Ellen Kietzmann
Freelance Writer at Searchshop Media Network
She grew Blue Ox's dealer network from 100 to 2,500 brand-loyal partners. That's 22 years of earned expertise.
Ellen Kietzmann brings more than 25 years of senior leadership in the RV and outdoor recreation industry. She spent 22 years at Blue Ox — rising from Vice President of Sales & HR to President — where she grew the dealer network from 100 to 2,500 brand-loyal partners, expanded annual RV sector sales by 800%, and earned both the Jim Barker Award and the Chairman Service Award for her lasting contributions to the RV industry. As President, she led strategic planning, market expansion, product partnerships, and a dealer certification and training program that became an industry standard. Following Blue Ox, Ellen served as Chief Operating Officer at Universal Group, Ltd., where she streamlined operations and led agency acquisition initiatives. Her product expertise — built through two decades of dealer training, channel development, and direct manufacturer partnerships — informs every review and buying guide she contributes to.
Awards & Recognition
Career Highlights
- ►Grew Blue Ox's dealer and distributor network from 100 to 2,500 active partners over 12 years
- ►Created the RV industry's first branded dealer certification and training program
- ►Jim Barker Award recipient — the RV industry's top honor for sustained industry contribution
- ►Led Universal Group as COO through strategic acquisitions and operational restructuring
How We Evaluate
- ✓Product specifications, compatibility claims, and performance ratings are verified against manufacturer documentation, service manuals, and category standards
- ✓Verified owner reviews from multiple platforms are analyzed to surface real-world reliability patterns, common failure modes, and use-case fit
- ✓Safety-critical claims — load ratings, electrical specs, recalls — are cross-referenced with manufacturer data and federal safety databases
- ✓Ellen is editorially responsible for every recommendation on this page — whether evaluated through direct use or thorough desk research — and updates picks when new information changes the ranking
Articles by Ellen Kietzmann 84 published
Buying Guides & Best Picks73 articles
Best Fifth Wheel Hitches for Heavy Towing: Reese, Curt, B&W Compared (2026)
We compared the most trusted fifth wheel hitches for heavy-duty towing, focusing on Reese, Curt, and B&W models that full-time RVers actually use. This guide breaks down capacity, ride quality, install options, and real-world tradeoffs so you can pick the right hitch without wasting time.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Solar Charge Controllers: MPPT vs PWM Compared for 2026 (2026)
We compared the best RV solar charge controllers for 2026 based on charging performance, battery compatibility, app quality, and real RV use. If you’re choosing between MPPT and PWM, this guide lays out what actually matters on the road.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Portable EMS and Surge Protectors for RV Shore Power Protection (2026)
We’ve used portable EMS and surge protectors in real campgrounds where voltage drops, bad pedestals, and wiring faults are common. This guide ranks the best options for RV shore power protection and explains which model makes sense for your rig and travel style.
By Ellen Kietzmann
RV Gear Gift Guide 2026: Best Gifts for RVers and Campers
Finding a useful gift for an RVer is harder than it looks. We narrowed down the best practical, space-smart, road-tested picks in this RV gear gift guide 2026 so you can buy something they’ll actually use.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best 2000W RV Inverters for Running Appliances Off Battery in 2026 (2026)
A good 2000W inverter is the sweet spot for many RVers who want to run kitchen gear, chargers, and small appliances from battery without overspending. We compared the top 2026 options based on surge handling, idle draw, install quality, safety features, and real-world RV usability.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV GPS Trackers for Full-Timers and Fleet Owners in 2026 (2026)
A good tracker can help you recover a stolen rig, monitor a trailer in storage, or keep tabs on a small rental fleet without guesswork. We compared the best RV GPS trackers for 2026 based on coverage, power options, alerts, app quality, and real-world RV use.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Hydraulic RV Leveling Systems for Motorhomes and Class A Coaches (2026)
We compared the top hydraulic leveling systems for Class A motorhomes and larger coaches based on lifting power, reliability, service support, and day-to-day usability. If you want a system that levels fast, holds steady, and is worth installing for long-term travel, these are the models we’d shortlist.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Solar Panel Monitoring Systems and Apps for Off-Grid Camping (2026)
A good monitor tells you more than battery voltage—it shows what your solar is actually doing hour by hour. We compared the best RV solar monitoring systems and apps we’d trust for off-grid camping, from simple Bluetooth setups to full remote dashboards.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Screen Rooms and Porch Enclosures for Campsite Privacy in 2026 (2026)
A good screen room can turn a cramped campsite into usable living space, but only if it fits your RV and sets up without a fight. We compared the best RV screen rooms and porch enclosures for privacy, weather coverage, and real-world usability.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Solar Lanterns for RV Camping: Rechargeable and Off-Grid Options (2026)
A good solar lantern earns its spot in an RV when it charges reliably, throws useful light, and keeps working after weeks of campsite dust, rain, and storage. We compared the best solar lanterns for RV camping based on runtime, charging flexibility, durability, and how they actually fit into life on and off the grid.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Cargo Carriers and Hitch Basket Trays for RV Owners in 2026 (2026)
We compared the best hitch-mounted cargo carriers and basket trays for RV owners who need more exterior storage without creating handling or clearance problems. These are the models and features we’d trust after years of loading coolers, generators, totes, and muddy campsite gear on the back of an RV.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Unlimited Mobile Hotspot Plans for Full-Time RVers in 2026 (2026)
Finding truly usable hotspot data on the road is harder than the marketing makes it sound. We broke down the best unlimited mobile hotspot plans for RVers in 2026 based on network access, deprioritization, device rules, and real full-time travel needs.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Gear for Full-Time Living: Must-Haves for Life on the Road (2026)
Full-time RV life gets easier when your gear actually works day after day. We ranked the best RV gear for full-time living based on real-world use, reliability, and how much hassle each item saves on the road.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Portable Solar Generators for RV Camping: EcoFlow, Jackery, Bluetti (2026)
We compared the most popular portable power stations from EcoFlow, Jackery, and Bluetti in real RV use, from weekend boondocking to backup power at camp. This guide breaks down which models are actually worth hauling, charging, and relying on when you're off-grid.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best 200Ah Lithium RV Batteries for Full-Time and Weekend RVers (2026)
We compared the best 200Ah lithium RV batteries for real RV use, not lab-only specs. This guide breaks down the top picks for full-timers and weekend campers, plus what actually matters before you buy.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Progressive Industries vs Southwire: Best RV EMS Brand in 2026 (2026)
We’ve run both Progressive Industries and Southwire surge protectors in real RV conditions and there are meaningful differences that matter on the road. This guide breaks down protection, usability, reliability, and which EMS brand makes more sense for full-timers and weekend campers in 2026.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Fresh Water Hoses: Drinking-Safe and Lead-Free for 2026 (2026)
We researched the top RV fresh water hoses for taste, flexibility, durability, and ease of setup in real campground conditions. These are the drinking-safe, lead-free hoses we’d trust on our own rigs in 2026.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Drawer and Slide Organizers to Maximize Interior Space (2026)
We researched the most practical RV drawer and slide-out organizers for real-world RV kitchens, bathrooms, and basement compartments. These picks help you control clutter, reduce shifting in transit, and make better use of every inch of interior space.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Dish Drying Racks and Compact Kitchen Accessories for Tiny Counters (2026)
Tiny RV counters punish bulky kitchen gear fast. We researched the most practical RV dish drying racks and compact kitchen accessories to find what actually works in real campers, trailers, and motorhomes.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Rubber Roof Repair Kits: Dicor, EternaBond, and Geocel Ranked (2026)
A leaking RV roof can turn into rotten decking and stained ceilings fast. We researched the most common RV rubber roof repair kits from Dicor, EternaBond, and Geocel to see which ones actually hold up on EPDM and TPO roofs in real-world conditions.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Grey Tank Treatments and Deodorizers for 2026 (2026)
Grey tank odor is one of those RV problems that can make a good campsite feel miserable fast. We researched the leading RV grey tank treatments and deodorizers with real sink, shower, and galley use to find the options that actually control smell, cut grease, and keep sensors cleaner.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Stack Jack Stabilizers for Slide-Outs and RV Corner Support (2026)
We researched the most common stack jack options RVers use under slide-outs and corners to find which ones actually add stability without creating setup headaches. This guide covers the best picks, what to avoid, and how to use them safely in the field.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Budget RV Gear Under $50: Affordable Finds for Every RV Type (2026)
Not every useful RV upgrade has to cost a fortune. We researched affordable gear that solves real day-to-day problems in travel trailers, fifth wheels, motorhomes, and camper vans, and these are the under-$50 items we’d actually buy again.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Wheel Locks and Anti-Theft Devices to Protect Your Rig in 2026 (2026)
A visible lock is one of the fastest ways to make your RV a harder target. We researched the most practical RV wheel locks and anti-theft devices for trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes, then ranked the options that actually make sense on the road.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Inline RV Water Filters for Taste, Odor, and Lead Removal in 2026 (2026)
We researched the top inline RV water filters with real campground hookups and inconsistent water sources to find the best options for taste, odor, sediment, and lead reduction. This guide breaks down what each filter does well, where it falls short, and which one makes the most sense for your RV setup.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Gear of 2026: Top Products Every RVer Should Own (2026)
We narrowed down the best RV gear for 2026 based on real-world use, not spec-sheet hype. These are the products we’d pack again for full-time travel, weekend trips, and long-haul campground living.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Outdoor Table and Camp Kitchen Setup for Your Site (2026)
A solid outdoor cooking setup makes RV life easier, cleaner, and a lot more enjoyable. We researched common table and camp kitchen options in real RV campsites to find the best setups for cooking, prep, storage, and quick teardown.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV LED Awning Lights and String Lights for Ambiance at Your Site (2026)
Good campsite lighting should do more than look nice. We researched RV-friendly awning lights and string lights for brightness, durability, power options, and easy setup so you can choose a system that actually works on the road.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Storage Bags and Outdoor Gear Organizers for Towing Season (2026)
Towing season exposes every weak point in your cargo setup, especially when chairs, hoses, leveling blocks, and dirty gear start piling up. We researched the best RV storage bags and outdoor gear organizers for durability, fit, weather resistance, and how well they actually work in real campsites.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Microwave Ovens for Counter Space and Low-Power Draw in 2026 (2026)
We researched the latest RV microwave ovens with the things that actually matter in a rig: counter footprint, usable interior space, and how hard they hit your inverter or campground pedestal. These are the models we’d shortlist for full-timers and weekend campers who want fast reheating without wasting space or power.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best 30-Amp RV Surge Protectors for Travel Trailers in 2026 (2026)
A good surge protector is cheap insurance compared with a fried converter, air conditioner board, or EMS panel. We researched the top 30-amp options for travel trailers and ranked the models that actually make sense for real RV use.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV WiFi Boosters and Routers for Campground Internet in 2026 (2026)
Campground WiFi can be usable, but only if your gear is built for weak signals, crowded networks, and constant travel. We researched the leading RV internet routers and WiFi booster systems to find the setups that actually improve day-to-day connectivity on the road.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Instant Pots and Pressure Cookers for Full-Time RV Living (2026)
We researched the most practical electric pressure cookers for RV kitchens with limited space, power, and storage. These are the RV-friendly models we’d actually carry full-time, plus the setup advice that matters on the road.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Collapsible Cookware and Camp Kitchen Sets for RV Camping (2026)
Space is always tight in an RV kitchen, which is why collapsible cookware can make sense—if it actually cooks well and survives travel. We compared the best collapsible cookware and camp kitchen sets for RVers based on storage efficiency, durability, cooking performance, and day-to-day usability.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Waterproof Dry Bags and RV Camping Gear Bags for Outdoor Adventures (2026)
We researched the most practical waterproof bags and gear haulers for real RV travel, from kayak days to muddy campsites and truck-bed storage. These are the dry bags and camping gear bags we’d actually pack when space is tight and weather turns bad.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Outdoor Shower and Portable Shower Systems for Campsite Use (2026)
A good campsite shower setup makes a bigger difference than most RVers expect, especially for beach trips, muddy dogs, boondocking, and quick rinse-offs outside. We researched the most practical RV outdoor shower portable systems and ranked the best options for different rigs, camping styles, and water setups.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Camping Chairs for RV Travel: Lightweight Folding and Rocking Options (2026)
A good camp chair earns its storage space fast when you live or travel in an RV. We researched lightweight folding chairs, rocker styles, and compact options to find the best picks for comfort, packability, and long-term durability.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Coffee Makers for 12V, Shore Power, and Propane Brewing (2026)
We researched the most practical ways to make coffee in an RV, from 12V brewers to compact drip machines and stovetop propane options. This guide ranks the best RV coffee makers by power source, space needs, and real-world usability on the road.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Ceiling Vent Covers and Fan Shrouds for All-Weather Protection (2026)
A good vent cover or fan shroud lets you keep air moving in rain, wind, dust, and shoulder-season cold without babying your roof vents. We researched the most common styles and narrowed them down to the models and materials that actually hold up on real RVs.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Shore Power Cords and Adapters: 30-Amp and 50-Amp Guide (2026)
Choosing the right shore power setup is easier when you know what actually matters at the pedestal. We researched common 30-amp and 50-amp RV shore power cords adapters in real campground conditions to find the options that hold up and the mistakes to avoid.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Reese vs Curt vs Blue Ox: Best Weight Distribution Hitch Brand in 2026 (2026)
Choosing between Reese, Curt, and Blue Ox comes down to how you tow, how often you adjust your setup, and how much sway control you really need. We researched the major hitch styles these brands are known for and broke down where each one works best for travel trailers in 2026.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Battle Born vs Renogy vs LiTime: Best Lithium RV Battery Brand in 2026 (2026)
We researched and compared three popular RV lithium battery brands to see which one actually makes sense for different rigs and camping styles. Here’s the straightforward breakdown of Battle Born, Renogy, and LiTime based on specs, support, install flexibility, and real-world RV use.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Hammock Chairs and Portable Hammocks for RV Camping in 2026 (2026)
We researched hammock chairs and portable hammocks the way most RVers actually use them: at campsites, boondocking spots, and quick overnight stops. This guide ranks the best options for comfort, packability, and campsite practicality so you can choose a setup that works with your rig and travel style.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Over-Door and Wall-Mounted RV Storage Organizers for Small Spaces (2026)
Small-space storage can make or break daily RV living. We researched the most practical over-door and wall-mounted organizers for bathrooms, kitchens, closets, and bunks to find the ones that actually stay put on the road.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Pantry Organizers and Cabinet Storage Solutions for 2026 (2026)
A moving RV turns a neat pantry into a mess fast. We researched the most useful RV pantry and cabinet storage solutions in real travel conditions and ranked the options that actually keep food, cookware, and supplies in place.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Portable Campfire Grills and Fire Pit Grates for RV Camping in 2026 (2026)
We researched portable campfire grills and fire pit grates the way most RVers actually use them: at public campgrounds, boondocking sites, and quick overnight stops. These are the models we’d pack again for reliable campfire cooking without wasting storage space or fighting flimsy gear.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Camping Canopies and Pop-Up Shelters for Sun and Rain Coverage (2026)
A good canopy can make or break an RV campsite when the sun is brutal or the weather turns fast. We researched the most practical RV camping canopies and pop-up shelters for real-world setup, weather coverage, and packability to find the ones worth hauling.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Hitch Ball Mounts and Drop Hitches for Level Towing (2026)
A level trailer tows better, brakes straighter, and puts less stress on your hitch and suspension. We researched the most practical RV hitch ball mounts and drop hitches to find the best options for travel trailers, cargo trailers, and mixed-use towing setups.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Toaster Ovens and Air Fryer Combos for Boondocking (2026)
We researched the most practical RV toaster oven and air fryer combo units with one question in mind: which ones actually work off limited power and tight counter space? This guide ranks the best options for boondocking, with wattage, fit, cooking performance, and storage all weighed like they matter—because they do.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Portable Heaters for Cold-Weather Camping and Boondocking (2026)
We researched the most practical portable heaters RVers actually use in cold weather, from ceramic electric models to catalytic propane units for off-grid camping. This guide breaks down what works, what to avoid, and which heater fits your rig, power setup, and camping style.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Collapsible RV Cookware Sets for Space-Saving Campsite Cooking (2026)
Storage space is always tight in an RV kitchen, which is why collapsible cookware keeps showing up in our own rigs. We researched the most practical collapsible RV cookware sets for boiling, sautéing, washing up, and packing down small without turning camp cooking into a compromise.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Fire Extinguishers and Smoke Detectors for Safe Camping (2026)
Fire safety gear in an RV has to work fast, fit tight spaces, and hold up to vibration and temperature swings. We researched top RV fire extinguishers and smoke detectors to find the setups we’d trust in a motorhome, fifth wheel, or travel trailer.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Evaporative Coolers for Dry Climates: Portacool and Beyond (2026)
Evaporative coolers can work well in an RV, but only in the right conditions and with the right expectations. We researched popular options and compared Portacool-style units, compact swamp coolers, and window-mounted models to find the best fits for dry-climate RV camping.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Scissor Jacks and Stabilizer Pads for Travel Trailers in 2026 (2026)
We researched leading RV scissor jacks and stabilizer pads on real travel trailers to find the setups that actually reduce bounce and stay put on mixed campsites. These are our top picks for 2026, plus the combinations we’d use for weekend trips and full-time travel.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Stabilizer Bars and Anti-Roll Kits for Fifth Wheels (2026)
We ranked the best stabilizer bars and anti-roll kits for fifth wheels based on real-world stability gains, install difficulty, fit, and durability. If your rig rocks when someone walks inside or shifts in wind, these are the systems we’d shortlist first.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Roof Air Conditioners: Dometic, Furrion, and Advent Ranked 2026 (2026)
We compared the leading RV roof air conditioners from Dometic, Furrion, and Advent based on cooling performance, noise, installation fit, and real-world livability. If you need a unit that actually keeps an RV comfortable without guesswork, this ranking will help you choose fast.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Electric Tongue Jacks for Fifth Wheels and Travel Trailers in 2026 (2026)
We compared the best electric tongue jacks for real-world RV use, focusing on lift capacity, durability, weather protection, and ease of installation. These are the models we’d trust for daily setup on travel trailers and compatible fifth-wheel applications.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Electric Fireplace Heaters for Ambiance and Supplemental Warmth (2026)
RV electric fireplace heaters can add useful supplemental heat and make a rig feel far less like a box on wheels. We compared the best styles, sizes, and features to help you choose one that fits your RV, your power limits, and the way you camp.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Gooseneck Hitch Adapters to Tow a Fifth Wheel in 2026 (2026)
We compared the most practical gooseneck-to-fifth-wheel options for RVers who want a cleaner truck bed without compromising towing confidence. This guide covers the best adapters, who they fit, and what to watch before you buy.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Pipe Heat Cable and Tank Heaters for Cold-Weather Camping (2026)
A frozen RV water line can ruin a winter trip faster than a dead battery. We researched leading RV pipe heat cables and tank heater pads to find the models that actually keep water flowing when temperatures drop hard.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Air Fryers and Countertop Convection Ovens (2026) (2026)
Counter space, inverter limits, and campground power make buying an RV air fryer very different from buying one for a house. We researched the leading compact air fryers and countertop convection ovens to find the models that actually work in real RV kitchens.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Slide-Out Toppers to Keep Debris Off Your Roof (2026)
A bad slide-out topper turns every campsite into a ladder job. We researched the leading RV slide toppers for fit, fabric durability, wind behavior, and install difficulty to find the models worth buying.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Roof Sealants to Stop Leaks (Dicor, EternaBond, & More) (2026)
A small roof leak can quietly destroy an RV long before you see a stain on the ceiling. We researched the most popular RV roof sealants in real-world repair scenarios to find the ones that actually bond, flex, and hold up.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Tool Kits: Everything You Need for Roadside Repairs (2026)
A dead battery, loose lug, or leaking fitting can turn a great trip into a shoulder-side headache fast. We researched the best RV tool kits and emergency repair sets to find the ones that actually earn space in your basement compartment.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Carbon Monoxide and Propane Detectors for 2026 (2026)
A dead battery is annoying. A failed gas detector in an RV can be catastrophic. We researched the leading RV carbon monoxide and propane detectors to find the models we’d trust in a fifth wheel, travel trailer, or motorhome in 2026.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Awnings: Dometic, Carefree, and Lippert Ranked (2026) (2026)
A bad RV awning turns a perfect campsite into a wind-whipped headache fast. We researched the top patio awnings from Dometic, Carefree, and Lippert to find the models worth your money in 2026.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Backup Cameras for Safe Maneuvering in 2026 (2026)
A 35-foot RV can turn a simple fuel stop into a white-knuckle event if you can’t see what’s behind you. We researched today’s top RV backup cameras to find the models that actually deliver stable signals, sharp images, and safer maneuvering in the real world.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Honda vs Champion vs Westinghouse Inverter Generator: Compared (2026)
A bad generator can ruin a campsite fast: hard starts, loud operation, and not enough surge power for your RV air conditioner. We compared the Honda, Champion, and Westinghouse inverter generators RV owners actually buy to find the best pick for reliability, value, and real-world camping use.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Leveling Systems: Auto vs Manual (2026) (2026)
A bad campsite can turn a great trip into a refrigerator-killing, sleep-ruining mess in minutes. We researched the top RV leveling systems—from fully automatic hydraulic setups to heavy-duty manual blocks—to find out which ones actually make setup faster, safer, and less frustrating.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Sewer Hose Kits: Camco, Valterra, and More Ranked (2026)
A bad RV sewer hose can turn dump day into the worst 15 minutes of your trip. We researched the leading RV sewer hose kits from Camco, Valterra, Rhino, and Lippert to find the ones that actually hold up, seal well, and store without a fight.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Lithium Batteries for RVs in 2026 (Battle Born, Renogy, & More) (2026)
We’ve lived with lithium battery banks in real RV conditions, from boondocking in heat to shoulder-season camping in the cold. This guide ranks the best RV lithium batteries for 2026 and explains which one makes the most sense for your rig, inverter, and travel style.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best Inverter Generators for RVs in 2026 (Quiet & Portable) (2025)
We’ve spent enough nights in campgrounds to know the wrong generator will make you unpopular fast. In this guide, we rank the best inverter generators for RVs in 2026 based on noise, portability, fuel efficiency, and real-world usability.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Best RV Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) for 2026 (2025)
A good RV TPMS catches pressure loss and heat buildup before they turn into a shredded tire or damaged fender skirt. We compared the top systems for motorhomes, fifth wheels, and travel trailers to find the ones that are easiest to trust on the road.
By Ellen Kietzmann
How-To & Education3 articles
How to Adjust a Sway Bar Hitch: Tension, Setup, and Common Mistakes
A sway control hitch only works if it’s adjusted correctly. We walk through how to set sway bar hitch tension, level the trailer, and avoid the setup mistakes that cause poor handling.
By Ellen Kietzmann
How to Install an RV Surge Protector: Hardwired vs Plug-In Guide
Installing surge protection is one of the smartest electrical upgrades you can make on an RV. In this guide, we walk through how to install plug-in and hardwired RV surge protectors, what tools you need, and which style makes the most sense for your setup.
By Ellen Kietzmann
How to Manage RV Black and Gray Tanks Like a Pro
Nothing ruins a campground arrival faster than a tank sensor screaming "full" or a sewer hose disaster at the dump station. We’ve tested the gear, the routines, and the common shortcuts—and this is the no-nonsense system we recommend for managing RV black and gray tanks without mess, odor, or guesswork.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Comparisons4 articles
EMS vs Surge Protector for RVs: What's the Difference and Which Do You Need
Not all RV power protection is the same. We break down the real-world difference between a basic surge protector and an EMS so you can choose the right protection for your rig, camping style, and budget.
By Ellen Kietzmann
MaxxAir vs Fantastic Fan: Which Roof Vent Is Better? (2026)
We’ve run both MaxxAir and Fantastic Fan roof vents in real RV travel, from humid campgrounds to dusty desert stops. This comparison breaks down airflow, rain performance, controls, noise, installation, and reliability so you can choose the right vent for your rig.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Equal-i-zer vs Andersen Hitch: Side-by-Side Comparison (2026)
We’ve towed with both friction-style and chain-style weight distribution hitches, and these two come up more than almost any others. In this side-by-side comparison, we break down how the Equal-i-zer and Andersen differ in sway control, ride quality, setup, maintenance, and who each one fits best.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Hughes Autoformer vs Progressive Industries EMS: Which Wins? (2026)
If you’re deciding between a Hughes Autoformer and a Progressive Industries EMS, the right choice depends on what kind of campground power problems you actually face. We researched both approaches in real RV use and found they solve different electrical risks, not the same one.
By Ellen Kietzmann
More Articles4 articles
Top-Rated RV Accessories on Amazon in 2026: What's Worth Buying
We sorted through the top-rated RV accessories on Amazon and narrowed them down to the gear we’d actually carry in our own rig. These are the practical upgrades that solve real campsite problems, not impulse buys that end up in a storage bin.
By Ellen Kietzmann
New RV Gear Releases in 2026: Editor Reviews of the Latest Products
We reviewed the most useful new RV gear hitting the market in 2026 and narrowed it down to the products that actually improve day-to-day camping. This guide covers what stood out in real use, who each product fits best, and which upgrades we’d buy first.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Essential RV Gear Checklist: 25 Items to Pack Before Every Trip
Packing an RV is easier when you know what actually earns its storage space. This essential RV gear checklist covers 25 items we consider worth packing before every trip, based on real-world use in campgrounds, boondocking sites, and roadside stops.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Starlink for RVs: Is It Worth It for Full-Timers?
If you work from the road, stream at camp, or just need reliable maps in dead zones, bad RV internet gets old fast. We researched Starlink-style setups and competing mobile options to see whether Starlink for RVs is actually worth the price for full-timers.
By Ellen Kietzmann
Founding Reviewer Disclosure
Ellen Kietzmann is a Founding Reviewer of RVGearInsider. RVGearInsider earns affiliate commissions when readers buy through links on this site — this does not influence editorial decisions. All product recommendations are based on firsthand expertise and independent evaluation. See our Editorial Policy for full details.
