When it comes to RV stability, the importance of quality jack pads cannot be overstated. After years of camping on everything from rocky desert terrain to soft grass fields, I have learned that the right jack pads can mean the difference between a stable, comfortable night’s sleep and waking up to a tilted rig with sinking jacks.
Whether you are using stabilizer jacks, leveling systems, or tongue jacks, having reliable pads underneath them protects both your equipment and the ground beneath your RV.
Jack pads serve multiple critical functions that many RVers overlook until they encounter problems. They distribute the weight of your RV across a larger surface area, preventing your jacks from sinking into soft ground. They protect paved surfaces like driveways and campground pads from damage. And they provide a stable, non-slip foundation that keeps your jacks from shifting during your stay.
After testing numerous options over the years, I have compiled this guide to help you find the best RV jack pads for your specific needs and budget.
The Valterra Stackers have become something of an industry standard among RVers, and for good reason. This versatile 10-pack system serves triple duty as leveling blocks, jack pads, and tongue wheel supports, making them one of the most practical investments you can make for your RV setup routine. I have been using a set of these for three seasons now, and they have held up remarkably well despite being subjected to everything from scorching Arizona summers to freezing mountain mornings.
What sets the Valterra Stackers apart is their interlocking design that allows you to stack them to achieve the exact height you need. The smooth ramp design makes drive-on leveling straightforward, while the attached grip handles double as transitions between steps for a seamless incline. Each block measures 8-1/8 inches long by 8-1/8 inches wide by 1-3/8 inches tall, and the entire set weighs just 10.5 pounds, making them easy to store and transport.
The high-impact polyethylene construction handles a weight capacity of 4,000 pounds, which is sufficient for most travel trailers and smaller motorhomes. The included nylon storage bag keeps everything organized and prevents the blocks from rattling around in your storage compartment. One thing I particularly appreciate is the bright red color, which makes them easy to spot if you accidentally leave one behind at a campsite. The one-year manufacturer warranty provides peace of mind, though I have found these blocks to be extremely durable with no signs of cracking or degradation even after extensive use.
Buy the Valterra Stackers EZ Leveler Jack Pads
For RVers who need dedicated stabilizer jack pads without breaking the bank, the BAL Light Trailer Stabilizer Jack Base Pads offer excellent value. These 6-inch diameter pads are specifically designed to fit under standard stabilizer jack feet, providing a stable foundation on soft or uneven ground. I keep a set of these in my travel trailer specifically for campgrounds with grass or gravel sites where the narrow jack feet would otherwise sink in.
The BAL pads feature a simple but effective design with a slightly concave surface that helps center the jack foot and prevent it from sliding off. At just over $26 for a four-pack, they represent one of the most affordable ways to protect your jacks and improve stability. The compact size means they take up minimal storage space, and their lightweight construction makes them easy to position even when crawling under your RV to place them.
While these pads are not as versatile as the Valterra Stackers, they excel at their intended purpose. The 6-inch diameter provides adequate surface area for light trailer stabilizer jacks, though owners of larger rigs with heavy-duty jacks may want to consider larger options. I have found them particularly useful on beach camping trips where the sandy soil would otherwise swallow my jack feet within hours. For the price point, the BAL pads deliver reliable performance and represent a smart investment for any travel trailer owner.
Buy the BAL Light Trailer Stabilizer Jack Base Pads
Camco has built a reputation for producing reliable RV accessories at accessible price points, and their Stabilizer Jack Pads continue that tradition. This four-pack of yellow pads provides a simple, no-frills solution for RVers who need basic jack support without the complexity of interlocking systems or permanent installations. I recommended these to a friend who was new to RVing, and they have served him well through two full seasons of weekend camping trips.
The bright yellow color serves a practical purpose beyond aesthetics, making the pads highly visible so you are less likely to drive off without them. Each pad provides a flat, stable surface that prevents jack feet from sinking into soft ground or damaging paved surfaces. The lightweight plastic construction keeps them easy to handle while still providing adequate support for standard stabilizer jacks.
What I appreciate most about the Camco pads is their simplicity. There are no pieces to assemble, no straps to manage, and no learning curve. You simply place them under your jacks and lower away. At under $23 for a four-pack, they represent the most budget-friendly option on this list while still delivering the essential function of weight distribution and surface protection. For RVers who want straightforward functionality without extra features, the Camco Stabilizer Jack Pads are an excellent choice.
Buy the Camco Stabilizer Jack Pads
For RVers who are tired of fumbling with loose jack pads every time they set up camp, the RV SnapPads offer a revolutionary permanent solution. These premium pads attach directly to your scissor jack feet, eliminating the need to position separate pads and ensuring you always have protection in place. After installing a set on my travel trailer last year, I cannot imagine going back to traditional loose pads.
The SnapPads are made from recycled tire rubber, which provides exceptional grip on virtually any surface. The anti-slip properties have proven invaluable during windy conditions when traditional pads might shift or allow jacks to slide. The surface area increase of up to 279% compared to standard jack feet means significantly better weight distribution, which is particularly noticeable on soft ground where my jacks previously sank within hours.
Installation takes about 15 minutes per jack using the included hardware, and once installed, the pads become a permanent part of your leveling system. The 5,000 to 7,500-pound weight capacity handles most travel trailers with ease, and the UV-resistant construction ensures the pads will not degrade from sun exposure. The two-year manufacturer warranty and American-made quality justify the premium price point for serious RVers who value convenience and reliability. The SnapPads are compatible with most major scissor jack brands including BAL, Camco, Husky, and Ultra-Fab.
Buy the RV SnapPads SJ Camper Scissor Jack Pads
When you need serious weight distribution for heavy-duty leveling systems, the Bigfoot RV Outrigger Pads deliver professional-grade performance. These ultra high-density composite pads are engineered for RVers with hydraulic leveling systems or anyone who needs maximum stability on challenging terrain. I first encountered these pads at a rally where a fellow Class A owner swore by them, and after trying them myself, I understand the enthusiasm.
The 12-inch by 12-inch footprint provides substantial surface area for weight distribution, while the 2-inch thickness offers excellent ground clearance and durability. Unlike plastic alternatives that can crack or deform under heavy loads, the Bigfoot pads are made from a custom high-strength composite that the manufacturer guarantees for lifelong use. The material is completely resistant to water, electricity, and corrosion, making these pads suitable for any environment.
The safety orange color is not just for aesthetics; it provides high visibility that helps prevent the common mistake of driving off with pads still in place. At 10 pounds per pad, these are noticeably heavier than plastic alternatives, but that weight contributes to their stability and durability. For RVers with heavy rigs or those who frequently camp on soft, uneven, or challenging terrain, the Bigfoot Outrigger Pads represent a worthwhile investment in long-term stability and peace of mind. The American-made construction and professional-grade materials justify the higher price point for serious RVers.
Buy the Bigfoot RV Outrigger Pad
Selecting the appropriate jack pads for your RV depends on several factors that are worth considering before making a purchase.
First, assess the weight of your RV and ensure any pads you choose have adequate capacity. Most travel trailers can use standard plastic pads, while heavier motorhomes and fifth wheels may benefit from heavy-duty composite options like the Bigfoot pads. Always check the manufacturer’s weight rating and compare it to your RV’s gross vehicle weight rating to ensure adequate support.
Consider the types of terrain you typically encounter during your camping adventures. If you primarily stay at developed campgrounds with paved or gravel pads, basic jack pads like the Camco option will serve you well and represent excellent value. However, if you frequently boondock on soft ground, grass, sand, or muddy terrain, investing in larger pads or permanent solutions like the SnapPads will pay dividends in stability and convenience. I have seen too many RVers struggle with sinking jacks because they underestimated the softness of the ground at their campsite.
Think about your setup routine and how much time you want to spend positioning pads during each camping trip. Loose pads require placement each time you set up, which means crawling under your RV to position them correctly. Permanent solutions like the SnapPads eliminate this step entirely, saving valuable time and effort. For full-time RVers or those who move frequently between campsites, the time savings of permanent pads can be significant and well worth the higher initial investment.
Storage space is another important consideration that many RVers overlook. Interlocking systems like the Valterra Stackers are incredibly versatile but require more storage room than compact individual pads. If storage is at a premium in your RV, smaller dedicated pads might be a better choice despite their more limited functionality. Consider where you will store your pads and whether they will fit conveniently in your existing storage compartments.
The material composition of jack pads also deserves attention. Plastic pads are lightweight and affordable but may crack in extreme cold temperatures. Rubber pads like the SnapPads offer better grip and durability but come at a higher price point. Composite pads like the Bigfoot options provide the ultimate in durability and weight capacity but are heavier and more expensive. Match the material to your typical camping conditions and budget constraints.
Quality jack pads are one of those RV accessories that seem insignificant until you need them.
Whether you opt for the versatile Valterra Stackers, the budget-friendly Camco pads, or the premium convenience of SnapPads, having proper support under your jacks protects your investment and ensures a stable, comfortable camping experience.
The right choice depends on your specific RV, camping style, and budget, but any of the options in this guide will serve you well for years of adventures ahead.
I’m Bill Rowell, the founder of RVupgrades.com. In 2002, I launched the business to help fellow RV enthusiasts find unique and hard-to-find products. Over the years, it’s grown to offer more than 15,000 items, with a warehouse in Eastlake, Ohio. Having owned and repaired nearly every type of RV, I bring over two decades of hands-on experience to the table. For me, this isn’t just a business – it’s a passion and a way of life that I love sharing with the RV community.
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