10 Things RV Newbies Should Never Buy and What to Buy Instead

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Get Unlimited Premium Wireless for just $15/mo. The offer ends on Halloween, October 31st.Try my Partner Mint Mobile today! TryMintMobile.com/CarolynsRVLife *Newbie RV Life Shopping List*: amzn.to/46Q4Fud *Join Harvest Hosts and get 15% OFF with Discount Code HHFRIENDS15:* : www.harvest-hosts.com/25LZL4D/2CTPL/ How to Sanitize Your Fresh Water RV Tank: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHbIoaidbbNgl6c

[@janicepeck4828]

Awesome😊concider

[@cbryce9243]

I pay over $70.00 a month for two phones, but the service I have is really good. Being a non-techy, I can call any time of the day and they help me out. Does Mint do that? After the three months, will they raise the price or is it fixed? I recall seeing a commercial saying that they'd never raise the rates. I've always been told, "if it seems to be too good to be true, it probably is". I'd like to hear what you know. Thanks Carolyn! I always love your videos! And you look so healthy! Always nice to see!

[@tao831]

I'm a single 64 yr old woman,about to live full time in an RV ina park. Fixed income and a little bit nervous. I thank you for being real and honest. You've kept me from making a lot of mistakes.

[@Amie9176]

I’m 67 & will be heading out in April 2025. 😬💗

[@StealthyGypsy]

Another great video. I enjoy your videos and still learn from them. Here’s a few tips that I’ve picked up as a female solo RVer for 22 years. Instead of using a 20 foot dump hose, I have two 10’ hoses that are attachable. That way I’m not pulling out 20 feet when I don’t have to. I’ve also learned from experience that when I am dumping the tanks, I always pull the gray first just enough to verify there are no leaks and that the hoses are connected tightly. Then close up the gray tank and dump the black tank and finally clean out the hose with the gray tank water. I do buy those blue water filters to attach to the water source. Not sure they work, but it makes me feel better! I spray the spigot with diluted bleach water, add a two-way spigot, and then a pressure regulator with a gauge. Add the water filter (optional) and finally the hose. No germs from previous users, additional water source, and some protection from having your hose lines blown out because a park doesn’t have regulated water pressure. I’ve been drinking out of my freshwater tank since the beginning although now I use a Brita filter. Frankly, can’t tell the difference. Oh, one more. Test the electrical source with an inexpensive circuit tester. My circuit tester is permanently plugged into a 110 to 30 plug (or 50). And test before you hook up your water… Too many times I’ve done that first and then discovered that the electric box didn’t work or had an unsafe connection. Or, just boondock! Hope my two cents worth helps.

[@CeeJayKay]

What are the blue water filters? Or do you get them?

[@ramyhuber8392]

Wow your comment really shows your experience. Thanks.

[@StealthyGypsy]

Wow, I never go back and check my comments. I rarely put my two cents in a conversation. Hopefully, you’ve discovered what the water filter is by now. If not, they are at Walmart or Camping World or probably Amazon. It’s a filtering tube with a male and female connection on either end. It goes between your water spigot and your water hose. Thanks for your nice comment.

[@amyd369]

Corelle shatters when it does break. Sharks everywhere.It’s tough but when the first one shatters, get rid of them all, they all will start.

[@cynthiam3319]

Great info Carolyn, but, I have to disagree about the Berkey. I can't stand the taste of water out of my sanitized tanks, I also detest most city water. I drink so much more water from my Berkey, and staying hydrated is key to my health. I take a lot of medications that dry me out. I think on this point folks should take into consideration their health and habits. ☮ When I was a newbie, I made some of those same mistakes. Especially true for me was the cheap sewer hose, and those crummy levelers. 😂

[@kellystinydreamsbus]

Love my Royal Berkey. 4 years strong.

[@omavicmcmurray2893]

I use a Berkey too and definitely can tell a difference in taste…there has been controversy around he fact that they are not 3rd party ‘UL’ certified but until there is another option I keep using them. I have had the plastic screws to the filter break off in transit, had planned to drill it out and replace someday but haven’t.

[@RaymondWard-c1y]

I have 2 7 gallon reliance jugs, a foot pump, a bar sink and drinking water hoses in between that I run vinegar through every time the water tastes funny. No-I really do check!

[@rowdysgirlalways]

I like my zero water filter. I live in a small apartment, but some of your tips can be applied to my situation, small space is small space no matter where it occurs. And power/water outages occur - wasn't it in 2003 that the entire northeast was brought down for a week by a mishap in the Ohio power grid? I think that everyone should have their emergency kit, and if it looks like stuff for van life? That's fine. My Jackery and little USB refrigerator for keeping my insulin cold are perfect when the lights are out! Thanks for the good ideas.

[@millieatcentralcagarden9764]

Great tips and so practical! Go as light as possible as weight is important to balance out the RV. People sometimes don't realize they are over the weight limit for an RV especially the towable.

[@cargotrailereric6738]

I have solar rope lights outside. Harber freight. Been on the road a little over 2 years and have filled dumpsters. Lol

[@doneliatonk7946]

amendment + (besides being shiny), I think Berkeys are a good survival insurance if fresh water is for whatever reason out of reach, purifying and holding a good amount of water for food prep & drinking thank you for info on how to sanitize water tanks

[@CarolynsRVLife]

That's a great point. Thanks!

[@dorothydavis6276]

I got a paper bag and put tp in that then the last night I used it to start a fire.

[@CeeJayKay]

That was a good video and a very fun intro with the split screen and twin Carolyn :-). I have been Camping in RVs for a while now but I was still lusting after the Berkee and I’m glad I saw what you said on this video. So I’m not buying one. And I totally agree about rechargeable lights, motion activated,… & solar is nice too. I have a few different kinds and I use them at home every day, good for getting up in the middle of the night, and I use them camping every time. I also use little rechargeable /solar lanterns that give a much warmer atmosphere than the ceiling fluorescent lights of the RV.

[@RosaCODA]

I'm doing my homework in preparation of making American highways and byways my new home! Thanks so much for your words of wisdom!!

[@susans7091]

Yes to Boondockers Welcome / Harvest Host. I stayed on a buffalo ranch, and a delightful apple orchard in bloom. I was the only camper on each of them. But buy from their store if they have one to thank them:) One thing I find helpful that you didn't mention is bungee cords. Thanks for a great video.

[@rustismith761]

Thanks for your wisdom

[@shorts.....g.hisglotheprot9489]

Hi Carolyn how are you and Sadie?I back watch videos and hopefully next year I be set up to start traveling in a mini Caravan so I was sick and took a bad fall but back now Take care. Gloria from Wildwood New Jersey.

[@Amie9176]

When I got my first RV in 2000, I got every accessory & play things I saw! Most were too much of a hassle to set up/take down! Love your videos! Hope we cross trails next year!

[@LynetteShawMcKone]

Hi from the UK 👋. I'm not a full, or even part-time RV'er, but I am in the process of converting a campervan. I love watching other people's experiences on the road and can't wait to get started properly. It'll probably be Spring now before my lovely, friendly little guys, Peanut and Pepper, (chihuahuas) and I can get on the road: we've been away for short breaks to see what works and what doesn't, what I can leave alone and what I need to change, and I totally agree with your philosophy of "try before you buy". I've wasted money on things I don't really need, taken things I didn't use, and wished I taken things I really needed😅 It's a real learning curve, but I know that, come Spring, I'll be fully loaded and ready to roll. I've subscribed to your channel and I'll be looking at your other vids. Good luck, Lynette.

[@lindarussell9781]

Bought a van in Feb and have been practicing before retirement in March. Thanks to you and a couple other full-timers, I bought the proper stuff! With the exception of 2: due to small tank, I buy bottled water so I can shower, wash dishes & poop. Also, I did buy the levelers at 4 inches because I don't have space to store the stackable blocks. If ever I go larger, I will heed your advice. I did get one thing that I really like, Liquified from Matt's RV Reviews. It smells awesome and breaks down poop/toilet paper. I get nothing but brown water when I dump. These are the kind of videos I love from you because I learn stuff. There's a lot of newbs out there....keep us informed!

[@kimkacer782]

Great video, Q tho, how often do you sanitize your tanks? Is every X number of fills, or every x months, or weeks? Is it difgferent if staying in cooler/hotter areas? Etc. (Mainly in case you decide to do a video. ;) ) And so I could comment to help your algorithm ;)

[@mlwd1962]

Thank you, Carolyn, for all your helpful tips. I'm planning my retirement in a few short months, and I will be selling my property and living in my 2010 Keystone Summerland full-time. I have written down all your tips, and I would have definitely been one of "those newbies" if I hadn't seen this video. Thanks, and Happy Travels!

[@mtnpeek6748]

I agree with all accept the Berkey! Love my Berkey and gives me peace of mind.

[@maryanne72856]

what's a berkie? a hammock or big coat... no info on it...maryanne

[@taz-life-Adventure]

I found some USB rechargeable battery on Amazon that are pretty cool they come in both AAA and AA sizes

[@kenmcclow8963]

I use them too. Very handy to swap new batteries for old and charge them up for later. I also have things with built in batteries, but when the built in battery dies, the whole thing is done.

[@robertcrosser5946]

Use a good water filtration system .

[@drivinfool9902]

Love your videos. I don't know if I will become a traveler or not. But this is very helpful to think about. I especially like the unique camp experiences you recommend, not the RV sites.

[@cbryce9243]

I'm about ready to go on the road and glad I didn't get a much of unnecessary things you mentioned. But I do have a strong dislike to eating off plastic, melamine, and the like. I have glass pie pans and hope they are stronger and will wrap them in towels and hope they survive. But I might need to have some paper ones on hand, just in case.

[@Melmelba]

You could also use bubble wrap cut to shape in-between each plate.

[@marydawkins4190]

Yes yes to Harvest Hosts and also no to the expensive water purifier OR buying bottles water. What a waste of plastic! I've been using 2 refillable 5gallon food grade plastic containers as my source for 3 years and it's great, not a single problem. I will sanitize them with a bit of bleach and then white vinegar and let them dry completely if possible. But, at long as they're well contained with a good lid there is no real danger of contamination. I travel in a little sckoolie. You're on point for everything, especially to wait and truly see what you actually need before buying a bunch of stuff.

[@Cheri922]

Corelle does break. I forgot to put my cabinet bars in before leaving a campground 1x and after I got to going down the mountain on the curvy road I heard it all breaking as it hit my countertop 😕

[@sayingthisaboutthat1046]

Sanitizer is one gallon of water per 1 teaspoon of water. You can multiply or divide as much as you need. I had a cafe' and that was what inspectors tested for.

[@RVthereyetmemaw]

I purchased a new dish strainer, oral wast of my money! Scott’s Toilet paper 2 ply, test your TP, put it in water an see how it breaks down! Sewer hose, the long two section 10’! Well worth it! Starlink for working, but have a cheap backup. TMobil worked for us most of the time. Get the day light led bulbs! They are bright!we got a Thousand Trails membership, our camping is free! Cost me $$$! And harvest host also, No Berky, we got a water filter system! It’s easy!

[@Cheri922]

I wish I’d watched this before I bought my Camco trilevelers. I do have several bags of the Lego block style ones too. I’m not a super fan and they take up a lot of room in my basement storage. I’m not a fan of Passport America either. Used it 1x in my membership period. It’s VERY limited. Agree 100% on the Berkey it’s huge! I use a Brita water pitcher. I use the bleach proportions in my RV manual. Thank you.

[@geothefisher]

Excellent advise!!! How many people try to take as much as they can with them and end up giving much of it away because they simply don't use it? Almost every video I have watched from people who are rv/van lifers/nomads, say about they keep downsizing more the longer they are on the road. It is truly a minimalist lifestyle!

[@kimstephenson3876]

I feel the same way about the Berkey! Bought one, never used it.

[@tinacourtright3863]

This is great!! I'm guilty of a few extraneous purchases due to my zeal to get started! I will also adopt your recommendations when it comes time to switch out the sewer hose (the dealer gave me a new one w/elbow but it's 7 ft), and get leveling blocks instead of my weirdo inadequate wedge. I still love my Luci light because I keep a carabiner on it and can hang it from any cabinet when I'm working or reading, I hope it doesn't give up the ghost b/c you're right, they're expensive

[@sallylapradd2900]

I agree with you. That berkey thing is crazy expensive.

[@Orangeshebert]

I did enjoy this video and found it helpful!! I’ll investigate the fresh water tank idea as I always heard from others to not drink it. I appreciate the membership advice. The leveling hints were great. If your videos I think this is in my top 5! Well done. Wishing you safe and peaceful travels!

[@Fred-Ash]

I bought a propane stove top/oven for my cargo build. A total waste. An air fryer does everything I need. They're the bomb? They take about as much electricity as a microwave. But will cook anything you'd put in an oven. Excellent biscuits, cookies, frozen fish, taters, wings, even a trimmed down pizza. Just no runny stuff unless it's in a pan of some sort. Most stuff cooks in 10 minutes.

[@neicaadkins2795]

You are correct regarding the Berkey

[@ramyhuber8392]

Thanks for this video, first time watching your videos. Good stuff, all practical, no nonsense and helpful.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Glad you like them!

[@arleneshasta]

Thanks for this - I especially liked the tip about Harvest Host. I just canceled my first (free with the RV) year of a different one, and have been wondering about HH. I'll check it out!

[@judycollins4919]

Thank you Carolyn this video is very helpful . It’s good for us newbies and seasoned RVers😊

[@a.swifty1081]

I bought an Anderson lever (a curved wedge), it works great, but I often have to use a couple of 2x6 to get it high enough.

[@Bluebirdtears]

Nice location! So glad you're still rollin' I always enjoy your channel. Hadn't watched in a loong time and I'm back. U da best!!!

[@barbaravestal6330]

Thank you for another great video I'm a newbie in going to move in my rv motorhome in April help to see you on the road one day

[@DeerheartStudioArts]

Your wisdom and experience is so valuable!🦌💌❤️🚙

[@sandrajordan3802]

Cordless does not break but will shatter if you throw it.

[@priscillawrites6685]

those wheat bowls look amazing.even for sticks and bricks!

[@seahorsevista2254]

Just want to clarify that harvest hosts stays are not free. In fact they recently raised their recommended donation to 30.00. Boondockers are free. I do use harvest host and think they are mostly worth it. Thank you for this video. I bought a black stone griddle. It is so heavy and gets messy so this trip on the road I left it home. Got a lightweight camp stove with a griddle top if I want to use it. Thank you Carolyn!

[@Prariegirl2023]

I love Mint Mobile and I travel a lot! Also, I have a ZeroWater filter. Cheaper and great taste!

[@carolstockman7788]

Don't use basic coffee cup, do use insulated mug with lid

[@lcostantino7931]

great advise ....they di have small berkeys but are $$$$$__ taste grrate

[@chooseus1st]

One of my favorite videos you have ever done. Thank you. Safe travels. See you on the road someday.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Cheri922]

I guess I would recommend that you add the Camco cabinet bars to your list of must haves. They’ve worked great for me.

[@cheryldillon4962]

I have had mint for two years I pay 180+tax love it

[@dachshunddadbob6765]

I purchased a water regulator and later found out my TT has a regulator built in, plus having two regulators causes a problem with the water pressure for a tankless water heater system.

[@Randolphgal]

Great advice Love your good advice. Wish I could find an affordable van to see our beautiful country in and take my grandkids on a few trips

[@judyconnelly6919]

I really enjoyed this video and you are right don't buy things before you go because you think you might need it!

[@rosedzindolet-faith5092]

I’ve seen several van lifeers and rv’ers that are saying buy glass so you don’t get bugs etc etc but I Agree with you Plastic would be better for on the road living

[@AtelierTeale]

Corelle CAN break if it hits a hard surface just right. Good news! It breaks into large pieces rather than shattering into sharp, tiny bits! :-) That's my experience with 1960s to early 1970s Corelle dishes. Spring Blossom Green pattern! LOL To date, only two sauce dishes (service for 12) have broken. They did not like landing on the rim edge on a tile floor, which was installed on a concrete pad. OUCH! ... Teale 🏜️

[@sharidixon3434]

Thanks for the tips. I really liked this video. There are alot of videos telling us what not to buy but I trust your opinion so I'll stick with the the things u say. Only thing I disagree with is the drinking water. Not the drinking it out of our tanks, but the water itself. I don't drink city waters. Don't trust them at all! I also don't trust the filters so.. guess I'm stuck with bottled water! Lol (it's what I drink at home) love your videos! Keep them coming!

[@deb7518]

Great advice (and very cool intro, btw)! P.S....I love the colors in the plaid shirt you're wearing in this video!

[@jacspad5]

First time on your channel...love the video! These are all really great suggestions.

[@islandwitt1]

👍🏻😃 I bought a Berkie, I’ve never used it, its in my shed at home. I let my Harvest Host membership expire because I am not together enough to make reservations in Advance. Some days I think I’ll drive 150 miles and I just keep driving. And I don’t want to be anywhere at specific days or times. The next thing I bought which is not working for me is Rv life Trip Wizard. Closest I’ve come to throwing my tablet against a wall. I’ve tried to use it for 3 trips now. NY to Maine. It sucked. Canada down Maine coast, it sucked. Maine Coast to Salem, again ….no joy. Maybe some people can get it to work, not me. When I left NJ headed south I didn’t even bother opening the frickin thing up. Only “membership” I have now is a truck stop fuel rewards. 😆 I use Truckers Path to find fuel stops big enough for my rig (converted 40’ bus) and rest areas to sleep at. One item I highly recommend is two soft cover books : Mountain Directory - East, & Mountain Directory - West. Locations and detailed descriptions of mountain passes and steep grades. I Literally use it to plan my routes In mountainous states. I’ll drive a LONG way around to avoid steep downhill grades. Those two books are life & rig savers. I actually saw a 17% downhill grade sign the other week, the idea of driving that grabs my heart with an iron fear fist. 😱 Safe Travels All. 🙏🌹

[@nanaflowerpower]

I love that picture behind you. Its cool.

[@louisemartin7728]

Thank you Carolyn. I re-use things I already have at home for the most part. I agree, try a trip first, then see what you need 🌟✨🌟

[@Maddiehere89]

Thanks for info on water tanks. I never knew about sanitation of tanks. I wondered about the expensive burkey.

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Happy to help!

[@suethompson4300]

Thanks for info on Mint Mobile. Just got it set up. Saving money. 🎉

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Fantastic! Thanks 😊

[@ruthpataky9880]

your hair looks beautiful and I agree with your don"t buy 100%

[@leolaniukeulady4172]

Put tp in a separate plastic bag, never in my tank, use 2x4’s for blocks, plastic things slide, paper plate dispenser is a waste for me. I’ve had good luck w the luci lights, we’ll after 3 yrs, one does have a leak. Oh yes, interior lights in rvs are horrible. Septic hoses my experiences are lining up w what you said. When ya heading west again?

[@MBMCincy63]

exploring free camping , then this '10 things' ,next is Winter gadgets Shivering black bell thumbs up! [ playing catch up!]

[@robertcrosser5946]

What's a Lucy lamp

[@cheryldillon4962]

Corel (sp) shatters when it bracks I know 😅

[@heathergentlyinthewind806]

Lots of great tips packed into this one!!! I still need to join Harvest Host. The beginning of the video was hysterical😁

[@lindaowens65]

I always use the Brita System because I can't drink tap water from certain places, it filters out the chlorine.

[@loganmckay3194]

Your intro was hilarious! I love your videos. Always interesting and informative. Bright spot in my day!

[@CarolynsRVLife]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@denisestarr2314]

I live in a cabin offgrid . Yes on rechargeable lights . Ans yes don't buy a Berkey. I have a well with some sediments. I use a Brtia pitcher. A lot cheeper . Good video.

[@Melmelba]

Have your well water tested so you know what type of filtration you need. Sometimes Brita’s aren’t enough.

[@lindabourketempleton4040]

Those wheat ones can they go in microwave ?

[@mayjan74]

Hi Carolyn. I saw a professional who cleans RV black tanks say not to use the enzymes in the black tank. It turns the stuff in it into a peanut butter like sludge that keeps sensors from working. Was he wrong?

[@lyric8529]

I especially appreciated your last comment about living in your RV for a while before making a lot of purchases. I made this mistake early on - had a friend helping me and went along with some of his suggestions - ended up purchasing things that were a complete waste of my money. For instance, he thought I needed a new crank for my TV antenna so I bought one...I don't HAVE a TV in my RV!! 😆🤦🏼‍♀️ Thanks for sharing your tips!

[@jayneak7011]

Would love to have Mint Mobile but they do not deal with Alaska 907 area code phone numbers.

[@bonbonmartinson2543]

Fantastically helpful!!! Thank you ❤

[@pineconemarty]

Harvest Host sounds fantastic! Thanks!

[@sharizimmer930]

Useful information but I am renting my travel trailer and new at it so living in place tips would be good too.Like your site otherwise

[@jogibbons4149]

Hi Carolyn, I really enjoyed your top 10 the one thing I bought that was ridiculous. Was I paid $120 for a cot. I also bought a potty chair for my minivan and that was also a terrible idea. Minivans are too little to pee and poo in.

[@baysword]

The first thing to replace is the cheap shower head.

[@donnavickery1255]

Some great tips! I love the USB rechargeable lanterns & lights too, they are so convenient!

[@micolebrooks7305]

I’ve never understood the Berkeley appeal, really. Like you said, they’re massive for how little the hold.

[@charlottewilson4680]

This was great. We camped at Salt Plains state Park in Oklahoma. About 4 miles from the camp grounds is an artisan well. It was drilled in around 1947 and it is free. They have a pipe that comes up out of the ground. There is a place nearby that sells the water bottled but they told me if I wanted it free to go down the road and go through the gate in the fence and get it for free. I said is it safe to drink? they said yes that is where we are hooked in to bottle the water we sell. The gentleman that found it said he wanted weary travelers to have good water to drink. Super neat and it was free.

[@adventureswithgnomie6553]

How do you feel about the UV Light 'filtering '?

[@rtjeff83]

Very good information! Thanks.

[@lauriehall3283]

I’m a Boondockers Welcome host in Wa state on the Olympic Peninsula 🙂. If you are ever in WA, come on by an stay! Love your videos

[@caplesta]

I didn’t see the link to sanitizing your water tank posted below. I’d hate to get bleach on the trailer or over bleach and taste it forever, and would love to know now to do it. We are tank drinkers too. ;) Could you pin it? Also 1) couldn’t live without S hooks and binder clips. Pot holders, towels, Solar lights hats are just some of the things we hang. 2) I buy inflatable Solar lights (Luci on sale or knock offs), hang them in the shower whether traveling or not - with tension rods and S hooks . They charge all day, no need to plug into USBs, altho they are also chargeable with USBs. And yes Luci prior versions didn’t last very long. Newer Lucis are better.

[@robinc9774]

What I had too much of…utensils for cooking and eating, coffee mugs ( I could serve 6!), blankets for company to stay over, towels if company stays, clothes for every occasion and several outfits of them. Geez, I just keep weeding out. Truth is, if you’re sharing meals with other campers they can bring their own plates and such. Company will survive without all the fancy bedding. If they are close to home let them bring they’re own otherwise your extra blankets or sleeping bag works. What I needed more of….. underwear!!! Those I change every day( most of the time) clothes I wear same stuff for days.

[@MAE-nm2tl]

I always grab my pen & Paper before I watch one of your posts-- it I go back to find later...that never happens 😅🤣 Thanks for your time and sharing the knowledge you have learned. -- ❤️ the long hair!

[@jodyseaman1885]

Good information, it's easy to go crazy and spend alot of money on items you do not need.

[@carolynstone8217]

Thank you for the advise.

[@darcymoon2109]

Cut out a round piece of paper, color your choice, put in behind the light cover!

[@rolmsted9025]

Thanks for great advice.! it’s amazing how many gadgets can be replaced by a knife and a cutting board!! 😂

[@dennisfarquharson8114]

Hey Carolyn gosh you look amazing and thank you for the info it was a few things you mentioned that I will definitely be looking into it so you and Sadie stay safe and have fun and be happy

[@HerCalifornia]

Home Goods has the best deals on melamine dishes!