Camping Essentials - 10 Important Items

[@jeffduncan2942]

Love the videos!!! Just a side note to the surge protector. They only protect against general/common surges. Lighting can travel over a mile through the sky and a small switching device won’t stop it. The only true protection is unplugging during a storm. Hope this helps and thanks so much for your wonderful videos! Please keep them coming!!!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks Jeff. True. Nothing will stop a direct hit, but this surge protector is super fast protecting against line spikes. We’ve been in campgrounds where those around us lost electronics and this unit offered great protection. The larger unit is well engineered.

[@arnaldoscachetti3558]

Great video and very informative, my wife and I are new to RVing so the more we can get these tips the better off we are… thanks Jerry 👍🏻

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks so much. Glad you found the video helpful. Safe travels.

[@justingreen179]

Great ideas...thank you!!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks for watching!

[@josephhyman3032]

Thank you Jerry, you are a great guy for providing so much useful information. Friendly too😊

[@iLoveRVlife]

Great to hear you’re enjoying the channel.

[@markschultz926]

Nice job I listen to you real good I'm going to get that surge guard protector you're a smart old geezer

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch Mark, from someone who’s done that, got the t-shirt, wore it out and bought another just because I could 😏

[@joanieminton5609]

Hi, Jerry and Joan......Have fun this Summer..👍👋

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks Joani. Can’t wait!

[@toddspencer5926]

Great video Jerry with those important items. Those are great essentials to ensure for great camping memories while traveling on those camping excursions! As always be blessed Jerry and Joan!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch Todd. Safe travel.

[@gregggoebel3916]

Good job . Your sincerity shows through .

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks so much Gregg. Enjoy sharing our RV tips and travels.

[@jimmystewart3288]

Another good one Jerry.....Have a great summer and "Rock" the road.

[@iLoveRVlife]

You bet Jimmy! Thanks a bunch.

[@TheMobileHomestead]

We use the same rhino sewer hoses w/ the extensions you do ..very sturdy and the extension has come in very handy many times .

[@iLoveRVlife]

They are. Great KZbin name.

[@LisaMarli]

Excellent info. I also have some nitrate gloves. My hubby liked them better than disposables for dealing with the black water stuff. Rinse them off with some bleach water and store them with the sewer stuff. Costco makes a great disposable glove, and I like them for the quick stuff, but the nitrate gloves really let you grab hold of things better, so I understand why he used them.

[@iLoveRVlife]

I’ve seen others using the nitrates. Preference I guess. I like the heavy duty disposables to use and toss. Others commented, why no gloves in the video? I cleaned everything with a strong bleach before recording. Should have shared that. I didn’t want to run the risk of handling the black tank hose then contaminating my fresh hose and electrical items. Appreciate you sharing the tip.

[@TheArtofRVing]

Hey Jerry.....love the comment on the water regulator.............you don't know, what you don't know....... we will be ordering one today that is adjustable.....love your spirit.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks so much. Glad we could share.

[@Jason-Richards]

I used to hate messing with water hoses with our previous RVs, they were always such a pain to spool up and store, and we were just weekend warriors camping once a month or so. So when we bought the Class A to go full time this was one thing I did a bunch of research on and if you haven’t tried the Zero G hose you’re missing out! It is amazing! So much easier than the standard water hoses. I’ll never go back, that’s for sure!

[@iLoveRVlife]

I’ve met several that suggested using the Zero G. One thing that’s a pain is wrestling the fresh water hose on those cold days. Appreciate you sharing.

[@Jason-Richards]

Certainly! If a water hose can be a life-altering discovery this hose is it! 😁

[@jimbo5635]

Good video. Jerry, I wanted to mention on the wire gauge, the lower the number, the bigger the wire. 8 gauge wire is better and bigger than 10, while 12 gauge would be smaller and not able to carry as much power. I know you know, just mention it for those that don't. Can be confusing.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks Bo and agree. 10 gauge would be a minimum, but some can be found in 8 or 6 gauge. If budget isn’t an issue, go larger gauge (smaller number). Appreciate the clarification for the channel.

[@hayyarbrough]

Amen to all of that thank you very much

[@iLoveRVlife]

You bet Gary. Glad to help.

[@NormRidg]

Good list. We have accumulated the same items over time except have another 10 ft sewer hose and used it in Vicsburger last month. Have the Rinos like you, but that cheap 10' has covered a few times. Just never know as you have discovered. Always enjoy!

[@iLoveRVlife]

So true. Thanks a bunch Norman.

[@laurelnelson9226]

This was a great help for us newbies. Thank you for sharing these 10 important just have items.

[@iLoveRVlife]

You bet! Glad to share.

[@bigskycharlie]

I am taking applications for a Grandpa. You got the job buddy. Let's go to Glacier now...

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch Charlie. That would an honor and great trip.

[@johnturner7322]

Agree with your accessory selections. I to have the Rhino sewer hose, no extension though. I also do not have the doughnut, but probable need to get one. Do not yet have the surge protector either, but am looking into them. I do have the adjustable pressure regulator, I set it for 50-55psi, like you said for showers and washing dishes. I also have the extension cord for my 30 amp requirements. Those bungee straps are a good idea too.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks John. It's lightning season. Don't wait too long on that surge protector.

[@MrRampro]

Just heard about your channel from a friend. Great content. We have our first trip in a week!!!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks for watching. Safe travels

[@tamaradabney9069]

Thanks for all the info. Hope to buying my RV soon and you have helped me make a great list of necessities

[@iLoveRVlife]

Super Tamara. Glad I could help.

[@theflyinhawaiiantravels354]

My class C rv is for sale! 2016 Coachmen Freelander 21rs. 450 Ford. Thx

[@clarkspacificadventures8066]

Thank you Mr. Jerry for your excellent informative video.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Glad to share Mark.

[@RVingwiththeMoracas]

All really good items.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks

[@zipperhead101]

Great vid!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch.

[@PidasianHippie]

Thank you for these great tips Jerry. Thankfully I have most of these items and was lucky enough that the previous owner provides all but a couple. Unfortunately I had to get the surge surpressor. That was my first purchase after buying my little RV.

[@iLoveRVlife]

The Surge Guard is also a handy diagnostic tool. We are in a state park this week only having 30 amp power. After setting up, the breaker blew every 5 minutes with less than a 15 amp load. I showed the park repair people we were not the problem. They changed the breaker and life is good. Stopped the debate and finger pointing with good diagnostics.

[@PidasianHippie]

@@iLoveRVlife Very true.

[@ovmn]

Again such great content. Very informative

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks Olga.

[@lindas747]

Thanks for the tips Jerry! We live in Myrtle Beach and plan on buying a 5th Wheel in the next few months. We enjoy your videos and love all the beautiful camping spots you have shared with us all!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks so much Linda. Wishing the best in your RV search. The search is fun and a little overwhelming at the same time.

[@papasbus3598]

As usual, you did great! Thanks for sharing the items. We are hitting the road on Friday for a couple of weeks. Thanks for sharing.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch Rick. Glad to share. Safe travels. We’re heading out in a couple days for 4 months or so. Can’t wait!

[@MissyAnn1992]

Thanks for the great tips Jerry. After watching this all I need are some of those bungee ties.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Homerun Carol!

[@dtjamslive8082]

Hey Jerry can you send a link for the red bungees thanks!

[@iLoveRVlife]

You bet. Here you go amzn.to/2X4xbI8

[@petersallander2455]

Just picked up my motor home and it's fixer upper. It will work just fine for me. You have been very helpful and I'm allot from you thank you

[@iLoveRVlife]

How fun. So glad we could share.

[@roydavis2242]

We bought the Progressive ind. RV surge protector because it comes with a Lifetime Warranty and are made in Apex, NC. This despite having a Surge guard being wired in. The auto reset is the reason plus I can test the connection prior to plugging in.

[@iLoveRVlife]

The testing is a big benefit with the Surge Guard. One of the main reasons we purchased. If any of the legs aren’t within normal operating range, it won’t allow voltage to pass. The meter reading of the voltage is a plus. Also if there’s a problem with the neutral that would create a shock potential, it won’t allow the voltage to pass. They really are well designed for the RV’ers needs.

[@orreng]

Such great info. Thanks!!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks so much Orren.

[@LanceMcCormick]

Nice vid, looks like you just went through our stuff! Oh that's right, we listen to you over year ago and bought all that stuff and have no issues!!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch Lance. Appreciate the vote of confidence.

[@rbg9914]

Good video, Thanks Jerry

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks Richard.

[@MIKESMITH-xr7zz]

I also have a 10 foot water hose for those times when you just don't quite reach. Easier to manage than adding another 25 feet. The cost is usually fairly inexpensive.

[@iLoveRVlife]

You bet.

[@BearfootAdventures]

I have been camping for awhile now and use about all ten items great video

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch. Appreciate the vote!

[@davidreyburn5548]

Thanks Jerry! Good one.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks David.

[@billstoller3789]

Hi Jerry, we are subscribers and watch your videos all the time. Do you have another surge protector for when you need to plug into 30 amp. Or do you use a 50 to 30 amp adapter? I have seen where you can get dog-bones that have the surge protectors already included. We are new to RVing and we were wondering do you take everything of the walls when traveling? Have you ever had things fall off? I am thinking of getting Summo springs later. Thank you, Bill

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Bill. Thanks for watching and the sub. We use the same 50 amp surge on the 30 amp connection. I connect it to the 30 to 50 amp dog bone and it protects both legs of the 50 amp connection to the RV. Everything we have on the walls like pictures or decorations are Velcro’ed to the walls using Command Velcro Strips like these amzn.to/461XJKG Easy to apply and remove without damaging walls or shelves. The Sumos work great. Best add we’ve made to the 5th wheel.

[@aaronmoody4164]

Have you done a video on manually working the slides in and out? I have a 2017 Denali and on occasion it has a hiccup and sticks open not wanting to retract. Really enjoy watching your videos keep up the good work.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Arron. Thanks much. You know, I’ve never had to manually open the slides with a crank. Just good fortune I guess. Only had one issue in 5 years with the pin falling out of a slide motor. The crank just freewheeled and wouldn’t work till the pin was replaced.

[@katielee5097]

he other issue is that there are so many different types of slide out mechanisms. Only about three specific types but every manufacturer makes it different. On ours we have to actually disconnect the motors and push it in.

[@iLoveRVlife]

I saw the same in another video this weekend with Pipi Peterson. She had the replace the motors to correct.

[@theflyinhawaiiantravels354]

Hey!! Use the slide out grease on it. These slides are the 1st to go. Always use slide out grease

[@knutblaise9437]

You've compiled and explained the importance of essential RVing products. Great Job! You might want to include links to a few more items like a 20AMP extension cord along with the 50A/30A to 15A dog bone for those time when you're visiting family or you're in a really old campground, a lock for the Surge Guard like (Amazon product code B002OUQI3W), and levelers from your "Leveling Your RV" video (Fwq10pEOKUU) as propane fridges like to be level. Technically more than 10 items but 20A items are related to extension cords, the Surge Guard lock is related to the surge protector, and the levelers you reviewed do include chocks :-)

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks so much for the comment. So true. There are a number of items, that once you start RV travel, you discover are beneficial for the trip. I have all the items listed we use at the bottom of the video description and on our blog with have a link to our RV accessories page at www.ilovervlife.com/rv-accessories. Here we have a list of items we use in our travels. Over 5 years of travel, the list is long, so we broke it into categories to help make it easier to find items. If you need something along the way, check out the page. Many have blogs and video linked to the use. Safe travels.

[@unclegrandpasbees7742]

I have a 50 amp RV also but I’m wondering if I hook to a 30 amp service will the 50 amp surge protector still work to protect low or high voltage drops?

[@iLoveRVlife]

The Surge Guard does. It still sees L1 and L2 voltage. It just comes from the single 30 amp breaker and is a bridged circuit.

[@unclegrandpasbees7742]

I Love RV Life ok thank you I think I will order this model soon for my 5th wheel Love your videos👍🏻

[@iLoveRVlife]

It’s serving us well. Few changes in the newer models, but it’s still close.

[@bradymcphail9690]

Thank you Jerry. I have never RV'd and I'm studying like crazy before I spend such a large sum of money and then make the ultimate mistake. I am very afraid of electricity though because I was just electrocuted by 277Volts. I should be dead, but I'm still here for a reason. I will have to get over some PTSD before I can plug into that 50 amp electricity however.

[@iLoveRVlife]

I can’t image what you went through Brady. Grab a set of those thick heavy rubber gloves. Make sure your breaker is off and away you go. Hope you’re able to make the transition to RV life soon. Glad glad you’ve found the channel helpful. Jerry...

[@bradymcphail9690]

@@iLoveRVlife thank you Jerry

[@kradwonders]

Check out the Power Watchdog from Hughes. It does what the Surge Guard does plus more for less $. Also check out the RV Geeks review.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Will do. Thanks Iggy.

[@markjuliestutzman4490]

Thanks for all your videos. I do have a question. I have a 30 amp Class C and I installed a 30 amp internal surge protector. If all that is available is a 50 amp service and I have a 50 amp male to 30 amp female "dogbone", will my 30 amp surge protector from progressive work properly?

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks so much. It will work. No issues. It’s not putting this much power in your RV, it’s a max capacity issues. The surge protector protects as though it’s a standard 30 circuit.

[@freedomgrandma7165]

I would like to know if you ever use an generator? What size would you use use??

[@iLoveRVlife]

On rare occasions. We have a Westinghouse 4500 watt inverter. Runs one 15k BTU AC, residential frig and battery charger with no issues. Relatively quite, but a bit heavy at 100 lbs.

[@normgibson6565]

Good video my same 10

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks Norm

[@mattjohnson2637]

What do you use for surge protection when hooked to 30amp service? I really enjoy your videos btw. If you ever make it west to Wyoming maybe I could show you one of our favorite camping locations. There are so many though it may be hard to pick just one.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Matt. We use the same surge protector. Just connect between the 30 amp adapter and the 50 amp cord to the RV. Works great. Thanks for the invite. Planning a trip west late summer, early fall. Still working on stops.

[@mattjohnson2637]

@@iLoveRVlife You ever worry about someone stealing your surge protector?

[@iLoveRVlife]

We put a lock on it. There’s a case you can use or a small piece of chain with two locks. One on the protector and the other on the main cable.

[@markoliver474]

We all know Jerry, that the 1800 watt blow dryer is for blow drying your chest and leg hair... One other essential electrical piece of hardware is a 2 - 30 amp male to 1 - 50 amp female connector so you plug into 2 - 30 amp outlets getting back to that 50 amp. Provided the electrical box has 2 - 30 amp connectors.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hahaha Mark. So true. Absolutely on the dual 30 to 50 adapter. We have one. Sometimes we use once a year, others several times. Great add to the kit. Thanks for sharing.

[@markoliver474]

I Love RV Life, hope to see you on the road sometime. If in the DFW area, let me take you guys on a tour of Lockheed Martin.

[@iLoveRVlife]

That would be awesome Mark. We’ll let you know if we’re in the area for a couple of days. Been a while since I’ve had some double cut beef ribs. Due for a stop.

[@loda9510]

Excellent information and thank you for all you do for traveling in an RV - say hey to Joan! Do you have a video on how to organize your basement storage? Thanks again.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Loda and thanks. Joan waved back! Great idea on the basement. We’re heading out next week for a couple months. Basement packing will be the next video. Thanks for the idea.

[@srperk6163]

One of them being sweet tea? Our camper uses 30 amp but I did not know about the 50 amp adaptations. Thanks again, you probably saved an appliance or two.

[@iLoveRVlife]

You bet! Glad to share.

[@danielsmith2447]

Just for information, homestyle water pressure is just fine for campers. Campground water pressure however is a different animal, most campgrounds have extremely high water pressure so that the last camper in line has good water pressure.

[@iLoveRVlife]

True Daniel. Many variations in water pressure. At our home it’s 95 lbs. Best defense is to always use a pressure regulator.

[@freedomgrandma7165]

Jerry I can not find the Surge Guard 34750????? Help Is there another number???

[@iLoveRVlife]

Since this video, I believe Surge Guard was sold. Progressive has a unit with similar features amzn.to/2WySccA

[@thebestisyettocome4114]

Thank you 👍

[@iLoveRVlife]

You bet. Glad we could share.

[@richardschank7624]

Jerry, I really enjoy your videos!! Question, do you use a cover for your rig when you are not out and about? Winter storage?

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks Richard. We don’t cover. It’s not in a location long enough to benefit from a cover. We stay on the move 7 to 8 months of the year. We have friends that have enough property for a awning style parking space, others store at an RV covered storage for the winter. Not sure about the cloth style covers. Some report wear on the RV finish in the corners over time, but no experience on this end.

[@klyonsden]

Thank you for this video. Reminded me to get a rhino extension on order. Always enjoy your videos! Oh before i forget, a buddy is having black tank sensor issues that CW cant seem to get right...on a brand new 5ver they sold him. He wants to look into outer tank sensors to install on his own. Any help or ideas on this subject?

[@iLoveRVlife]

I’ve seen these sensors, but no experience in use. If these are troublesome day one, may have an electrical issue or maybe a little trash on the sensor when installed. Wonder if he’s tried the blast the insides of the tank with a Swivel Stick and see if that cleans the face of the sensors?

[@robertwolfe5707]

What name brand water pressure regulator did you get?

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Robert. It's a Renator M11-0660R Water Pressure Regulator Valve. Here's a link amzn.to/2FBDYNw

[@greg9323]

Jerry, the only problem I have with the surge protector, If you have a 50 amp and you have 30 amp from the park a fifth amp surge protector does not work. What do you do?

[@iLoveRVlife]

It does work. Place between the 30 amp adapter and the 50 Amp cord to the RV. I have a 5 gal bucket I place the surge protector on so it won’t sit on the ground. Works great.

[@greg9323]

@@iLoveRVlife, okay thank you for responding to my question. I asked because we have a fifth amp, fifth amp surge protector (Camco) and while at several campsites at different parks with thirty amp power our surge would not work. I might have to invest in another one. Again, thank you, be safe and happy travels

[@iLoveRVlife]

Greg, it maybe something specific to the Camco. No issues with this set up using the Surge Guard.

[@howardharris7088]

Like I said your comments are spot on

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch Howard.

[@grantjohnson777]

Two videos in and such great information and explanation. Could you tell me where you have a list of items you use, to include the enzyme powder you put in the black tank? Also do you have an Amazon affiliate link?

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Grant. Thanks for asking. Visit our web site at www.ilovervlife.com/rv-accessories. We have a list of all the items we use. Many have links to how we use with videos.

[@lancelot1953]

Hi I Love RV Life (so do I incidentally!), two questions for you. 1- You recommended a 15' electrical extension to add to your own trailer standard extension - how long is the power cord that came with your trailer? 2- My trailer uses 30 A circuits - can I get a "dog-bone" 50 to 30 A to allow me to connect my 110 appliances, if I am at a resort that only has a 50A outlet available. Thank you, Ciao, L (ME/QC, USA/CAN)

[@iLoveRVlife]

1) My main cord is 25 feet. Good length most of the time. My connection is in the back of the RV. Some times the campground power pedestal is closer to the front and the extra 15 feet’s has been perfect to make the connection. You may wonder, why not move forward or backward? At 40 feet, it may take away the room needed to park the truck or now we’re away from the paved area at the side entry door. 2) The 50 to 15 amp adapter for a standard extension cords is amzn.to/2XDpOon. Also, have a good quality extension cord, not one of those cheap 14 gauge. It will heat up and blow breakers. Something like amzn.to/2IBzoBD. We have a number of these items listed on our website at www.ilovervlife.com/rv-accessories. Some even have videos and blogs on use. Appreciate you watching our channel. Jerry...

[@lancelot1953]

Hi Jerry, thank you so much for such a quick answer - I am new to the RV world but I did RV in the seventies (yes, I am that "Old") and for the next 28 years I did "camping" or "sailing" with the Marine Corps and the Navy but it was not as "picturesque" as what you are describing - especially in the Iraqi desert!!! Your videos are nicely produced and "to the point". I truly appreciate you and your wife taking the time to share your experience(s) for the benefit of "nuggets" like me, Ciao and may Peace be with you, regards to your family, L (Veteran) PS: BTW, do you get some benefit from Amazon when we order through one of your links? I would like you to get something out of the time and effort you spent producing your videos?

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thank you so much for your service to our country. Joan and I enjoy the RV lifestyle and it’s a we have so much fun sharing our tips and travels. We are an Amazon affiliate and appreciate you asking. The funds give us that little extra to help purchase items to review and video equipment to improve our production. Safe travels. Jerry...

[@lancelot1953]

Hi Jerry, then I will follow your links so that you can get some "appreciation" for the time Joan and you spend sharing your knowledge with the RV community. Also, thank you for the greetings - In the big scheme of things, it is people like you (wife and you), that made it worth for Veterans like us to fight for. Thank you for you kind words Jerry, it means a lot to us, Ciao, L

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch.

[@DougFenrich]

12:20 ??? If I have a smaller RV that only needs 30 amp, can I use a 50 --> 30 amp "Dog-bone" to run my RV, OR DOES IT NOT WORK THAT WAY???????????? Wouldn't it just use the one leg of 120V?

[@iLoveRVlife]

Rare to find a 50 only. Usually it’s 30 or a 30 and 50. I’ve never put a meter to a 50 to 30, but expect it would only use on leg.

[@timf6916]

Nice information

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks Tim

[@Janice-sb7qw]

Waiting (and waiting) on my Class B to arrive and making shopping lists. Your link to Amazon for electric ext cord led to what was 6/8 gauge cord if read correctly. Is that the one intended? I need 30 amp and 25 ft was shortest offered on that link.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Janice. 15 footers are hard to in 30 amp for some reason. But, the large gauge wire compensates for the extra length. Wishing you the best in your new RV adventures.

[@joeswishful9740]

I love your videos. However, I do take issue with one thing you said in this video. You said the power management/surge protector will protect you from lightning. It will not. Nothing will protect you from a close lightning strike. About the only use I see for them is maybe identifying a low voltage or incorrect polarity situation. You can check for polarity issues with an $8 tester from Lowe's. These things are ridiculously priced a $300 or more. I don't use one on the camper but I have virtually everything under surge protection at home and I have still had losses due to lightning.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Joe. I appreciate the comment, but there are a few very key areas where a Surge Guard is far superior to a voltage tester. First monitoring. If the voltage rises or falls below a safe operating range, the unit will automatically disconnect. Very important especially in summer months where campground can overload the power grid. Happened to us several times and prevented us from burning out the compressors in our frig and AC units. Agree somewhat on lightning strike. Direct hit on the RV, there will be bigger issues than the electric connection. This protects feed surges from line strikes or rise in neutral from a nearby ground strike. It works. We had this occur. Campers next to us had major electrical damage. The Surge Guard protected us.

[@YourMajesty143]

All these parts for a black tank, my goodness. I'm starting to wonder if it's just easier to go the composting route and expand the grey tank storage.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Not a biggie really. If going the traditional campground route, it’s a minor expense. For long term boondocking, composting is a good alternative. The only issue is the cost of the very expensive composting toilet. There are those who use a bucket....not going that route.

[@YourMajesty143]

@@iLoveRVlife - Yes, it can be expensive going the Nature's Head or Airhead route, but I was thinking along the lines of the DIYs I've seen for RVs on KZbin. They run anywhere from $100 to $200 at most. And there's certainly pre-made DIY composting toilets on eBay for about the same cost. The nicest DIY was on Etsy for about $600 or so. Still pricey, but much cheaper than the commercial options. I'm trying to figure out which is the bigger hassle, cleaning out a composting toilet or emptying tanks 🤢 lol. I always welcome your perspective Jerry, thanks for keeping us informed!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Understand. Not sure why so many fear the black tank. It’s a very simple process. Hook up hose, pull black tank handle, then gray. Unhook hose, simple rinse with fresh water. Again, if we boondocked a ton and didn’t have convenient access to a sewer connection, a Natures Head would be an option. But wrestling and dumping a full compost toilet would not be my fun activity for the day.

[@YourMajesty143]

@@iLoveRVlife - Absolutely, to each their own. I think for me it's less about the fear of the black tank, but more just about the hassle of stopping to find a proper sewer dump when boondocking. I plan to do more city boondocking and less campgrounds, which pushes me to factor in if it'll be easier for me to find city dumps vs compost disposal.

[@arkansastraveler7698]

The Never Kink hoses work better than the plain white ones.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks for the tip.

[@michaelmcconnell424]

Twelve-gauge wire is good for 20 amps, 10-gauge wire is good for 30 amps, 8-gauge is good for 40 amps, and 6-gauge is good for 55 amps,” and “The circuit breaker or fuse is always sized to protect the conductor [wire].”

[@iLoveRVlife]

Good info. Thanks Michael.

[@howardharris7088]

I all enjoy your comments

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks much Howard.

[@51Fathermo]

Good stuff, btw the arm is looking better.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks Michael. Oh yeah. Just man up and keep on going!

[@howardharris7088]

You know spending $400 is not easy to do. I love camping but on a budget. Do smaller ones work for 30 amp

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Howard. I just checked the 50 amp unit. It’s $345. If you have a 50 amp camper, this is what you need to use, if you are 30 amp, then use this unit at $240. Think about this, new AC unit $1000, new microwave $200+, TV $200+, DC converter/charge $150+, phones/pads/laptops that may be plugged in.....well you see where I’m going. A surge protector is cheap insurance. One lightning strike in the campground and your repair bill can be crippling. We’re on a budget too. A large repair bill would shut our travels down for a while where buying a good surge protector is the cost for one week of travel.

[@NormRidg]

There are spike only for about $100. Think of it like your home surge protector for your RV. What was shown was one that handled dips as well of spikes.

[@laurawgarts]

You really should join the ends of your water hose so that you won't get any bugs in there! Now please, go wash your hands! lol ;-)

[@iLoveRVlife]

Good tip on the hose. I do connect when storing, had just unhooked for the video though. Good tip. Not to worry on the black hose items. I cleaned all with a very strong solution of bleach before the video so I wouldn’t have to go through a dozen gloves while recording. Wiped everything with Clorox wipes afterward and scrubbed the hands just in case. I do that even when I wear gloves. You can’t be to careful when handling black hose items. Appreciate the concern.

[@fordfan3179]

I have a pressure regulator but it doesn't have a gauge so that'll be an upgrade for sure. I'm also adding a GPM meter for both of my hoses. It's nice to know how close to full you are without walking around the camper and relying on the highly unreliable light gauge on the control panel. I'll run a second GPM meter on my black tank water hose to keep an eye on that as well. I like to keep my black water and fresh water equipment complete separate at all times (and never the Twain shall meet) I even have one way check valves at the spigot heads.

[@iLoveRVlife]

Great tip. I never, ever, never, ever use my drink hose to flush the black tank. I have a separate red rubber hose only used for that. Thanks for bringing this up.

[@opaandomascampingadventures]

You actually want to stick to 6 gauge on the 50 amp extension cords. That's what most manufacturers use on your unit. Otherwise I need to get one of those water regulators with a gauge. Thumbs up!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Thanks a bunch.

[@loriwight3833]

Thank you, Jerry & Joan! The only thing we don't have from your Camping Essentials list is a "doughnut". Also, I've been noticing on the last couple of episodes that you've got a scar on your inner arm. I'll have to comb through the comments to see what happened. I hope that you're healing well! You offer such a great service with your channel and videos. Thanks a million! Happy travels! If you're ever in the great Pacific Northwest, you must stop in our neck of the woods. We're in Western Washington. We own a Brewery, in Marysville, WA named "Whitewall Brewing Company". We'd love to see you! Cheers!

[@iLoveRVlife]

Hi Lori. Hoping to make in the the Northwest soon. Love this hand craft brew tours. The arm. Was trying to not make it a prominent part of the videos. The videos make it look worse that it was. Long story short, I had a bit of a disagreement with a piece of lumber. It won the 1st round, but all is ok. In the next video it should be hardly noticeable. Thanks a bunch for the concern.

[@toniawaters6034]

Again no gloves! you are killing me here..lol

[@iLoveRVlife]

I had to handle so many thing for the shoot, slinky, electric, etc. I washed everything thing with a strong bleach solution before the shoot so the other items wouldn’t be contaminated. Promise, nothing could have survived that. My mistake, I should have shared.