Jake Morris
Senior RV Gear Writer at ShopRVGear
Jake has spent 8 years full-timing in a Class A motorhome and has personally tested hundreds of RV products across North America. He is the lead gear reviewer at Shop RV Gear, covering solar setups, backup safety systems, water filtration, and boondocking essentials.
Topics of Expertise
Articles by Jake Morris (75)
Best RV Roof Sealants and Coating Systems to Prevent Leaks
Stop RV roof leaks before they ruin your rig. This no-nonsense guide walks through the best sealants and full-roof coating systems, how to pick the right type for EPDM, TPO, fiberglass and metal roofs, plus what products to avoid.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Exterior Lighting Upgrades for Style and Safety
Looking to see better at night, avoid stubbed toes, and make your rig look sharp at the campground? This guide breaks down the best RV exterior lighting upgrades that actually work in real-world camping, plus what to skip.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Lithium Batteries for Long-Term Power Storage
If you camp off-grid more than a couple of weekends a year, a properly sized LiFePO₄ bank is the best long-term power storage upgrade you can make to your RV. This guide cuts through the marketing, walks you through how many amp-hours you actually need, and compares the best RV lithium batteries for different budgets and camping styles.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Smart Home Systems and Automation Upgrades
A practical buyer’s guide to the best RV smart home systems and automation upgrades, based on what actually works on the road—not just in marketing photos.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems for Road Safety
The best RV tire pressure monitoring systems alert you to slow leaks, overheating, and blowout risks before they ruin your trip. This guide compares top TPMS picks for motorhomes and towable rigs, with real‑world pros, cons, and setup advice.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Surge Protectors to Prevent Electrical Damage
Bad campground power can fry your RV electronics in seconds. This guide compares the best RV surge protectors, explains which features matter, and tells you exactly what to buy for 30-amp or 50-amp rigs.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Solar Panel Kits for Full-Time Off-Grid Living
Looking to live full-time off-grid in your RV? This guide walks through how much solar you actually need, the best RV solar panel kits right now, and which bundles to avoid.
Jun 11, 2026
How to Maximize Storage Space in Your RV
Learn how to maximize storage space in your RV with practical, real-world tips and specific gear recommendations. We’ll cover layout strategy, vertical storage, multi-use furniture, and the organizers that are actually worth buying.
Jun 11, 2026
Best Under-Bed Storage Solutions for RVs
Under-bed space is some of the most valuable square footage in your RV, but most rigs waste it. This guide walks through the best under-bed storage systems, bins, and bags that actually work on the road, plus what to skip and how to avoid damaging tanks, frames, or your back.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Cabinet and Drawer Organizers: Space-Saving Gear That Actually Works
A practical buyer’s guide to the best RV cabinet and drawer organizers, with real product picks, what actually works going down the road, and what to skip.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Cargo Carriers and Hitch Baskets
If you need more storage on an RV trip, a hitch-mounted cargo carrier is usually the simplest fix. The best picks balance weight capacity, real cargo space, and easy loading without wrecking departure angle or overloading the rear end.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Tool Kits and Storage Cases for DIY Repairs
A practical guide to the best RV tool kits and storage cases for DIY repairs, with real-world picks, what to skip, and how to organize tools in your rig.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Coffee Makers for Full-Time RVers
Living in your rig full-time changes how you buy a coffee maker. We break down the best RV coffee makers that actually fit, survive travel days, and keep up with daily use.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Instant Pots and Pressure Cookers for Camp Cooking
If you only bring one countertop appliance in your RV, make it a pressure cooker. This guide breaks down the best Instant Pots and RV‑friendly electric pressure cookers, which sizes and wattages work on campground power, and what to skip.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Cookware Sets for Small Kitchens
The best RV cookware sets for small kitchens are compact, nesting, and truly nonstick under camp conditions. This guide cuts through the hype with real RV-friendly sets, what to skip, and how to match a kit to your rig’s tiny cabinets and limited burner space.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Microwave Ovens for Limited Counter Space
Tight RV galley? This guide cuts through the fluff and walks you through the best compact RV microwaves for limited counter space, plus what to avoid.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Outdoor Furniture Sets for Family Camping
Looking for the best RV outdoor furniture sets for family camping? We break down real products, what actually holds up at the campsite, and what to skip so your family can relax in comfort without wasting storage space.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Safety Equipment and Gear for Families
A practical, no-nonsense guide to the best RV safety equipment and gear for families. We cover the must‑have detectors, fire gear, tire and roadside safety, kid-specific needs, and what to skip.
Jun 11, 2026
Travel Trailer vs Fifth Wheel: Which RV Type Is Right for You?
If you want the short version: choose a **travel trailer** for lower cost, easier ownership, and more tow-vehicle flexibility; choose a **fifth wheel** if you want more living space, better storage, and a more stable tow. The best pick for most buyers is the travel trailer unless you already own a heavy-duty truck and plan to spend a lot of time in the RV.
Jun 11, 2026
Generator vs Inverter Generator for RVs: Complete Comparison
Trying to choose between a generator and an inverter generator for your RV? This guide compares noise, fuel use, cost, power quality, and the best type for boondocking, air conditioning, and quiet campgrounds, with real-world RV-tested picks.
Jun 11, 2026
Hardwired vs Portable RV Surge Protectors: Which Is Better?
Portable and hardwired RV surge protectors both solve the same problem: protecting your rig from bad campground power. The better choice depends on how you travel, how often you hook up, and whether you want convenience or a permanent set-and-forget setup.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Storage Bins and Organizers for Small Spaces
Living in a small RV means every inch has to work hard. These RV-ready storage bins and organizers are the ones that actually fit, stack well, and stay put on travel days.
Jun 11, 2026
Best Outdoor Games and Activities for RV Family Trips
Looking for outdoor games that actually work on real RV trips? This guide cuts through the fluff and walks you through proven games, specific product picks, and smart packing tips for every age group and campsite.
Jun 11, 2026
Best RV Step Stools and Entry Handles for Kids
If your kids struggle with tall RV steps, the safest setup is a low, wide, non-slip step stool plus a solid grab handle at the right height. This guide compares the best RV step stools and entry handles for families, explains what to skip, and shows you how to set up a kid-friendly entry that’s actually safe on the road.
Jun 11, 2026
Propane vs Solar Power for RVs: Which Should You Choose?
If you want simple, dependable heat and cooking, propane still wins for most RVers. If you want quiet, lower-maintenance power for lights, charging, and electronics, solar is the better long-term upgrade.
Jun 11, 2026
Tankless vs Tank Water Heater for RV: Full Comparison
Choosing between an RV tankless and tank water heater comes down to hot water demand, budget, installation space, and camping habits. This guide compares both options side by side.
Jun 10, 2026
RV Park vs Boondocking: Which Is Right for You?
Trying to decide between an RV park and boondocking? This guide compares cost, comfort, hookups, privacy, safety, and flexibility so you can choose the best RV camping style for your travel goals.
Jun 10, 2026
Class A vs Class C Motorhome: Which Is Right for You?
Trying to decide between a Class A and a Class C motorhome? This detailed guide compares cost, space, drivability, towing, and everyday usability so you can choose the right RV with confidence.
Jun 10, 2026
Lithium vs AGM RV Batteries: Which Is Better?
Choosing between lithium and AGM batteries can change how your RV performs on hookups, boondocking trips, and long travel days. This guide compares cost, lifespan, charging, maintenance, and real-world usability so you can pick the right battery setup for your rig.
Jun 10, 2026
RV Electrical System Explained: 12V vs 120V
Understanding your RV’s electrical system makes camping safer, easier, and less stressful. This guide breaks down 12V and 120V power, how they work together, and what RV owners need to know before upgrading, troubleshooting, or buying gear.
Jun 10, 2026
Best Apps for RV Trip Planning in 2025
Planning a smoother RV adventure starts with the right tools. This guide covers the best apps for RV trip planning in 2025, including route planning, campground finding, fuel savings, and weather awareness.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Membership Programs Worth the Money
Choosing the right RV club or roadside plan can save you money, reduce travel stress, and unlock better campgrounds and support on the road. This guide breaks down the best RV membership programs, who they fit best, and which ones are actually worth paying for.
Jun 10, 2026
RV Insurance Guide: What You Need to Know
Buying RV insurance can feel confusing, especially when coverage needs change based on how often and how far you travel. This rv insurance guide breaks down policy types, costs, comparison points, and practical steps to help you choose coverage with confidence.
Jun 10, 2026
RV Boondocking Checklist: Everything You Need
Planning to camp off-grid? This RV boondocking checklist covers the essential gear, setup steps, and smart upgrades you need for a safer, more comfortable dry camping trip. We also compare key boondocking gear categories to help you choose what matters most.
Jun 10, 2026
How to Install RV Solar Panels on a Budget
Adding solar to your RV does not have to drain your travel fund. This guide shows you how to install RV solar panels on a budget, choose affordable components, and avoid costly mistakes.
Jun 10, 2026
RV Full-Timer Essential Gear Checklist
Living on the road full-time requires more than a basic camping setup. This RV full-timer essential gear checklist covers the must-have equipment, smart upgrades, and practical buying tips to help you stay safe, organized, and comfortable year-round.
Jun 10, 2026
How to Maintain Your RV Water System
A clean, reliable RV water system protects your plumbing, improves water taste, and helps prevent costly repairs. This guide covers rv freshwater system maintenance step by step, plus the best tools and treatments to keep your setup road-ready.
Jun 10, 2026
How to Choose the Right RV Generator
Choosing the right generator for your RV comes down to power needs, fuel type, noise, and portability. This guide explains how to choose RV generator options confidently, with step-by-step advice, comparisons, and practical buying tips.
Jun 10, 2026
RV Solar Panel Installation: Complete DIY Guide
This rv solar panel installation guide walks you through planning, parts selection, wiring, mounting, and testing a DIY solar setup for your RV. You’ll also find a comparison table, product-type recommendations, and practical safety tips to help you avoid costly mistakes.
Jun 10, 2026
How to Level Your RV Without a Leveling System
If you’re wondering how to level an RV manually, you don’t need an expensive automatic leveling system to get it done. This guide walks you through the tools, steps, safety tips, and best leveling gear for a stable, comfortable campsite.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Motion Sensor Lights for Security
The best RV motion sensor lights add security, convenience, and peace of mind whether you're boondocking, parked at a campground, or storing your rig at home. In this buyer’s guide, Shop RV Gear compares top options, key features, installation tips, and the best picks for different RV setups.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Slide-Out Awnings and Toppers
Choosing the best RV slide out awning can protect your slide roof from leaves, water, and sun while reducing maintenance at the campsite. This Shop RV Gear buyer’s guide compares top options, explains what to look for, and helps you choose the right topper for your RV.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Dump Station Hoses and Connectors
Choosing the best RV sewer hose can make dump station trips faster, cleaner, and far less stressful. In this Shop RV Gear buyer’s guide, we compare top hoses and connectors, explain what to look for, and share practical setup and safety tips for RV owners.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Step Stools and Entry Steps
Choosing the best RV step stool can make every campsite arrival safer, easier, and more comfortable. In this buyer’s guide, Shop RV Gear compares top step stools and entry steps, explains key features, and helps you pick the right option for your RV setup.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV GPS Systems for Route Planning
Choosing the right RV GPS can make travel safer, easier, and far less stressful. This buyers guide compares the best RV GPS systems for route planning, highlights key features, and helps you pick the right unit for your rig and travel style.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Diesel Heaters for Winter Camping
A diesel heater can make cold-weather RV camping far more comfortable while using less battery power than many electric options. In this guide, Shop RV Gear breaks down the best RV diesel heater options, what to look for, and how to choose the right setup for your rig.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Gray Water Solutions and Portable Tanks
Managing sink and shower wastewater is one of the most overlooked parts of RV camping. This guide covers the best RV gray water solutions, including portable tanks, tote systems, sewer accessories, and practical setup tips to help you stay clean, legal, and stress-free at the campsite.
Jun 10, 2026
Best 12V RV Appliances for Off-Grid Living
Choosing the best 12V RV appliances can make off-grid camping more comfortable, efficient, and battery-friendly. This guide covers the top appliance categories, what to look for before buying, and which 12V upgrades deliver the best real-world value for RV owners.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Bike Racks for Motorhomes and Trailers
Choosing the best RV bike rack is different from buying a standard car rack. RVs create more bounce, longer overhang, and stricter mounting limitations, so this guide breaks down the safest and most practical options for motorhomes and trailers.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Battery Banks for Extended Boondocking
Choosing the best RV battery bank can make or break an extended boondocking trip. This guide compares top battery bank types, explains how to size your system, and helps you pick the right setup for your RV, budget, and power needs.
Jun 10, 2026
Best Portable RV Grills for Campsite Cooking
Choosing the best portable grill for RV camping means balancing size, fuel type, heat control, and easy cleanup. This guide compares top portable RV grills, breaks down pros and cons, and helps you pick the right model for your campsite setup.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Inverter: Top Picks for Reliable DC to AC Power on the Road
Choosing the best RV inverter can make the difference between smooth off-grid camping and constant power headaches. This guide compares top inverter types, explains what matters most for RV use, and helps you pick the right model for your battery bank, appliances, and travel style.
Jun 10, 2026
Best Portable Solar Chargers for RVs
Looking for the best portable solar charger for RV travel? This buyer’s guide compares top portable solar panel kits, explains what features matter most, and helps you choose the right setup for boondocking, backup charging, and everyday campsite use.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Outdoor Rugs for Your Campsite
A good RV patio mat keeps dirt out of your rig, adds comfort underfoot, and makes your campsite feel like home. In this buyer’s guide, Shop RV Gear compares the best RV outdoor rug options, explains what features matter most, and helps you choose the right size and material for your setup.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV TV Antennas for Off-Grid Viewing
Finding the best RV TV antenna can make off-grid camping far more comfortable, especially when streaming isn’t practical. This buyer’s guide compares top antenna types, highlights the features that matter most, and helps RV owners choose the right setup for reliable over-the-air channels.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Water Heaters for Hot Showers
A reliable RV water heater can make the difference between a quick rinse and a truly comfortable shower on the road. In this buyer’s guide, Shop RV Gear compares the best RV water heater options, explains key features, and helps you choose the right model for your rig and camping style.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Awnings for Sun Protection
A quality awning can turn a hot campsite into a comfortable outdoor living space. In this Shop RV Gear buyer’s guide, we compare the best RV awning options for sun protection, durability, ease of setup, and overall value.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Air Compressors for Tire Inflation
Choosing the best RV air compressor can make tire maintenance faster, safer, and far less stressful on the road. In this guide, Shop RV Gear compares top compressor types, key features, and the best options for RV owners who need reliable tire inflation.
Jun 10, 2026
Best Composting Toilets for RVs
Looking for the best RV composting toilet for boondocking, full-time travel, or odor-free camping? This Shop RV Gear buyer’s guide compares the top models, explains key features, and helps you choose the right toilet for your RV setup.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Space Heaters for Cold-Weather Camping
Choosing the best RV space heater can make winter camping safer, more comfortable, and more energy-efficient. This guide compares top heater types, explains what to look for, and helps you pick the right option for your RV and travel style.
Jun 10, 2026
Solar vs Generator Power for RV: Which Is Better?
Choosing between solar and generator power can shape how comfortable, quiet, and independent your RV trips feel. In this guide, we compare RV solar vs generator setups side by side, including cost, performance, maintenance, and the best use cases for each.
Jun 10, 2026
How to Winterize Your RV: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Winterizing your RV protects plumbing, tanks, and appliances from costly freeze damage during storage. In this step-by-step guide, we walk through exactly how to winterize your RV, what supplies you need, and the common mistakes to avoid.
Jun 10, 2026
RV Boondocking Power Guide: Everything You Need to Know
A dependable power system makes off-grid RV camping easier, quieter, and more comfortable. In this guide, we break down how to size, choose, and build an RV boondocking power system that matches your camping style and budget.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
A reliable tire pressure monitor is one of the smartest upgrades for any motorhome, travel trailer, or fifth wheel. We compared the best RV tire pressure monitoring systems for sensor accuracy, signal range, ease of setup, and long-haul reliability.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Mattresses for a Good Night Sleep
A good RV mattress can make the difference between waking up refreshed and waking up sore at the campsite. We tested the features that matter most—support, fit, weight, cooling, and value—to help you choose the best option for your rig.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Kitchen Appliances for Small Spaces
Choosing the best RV kitchen appliances is all about balancing size, power draw, storage, and real-world cooking performance. We tested what matters most in compact RV kitchens and rounded up the top appliances that save space without sacrificing convenience.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Tool Kits for On-the-Road Repairs
A reliable tool kit can turn a roadside hassle into a quick fix and get your trip back on track. We compared the best RV tool kit options for common RV repairs, storage needs, and real-world travel use.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Surge Protectors: Protect Your Investment
Bad campground power can damage air conditioners, converters, refrigerators, and other expensive RV electronics in seconds. In this guide, we break down the best RV surge protectors, explain what features matter, and help you choose the right model for your trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome.
Jun 10, 2026
Best Portable Generators for RV Camping
Choosing the right generator can make or break an RV trip, especially when you need reliable power off-grid. We compared the top portable generators for RV camping based on wattage, noise, fuel efficiency, portability, and real-world RV usability.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Solar Panels for Full-Time Living
Choosing the best RV solar panels for full-time living means balancing wattage, roof space, battery capacity, and real-world durability. In this guide, we compare top panel options, explain what matters most for full-timers, and recommend the right setup for different RV lifestyles.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Leveling Systems for Easy Setup
A reliable leveling system makes campsite setup faster, safer, and far less frustrating. In this buyer’s guide, we compare the best RV leveling systems for travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes, with practical advice on what to buy and why.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Water Filters for Safe Drinking Water
Clean water is one of the most important upgrades for any RV setup. In this guide, we break down the best RV water filters for different camping styles, budgets, and water-quality concerns so you can choose the right system with confidence.
Jun 10, 2026
RV Maintenance Checklist for Beginners: What to Inspect, Clean, and Service
A beginner-friendly RV maintenance checklist helps you catch small issues before they become expensive repairs. Use this guide to inspect your RV by trip, season, and system with clear steps and gear recommendations.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Backup Cameras for Safe Parking
The best RV backup cameras make parking, reversing, and lane changes safer by improving rear visibility on large rigs. This guide compares top wireless and wired options, what they do best, and how to choose the right system for your RV.
Jun 10, 2026
Best RV Accessories for Boondocking: Essential Gear for Off-Grid Camping
The best RV accessories for boondocking help you manage power, water, waste, connectivity, and safety when camping off-grid. This guide covers the most useful gear to buy first, what matters most, and how to choose accessories that match your RV and camping style.
Jun 6, 2026