If you are considering living off grid full time in your RV, we have compiled a great list of things that we could not live without. We live at least 75% off-grid so these items are really important for us to maintain a great quality of life. These are the brands that we chose and I will leave links to the same (or similar) products so you can do your own research and find what is best for you.
Large Septic Tote with Wheels
Camco Rhino Heavy Duty 36-Gallon Portable Waste Holding Hose and Accessories-Durable Leak Free and Odorless RV Tote Tank. This tank is fantastic. It can clip onto your back ladder for travelling. It hooks onto a quad for easy transport to a sani dump. It can get pretty heavy when full but overall, we love the versatility
Powerful Surge Protector
A surge protector is absolutely vital while travelling in your RV. You never know what type of power you are hooking into and you need to be sure to save your vehicle from any type of current that may be a little too much. When we hook up to the generator, it also protects the RV’s electrical system in case we run the generator out of fuel. The delay system on the protector tells you when it is safe to start using your power. We love ours and use it daily.
Solar Panels and Batteries
We currently run 2- 100 watt solar panels from the roof of our RV with a series of 4 golf cart batteries to keep us with power no matter where we are. On order are 2- 450 watt portable panels and these are going to be game changers. We love solar. It is free once you get them installed and moving the portables around will be easy with a built in mount system. I can run the computer, the tv, charge the phones and even use electrical to heat the water if I have to. The batteries hold and charge best when maintained often.
Water Filtration System
From creek water to yucky chlorinated city water, this is the most inexpensive and convenient way to have clean water without using any power. Big units that run on power are a great idea but when you can’t use them, they are useless. Keep lots of filters handy for fresh water everyday.
Backup Gas Generator
A generator will save your life. It has so many uses and the quietness of newer models makes them great if you live around others. With tons of outlets and usb charge ports, they are absolutely vital for off- grid living. Keep some full gas cans handy in case you run out of fuel. The higher the horsepower the better. So, we recommend going big right off the top. You will never have a problem with low HP when you buy the better unit.
You cannot live comfortably in all 4 seasons without these 5 items. We have tried and it is not fun.
After almost 4 years living on and off-grid in our RV ( in some of the most rugged BC climates and terrain) we realized the importance of having certain items easily accessible. What I have here is a list of the best and most valuable products to have for a comfortable lifestyle for months at a time.
We have done the research so you won’t have to. These are the items we have chosen but there are many sizes and options to fit everyone’s budget and size of living space. Prices will all vary and it is a great idea to check out all of the products available in your area.
What? There’s more? Yes! Here are another 5 things that we just had to have to make our lives so much better while we travel from location to location.
We currently live 5 km up on a logging block and the first item is vital for me to continue doing my online work.
Starlink-it is second to none on the market
Initially, the cost can hurt your feelings but in the end, this is the only way to go. We have never had a problem with our dish. I set it up, turn on the power and we are connected to the world. Worth every penny.

Gas cans (keep them full)
Always keep fuel handy. We need it for the chainsaw, the generator, the quad and even some diesel for the truck. You don’t want to run out on a mountain road. Safety first

Larger propane tanks (30-100 lbs)
We run our fridge, stove and hot water tank on propane. If you don’t have it, you don’t get those little luxuries. I like to keep a block of ice handy in the freezer in case we do run out of propane. It can protect your meat while you run to the station for a refill.

Assorted flashlights and headlamps with tons of batteries (I buy bulk when they go on sale)
I learned in the beginning of this venture that light is the most important thing while living off grid. If you cannot see while working under the unit or if the power is low and you just want to read, a headlamp is awesome. I buy so many batteries, if the apocalypse comes, I will have some barter material. All sizes are a great idea to keep in a bucket.

5 gallon pails with lids that lock (fantastic for transporting fresh water).
The more, the better. When filling your water tank is a necessity and maybe you only have a creek or a stream, these 5 gallon pails are amazing. They have a handle. They don’t get too heavy. I couldn’t do this without lots of buckets.

But wait! I had to add this 1 more thing as winter is just around the corner.
We are so excited to be ordering our wood stove this month. It will be another game changer. Not only will it heat our small space but it will provide moisture from a kettle and have a place for cooking on top. I am thrilled to be adding this addition to our little home.

A wood burning stove with room to cook on top
This little item will make our full-time (4 seasons) living completely enjoyable.
This year we are installing a wood stove into the unit. Permanent heating and cooking without using propane or power is the way to go. (make sure to grab an ax and chainsaw for your wood, if you live in a cold climate for a few months). We will be installing ourselves with the help of some fantastic YouTubers. Just follow the directions to make sure everything is up to code and safe.
Well, there you have it! If you are serious about off-grid living for 4 seasons in your RV or camper, you should definitely take a look at some or all of these products on the market.
We love to buy new and used so do not overlook any of these items on Kijiji or the FB marketplace. Just make sure things are up to code in your area. Never buy outdated propane tanks or poorly made wood stoves online. Go and see them for yourselves. When buying used solar panels, make sure they actually collect rays and have the proper connectors. Batteries have a lifespan so be sure yours are refreshed and not dangerous in any way.
I hope you get some use from this blog and it helps you make a decision to go out and live freely off the land. It was the best thing that Dave and I decided to do 4 years ago. The challenges are many but the regrets are none.
Enjoy off-grid living and have a wonderful day.
Shannon
Disclaimer
These are Shannon’s opinions. If you have any comments, feel free to contact me. I use affiliate advertisers to supplement my income. Thanks for looking at some of the great people I work with. When you take a look, I may get paid but it doesn’t affect your purchases. Thanks again. Shannon