We have a lot of people ask us about what accessories we have for our Airstream. Here is a comprehensive list of what accessories we use. For a list of our upgrades, check out our Upgrades Page.
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Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch - BXW0550Every Airstream should be towed with a proper weight distribution system. The tongue weight of the 2016 Airstream International 19CB was a perfect match for the 550 lb spring bars. What we like about the Blue Ox weight distribution hitch is the ability to backup without removing the weight distribution bars, the ease of installation, and the quiet operation. Our only complaint is the chain system is that it requires the use of the Blue Ox wrench and the bars hang low which could cause clearance issues.
Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch - BXW0750We recently took delivery of a 2021 Airstream Flying Cloud 25RB and the Blue Ox BXW0750 wass the perfect match with the 750 lb spring bars.
Equal-i-zer Sway Control HitchWe have also considered the Equal-i-zer Sway Control Hitch as it doesn't use chains and a wrench is not required to hookup. The few downsides we've read include the difficulty in setting up the washers, not being able to backup at sharp angles without removing the weight distribution bars and the bars are noisy while towing.
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Tekonsha P3 Brake ControllerA brake controller is an absolute must! Many people don't realize that a brake controller is required in order to operate the brakes on the trailer. I've seen many vehicle's become the victims of physics when emergency braking applications are made without trailer brakes. Tekonsha is the most popular brake controller I've seen and read about on the market. We chose the P3 since it allows the most fine tuning adjustments being made. Some tow vehicle's have brake controllers built in but this is usually found on the 3/4 and 1 ton domestic pickup trucks. In addition to a brake controller, make sure you have a 7 way round trailer plug socket.
Autowbrake Brake ControllerIf you don't want to install a hard-wired brake controller in your tow vehicle, the Autowbrake is a great option. I personally don't like the RF or Bluetooth brake controllers because I prefer a hard-wired connection. With a wireless connection, there is a greater chance of having a disconnect and brakes are a critical component when towing. This Autowbrake gets hard wired into the trailer. It comes with an RF remote to setup the brake controller remotely from your tow vehicle and is also equipped with an emergency braking feature within the remote.
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Extreme Pressure Molybdenum disulfide (Moly) GreaseAfter purchasing our Blue Ox Weight Distribution Hitch, we read through the manual and found out the manufacturer recommends greasing both zerks fittings on the fronts of the bar pivot and to grease the hitch ball with molybdenum grease.
After some reading I found out that Molybdenum disulfide (Moly) is a solid additive most commonly used in extreme pressure applications. Moly grease is recommended in RV applications because It is water resistant, has excellent oxidation and mechanical stability, and protects against corrosion. According to Mobil, "Molybdenum disulfide offers particular advantages under boundary lubrication conditions, especially where sliding or vibration action pushes the grease away from the contacting surfaces. It provides a measure of protection against fretting and is therefore recommended where this phenomenon is a problem, as in splined shafts, pivot pins, fifth wheels, and other parts subjected to oscillating or sliding motion. Also, where relubrication is infrequent, molybdenum disulfide provides extended lubrication protection." Moly grease should not be confused with multi-purpose grease, lithium grease or high-temp wheel bearing grease. |
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Black Rubber Trailer Hitch Ball CoverWe use this ball hitch cover to protect our hitch ball when not in use. After rubbing our leg up against it and getting grease all over our pants, we realized we needed to cover up the ball. We also wanted to prevent dirt from accumulating on the hitch ball which could cause excessive wear to our coupler.
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Zero G RV Water HoseThe standard white water hose which is included with most RV's is hard and difficult to wrap up. We made the upgrade to this Zero G RV hose which is drinking water safe, lead safe and manufactured with FDA sanctioned materials. The woven fiber jacket is puncture resistant and flexible making it easy to store. We store ours in a small vinyl carry case. The hose has been long enough for us at all the campgrounds we've been to so far. The only downside is, if you push the end in to the onboard water tank filler, gravity pulls down and the hose can get kinked slowing the rate of water flowing into the onboard fresh water tanks.
HoseCoil RV Water HoseWhen we purchased our 2021 Airstream Flying Cloud 25RB, the Zero G was sold out everywhere. We ordered this HoseCoil RV Water Hose. The HoseCoil is a good alternative because it still uses metal fittings. We like the fact that it coils up making it easy to store. The only downside is the 25' long hose, only has about 17' 6" of usable length due to the coils. In comparison, this hose does not have any kinking issues.
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Camco RV Water FilterWe use this water filter whenever we fill up our onboard water tanks or when we're hooked up to a water source at a campground or RV park. This 20 micron water filter removes chlorine, odors, sediment and reduces bad tastes. This water filter includes a flexible hose protector to reduce strain on connections and reduce kinking. These filters last an average of 3 months. Be sure to keep the flexible hose protector when ordering refills as the 2 pack does NOT include the flexible hose protector.
We tried using a 1-micron water filter setup but found the water flow was very slow. It slowed the water down so much that it rendered our shower practically useless. Needless to say, we've gone back to the Camco RV Water Filter and have been pleased. |
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Camco Water BanditThis little device allows you to connect your water hose to a water spigot without threads.
Believe it or not, some campgrounds we have been to have water fill up stations for potable water (safe for drinking) that don't have threads on the spigot! The first time we came across this we literally thought it was a joke until we encountered it a second time! When you arrive at a campground late at on a cold winter night, it's not an enjoyable experience to be wrapping your hands around your water hose and spigot while your hands become numb from the frigid temperatures. |
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RV Water Pressure RegulatorMost campgrounds we've traveled to across the United States don't have monitored water pressure. If the water pressure is too low, it's mostly an annoyance but nothing serious to be concerned about. However, if the water pressure is too high, it could damage your brand new RV causing leaks and water damage.
High water pressure can be avoided by using this water pressure regulator. We always hook this up first, then our Camco RV Water Filter and finally our Zero G RV Water Hose to our Airstream. We like this specific water pressure regulator because it's adjustable. Most RV's can safely handle 40-60 PSI, we keep ours set to 45 PSI. |
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Progressive Industries RV Surge Protector EMS-PT30XA surge protector is an absolute must in order to protect all your expensive electronic equipment in your RV. We like the Progressive Industries surge protectors because they are designed for outdoor use and have a lifetime warranty.
This particular model also has EMS (Electrical Management System) which protects from voltage fluctuations, power surges and incorrectly wired shore power (campgrounds). If your Airstream uses a 30 amp service (single AC unit) you can use the Progressive Industries EMS-PT30X version. December 30, 2017, we stayed at Del Mar Beach Campground and they experienced a power surge which wiped out the electronics on most of the trailers at the campground and caused most of their trips to end early. Fortunately a few of us were able to stay and enjoy New Years Eve and continue our trip boondocking. Progressive Industries RV Surge Protector EMS-PT50XIf your Airstream uses a 50 amp service (dual AC units) you can use the Progressive Industries EMS-PT50X version.
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Hughes Ground Neutral PlugWe noticed that when we tried using our surge protector with our inverter generator, it wouldn't work. After some research, we found out that inverted generators use a floating (unbonded) neutral which means a neutral/ground bonding plug is required. Most professionals would agree that an advanced (Total Electrical Protection or EMS) surge protector is not needed with an inverted generator but recently a user of a Honda EU3000is inverter generator went over-voltage. It went up to 195 volts (instead of 120 volts) and this was confirmed by Honda.
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Tri-Lynx Levelers (Pack of 10)These leveling blocks are a must have! These are perfect to use under your trailer tires to help level out the trailer side to side. We also use these under the front tongue jack to help get extra extension when connecting/disconnecting our Airstream from our tow vehicle.
We chose these over the Camco ones since they had higher reviews and we have been comletely satisfied! They even come in a nice carry bag which keeps dirt out of our storage compartment. |
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Beech Lane Camper LevelerAfter discovering these curved levelers, it made leveling our dual axle 2021 Airstream Flying Cloud 25RB so much quicker and easier. We just place the curved levelers under the front (or back) of each tire on the side of the Airstream and we're able to raise one side up to 4 inches. You then place the chocks in place so they act as a leveler and chock at the same time. We still use the Tri-Lynx levelers for our front tongue jack and stabilizer feet.
We ordered the 1-pack version for our 2016 Airstream International 19CB single axle. We opted to NOT use the Andersen Hitches version because the owner was caught vandalizing an iconic natural arch new Moab, Utah: https://www.rvtravel.com/anderson843/ |
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Solid Rubber Heavy Duty Wheel ChocksWe tried using the plastic wheel chocks but they would not stay in place, would slide around with strong gusts of wind and they eventually became brittle and shattered. We stepped it up to these rubber wheel chocks as they were heavy, very durable and didn't slide around. We only wish we would have purchased these before we bought the plastic ones.
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X-Chock Wheel StabilizerWe've seen these X-Chocks being used by many dual axle trailers at campgrounds. We decided to use these in addition to the rubber wheel chocks because you can never be too safe. Not only are these very easy to use but it made the inside of our Airstream very stable. We never had to use our stabilizer feet while using these X-Chocks. We have been very pleased with these.
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Fan-Tastic Vent Ultra Breeze Vent CoverThe factory Fan-Tastic Vents that came on our Airstream include rain sensors. The issue we found with rain sensors is when camping near the ocean, moisture would build up and cause the dome to automatically close. If you forget to close the dome before towing, that could cause damage to the dome on the Fan-Tastic Vent.
We installed these vent covers which allowed us to operate our Fan-Tastic Vents in light rain and near the ocean without them automatically closing on us. We noticed dealers usually sell the Maxx Air but I noticed the shape of the vent doesn't match the Fan-Tastic Vent shape and prevents the dome from opening fully. I wanted to prevent added stress to the electric motors and purchase the vent covers designed by the same company who makes the vents. |
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Camco 20' Rhinoflex RV Sewer HoseThe "Stinky Slinky" that comes included with the Airstream is worth throwing straight into the garbage. They don't include a 90 degree connection elbow and they leak!
We purchased this Camco Rhinoflex RV Sewer Hose because it includes a bayonet style swivel fitting which securely connects to our Airstream. It also uses a 90 degree elbow which makes for a more secure fitting to any standard dump station. |
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Scott RV Toilet PaperAfter lots of research, we found Scott RV Toilet Paper to have the best reviews and for the best overall price. RV toilet paper is designed to break down quicker than regular toilet paper you would use at home and is designed for septic tank usage.
If you click the title or image of the toilet paper, you will be directed to Amazon. If you want to save a few dollars, we have found it slightly cheaper to walk into your local Walmart and head straight to the RV supply section. |
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Bio-Pak Natural Tank DeodorizerThese pre-packaged natural enzyme deodorizers just drop in your septic tank (toilet) and helps break down waster and toilet paper. We first started using this particular deodorizer because they didn't require measuring or pouring. These are also environmentally friendly and 100% biodegradable.
Happy Camper Organic RV Holding Tank TreatmentOne day while browsing one of the Airstream forums I came across a thread about tank deodorizers. I was blown away by the response I had read about Happy Camper. I did some more research and seemed like this was the best money could buy. We gave it a shot and was pleasantly surprised the Happy Camper works as well as everyone says. There is no perfume smell or masking, it just eliminates any odors. The only downside is you have to use the included scooper to scoop the powder into the toilet which isn't as easy as the Bio-Park. Also, be sure to flush water immediately, it crystallizes and hardens very quickly once in the water.
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6 Foot Coiled Breakaway CableThe factory breakaway cable is a pain to deal with. The length of the standard cable requires you to be mindful of the path you route the cable to prevent it from dragging on the ground and fraying.
This coiled PU cable is UV resistant and stretches far enough to reach our tow vehicle without too much tension. The bright red color serves as a visual reminder and no more worries about dragging on the ground. |
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Kohree Trailer Hitch Locking PinThe weight distribution is not a cheap investment. We have always used a trailer hitch locking pin to secure our trailer hitch to our tow vehicle. What's especially nice about this lock is it will work on both a 2" receiver and 2 1/2" receiver. It also has the key facing outward which is easier to get to rather than the keys which are accessed at a 90 degree angle which is harder to get access to. I've seen many locking pins bend under heavy loads but this locking pin is made from high carbon steel.
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CZC Trailer Hitch Coupler LockA trailer hitch coupler lock is just one added lock to help protect your investment. We like this one because it has a small profile.
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Tymate Tire Pressure Monitoring System M7-3Keeping an eye on tire pressure and tire temperature is critical to avoid a blowout due to low tire pressure and/or high heat. This particular setup is very affordable and comes with 4 TPMS sensors, enough for a dual axle trailer. It can also be charged via solar or USB through cigarette lighter.
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LevelMatePRO+ Wireless Vehicle Leveling SystemFor four years and over 65 trips, we have always leveled our Airstream using the traditional method of placing a level on the floor.
I found the LevelMatePRO+ and the thought of being able to drive around and look for the most level ground at a campground without having to get out of your tow vehicle is an added luxury. There are two models, one is the LevelMatePro which uses batteries. Some reviewers have complained about battery life only last a couple weeks. I opted for the LevelMatePRO+ which adds Apple Watch functionality and offers a USB charging option so no need to change batteries. |
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Fastway Flip Automatic Fold-Up JackWhen lowering the front jack foot to raise our Airstream, we had to remove a pin to extend the foot and reinsert the pin. When connecting our tow vehicle back to our Airstream we had to repeat this process in reverse. These few extra steps don't sound like much but the fact the inner tube contracts into a lubricated jack means the grease ends up on your hands each time you reset the pin. A friend of ours told us about this Fastway Flip Automatic Fold-Up Jack Foot Plate so we decided to give it a try.
What did we wait for! This has been such a timesaver for us and helps keep our hands from getting greasy. We use the 6" version but they also make a 4" version. |
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Slick 50 One Lube SprayOne of the biggest complaints I hear from Airstream owners is the difficulty with closing the door from the inside. The best solution we've found that many have suggested is to spray Slick 50 all over the working mechanisms in the door. Most members of the forums have suggested to NOT use WD-40. After using Slick 50 One Lube spray we immediately noticed our door was so much easier to close and lock with very little effort.
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Collapsible Wash BasinThe gray water tank fills up so quickly from washing hands, washing dishes and short showers. We noticed our black tank never gets close to full during our trips. We found this collapsible wash basin which fits perfectly in our 19' Airstream's sink. This allows us to wash our hands and/or wash dishes and capture the water before it goes into the gray tank. We then dump the water into our toilet bowl which helps break down contents in the black tank. This RV hack has allowed to extend our dry camping (boon docking) trips a few extra days before having to dump.
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25' Coaxial CableLots of RV parks have cable or satellite connections available for your viewing pleasure. A coaxial cable will come in handy if you want to take advantage of those times.
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Camco 20' Sidewinder RV Sewer Hose SupportThis RV sewer hose support isn't absolutely necessary but we have found it helpful when we are staying at a campground for two nights or more.
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