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When you’re outfitting your rig for the adventures ahead, a power cord doesn’t seem that exciting. But it can make or break your trip, especially when running multiple high-power things at one time. Don’t have a meltdown; make sure you get the best RV electrical extension cord for your needs. Having the right tools for your RV electrical is critical to ensuring your RV is working properly and that you’re staying safe in the campground.
First off, find out if you need a 30 amp or a 50 amp cord. A 30 amp cord has three prongs, and a 50 amp cord has four prongs. Larger rigs running two AC units, Class A’s and some big 5th wheels, will for sure have 50 amp, but medium-sized rigs may have upgraded electrical and need 50 amp cords too. You don’t want to damage your electrical system or fancy electronics by underpowering your rig!
Difference Between an RV Power Cord and an RV Electrical Extension Cord
Extension cords may fit your RV plugs, but they are not the same as an RV power cord. Even heavy-duty outdoor cables are not rated high enough to carry the electricity needed for an RV.
Underpowering may make things not work, but worse, it may overheat, cause fires, cause surges that damage electronics, or otherwise cause extensive and expensive damage.
RV power cords are heavy duty and often have better weatherproofing, as well as locking ends that make them more sturdy to connect to your rig and the power pedestal.
What to Look for When Buying an RV Power Cord
When shopping for an RV power cord, make sure to know 30 amp or 50 amp, and then figure out the length you need. Check out reputable brands, such as those listed below.
All cords are not created with the same quality or attention to detail, leaving your rig open to expensive electrical problems. Then, find the correct length.
Locking ends, bright colors, light-up ends, etc., can all be excellent additional features to a cord. Sticker shock for a cable may come into play, but don’t skimp on quality here, as your rig is vulnerable to electrical mishaps.
How Long Should a 30/50 AMP RV Cord Be?
You want to get the shortest electrical cord that meets your needs, as excess is hefty, takes up room, and is unsightly. Power also declines during the length of the cord.
Usually, 20-30 feet is plenty for most campsites, but if you plug in at your home (that needs a dedicated RV plug, not a household plug), be sure to measure!
30 AMP RV Electrical Extension Cord Recommendation
We recommend this Camco 25 foot extension cord as the best RV electrical extension cord. This cord is heavy duty with copper wiring and has an easy-grip plug end for a secure grip when disconnecting. It offers high conductivity with flexible cord covering.
- EFFORTLESS POWER FOR RVS & EVS: Power up your RV or electric vehicle with Power Grip's 30-amp extension cord. This 25'...
- PREMIUM DESIGN & ENGINEERING: This ultra-flexible EV/RV must-have features a heavy-duty, heat-resistant, flame-retardant...
50 AMP RV Electrical Extension Cord Recommendation
This is the same as the 30 amp above, but with eight gauge wire and rated for 50 amps.
- Power Your RV Effortlessly: Power up your RV with Power Grip's 50-amp extension cord. This camper essential is 30' long,...
- Premium Design and Engineering: This ultra-flexible RV must-have is coated with a heavy-duty flame retardant,...
Additional RV Electrical Extension Cord Accessories
Camco Power Grip Storage Bag
This duffle bag has a padded area for electrical cord accessories and is big enough for a 50-foot cord.
- Provides Storage: Safely stores RV and marine extension cords and electrical accessories
- Capacity: The main compartment holds up to a 30-foot/50-amp cord or a 50-foot/30-amp cord
Camco Power Camco Power Grip Cable Lock
This is a great lock for your electrical power grip cords to prevent theft.
- Helps prevent theft
- 60-inch long heavy-duty braided steel cord with vinyl coating
Camco Power Grip Power Ball Lock
This lock secures the connection of two cables to avoid theft or unplugging.
- Secures two cables together to help prevent theft
- Keeps cables off the ground
Camco Power Cord Strap
This carrying and organizing strap/handle makes carrying and storing cables easier. This is a simple but useful accessory to have around, we love ours!
- Electrical Cord Storage Handle
- Electrical Cord Storage Handle
Final Thoughts
Powering and protecting your RV is very important to enjoying your life of adventure! Ensure that you have the right length and amp cord with enough power, keep the cord cool and dry, and store it properly.
These things will ensure the safe ability to run your accessories, AC, fridge, and all the fun outdoor stuff while protecting your expensive RV investment!
Last update on 2024-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
I’ve had the experience of being just a few feet short of the pedestal with my 50 amp cord and they don’t make short 50 amp cord so I bought the male and female plugs along with 6’ of cord and made my own.
Yes, I have used it, quite often as a matter of fact. We have a Winnebago View 24D and using the extension cord is much easier than pulling out and shoving the factory cord that’s hard wired to the motor home back into the tiny compartment. We also use it to keep it plugged in off season to the 30 Amp outlet we had installed.
We had a 30ft cord and upgraded to a 50ft cord and a cord reel. My husband is much happier now when hooking up the electric. We also had a 30ft cord at our house to hook up when we are loading but we have to use a plain ext cord now and not run air-conditioning. Now I’m not happy. Oh well…
My wife and I stayed at a park (Wakiva Falls RV in Florida) where they told me at check-in that we would need a power cord extension. As it turned out because of the pedestal location and location of 5th wheel hookup we did (luckily) not need an extension. But that could have been disastrous. We have been full timing since 1995, always in parks (mostly in Good Sams).
Any suggestions on power surge protection. Is it really a need for it.