Practical Accessories For Your Vintage (Or New) Trailer

Woohoo, it's happened--you found your dream trailer, got her bought, and managed to bring her home. Congratulations!

Now for a few words about practical accessories, of the sort that may not be glamorous but that are useful just the same.

* A set of 4 screwjacks, available at any RV store or even in the RV section at WalMart. By placing one under each corner of your trailer's frame after you've unhooked and parked (you can see one peeking out next to the left of the black chair, in the photo above), you'll stabilize the trailer and reduce stress on the floor as you're inside and moving about.

* Also useful when camping on grass: a piece of scrap plank to place under each screwjack before you raise it. This makes a level platform for the jack to rest on, so it doesn't sink into the soft earth from the trailer's weight.

* A stepstool. This makes it SO much easier to get in and out of your trailer, and comes in handy for other uses as well. If you can find one with a lid, it'll make a handy place to store things, too.

* A tool kit and rubber gloves. You never know when you might need a hammer, screwdriver, wrench, and so forth, and the gloves protect your hands when you're dealing with such things as a blackwater tank (if you have one), or emptying a portable toilet. And speaking of which....

* A collapsible laundry hamper with handles and a wide bottom is a fantastic way to disguise and transport the bucket-type potty known as a 'luggable loo.' We found this one at a Ross store for under $10. We set it outside during the daytime, when not in use, with a basket or plant on top--and no one is the wiser.

* You'll also appreciate having a synthetic RV mat or patio rug, like the flag-themed one above. Not only will it reduce the amount of dirt tracked into your trailer, it also will help define your outdoor living space. These can be found at RV stores or online. They weigh very little and are easy to sweep or hose off.

* Also look for a set of RV wheel chocks. These keep your trailer from rolling backward or forward after you've unhooked and gotten it level. Firewood chunks will do the job in a pinch, but the products made for this purpose are lighter (and more attractive).

* Among other items you'll find useful: a level; medium to heavy-duty extension cord; hose with shut-off valve; folding rake; bucket; tarp; bungee cords; block for your trailer jack to sit on.

Naturally, our experienced Girl Campers will have other practical accessories to add to this list, and it'd be great if you'd do so. There are more Newgals joining the ranks all the time, and they will love you for it!