Smart RV Technology: Must-Have Gadgets and Upgrades for the Modern RVer

The world of RVing is constantly evolving, and technology is playing a huge role in making life on the road safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable.

From systems that help you monitor and control your RV from your smartphone to gadgets that enhance security and entertainment, “smart” RV technology is no longer a futuristic dream – it’s here now.

As someone who appreciates how tech can simplify RVing, I’m excited to share some must-have smart gadgets and upgrades.

Smart RV tech, like app-controlled lighting, thermostats, and security systems, adds convenience and peace of mind. Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) and advanced tank monitors are also invaluable. This is a great overview of the key areas where smart tech shines.

Why Embrace Smart Technology in Your RV?

Integrating smart technology into your RV can offer several benefits:

• Convenience: Control lighting, temperature, awnings, and more with the tap of an app, sometimes even remotely.
• Safety and Security: Monitor tire pressure in real-time, get alerts for potential hazards like CO or LP gas leaks, and keep an eye on your rig with smart security cameras.
• Efficiency: Smart thermostats can optimize heating and cooling, and advanced monitoring systems can help you manage resources like water and power more effectively.
• Comfort and Entertainment: Enhance your living space with smart lighting, voice-controlled assistants, and upgraded entertainment systems.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing you can monitor and control aspects of your RV remotely can be very reassuring, especially if you leave pets inside or are away from your rig.

Must-Have Smart RV Gadgets and Upgrades

Let’s explore some of the most impactful smart technologies available for RVers today. Many of these can be found at RVupgradestore.com.

1. Smart Thermostats

• What they do: Allow you to control your RV’s heating and air conditioning remotely via a smartphone app. Some offer scheduling, geofencing, and even humidity control.
• Why they’re great: Imagine being able to cool down your RV before you arrive back from a hike, or adjust the temperature for your pets while you’re out. They can also help save energy.

Product Examples:

Micro-Air ASY-354-X02-C EasyTouch RV 354C Touchscreen Thermostat With Bluetooth – This popular upgrade offers intuitive control via a user-friendly touchscreen interface and Bluetooth connectivity for remote operation.

Coleman Mach 9630-3523 Bluetooth Wall Thermostat For Air Conditioner With Heat Pump – A reliable option specifically designed for RVs with heat pumps, featuring Bluetooth connectivity for convenient temperature control.

2. Smart Leveling Systems

• What they do: Automatically level your RV with the push of a button or through a smartphone app, eliminating the frustration of manual leveling.
• Why they’re great: Save time and hassle at every campsite setup, ensuring perfect leveling for comfort and proper functioning of appliances like refrigerators.

Product Example: EQ Systems 8735NUPS Jayco Redhawk Bluetooth Smart-Leveling System – This system brings one-touch leveling convenience to Jayco Redhawk owners, with Bluetooth connectivity for easy control and monitoring.

3. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)

• What they do: Continuously monitor the air pressure and temperature of your RV and tow vehicle tires, alerting you to any dangerous changes.
• Why they’re invaluable: A tire blowout on an RV can be catastrophic. A TPMS provides early warnings of low pressure or high temperature, allowing you to address the issue before it becomes a serious safety hazard. This is one piece of smart tech I believe every RVer should have.

Product Examples:

TST TST-507-D-C 507 Color TPMS Monitor – Features a vibrant color display that makes it easy to monitor all your tire pressures at a glance, with customizable alerts for pressure and temperature thresholds.

Doran 360RV8 Tire Pressure Monitoring 8 Sensor System – A comprehensive system with 8 sensors to monitor multiple tires simultaneously, providing peace of mind for larger rigs.

4. Smart Security and Access Systems

• What they do: Provide keyless entry, remote monitoring, and enhanced security for your RV.
• Why they’re great: No more fumbling for keys, plus the ability to grant temporary access to others and monitor entry/exit remotely.

Product Example: Ultra ES Pro Bluetooth Electronic Lock – This advanced electronic lock system allows for keyless entry via Bluetooth, enhancing both convenience and security for your RV.

5. Power and Voltage Monitoring

• What they do: Monitor your RV’s electrical system, alerting you to potentially damaging voltage fluctuations or power issues.
• Why they’re essential: Protects your expensive RV electronics and appliances from damage caused by poor power quality at campgrounds.

Product Example: Valterra A10-120VM Mighty Cord Digital Voltage Monitor – This compact device provides real-time monitoring of your shore power connection, helping prevent damage to sensitive electronics from voltage fluctuations.

6. Backup Camera Systems

• What they do: Provide a clear view behind your RV when backing up or maneuvering in tight spaces.
• Why they’re great: Significantly reduce the stress of parking and backing up a large vehicle, while enhancing safety by eliminating blind spots.

Product Example: Voyager WVSXS43 Wireless Backup Camera Monitor – This wireless system offers easy installation and a clear view behind your RV, making backing up and parking much safer and less stressful.

Considerations for Implementing Smart RV Tech

• Connectivity: Many smart devices require Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Ensure you have a reliable way to connect them, especially if you plan to use remote features.
• Power Consumption: While most individual smart devices are low-power, the cumulative effect, especially of Wi-Fi routers or cellular boosters, should be factored into your overall power budget.
• Compatibility: Ensure new smart devices are compatible with any existing systems or ecosystems you use (e.g., Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit).
• Ease of Use: Choose systems with user-friendly apps and straightforward setup.
• Security: For any internet-connected device, ensure you are using strong passwords and keeping firmware updated to protect against security vulnerabilities.

Final Thoughts

Smart RV technology is transforming the way we experience RVing, offering unprecedented levels of convenience, safety, and comfort.

Whether you start with a crucial safety item like a TPMS, add the convenience of a smart thermostat, or go all-in with a fully integrated smart RV system, these technologies can significantly enhance your adventures on the road.

As technology continues to advance, we can only expect more innovative and helpful smart solutions for RVers. Embracing these can make your RV not just a vehicle, but a truly smart home on wheels!

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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