As with any major purchase you make, you should do your homework carefully when buying an RV or RV accessory. Know what you want, know what fits your budget, and, most especially, know when to walk away. If the deal sounds too good or the claims are too hard to believe, then pay attention to that little voice inside and stand back. You will probably find the deal was not as good as it seems and that the claims are exaggerated, if not completely false.

You can buy a number of different after-market products for your RV. The largest outfitters of RV and camping products have catalogs that will tell you about the latest products designed to make your RV experience better, easier, safer, or more fun (or all of the above). Walking through the large camping stores, you're sure to see dozens of items that you feel you just have to have. Just make sure that any products you consider purchasing truly will make your life better, and that they won't just make your RV more cluttered and your wallet emptier.

Once you have found the RV that fits your needs and your budget, your shopping may only be half done. You will also have to deal with all the sales pitches for add-ons and after-market products that you will get. These will come not only from the RV dealer but also from the companies whose mailing lists you will land on because of your purchase.

You will get offers that claim they can save you money on insurance, or that promise ways to obtain discounts on items and services for your RV. Other products claim to help you save gas and get better mileage. While some good products are available, many are just ways to take money out of your pocket. Of course, some RV products are worth considering:

Gas detectors: While most RVs (especially new) come equipped with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, you might want to consider adding a propane detector also.

Water pressure regulators and water filtration systems: These units will help prevent leaks and damage to your RV plumbing system from some municipal water systems.