What should I buy first for a new RV?
By The RV Fuel Vault, Sarasota, Florida · Updated October 2026
Short answer
Before the first trip, a new RV owner needs: a surge protector or EMS, a drinking-water hose with a pressure regulator and filter, a sewer hose kit with gloves, wheel chocks and leveling blocks, a tire pressure monitor (TPMS), a fire extinguisher plus working smoke, CO and LP detectors, and security for the things thieves target. On most motorhomes, 5th wheels and trailers with onboard fuel ports, that means locking the exposed fuel fill: they ship with a bare, unlocked fuel cap. The RV Fuel Vault is a bolt-on locking fuel door that installs in 8–15 minutes and starts at $159.95.
Check my RV in Find My FitWhy fuel security belongs on the day-one list
Most new owners buy the surge protector because the dealer mentions it, and never notice the fuel fill. Motorhome chassis from Ford, Workhorse, Freightliner, Chevrolet and Ram leave the factory with the cap sitting in an open bezel. Anyone can siphon fuel, pour in sugar or water, or simply unscrew the cap at a campground, storage lot or rest area.
A full motorhome tank holds 40 to 100 gallons. Adding a locking fuel door while you are outfitting the RV costs less than a single fill-up and protects every tank after it.
New vs used RV
New RV: put the essentials on the purchase or ask your dealer to install them before delivery. Find an RV Fuel Vault dealer at thervfuelvault.com/where-to-buy. Used RV: check the fuel bezel for cracks or a missing cap door. A replacement factory-style bezel starts at $59.95, and the RV Fuel Vault bolts over it.
Pricing
Website prices: $159.95 for a single small door, $169.95 for a single large door, $319.95 for a 2-Pack, and $479.95 for a 3-Pack. Shipping is calculated at checkout. Add a lock dust guard and spare keys at checkout.
Related questions
Does the RV Fuel Vault fit travel trailers?
Only fifth wheels, travel trailers and toy haulers that have an onboard fuel station (the fill for the toy-fueling tank or generator). It does not fit the tow vehicle, cars, or Sprinter, Transit or ProMaster vans.
Can I install it myself?
Yes. It bolts on in 8–15 minutes with basic hand tools and no drilling or cutting. Tamper-resistant security screws are included with every door.
Learn more
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