Hitting the open road in your motorhome is one of the best ways to explore Australia, but a few smart gadgets can make life on the move even more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable. From compact cooking appliances to clever water-saving tools and tech that keeps you connected off-grid, the right gear can make a huge difference to your day-to-day setup. Whether you’re a full-time traveller or a weekend wanderer, here are ten must-have gadgets that will elevate your motorhome experience and help you make the most of every kilometre.
Air Fryer
As with all RV appliances, you want to be conscious of power draw. Understanding your electrical setup is important before you go buying anything, so note down your inverter’s limits and match that up with the appliances you’re considering.
Just as important as power, is weight, size and shape. Space is valuable in your motorhome, so you need to make sure you can accommodate another tabletop appliance. Air fryers come in many sizes and shapes. Some have one drawer, while others will have drop-down oven-style doors. Always consider where you will store it and ensure it will fit before buying.
air fryer with chicken
Our picks:
The Ninja XXXL FlexDrawer
This air fryer is one of the bigger models but manages to use less power than many other models. The tray has 10.4L to work with, meaning you can cook large meals like lasagna, or split the tray into two with their divider insert for managing a mix of ingredients. With air fry, bake, roast, reheat, and dehydrate cooking options, this air fryer is a versatile option that is a great addition to any RV.
COSORI Smart Air Fryer Oven 5.5L
While it has around half the space to work with when compared to our previous pick, this air fryer has more than enough space to cook meals for a family. Its power rating of 1700W makes it a decent contender for your countertop and factoring in its small profile, it becomes a good all-around option for your RV.
Tefal Easy Fry Max 5L Air Fryer
This 5L air fryer is a great choice considering its weight of only 3.65kg and power rating sitting at 1500W. Big enough to still cook whole meals, but small enough to fit in a drawer or cupboard, this air fryer will suit most travelers who need easy meal options.
Slow Cooker
While the air fryer is king of the quick meal, the slow cooker is the king of the low and slow. Forget crispy chips; think melt-in-your-mouth meat and soothing soups (for when your homesick). They’re another countertop appliance that you’ll need to account for power ratings and size, but they make a great addition to any mobile kitchen.
Our picks:
Philips Multicooker
No, this one isn’t strictly a slow cooker, but a bit if versatility never hurt no one. This All-in-one multicooker runs on a conservative 1300W (when compared to the air fryers) and can keep food warm and ready for up to 12 hours, meaning you can set and forget as you explore the new campsite. The 6L bowl means it’s the perfect size for pulled meats, soups and stews to feed you for a few days.
Kmart Slow Cookers
Kmart: the go-to for budget devices, but seriously, who does it better? If you head to their website, they have three different size slow cookers (3L, 5L and 6.5L) and all have 5 star ratings with over 500 reviews. It’s hard to ignore. They clearly do a job and starting at $24, the worst case is a replacement, though this can be hard on the road. If it’s not something you will use all the time or you’re never far from a Kmart, this might be the one for you.
Ice Maker
If you’ve spent a summer in your motorhome, you’ll know how quickly the ice tray runs out. A countertop ice maker can be a game-changer on the road — especially when you’re off-grid or in hot climates. Just like with any RV appliance, keep an eye on the wattage and size before you buy. Some ice makers can be bulky and power-hungry, so opt for one that’s compact, efficient, and easy to store when not in use.
domestic ice maker full of ice with a scoop
Our picks:
Devanti Portable Ice Maker
This lightweight, efficient model produces up to 12kg of ice per day, with a cycle time of just 6–8 minutes. Its 120W power rating makes it one of the more energy-conscious options on the market, perfect for topping up drinks or cooling your esky after a big grocery shop.
Breville The Smart Scoop Ice Cream & Ice Maker
If you’re looking to go one step further, this Breville unit not only makes ice but can also churn ice cream or frozen desserts. It’s heavier and larger than most dedicated ice makers, but for those who love dessert on the go, it’s a luxury addition to your RV setup.
Coffee Machine
For many travellers, coffee is non-negotiable. Whether you’re waking up to a mountain view or setting off early for a long drive, having your own coffee machine on board is one of the simplest pleasures. With limited space, look for a unit that can double as a kettle to save room and power usage.
coffee machine with coffee in a kitchen
Our picks:
Nespresso Vertuo Next
Compact, efficient, and tidy, this model delivers barista-quality coffee without the fuss. At 1260W, it’s relatively modest on power and quick to heat, making it ideal for mornings on the go. Plus, you can simply run hot water through the system if you need a quick cup of tea or instant meal.
Wacaco Nanopresso
If you want to ditch the power draw altogether, this hand-powered espresso maker is a brilliant option. No electricity required — just add hot water (from your stovetop or camp kettle), pump, and enjoy. It’s the ultimate minimal-space, minimal-power coffee fix.
Kindle or E-Reader
Books are heavy, and shelf space is a luxury in most motorhomes. That’s where an e-reader steps in. A Kindle or other e-reader lets you carry thousands of books without the bulk, and the battery life can last weeks — perfect for long, unplugged stays.
e-reader being held with text on screen
Our picks:
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite
Lightweight, waterproof, and backlit for night reading, the Paperwhite is a favourite among travellers. It charges via USB-C and has weeks of battery life, so you can take your library anywhere without worrying about power.
Kobo Libra 2
If you prefer an alternative to Amazon’s ecosystem, the Kobo Libra 2 offers similar features with a larger 7-inch screen and physical page-turn buttons — a bonus when you’re reading outdoors or on bumpy roads.
UHF Radio
A must-have for anyone venturing off the beaten path, a UHF radio keeps you connected with other travellers and can be a literal lifesaver in remote areas with no phone reception. You’ll be able to communicate with nearby vehicles, request help, or tune into road condition updates.
Our picks:
Oricom DTX4200X Dual Receive UHF
Built tough for Aussie conditions, this radio lets you monitor two channels at once — handy for convoy travel. It’s reliable, easy to mount, and offers clear audio even in rough terrain.
GME TX6160TP Twin Pack Handhelds
If you prefer portability, these rechargeable handheld units are powerful enough for convoy communication and campsite coordination, with up to 30 hours of battery life.
Always-On Reverse Camera
Visibility can be tricky in a motorhome, especially when navigating tight spots or towing. An always-on reverse camera gives you a live feed from behind your vehicle, acting like a digital rearview mirror.
Our picks:
Wireless RV Backup Camera System by Furrion Vision S
This system provides a crystal-clear view and connects wirelessly to a monitor inside your cab. The always-on mode means you can keep an eye on traffic, trailers, or even your bikes on the rack while driving.
Garmin BC™ 50 Wireless Camera
Compact and designed for easy integration with Garmin GPS units, this camera provides wide-angle coverage and night vision — ideal for reversing in low light or tight campgrounds.
Starlink
For remote travellers, Starlink has changed the game. Offering fast satellite internet across much of Australia, it’s become the go-to option for staying connected when mobile data drops out. Perfect for working remotely, streaming, or staying in touch on long trips.
portable starlink unit on grass
Our picks:
Starlink Roam (Portable Kit)
Simple setup, plug-and-play operation, and speeds rivaling home broadband make this the pick for RV owners. Just remember — it does draw power (around 50–75W), so factor that into your energy plan.
Water-Conserving Faucet Aerators and Shower Head
Every litre of water counts when you’re living on the road. Installing low-flow aerators and shower heads helps stretch your water supply without sacrificing comfort.
Our picks:
Niagara Conservation Earth Massage 1.5GPM Shower Head
Lightweight, affordable, and surprisingly powerful, this model offers a satisfying shower while reducing water use by up to 40%.
0.5GPM Faucet Aerators
These are small, easy-to-install fittings that reduce flow without affecting performance. Look for models with swivel or spray options for added flexibility in your RV sink.
Energy Management System
Your RV’s electrical system is one of its most expensive components — and one of the easiest to damage. Power surges, poor wiring at caravan parks, or even lightning strikes can cause serious issues. An energy management system protects your entire setup, giving you peace of mind every time you plug in.
Our picks:
Enerdrive EMS-RC Surge Protector
A robust, Australian-standard system that monitors voltage and current in real time. It automatically disconnects if it detects a problem and reconnects once conditions are safe.
Camco PowerDefender 50 Amp Surge Protector
This heavy-duty option offers high-level protection from surges and miswired power sources, with LED diagnostics to show you exactly what’s happening before you plug in.
rv on a cliff with solar setup
Small Gadgets, Big Difference
Life on the road is all about balance — between comfort and practicality, freedom and preparation. The right gadgets can make your motorhome feel more like home, without weighing you down or draining your battery bank. From cooking gear that saves time and energy, to tech that keeps you safe and connected wherever you park, these ten essentials prove that a few smart upgrades can completely transform your travel experience. Whether you’re heading off-grid for weeks or just escaping for the weekend, a little planning (and a few clever gadgets) go a long way toward making every journey smoother, smarter and more enjoyable.
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