Top RV Upgrades Every Buyer Should Consider
Whether you're buying new or used, these upgrades will make your RV safer, more comfortable, and easier to use from day one.
You found the perfect RV—congratulations! But before you hit the road, there are upgrades that can make a huge difference in your towing safety, comfort, and overall experience. Some of these are essentials that should be installed before your first trip. Others are quality-of-life improvements you'll appreciate for years to come.
At Omar's RV, our service department installs these upgrades every day. Here's what we recommend based on what RV owners actually prioritize.
Towing & Safety Upgrades
These aren't optional—they're essential for safe towing. If you're pulling a travel trailer or fifth wheel, these upgrades should be at the top of your list.
Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control
The #1 most requested upgrade. Distributes tongue weight across all axles and prevents dangerous trailer sway. Required by most truck manufacturers for trailers over 5,000 lbs.
Essential for Travel TrailersWireless Backup Camera System
See behind your trailer when backing up—essential for tight campground spots and driveways. Wireless systems are easy to install and work with any RV length.
Highly RecommendedClip-On Towing Mirrors
Extend your field of vision past the width of your trailer. Clips onto your existing side mirrors—no permanent installation required. A must for wider RVs.
Quick Add-OnSuspension Helper Springs
SumoSprings and similar coil helpers reduce squat, improve handling, and give a smoother ride when towing heavy loads. Popular upgrade for half-ton trucks.
Performance UpgradeElectrical & Power Upgrades
Modern RVers expect more from their electrical systems—whether it's running air conditioning off-grid or just keeping devices charged. These upgrades are increasingly popular.
Solar Panel Kits
Keep batteries charged while boondocking. Rooftop kits from 100W to 400W+ are available. Pairs perfectly with lithium battery upgrades.
Lithium (LiFePO4) Batteries
Replace heavy lead-acid batteries with lighter, longer-lasting lithium. Use more capacity, charge faster, and last 10+ years. The most impactful electrical upgrade.
Inverter/Charger
Convert battery power to household AC for TVs, laptops, and small appliances. Essential for off-grid camping and dry camping comfort.
Surge Protector
Protect your RV's electronics from faulty campground wiring and power surges. 30-amp and 50-amp versions available. Cheap insurance for expensive systems.
LED Light Strips
Add ambient lighting under cabinets, awnings, or storage bays. Low power draw, easy to install, and dramatically improves the RV's look and functionality.
Battery Monitor
Know exactly how much power you have left and how much you're using. Essential when running on battery power for extended periods.
Climate Control Upgrades
Stay comfortable in any weather. These upgrades ensure you're not sweating through summer nights or freezing on shoulder-season trips.
| Upgrade | What It Does | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Air Conditioner Upgrade | Replace older units with efficient 13.5K or 15K BTU models. Quieter, more powerful, better airflow. | Hot climate camping, full-timers |
| RV Furnace | Forced-air propane heating. Essential for cold weather. Replace aging units for better efficiency. | Shoulder season, mountain camping |
| Tankless Water Heater | Unlimited hot water on demand. No waiting for a tank to heat up. Uses propane only when running. | Longer showers, families |
| Vent Fan Upgrade | Replace basic roof vents with powered fans (like MaxxFan). Exhaust heat, circulate air, use with rain. | All RVers—huge comfort boost |
| Soft Start for AC | Reduces AC startup power draw by 70%. Run your AC on a smaller generator or limited shore power. | Boondockers, older campgrounds |
Comfort & Interior Upgrades
Your RV is your home on the road. These upgrades make it feel that way.
RV Mattress Replacement
Factory RV mattresses are notoriously uncomfortable. A quality RV-specific mattress (designed for platform beds and odd sizes) transforms your sleep quality. This is the upgrade owners wish they'd made sooner.
Recliner Sofa or Tri-Fold Couch
Replace stiff factory seating with theater-style recliners or a comfortable tri-fold sofa that doubles as a guest bed. Available in RV-specific widths and lighter weights.
Smart TV Upgrade
Replace small factory TVs with modern smart TVs featuring built-in streaming apps. 12V RV-specific models are available, or use a standard TV with your inverter.
Exterior Speakers
Add Bluetooth-enabled exterior speakers under your awning for music at the campsite. Weatherproof marine-grade speakers work best.
Exterior & Convenience Upgrades
Powered Awning
Upgrade from manual crank to electric one-touch operation. Many include LED lighting and wind sensors that auto-retract in high winds.
Leveling System
Wireless or automatic leveling jacks make setup a breeze. No more stacking blocks or crawling under the RV with a bubble level.
Telescoping Ladder
Access your roof for maintenance, solar panel cleaning, or AC service. Compact telescoping designs store easily and extend when needed.
Hitch Cargo Carrier
Add storage capacity with a hitch-mounted cargo basket. Great for firewood, outdoor gear, or items you want accessible without opening the RV.
Tire Pressure Monitoring
Real-time tire pressure and temperature alerts prevent blowouts. Essential safety upgrade for any towable or motorhome.
Keyless Entry Lock
Replace your RV's flimsy factory lock with a keypad entry system. More secure and no fumbling for keys with arms full of groceries.
Maintenance & Tank Care
These small upgrades make RV ownership easier and help prevent problems down the road.
Flush black tanks thoroughly after each trip
Know when you're running low—no surprises
Clean, safe drinking water at any hookup
Control odors and break down waste
Where to Start: Priority Upgrades by RV Type
Travel Trailer Buyers
- Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control — Safety first
- Backup Camera — Essential for reversing
- Surge Protector — Protect your investment
- Towing Mirrors — See past your trailer
- Mattress Upgrade — Sleep matters
Fifth Wheel Buyers
- Quality Fifth Wheel Hitch — Match to your truck
- Tire Pressure Monitoring — Prevent blowouts
- Surge Protector — 50-amp protection
- Backup Camera — See your blind spots
- Leveling System — Easy setup
Motorhome Buyers
- Tire Pressure Monitoring — Critical safety
- Surge Protector — Protect expensive systems
- Solar + Lithium Batteries — Power independence
- Inverter Upgrade — Run appliances anywhere
- Vent Fan — Climate control boost
Boondockers & Off-Grid
- Lithium Battery Bank — More usable power
- Solar Panel Kit — Keep batteries charged
- Inverter/Charger — AC power without hookups
- Soft Start for AC — Run AC on generator
- Propane Gauge — Monitor fuel levels
Need Help With RV Upgrades?
Our service department installs all of these upgrades and more. Whether you're buying from us or already own an RV, we can help you get set up right. Stop by or give us a call to discuss your needs.
3810 US-97 ALT, Wenatchee, WA 98801 | (509) 662-1668