnet Type,Fully Enclosed, with Stainless Steel Shaft Macerator: Stainless Steel Cutter reduces particlesize to 1/8" (3.17 mm) maximum

Cons - A little pricey

Why this and not that? -Having light when and where you need it is essential.  this headlamp is VERY bright, very comfortable and has a long lasting battery (6-8 hours).  It has a convenient USB charging port.  

Hurkins 180 Degree Headlamp 

What is it? This headlamp offers unparallelled light.  An essential tool for any camper, it is very comfortable, easily adjustable / dimmable.

Pros - Offers incredible light and is easily dimmable.  Very comfortable to wear.  Has a very long lasting battery pack with USB charging.  

Cons - A little pricey

Why this and not that? -Having light when and where you need it is essential.  this headlamp is VERY bright, very comfortable and has a long lasting battery (6-8 hours).  It has a convenient USB charging port.  

Renator Water Pressure Gauge 

What is it?  Water pressures at campsites vary and are unpredictable... Know for sure what water pressure is going into your rig and don't chance blown pipes/fittings due to excessive pressure.  

Pros - Durable, very accurate, liquid filled gauge

Cons - None

Why this and not that? -

Renator Brass Y

What is it? A brass Y is handy to have.  I personally use mine to separate the RV water source from the "other" water source to help prevent cross contamimation.  This Y has shutoffs for each individual side which is also convenient.  

Pros - All brass construction makes it durable.  Also has shutoffs for each side.  Twist on female connector make connecting / disconnecting easy.

Cons -None

Why this and not that? - This item has dual shutoffs and is made entirely of brass.  It is very durable.

Camco Water Bandit Hose Adapter

What is it? the Water Bandit has a slip on rubber sleeve which allows quick and convenient connections to water sources that may have damaged threads or are an odd size.    

Pros - A must have when you are in a situation where the pipe threads are damaged or an odd size.  Small, doesn't take up much space.

Cons - Not something you need every trip.

Why this and not that? - I have not seen many products like this on the market, and for me, is a must have despite not needing it all the time.  But when you do... it's irresplaceable.  

Camco  Brass 90

What is it?  The brass 90 allows you to connect one end to your city water connection port and have your hose, filter or whatever hang straight down, relieving strain and pressure on your city water port.

Pros - All brass durable construction.  Twist on female connection is quick and easy to use.

Cons - None

Why this and not that? - The all brass construction and twist on female connector makes this my choice.  

Garden Hose Quick Connects 

What is it?  Hose quick disconnects thread onto your hose ends and allow for quick connect / disconnect.  Eliminating the need to twist to tighten each and every connection, saving alot of time setting up and tearing down camp.

Pros - All brass construction.  Comes with extra rubber seals

Cons - If you use them, you need to use them consistently on all your hose ends.

Why this and not that? - The all brass construction is durable (versus the plastic ones).  

Winterization Blowout Adapter-

What is it?  Used to connect your air compressor to your city water connection port, this item makes blowing our your water lines quick and easy.  

Pros - Makes connecting your compressor quick and easy.  flexible hose relieves strain on your city water port.  It also have a convenient shut off valve integrated.   

Cons - None

Why this and not that? - I used to have the one that simply screwed in and had the air hose port... I switched to this for 2 reasons... 1) it has the flexible hose and 2) it has the convenient shut off valve.  

Camco Water Heater Rinse Out Wand 

What is it?  The wand is used to help flush out your hot water tank.  

Pros - Helps to flush out the hot water tank loosening up build up on the interior walls.

Cons - Has a very narrow stream, so it is hard to really clean the entire interior surface.

Why this and not that? - Despite is cons, this item does do a good job in helping to clean our the interior walls of the hot water heater.  It also 

Clearsource Water Filtration

What is it?  The Clearsource filtration system does an excellent job of removing 99.999% of impurities in camp water as well as making it fresher tasting.  

Pros - It's triple filter design removes 99.999% of impurities in the water.  Very rugged and durable construction.  Can be mounted inside a bay or set outside and connected.  

Cons - It is a bit pricey, escpecially for weekend warriors.  The filters do need to be changed at intervals.  

Why this and not that? - If you want the best in mobile water purification, this is at the top of the list.  it dramatically outworks the standard screw on filters common at big box stores. It is rugged and durable and will last a long time.  

RecPro Tank Heaters -

What is it?  RecPro tank heaters take the guess work and worry out of your tanks freezing.  They automatically turn off to keep your grey, black and fresh tanks from freezing.

Pros - Takes the guess work out of tank temperatures and prevents costly downtime and damages due to freezing.

Cons - They are a bit cumbersome to install (varies of course depending on your rig / setup.

Why this and not that? - These tank heaters do their job... and do it well.  Once they are set up, freezing tanks will be the least of your worries.  

Dometic Water Heater Drain Plug Kit 

What is it?  This drain plug kit is a must have for RV's with a Dometic water heater.  The additional plastic plugs offer assurance that in case of a failure or mis threading, you will be able to quickly replace it.  

Pros - Offers peace of mind knowing you have a replacement on hand.  Small and doesn't take up much space.  Includes a wrench for easy removal and installation.

Cons - None

Why this and not that? - At a reasonable price and a small size, having peace of mind knowing you have this spare part is worth it.  

Camco Rhino 36 Gallon Waste Holding Tank (4 wheels / steerable)

What is it?   When at a campsite that does not offer on site dumping, your options are to tear down camp and drive to the dump, OR you can dump your waste into a Rhino holding tank and transport the tank to the dump.  Camco offers multiple sizes (15 gal, 21 gal and 28 gal).  

Pros - VERY durable, this blow molded construction.  Standard 3 in gate valve.  Also can be tilt dumped through the fill port.  Comes with a very nice accessory kit that gives you everything you need.  Includes a tow bar to attach it to your vehicle for easy transportation.  

Cons - Some state that the plastic wheels are the achiles heel of this unit, however I have found them to be extremely durable and have had no issues with them

Why this and not that? - This unit is built VERY tough, and considering the job it does... that's critically important.  The 4 wheel design makes it easy to move around.  The accessory pack this comes with is second to none.  

FloJet Mascerator Pump

What is it?   Connects directly to the RV waste outlet, elimates 3" sewer hose Dump longer distances and drain holding tanks at home using any convenient sewer receiver Garden hose discharge port, fresh water rinse capabilities Remote handheld on / off switch with 6' wire harness, run dry protection Easy clean up and storage, includes rugged portable storage case Run dry protection up to 30 seconds Motor: 12 Vdc Permanent Magnet Type,Fully Enclosed, with Stainless Steel Shaft Macerator: Stainless Steel Cutter reduces particlesize to 1/8" (3.17 mm) maximum

Pros - FloJet is a top brand in this department.  Easy RV connection and garden hose discharge port.  Has a push button control

Cons - Some wiring required for installation.

Why this and not that? - If you've even had to go miles out of your way to dump your RV after a trip, then this is your solution.  The FloJet mascerator allows you the option and ability to drain your tank directly into a sewer port. 

Camco Rhino 28 and 36 Gallon Waste Tank Wheel Kit

What is it?   Convert your 2 wheel 28 or 36 gallon Camco Rhino Waste Tank into a 4 wheel, steerable unit.

Pros - Very easy to install.  Made of solid quality steel.  

Cons - None

Why this and not that? - If you have a 28 or 36 gallon Camco Rhino Waste Tank you know that much.... stuff.... weighs ALOT.  Don't break your back, and install a wheel kit.  

Camco Rhino Waste Tank Hose Kit

What is it?   3ft hose kit for Rhino (Or any) waste tank.

Pros - High quality durable waste hose, perfect length, includes end caps

Cons - None

Why this and not that? - Whatever waste tank you have, this is the hose for you.

Camco 20ft Sewer Hose

What is it?   Camco 20ft sewer hose.

Pros - High quality durable waste hose, perfect length, includes end caps.  2 10ft sections.

Cons - None

Why this and not that? - Camco offers high quality items at a decent price.  Their hoses are durable and always come with nice accessories like endcaps

Camco Sewer Hose Support

What is it?   The Ultimate Protection and Support for Your Sewer Hose: The 15 feet Sidewinder RV Sewer Hose Support by Camco lifts and cradles your sewer hose while in connection from your RV to the dump station; It keeps your sewer hose off the ground and prevents potential damage or punctures to your RV or camper sewer hose by safely nesting it in heavy duty plastic

Pros - Camco is proven in their quality and innovation.  Slopes your sewer hose gently towards the pit.  Handy carry handle

Cons - None

Why this and not that? - Having a good, gentle slope of your sewer hose from your RV to the pit is essential to make sure nothing backs up and it keeps everything up off the ground. 

Camco Sewer Hose Cleanout Adapter

What is it?  Locks into bayonet fitting securely, and connects to a garden hose Fits easy slip, RhinoFLEX and standard sewer fittings Can be left in place as a hose cap during storage Thoroughly rinse your sewer hose before storing Convenient shut-off valve 

Pros - Makes cleaning out a sewer hose quick and simple.  easy to use.

Cons - None

Why this and not that? -  Keeping your sewer lines clean is essential.  Using the Camco sewer line cleanout adapter is quick and easy. 

Camco Sewer Hose Adapter Wrench

What is it?  Provides leverage for loosening and tightening swivel fittings Compatible with Rhino, Revolution, Easy Slip and many other bayonet and lug fittings Lightweight and durable Ergonomic design Set of 2

Pros - Provides some leverage when removing sewer line adapters

Cons - None

Why this and not that? -  The last thing you want is a slip up when removing sewer hoses... don't chance it, use a wrench.

Camco 4 in 1 sewer adapter

What is it?  Securely connects: RV sewer elbow adapter fits securely into dump station connection Fits four sizes of dump station inlets: Fits securely into four sizes of dump station inlets 4 inch npt, 3.5 inch npt, 3 inch npt and 3 inch slip fitting Elbow is clear so you can see when your sewer Hose has finished draining Fitting rotates 360 degrees; Built in gasket provides an odor tight connection Elbow detaches from 4 in 1 adapter and fits into 4" square RV bumper

Pros - Allows connection to multiple sized sewer ports.  fits into standard 4in RV bumper

Cons - None

Why this and not that? -  Ensuring a good connection to the sewer pit is essential.  Don't take a chance that the campsite will have the one fitting you have, get the 4 in 1.  

Camco TST Ultra Concentrated Orange Scented Drop Ins

What is it?  Essential for RV Black Water Holding Tanks: Eliminates odors and helps break down waste and tissue in your RV's black water holding tank Ultra-Concentrated Formula: The toughest odor stopper; just one drop-in treats up to a 40-gallon tank Not Made with Bronopol: Does not contain the toxic, formaldehyde-releasing ingredient bronopol Safe for All Septic Tanks: Drop-Ins are RV and marine approved and are 100% biodegradable Great Smell: Fresh citrus scent Quantity: 30 drop-ins/container

Pros - Super easy to use.  Pleasant scent.  Helps break down solids in black tank

Cons - None

Why this and not that? -  Breaking down solids in your black tank and controlling odors is essential for RV travel.  These tabs do a good job and are inexpensive. 

GOCOM Walkie Talkies

What is it?   These walkie takies provide you all the communication you'll need in and around the campsite.  It also comes with handfree headsets and a dual charging base.  Never get "left out in the rain" with NOAA emergency alerts and notifications built in. The manufacturer states that, with zero obstructions, the range of these are up to 22 miles. We have used them on hikes and vehicle to vehicle and have rarely had connectivity issues, but have never tested them more than a few miles.  

Cons - None

Why this and not that? -  When camping, cell and wifi signals, well, aren't reliable.  Having these gives peace of mind when part of your group wants to go explore or wander off.  

Optimus GPS Tracker

What is it?   Optimus Vehicle GPS Tracker – Track Cars and Trucks - Hardwired Installation - Requires a 2 wire Easy direct on Car’s Battery installation (Positive and Negative). $12.95 per month - Cancel Anytime - No Contract - No Hidden Fees. IPhone and Android App for Easy and Fast Tracking - Updates every 30 seconds and on corners. Email and Text Message Alerts for Movement, Speeding, Leaving or Entering Areas, Energy Disconnected - Driving Reports – 1 Year Tracking Historical Data Saved During Service. SIM Card and Data Plan Included - FCC, PTCRB Certified Unit - Coverage for USA and Canada.

Cons - Requires a subscription (~$13/month)

Why this and not that? -  We rent out our RV during its downtime, and I wouldn't feel at al comfortable doing so w/o our Optimus GPS tracker.  Install was quick and easy, and we were "live" within a few minutes of getting it connected.  It offers multiple ways to track and get notifications.  Very user friendly.