NuCamper’s Essential Equipment List
Teardrop Camper Essential Equipment
When it comes to teardrop RV camping, storage space is limited and therefore at a premium. Depending on your destination, your gear kit may change slightly. However, after 5 years ownership of a NuCamp TAB 320 S, I have found the below list to be essential equipment for any NuCamp RV Adventure! Especially when boondocking in primitive locations. I’ve chosen these items because of their usefulness while camping in a small RV. Size and the ability to stow is also an important factor to consider.
Champion 2500 Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
I use the Champion 2500 Dual Fuel Inverter Generator to power my NuCamp TAB 320 S RV when boondocking. This little generator is small, easy to store, transport and carry. It runs on gasoline and propane. However, because propane is cleaner than gasoline, I use LP 100% of the time. (I would only run gas if it was an emergency situation.) This ensures my generator will be easy to start and run clean for years to come. Here’s a video of me starting this generator. Gasoline is known to gum up the engine and cause unwanted issues. This generator will run every appliance in my NuCamp TAB 320 S. It has plenty of power to run the AC on high. A 20lb tank of propane, will last all weekend. Especially if you are away from camp enjoying the outdoors during the day, and come back in the evenings to relax, cook and sleep. It is possible to parallel two units together to double to output. But this little generator runs like a top on propane and puts out plenty of power to run most NuCamp RVs.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/200W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator
The Jackery Explorer 240 is a 240WH Lithium Battery and Solar Generator. Paired with the Jackery SolarSaga 60W Solar Panels, this unit is a solid power alternative for the NuCamp RVs. While it doesn’t pack enough power to run your AC, it can run pretty much everything else in your NuCamp Camper. I specifically use this as a backup power source for charging devices; phones, cameras, laptops, lights, WiFi and much more…etc. This is effectively an essential power supply that can be powered by the sun. Simply set this unit up outside of your camper, go for a paddle or a hike, come back to all of the power you’ll need to “recharge.” It’s also nice to have a secondary power source from the Champion Generator 2500 Dual Fuel Inverter. Maybe you don’t want the noise of the generator. Or maybe you just want to charge some devices without using fuel. Or maybe you’re completely out of fuel… this little power station is a great stash in your NuCamp RV for when there is no shore power available, and there’s no need to set up the generator.
Jackery SolarSaga 60W Solar Panel for Explorer 160/240/500 as Portable Solar Generator, Portable Foldable Solar Charger for Summer Camping Van RV
The SolarSaga 60W is made for the Jackery Explorer 240 Lithium Battery. It’s a flawless “plug and play” solar panel option. This unit folds up, and is easy to store in the NuCamp RV. It’s so light and small, that it takes up very little space at all. This is considered a value option, as you can spend thousands of dollars on a solar generator and solar panels. Both the battery and solar panels will run you just under $400. These panels come with a long cord that allows you to set it up on top of your NuCamp, run your battery cable inside your camper to your battery. This is a great option for when you leave your RV during the day and come back in the evenings. It’s nice to come back to a freshly charged battery for small devices like phones, lights, radios and more. This kit is a must have for boondocking in a small RV.
Classic Accessories Over Drive PermaPRO R-Pod Cover, Fits up to 18FT 8" long
The Classic Accessories Over Drive PermaPRO RV Cover fits the 2018 NuCamp TAB 320 S. It’s a great cover for hibernating through the winter months or for covering up in windy and dusty conditions. This cover works great with a stuff sack and fits in under seat storage in the NuCamp TAB 320 S. We have had ours for about 3 years. The zippers are still good and the material is still in great condition.
Green Elephant Camping Shower Tent | Pop Up Privacy Tent for your Portable Toilet & Portable Shower
Pro Tip: The NuCamp TAB 320 S is an ideal option to set up an “outdoor bathroom and shower” outside of your RV. The TAB 320 has a hot and cold water panel on the port side of the RV. The Green Elephant Camping Shower Tent fits nicely in this location. It also has easy access ports to the water panel on your RV. So while you’re in the tent, you can access the hot and cold water faucet. While my 320 S has a shower inside the RV, I don’t always want to use it. First, I’m kind of a big fella at 6’2″, 230lbs. So while I can get into the shower in the TAB, it’s a tight fit. We joke that it’s not a “shower” for me, it’s a “sit and scrub.” Well, with this Green Elephant Shower Tent, I have a private and roomy location to get clean after a few days of adventuring. Also, you may be so dirty that you don’t want to track sand or dirt into the tanks of your RV. This shower tent is also a great solution. Use it at a crowded RV park, or at a music festival or parking lot, and have all the privacy and space that you need for a rejuvenating shower and change of cloths. Sets up and breaks down in minutes, the Green Elephant Shower Tent is awesome!
LEATHERMAN, Bond Multitool, Stainless Steel Everyday Tool with Nylon Sheath
The Leatherman Bond is Leatherman’s basic multi-tool. There are better and more expensive options out there should you want to go that route. I have a Leatherman Surge that is loaded with features, that I carry as well. But I list the Bond because it is the most affordable and basic latherman you can get that still has all of the tools you’re going to need camping in a NuCamp RV. In addition, the Bond is ideal for pocket carry as it’s one of the lighter full size Leatherman Multi-tools available. Did you know, this Leatherman Tool can handle 99% of the tool needs you may have while boondocking? From fixing equipment to cutting, removing screws and bolts, this super tool is an entire tool box in a small package. So there’s no need to bring a large tool box, just bring a Leatherman.
Skyroam Solis X Smartspot | 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot and Power Bank | Global Coverage
The SkyRoam Solis X Smartspot, is how I stay connected to the world wide web on the go and at camp. This devices gives you a mobile WiFi hot spot at speeds of 4G. The Solis X is great for communications, streaming video or music, or uploading content to social media. This device works will cell phone towers. It does not connect to satellites. So it may, or may not get any connectivity if cell towers are limited in the area. But unlike your cell phone, this device works with ALL TOWERS as data is purchased as a 3rd party provider through an app on your Smart Phone. It “piggybacks” on existing WiFi routers and cell towers in the area. Instead of relying heavily on my phone when in camp and blowing through my data. I can “pay as I go” with this device. So in the winter months when I’m not traveling, I don’t use this much. But in the warmer months when I’m on the go, I use this as an onboard WiFi in my car, boat and camper. This devices pairs nicely with an Amazon Fire Stick for streaming entertainment in camp or on the go. The only problem is, they are hard to get. This device is so popular that major retailers are often sold out. They simply can’t make them fast enough for the demand. That right there, should tell you something about this powerful little WiFi Hotspot.
Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote (includes TV controls), HD streaming device
The Fire TV Stick is a great option for on the go entertainment. Sometimes is great to have the comforts of home on a rainy day. Espeically if you spend a great deal of time in your NuCamp RV. I use this device with the SkyRoam Solis X 4G Hotspot in my NuCamp TAB 320 S. You’ll need the adapter (listed below) to fit the Jensen TV in your NuCamp. Which only has one hdmi port that is occupied by the plug for the Jensen entertainment system equipped in your RV. But with the Amazon Fire Stick, you can stream all of your favorite shows and movies at camp. So if by chance you get a few rainy days while RVing, or if you’d like to watch the next episode of Game of Thrones the day it’s released while RVing, the Amazon Fire Stick is an affordable and easy to use option.
RadioShack HDMI-to-Composite Converter
As mentioned above, the Jensen Entertainment System plug is already going to occupy the hdmi port on your Jensen TV in your NuCamp RV. In stead of unplugging it, to plug in the Amazon Fire Stick, I just use this Radio Shack HDMI to Composite Converter to add a second HDMI port to your flat screen tv. This allows you to swap in between TV settings and not have to unplug devices to connect other devices. Run a gaming console on this, or any media streaming device. The Solis X covers the WiFi connectivity. With this kit, you’ll be able to get any entertainment you want, or stay up to date on news, sports and weather channels. Even if you’re in a crowded or remote campsite.
Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System
Having the ability to boil water is a gamechanger for campers of all kinds. Boiling water sterilizes it, making it safe to drink. Boiling water can cook foods and make coffee and tea. And friends, let me tell you that coffee is a huge part of our well being. We love coffee! There’s nothing better than a hot cup of coffee on a brisk morning at camp. The JetBoil Flash is the way to go when it comes to quickly and efficiently boil water. Popular with outdoor lovers of all kinds, the JetBoil Flash has a permanent place in my RV Camping Essentials List. This is an essential tool in any wilderness camping scenario, not just RVing. Pair this with a French Press and you’ll have the best coffee at camp.
Original FIREDISC 36" Tall Outdoor Portable Propane Cooker | Red
This is a campsite favorite; the Fire Disc 36″ Outdoor Propane Cooker is ideal for cooking for a crowd. If you have 4 or more members in your camp, this is a crowd please. It’s essentially a big wok that can be used to cook anything from meats, pastas, burgers, breakfast, stews…and it’ll fry anything. Fish Frys will be a popular menu request. And the best part is, you don’t have to cook INSIDE your camper. Cooking on your NuCamp range is great and all, but it’s a small surface area and best suited for small meals. Also, depending on what you cook, you can get lingering smells in your camper if you cook inside. For example, never cook fish in your TAB 320 S… trust me. Trying to cook for larger groups poses a problem and the Fire Disc is the solution. This cooker works with the same propane tank you’d use to run your Champion Dual Fuel Generator. The cooker can also collapse and packs up into a small space. Making it an ideal tiny camper cooking option.
Camco 39000 Rhino Heavy Duty 15 Gallon Portable RV Waste Holding Tank with Hose and Accessories - Durable Leak Free and Odorless RV Tote Tank
If you spend enough time at camp, you’re going to need a way to safely dispose of your waste. The Camco 3900 Rhino Heavy Duty 15 Gallon Portable Holding Tank is the way to go. This tank collapses and can be stored outside of your RV. Most strap this unit to the frame of the trail (empty of course) and call it a day. It’s easy to transport from your campsite to the dumping station. It’s also easy for one person to empty by them selves and not make a mess. This is a must have for any extended travelers.
Conntek 14101 15A to TT-30R RV Plug Adapter , Black
Crashing at a friends house as you travel through? Getting your power through an extension cord? You’re going to notice real quick that many locations don’t have a 15A hookups that you would find in a RV Campsite. So to get your RV powered, you’re going to need a RV Plug Adapter. When docked at home, I keep my NuCamp TAB hooked up and fully powered using this adapter. It’s a great option to have if you are creative with your chosen camping locations.
Nulksen Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor
This rechargeable air compressor is a must have for the NuCamp RV Owner. Why? Well, aside for the obvious tire inflation purposes on the trailer tires or bike tires, this little device can easily clear your plumbing lines for winterization or in the event of a hose or pump repair. And if you are at a campsite somewhere or boondocking, a big issue can be resolved relatively easy and in minutes. The Nulksen Tire Inflator is small and compact. Making it an easy stow in your NuCamp RV. It’s rechargeable, and can charge other devices with it’s lithium battery. This is a nice feature since power can be at a premium when boondocking.
350W Space heater, Wall Outlet Electric Space Heater
This 350W low wattage space heater is great for a NuCamp TAG or TAB. Perfect for a small space, won’t overload RV fuses, and can be set to maintain a specific temperature for long time periods. Set it on 73 degrees like you would a home and let it roll. This unit will turn on and off as needed to maintain a specified temperature. I’ve often used this heater as Alde warms up. Or as a backup incase I don’t want to use the Alde for one reason or another. This heater is affordable, small, and perfect for teardrop camper use. On my TAB 320 S, it fits great on the main outlet by the Fuse Box.
So that is my NuCamper’s Essential Equipment List. No matter where I go, I’ve got this kit neatly packed away in my 2018 NuCamp TAB 320 S. I’ve found that these items are essential to living comfortably while at camp, staying powered, charged, fed, connected and happy. Thanks for checking out this article. If you’re a NuCamp Owner, join the NuCamp Owners Group on Facebook!
Do you have any questions or comments or additions? Leave a comment below and lets discuss it!
