Most RV enthusiasts start with a basic assortment of tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, and sockets. The more you travel, and the more comfortable you get with doing some of your own maintenance and repairs, the more you “customize” your toolbox for your rig and level of experience. Just as there are hundreds of different types of RVs, there are a wide assortment of tools that can be used to do the job so there is not one “standard” list of tools that will be right for every RVer.  However, here is a list that is a good reference to get you started on your journey to the “Ultimate Toolbox”.

Basics

• Screwdrivers – Philips/flat head (three different sizes but definitely #2 phillips head)
• Pliers – Large and small
• Channel Lock Pliers
• Needle Nose Pliers
• Side Cutter
• Tin Snips
• Wire Stripper/cutter
• Socket Sets –  ¼” – 3/8” – Some ½” for larger projects like lug nuts – SAE & Metric ( I also carry a set of deep well sockets – 3/8”)
• Multi-bit set with Torx, #2 Philips, and others
• Assorted Drill Bits
• Wrench Set – Open End/Box End – SAE & Metric
• Cordless Screw Gun/Charger
• Electric Screw Gun (Just In Case!)
• Blow Hammer
• Regular Hammer
• Crescent Wrench – 2 sizes
• Razor Knife
• Vise Grips
• Tire Gauge
• Bubble Level
• Plumbers Tape
• Gloves
• LED Flashlight
• Shop Towels
• Hand Cleaner/Sanitizer

Electrical

• Duct Tape
• Black Electrical Tape
• Rescue Tape
• 12-volt Test Light
• Digital Multimeter
• Non Contact Voltage Tester
• Battery Terminal Cleaner/Sealant
• Assorted Wire Terminals/Wire Nuts
• Wire – 10 ga/12 ga
• Assorted Bulbs
• Assorted Fuse
• Extra 120-volt Outlet/GFCI
• Battery Filler/Distilled Water
• Zip Ties
• Certified Tire Gauge
• GFCI Outlet Tester
• Voltage Tester – Surge Guard
• AmWatt – Amperage Guage
• 10 Gauge Extension Cord (Note: used for tools only)

Emergency

• Roadside Emergency Kit – Flares, Triangles, etc
• Jumper Cables
• Portable 12-volt Booster/Air Compressor
• First Aid Kit
• Fire Extinguishers
• Fuel Can – empty
• Floor Jack – Note: make sure it is rated for your weight and you consult your owner’s manual for proper placement and lifting the rig.  Most RVers purchase roadside assistance and let someone else wrestle with the wheel!

Fluids/Sealants

• Oil
• Transmission Fluid
• Hydraulic Fluid (slide room motor and jacks)
• Brake Fluid
• Antifreeze
• Windshield Washer Fluid
• CRC Silicone Spray
• Self-Leveling Lap Seal designed for roof material
• Fluid Film

Customized Items

Conduct a thorough walk through inside and out to see what “specialized” fasteners and other items your rig may have such as torx head screws, allen head, or even pop rivets?  This is something that will be a work in progress as you come across items that are unique and it will prompt you to wonder; “why did they use that?!”

• Wind Speed Indicator – AC/Heater Air Flow
• Level Check – LP Level Tester
• Magnet Source – Magnetizer/Demagnetizer
• Puck Wrench
• Milk Crate – great for carrying tools as well as a stool!
• PEX Water Line & Fittings – Hose Cutter
• Winegard Satellite Finder
• Intellitec Water Purity Tester
• Infrared Temperature Gauge
• BullsEye Rock Chip Repair Kit
• Crow Bar

Miscellaneous 

• Barkeepers Friend
• ProtectAll Surface Cleaner
• Bleach
• Dawn Dish Soap

Tool Box

There are a variety of tool boxes and containers, I personally use a variety of items starting with the soft bag with pouches around the side and a handle in the middle.  This has a basic assortment of often used tools.  For smaller electrical items I have a Stanley “Sortmaster” organizer.  All other tools are stored in a Craftsman tool bag.

As you become familiar with the various maintenance items such as the plug for the water heater, you will start to add tools.  Atwood uses a 1 1/16” plug while Suburban uses a 7/8” one.  You will probably add items like nut drivers, putty knives, heat gun, clamps, worm clamps and other items.  As stated before, no two toolboxes are alike…have fun in designing your own!

To ensure you have easy access to this handy checklist, feel free to download, print, and share with your RVing friends.

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About the author:

Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles, authored an RV handbook reference guide and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair, and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

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