Greetings, fellow RVers!
This issue focuses on RV tools. That’s because our resident RV repair guru, Dave Solberg, recently completed a “12 Days of RV Tools” series. We wanted to include it here because these tools make RV life easier all year-round, not just during the holidays. Of course, we also include other gizmos and gadgets that we like, too. Read on!
Dave Solberg’s top 12 RV tool picks
Click the links below for more details on all of Dave’s favorite tools and how to use them.
#1 Anemometer: This airflow meter is called an anemometer. It measures the volume of airflow that passes through a space per minute, as well as temperature, essential for troubleshooting furnace or A/C issues.
#2 Infrared temperature sensor: This non-contact, handheld temperature sensor can provide pinpoint accuracy for hot and cold temperature ranges from -58º F to 932º F. Hopefully, you don’t need to test to those temperatures! Just pull and hold the trigger and read the LED for temperature. You can even scan along a material or component to see temperature variations.
#3 Water heater flush wand: Essential for water heater maintenance. Dave explains why in this post.
#4 Kill A Watt electricity usage monitor: Managing your RV’s energy usage is crucial—especially when you’re limited to a 30-amp distribution center. Overloading your electrical system can lead to tripped breakers, interrupted comfort, and even safety hazards. The Kill A Watt electricity usage monitor will help you understand how much power your appliances use and how to avoid exceeding your limits.
#5 Magnetizer/demagnetizer: One of the most popular “Cool Tools” in Dave’s seminars is the magnetizer/demagnetizer, a small block that allows you to magnetize or demagnetize a screwdriver or just about any metal tool you have that will fit through the slots.
#6 Non-contact voltage tester: When a 120-volt component is not working, I have found that oftentimes it is not the component that’s the problem, but an open circuit somewhere downstream. Tracking down the “gremlin” can be difficult without the proper tool. The non-contact voltage tester has been one of Dave’s go-to tools for not only RV troubleshooting, but residential, as well.
#7 Keychain screw gun bit holder: Some screw guns have a slot on the bottom to carry one or two extra bits. However, Dave came across this handy screw gun bit holder that allows him to carry up to six different bits and just clip it to his belt loop.
#8 Smartphone and selfie stick: Before smartphones became commonplace, working on cars and RVs required a lot of memory and improvisation. Today, things are much simpler thanks to the camera on your smartphone. You can take photos at each stage of disassembly, making it easy to refer back during reinstallation.
#9 Handheld LP leak detector: The propane detector built into your RV may not always be reliable, for reasons Dave discusses in this post. For comprehensive diagnostics, portable LP leak detectors are recommended.
#10 Creative cord holders: If you have been RVing for any length of time, you have likely opened a storage compartment to find a tangled assortment of extension cords, coaxial cables, and other wiring that resembles a bowl of spaghetti. This post has several creative solutions—one even repurposes old inner tubes!
#11 Endoscope: Every RV is built with hundreds of hidden nooks and crannies—places that are frustratingly hard (or downright impossible) to see or reach. Think air-conditioning ductwork, water heaters tucked under closets, or plumbing that zigzags through cabinets. That’s where an endoscope becomes an absolute game-changer. Connected to your phone or tablet, it lets you see deep into those hard-to-reach areas and takes the guesswork out of troubleshooting.
#12 Klein multimeter kit: When you’re troubleshooting an RV problem—whether it’s a 120-volt AC system or a 12-volt DC component—guessing isn’t going to cut it. You need real numbers, not assumptions. If you want exact voltage readings and the ability to test continuity, a multimeter is essential. You don’t need to break the bank unless you’re opening your own RV service center. I’ve found the Klein multimeter to be a great sweet spot—rugged, dependable, accurate, easy to use, and very reasonably priced.
Our best-selling Amazon products this year:
- Thetford RV Drain Valve Lubricant, as recommended by Dustin here.
- Disposable shower drain cover, as recommended by Dave here.
- Mr. Grip screw hole repair kit, as recommended by Nanci here.
- Frienda RV underbelly repair tape, as recommended by Dustin here.
- WORKPRO 12″ adjustable oil filter pliers
WARNING: RVers at risk: Expert warns Battle Born lithium batteries are dangerous and unsafe
Other stuff we’re liking
Our best RV gear and gadgets of 2025
As the editor of this newsletter, a whole lot of RV gear and gadgets come across Cheri Sicard’s radar, and she gets to try a lot of it out. So, with a little help from fellow RVtravel.com writers Gail Marsh and Tony Barthel, she compiled a roundup of favorites from this past year, big and small. Check out the list here.
20 Items to carry in case of winter emergencies
Being prepared for winter emergencies is crucial for your safety. Gail Marsh compiled a list of 20 items to keep in your vehicle during the winter. (Note: Many of these items may prove useful in all seasons, not just winter.) Get the winter emergency preparedness kit picks.
The BEST RV decal remover
Old RV decals can make a solid RV look tired, but sometimes they are such a hassle to remove that people don’t bother. It does not have to be that way. Discover the best way to remove old decals from your RV here—easier than you think!
The book nook
Travel Games for Adults is packed with clever, hilarious, and thought-provoking activities designed to transform any journey into an adventure. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or new companions, this book keeps everyone laughing, talking, and connecting from start to finish. Inside, you’ll find: boredom busters, brain teasers, puzzles, roleplay and improv prompts, conversation starters, solo activities, and much more. Learn more or order here.
Starlink Mini RV charger powers Starlink Mini and other devices at once
For RVers relying on a Starlink Mini, staying connected during long trips or off-grid adventures can be a challenge. The new JR-CL30 4-in-1 Starlink Mini RV charger delivers stable power to your Starlink Mini. At the same time, it can be charging multiple devices, helping you manage connectivity and gadgets on the road. Learn more here.
Even more recent gadget articles:
- RV electric blanket comparison showdown
- Cool Tools: Kill A Watt measures watt/amp draw
- Must-have RV gear: The Power Mountain Tallboy Jack
- Multi-use, transforming RV furniture
- The best fan to help with RV refrigerator air circulation
Gadget quick takes
Adjustable drawer dividers
To help keep things neat and organized, you can find a size drawer divider for every drawer. Great in the RV and also at home.
Mini salt, pepper, and spice grinders
Small size but fully functional—the mini salt, pepper, and spice grinders can grind from fine to coarse. A sealed lid can reduce moisture and dust.
Gadget giggles
Remote control alligator head “boat”
Get ready to unleash some fun during your next lakeside camping trip. Imagine the shock when campers see this alligator gliding through the water! Remote control boating has never been so much fun! Order here.
Keep your hands warm all winter long
These are Amazon’s best-selling rechargeable hand warmers. These hand warmers come in many colors and heat up in just three seconds. Three temperature settings up to 126° F meet different comfort needs: ideal for outdoor walks, sports events, or cold morning chores. They’re small, lightweight, and easily fit in any pocket. Know someone who is always cold? They (or you!) need these!
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RVtravel.com All-Star Team
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Yup! I’m a sucker for Dave’s tools and I have them all!