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The Best RV Power Cords (30 & 50 Amps)

Written by Stephen Ryan / Fact checked by William Turner

RV power cords are necessary tools in a motorhome. It’s important whether in powering up your RV’s battery or connecting to a campsite to power your fifth wheel. But it is also a critical item. Overpower that cord and it would burn up and cause a short circuit or even fire. This is why it is important to choose the best RV power cord that can accept the load that you will be using it for.

best rv power cord

When using an RV extension cord, make sure that you know how to measure the power rating and control the power flow. This allows you to use the power cord as specified. This is necessary as you wouldn’t want the power cord burning up while being used and causing trouble.

Top 1

Camco 55191 25

4,7-stars

Length Option 25/50 Foot
Voltage 125 Volts
Input Current 30 Amps

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Top 2

RVGUARD 30 Amp

4,5-stars

Length Option 15/25/50 Foot
Voltage 125 Volts
Input Current 30 Amps

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Top 3

RVMATE 50 Amp

4,5-stars

 Length Option 15/25/50 Foot
Voltage 125 Volts
Input Current 50 Amps

Jump to Review

Table of Contents

10 Best Power Cord for RV Reviews 2023

1. Camco 55191 25′ PowerGrip 30-Amp Extension Cord

Reaching distant power outlets for connecting my RV is always a struggle, so I figured I’d get a long and heavy-duty extension cord – and I am glad I found this Camco 25’ PowerGrip outdoor extension cord.

I’ve heard from a friend who owns a Tesla that this cord is a life-saver for him, because sometimes, even with his tiny car (compared to my RV), he still finds it difficult to charge his car because he cannot park close enough for his power cord to reach the available power outlet. When I asked him about the specifications of the cord, I realized that it matches my RV so I got one for myself.

I know that it will work well with my RV because the connectors follow the NEMA TT-30P and TT-30R standard. Using this cord is a no-brainer because all I had to do is connect the RV’s power cord to the female connector, then plug in the male connector to a power source.

I particularly like the PowerGrip plug because it makes me feel safe to plug and unplug the chord – the handle on the plug itself is a good safety feature and doesn’t require me to exert much effort.

The cord itself seems to be made from strong and durable material and is protected with a heat-resistant, flame-retardant PVC coating – another safety feature that is much appreciated.

I guess it can’t be helped, but I would prefer it if they could come up with a more lightweight extension cord that is suitable for RVs. Although considering this cord is made from durable materials that can withstand regular use, I can’t really complain.

Pros
  • Flexible yet extra durable with 10-gauge (100% copper) wires
  • With protective PVC sheath
  • PowerGrip for safety and convenience when plugging and unplugging
  • Extends up to 25 feet, which is very useful for when you cannot park as close to a power outlet as needed
Cons
  • A little heavy and takes up storage space
All things considered, I think this Camco 30 Amp RV cord could be very useful for anyone who has an RV, or anyone who needs that extra length for connecting to a power outlet.

2. RVGUARD 30 Amp RV Power Extension Cord

RV owners looking for reliable and durable 50-foot 30 amp power cords should consider the RVGUARD Power Extension Cord. It is one of the most well-received extension power lines for campers, travel trailers, motorhomes, and fifth wheels.

I am glad this extension cord is 50 feet long, allowing me to connect to shore power regardless of how I park my motorhome. Its 30-amp rating is just right for my family’s electrical needs. For most RV families, this is perfect.

However, people with many power-hungry appliances and a 50-amp RV system should consider a 50-amp power cord.

Some people complain of the extension cord’s stiffness. I don’t. For me, it is a sign of exceptional quality, made more reassuring by the weather-resistant and heavy-duty STW jacket.

The male plug has a molded design, guaranteeing the prongs will never fall off the power source. It also has a threaded ring, keeping out water and moisture and retaining the plug’s integrity.

I also appreciate this RV extension cord’s structure, making it hassle-free to roll and unroll. I once had an extension cord for travel trailer units that were too cumbersome to extend and pack. I am glad this product does not give me such headaches. Adding to my peace of mind is this product’s ETL-listed status.

Plugging this extension cord into the RV and shore power is a breeze. It locks into place, guaranteeing efficient recharges. The integrated LED indicator is also beneficial, enabling me to monitor the system’s connection status. Although it has a locking mechanism, unplugging this device from the electrical system is a cinch.

Pros
  • 50-foot long 30-amp cord for improved reach
  • Easy to roll and unroll for hassle-free power line management
  • Heavy-duty and weather-resistant design with STW jacket and threaded ring
  • Effortless to plug, unplug, and monitor with molded design and LED light
  • ETL-listed for quality
Cons
  • None, in my opinion
It is impossible to fault this RV extension cord. After all, it accomplishes its principal function exceptionally well and adds a few innovations that make cord usage easier than other products with similar specs.

3. RVMATE 50 Amp RV Power Extension Cord

Many RVs have 50-amp electrical systems, allowing RVers to use as many power-hungry appliances as they like. It is the ultimate mobile living experience, empowering RV families to enjoy modern comforts without worrying about device failures. Such families will benefit from the RVMATE’s 50-amp RV Power Extension Cord.

Like RVGUARD’s power cords for campers, this extension power line delivers outstanding performance for full-time and seasonal RVers. Running two air conditioners, a refrigerator, and a heater round-the-clock is never a problem with this power cord linked to a campground 50-amp pedestal.

With its maximum power delivery of 12,500 watts, operating multiple appliances and gadgets is a breeze. I can imagine digital nomads in a remote work setup finishing their tasks and improving productivity with an unlimited electrical supply.

I like this 50 RV extension cord because it uses heavy-duty PVC to envelope its 100% copper wiring. Compared to a residential power cord, this product will never warp or melt under the scorching heat of the summer sun.

Its UV resistance is not the only attribute worth noting. This extension power cord’s waterproofing is also commendable. I will never worry about the elements undermining its integrity.

I also commend the company for its large plug backside. Grabbing the device is easy, and the plug does not slip from one’s hands. Although it does not have a locking mechanism, I am confident this plug will never detach from its connection.

Unfortunately, this power cord can be tedious to carry because it comes at a hefty 20.6 pounds. Despite the cord organizer, some people still find it cumbersome to lug around.

Pros
  • Recommended for large RVs with 50-amp systems
  • Delivers a maximum of 12,500 watts
  • Hassle-free to plug and unplug with large backside; won’t detach easily
  • Waterproof and UV-resistant PVC design
  • 100% copper wire construction
Cons
  • Heavy and can be cumbersome to lug around
Still, this RV extension cord is perfect for modern motorhomes with 50-amp systems.

4. LeisureCords 25’ Power Extension Cord

Affordable does not necessarily have to mean cheap. The same goes for RV power cords. There is no shortage of cheap extension cords out there; the trick is in finding one that works as intended and does not easily get damaged. Electricity is, after all, a dangerous thing to handle. One RV power cord I found to work appropriately but still counts as a “budget” product is the LeisureCords 25 feet power cord.

It’s not surprising that the most amiable aspect of this cord for me is its affordable price. But that is not all. It works as intended, allowing an electrical current of up to 30 Amp. It does not heat up even when used for a few days, which is one of the things I was worried would happen.

It has a twist locking feature, which is great in keeping it plugged in and won’t get disconnected accidentally. The plug itself can be twisted in after plugging, plus it has a threaded screw ring to keep it secure. You can see from the molding on the plugs as well as on the cord itself that it is heavy-duty. I purchased this item as a temporary solution when the power cord that came with the RV no longer became usable. I’m happy to report that it is now being used more than just a temporary solution, but a long term one.

One downside is that the plug end is a bit bulky because of the molded finger slot (which helps in pulling the plug out). Because of its bulkiness, not all electric outlet boxes can be closed.

Also, 25 feet is a bit too short for my liking. The usual power cords I purchase are around 30 feet or more because most camping grounds have this kind of distance between the power source and the parking spots.

Pros
  • Does not overheat
  • Has a twist-locking feature
  • Has a finger hole for pulling the male plug out
  • Made of heavy-duty materials
  • Affordable
Cons
  • A bit short at 25 feet
  • Bulky male plug causes some electric boxes to remain open
This is one of the most affordable RV power cords out there, but it is not cheaply made. They also have long extension cords from the same company, so if 25 feet is a bit short for you, you can always opt for the longer ones.

5. GoWISE RVC3002RV Extension Cord

Camping or traveling in an RV is hard, especially if you are far away from the electric line. To solve this issue, you certainly need a long power cord or extension. If you are looking for a reliable power cord that will help you connect your RV to a power source, the best product that you need to consider is the GoWISE Power 50-Feet 30 Amp RV Extension Cord with Molded Connector and Handle.

For me, the best feature of this 30 Amp RV plug is its length. With 50 ft. of wire, I can easily connect my RV to any camping site’s power source without using extra cords in the process. Just this product is enough to supply my RV with a steady flow of electricity.

In addition to length, I appreciate that this power cord is weatherproof and durable. This way, I can leave it outside and exposed to elements such as sunlight, water, snow, and dust. Because of this, I’m not afraid that it will deteriorate over time. I also like the fact that this power cord has a twisting lock. This feature effectively secures the line in place, thus preventing interruptions.

We all know that organizing a long cord is a tedious job. With the cord organizer feature, I can gather the long wire without making a mess anymore. This is truly a helpful feature for me because I am a highly-organized person.

What I don’t like about this product is the fact that the sleeve is not flame-retardant. This important feature will save the RV from burning in case of circuit failures. I still haven’t experienced any kind of bad connections. However, it will certainly give me peace of mind if the cord is coated with flame-retardant material.

Pros
  • The cord is 50 ft. long
  • Comes with an easy grip for convenient unplugging
  • Comes with twisting lock
  • Comes with cord organizer
  • Weatherproof
  • Durable
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • The cord sleeve is not flame-retardant
All in all, I can confidently say that the GoWISE Power 50-Feet 30 Amp RV Extension Cord is an excellent product. It is easy to use and long enough to connect to a power source. It is weatherproof and durable, so you can use it for a very long time. It has a twisting lock to ensure a secured connection. If you want to have a no-fuss power cord for your RV, this product is the one for you.

6. Conntek 15306 RV Extension Cord

When it comes to power cord extensions, you need the one that is reliable and durable. This product from Conntek promises to deliver a performance that is not available in other brands in the market.

After testing this power cord in my own RV, I found some features that I really find remarkable. First is the design. Both ends of the power cord have a safety grip. With this, I don’t have to use any kind of tools just to help me unplug it. In addition to design, the mere fact that it is durable makes it an excellent choice. It doesn’t easily break no matter how many times it gets dropped on the ground.

Another extraordinary feature of this power cord is the LED indicator. This helps me to determine if the line is successfully connected or not. For an old guy like me, this saves me unnecessary trips just to check if it connected to the power line. As far as I know, this feature is definitely not included in other power cord extension brands.

What I consider a letdown about this product is the fact that it is heavier compared to similar power cord extension brands. This power cord weighs 23 pounds! I really find it difficult to carry it back to the RV when it’s time to leave the campsite. I have to either drag it back or call someone for help.

Pros
  • The cord itself is 30 ft. long
  • Has a safety grip for convenient unplugging
  • Has an LED indicator
  • Heavy duty
  • Durable
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Quite heavy
Having said all of the important details about this power cord, I conclude that the Conntek 15306 RV 50-Amp 30-Feet Extension Cord is a phenomenal product. It has an indicator to help you know if the connection that you established is successful or not. Moreover, its 30 feet long cord will ensure that you won’t need an extra one to hook up with the camp site’s power line.

7. Camco 55574 25′ PowerGrip Cord

Camco is a brand I trust, so I don’t hesitate when purchasing items from this company. One example of a well-thought-of product is their PowerGrip cord with a 90-degree locking adapter.

This RV power cord adapter one of my favorites in this extensive list of power cords. It can handle up to 50 Amperes electrical current. Even with a consistent 50 Amp flow, it doesn’t heat up, even when the ambient temperature is high. The PVC covering is very thick and durable. It is also coated with a flame retardant for safety purposes. Even if the PVC cover is very thick, the cord is still flexible and can easily be uncoiled. I like that this item includes a strap with handle. After using the cord, I can easily coil it again and strap the coils together. This strap has a handle that allows me to easily carry the entire power cord and store it properly.

The female connector has a twist locking system so it won’t easily get pulled off. The threaded ring secures it as well as weatherproofs the connection.

As its name itself implies, this Camco extension cord has Power Grip. This is actually just the molded grip on each connection. This actually helped me easily plug and unplug the connections.

The only drawback with this power cord is that it’s a bit short for my taste. 25 feet is enough for charging my RV’s battery at home, but it’s a bit lacking in length when it comes to campsites and RV parks.

Pros
  • Has a weatherproof locking screw
  • Has molded PowerGrip on the connectors for easy plug and pull
  • The female connector has a twist-lock design
  • Has a strap and handle for easy handling and storage
  • With thick PVC coating
  • Doesn’t overheat
Cons
  • 25 feet is a bit short for some campgrounds
This 50 Amp extension cord is one of my favorites. It is very reliable, even with its shortage in length.

8. Conntek 14302 RV Generator Power Cord

Replacement power cords usually come with ends attached. It would typically be composed of one plug and one receptacle. If you need to wire your cord to a generator or you want to hardwire the cord to your RV, then you ought to get one with a plug and a pigtail end — that is to say, a bare wire. This would give you leeway on how you want to attach the other end on a power source. Such is Conntek 14302.

The cable is thick at about one-inch diameter, so I was worried that it would be difficult to coil and uncoil. However, it was pliable enough, even at cold temperatures. It doesn’t overheat with its three 6-gauge and one 8-gauge wire. I’ve had it running from a generator to the RV for about five hours but I felt no overheating, which is a good sign.

Make sure that you have enough knowledge about how to attach bare wires to your power source or recipient as you don’t want to encounter problems when it comes to electricity.

What I hope the manufacturer would add is a finger hole at the plug. It’s a bit tough pulling the plug out as it latches on really tight, which is a good thing while in use, but not a good thing when you need to store it away.

Pros
  • Does not overheat
  • Easy to coil and uncoil even in cold weather
  • Has thick covering to protect the wires
  • Can accept up to 50 Amps
Cons
  • No finger hole at the plug end
All in all, I believe the Conntek 14302 is a good replacement 50 Amp RV extension cord for semi-permanent use. If you want a portable one, simply attach a receptor at the bare wire end.

9. Camco 55168 RV Dogbone Electrical Adapter

There are times when the shore power does not match your RV’s hook-up needs. One example is when you have a 15 Amp source power outlet, but your RV’s power cord is for a 50 Amp one. In such instances, all you need is a connector to facilitate the power transfer. Camco RV Dogbone Electrical Adapter 15 Amp Male to 50 Amp Female can be one of your choices.

I love that this dogbone adapter was able to reduce the stress being experienced by my RV extension plug. The plug bends downward because of the weight of the extension (you know how heavy these things can get). This adapter has a 90-degree angled plug so I can just plug my RV cord to the female end and plug the male end to the RV. Problem solved! No more angling or weighing down on the cord.

The cord itself is very flexible, so I didn’t have any problems with connecting with another cord and positioning on the ground while charging. It also has a molded handle which they call Power Grip. It made removal easier, especially when the plug is a snug fit.

The PVC sheath is really thick and seems to be durable enough. The same goes for the molded connector ends. It’s very flexible so it can handle the bending, especially when you can’t bend the heavy extension cord.

My only concern with this adapter is that instead of aligning straight down when plugged in, it’s a bit angled maybe by about five to ten degrees. I know it’s not much and it doesn’t really affect the performance, but it kind of irks me a bit.

Pros
  • PVC sheath is thick and durable
  • The cord can be bent 180 degrees
  • The plug is angled down by 90 degrees to reduce stress on the extension cord
  • Has a Power Grip handle which makes it easy to pull out
  • Durable
  • Connects 15 Amp source to 50 Amp receiver
Cons
  • Is not aligned straight down when plugged in
Based on experience, this Camco RV Dogbone Electrical Adapter is a reliable adapter. I just wish RV extension cord manufacturers would have their plugs angled down like this!

10. Kohree 30 Amp to 50 Amp RV Plug Adapter

Your RV needs to have a smooth electrical connection. In order to achieve this, it is best that you have the best power cords at your disposal. If you are searching for the right power cord to help you safely supply your RV with power from the campsite, it is time for you to learn about Kohree 30 Amp to 50 Amp RV Plug Adapter.

Of all the power cords I have used, this one is my favorite. The design that the manufacturers have put on making this one is truly top-notch. This feature is definitely not found in other power cords in the market. There are grip handles from both sides of the power cord. I can easily pull out the male plug and disconnect the female plug without straining my hands in the process. Also, I can safely remove the connection without risking accidental electrocution.

Another thing that I like about this product is the performance. The male end is 30 Amps and the female end is 50 Amps. With this, I don’t need to worry about this power cord becoming overloaded. Speaking of overloading, this cord also doesn’t overheat. It has a flame-retardant PVC sleeve which prevents it from spreading fire in case it gets short circuit. Finally, I don’t have to worry about it getting corroded because this product is completely weatherproof. I can use this power cord without replacing it anytime sooner.

Having said all of the positive features, there is but one disappointment that I feel I must say. What I don’t appreciate about this product is the fact that it is too short. The whole cord itself is only 18 inches, which means I have to connect it to a longer cord.

Pros
  • Has a flame-retardant PVC sleeve
  • The grip handles from both sides are ergonomically-designed
  • Can be bent 180 degrees from female end to the male end
  • Weatherproof
  • Durable
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • The cord itself is too short
After discussing all of the important details above, I can say the Kohree 30 Amp to 50 Amp RV Plug Adapter is a reliable product. It is easy to use, durable, and weatherproof. The copper wires are also coated with flame-retardant PVC sleeves for safety reasons. If you need a flexible power cord to help you supply your RV with electricity, this product should be included in your shopping list.

Conntek 14364 30 Amp RV Extension Cord (Oudate)

This is practically one of the longest RV extension cords I have ever tried. Sure, you can always link up extension cords, but it would be so much better if you just have one long cord to prevent heating up and disconnection issues. Such is this 14364 RV cord from Conntek.

With its length, you can place a generator far enough so as not to disturb your rest because of the noise and vibration.

Aside from being long enough for anyone’s needs, it also accepts up to 30 Amp current, which is pretty standard for campsites. Its NEMA TT-30 plug is also typical in RV parks so, you won’t have any problem using this when you go on a trip. We used ours continuously once at a campsite with the air conditioning always on and sometimes even using the electric oven. It did not heat up during that time. I was wary about this because I’ve read some extension cords fire up. This one didn’t even after continued use, which is a relief.

I’ve had this one for three years now and I haven’t seen any cracks, which is a good indicator of its durability.

What I have is the new version, which has LED lights on the connectors. This helps when searching for the plugs in the dark or during times when it’s snowing heavily. You can even tell from a distance if the power cord is supplying electricity or not.

The connectors fit snugly in power outlets. The only problem is that pulling it out is a bit tough. If only it has finger molds to aid in pulling it out, this cord would be perfect!

Pros
  • Very long at 50 feet
  • Can hold up to 30 Amp of electric current
  • Does not overheat
  • Flexible coil
  • Has LED indicator
  • Fits snugly when plugged
Cons
  • Hard to pull out as it has no finger holes
This Conntek 14364 Power Cord is absolutely one of the best, hence it is my favorite. It’s perfect for both plugging the RV at home or at a campsite.

VETOMILE 30Ft 50Amp RV Extension Cord (Oudate)

If you are looking for an RV shore power cord that can handle a larger power load, the Vetomile RV Extension cord might be the answer to your needs. While many power cords can handle only up to 30 Amp of power flow, this one from Vetomile can handle up to 50 Amps! This is very useful if you have a lot of appliances in your mobile home that you want to power up while camping.

What I love about this product is that it is resistant to humidity and intense heat. Humidity can be a problem in areas with dense trees, which is where I usually camp. During the summer, the intense heat can become a problem, too. Good thing this RV power cord can withstand heat for up to 60 degrees.

One end has a 14-50P (plug) and the other end has 14-50R (receptacle). When not in use, I coil the wire and plug the male and female together since they’re a perfect fit anyway. This makes the cord easier to store. It’s really nice that this cord has a handle molded into the plastic of both ends, making plugging and pulling easy, even when the plug snugs perfectly against the power source.

The PVC wrap on the wires seems to be thick enough. Even if I’ve had this for more than two years now, I don’t see any deterioration. No cracks and holes on this one even when stored for a long time.

The 30 feet length is just right, although I did experience once in a state park when the power source was 40 feet away from where I could park my motorhome. At that time, I had to suffer not having power inside, which made me wish I had a longer cord.

Pros
  • Can hold up to 50 Amp power flow
  • Has thick PVC wrapping
  • Heat resistant
  • Humid resistant
  • Has molded handles
Cons
  • Can only reach up to 30 feet for the 50 Amps version
Even though it can only reach up to 30 feet as is usual with many RV power cords, I love that this one can handle more power. This is great for bigger RVs and those with more appliances inside their third wheel, making this one of the best extension cord for RV.

What to Look for When Buying an RV Power Cord

30 amp rv extension cord

With its massive size, the RV would need an engine that is strong enough to carry all the items, utilities, and passengers safely across a great distance without falling apart or failing when it matters. That is why the RV is no joke under the hood. To be able to travel in between any terrain, be it an old and dusty country road, the beaten paths upon the grassy plains, or even in a long desert highway, the RV needs engine strength like no other. And it comes to no surprise that in that matter, the RV does not disappoint.

As a seasoned RV owner, I have noticed that one of the most overlooked RV equipment out there, both by longtime owners and beginners, is the RV power cord. People often make the mistake of buying the wrong kind of RV power cords, and this could spell out disaster in the long run. Keep your RV in great condition and save the quality of your camping trips by considering these factors when buying the best RV power cord for you!

  • THE RIGHT LENGTH

Consider the right length of your RV cord as you choose. RV power cords, especially the heavy-duty ones, tend to be bulky and slightly heavier. Really long ones such as 50 feet cords are bound to be really weighty and would need bigger storage space than 25 feet one. Do you really need a long cord? Is there a chance that you would need a lengthy cord at a campsite? If not, go for the standard 25 to 30 feet type.

The right size also speaks about the actual function of the cord. Would it be used for days on end, or just for charging your RV battery? If it will be used for long periods, go for the shorter one, especially if you can park your RV nearer to the power source.

  • THE PROPER CAPACITY

Each RV power cord comes with a specific capacity. This is to specify the use and functions that can be supported by the RV power cord. The Amps allowed, from what power supply, for what kind of appliance, and so on.

For example, out in the market, there are 12 gauge RV power chords allowing only 20 Amps of power, as there are also 6 gauge RV power cords allowing 50 Amps.

As we have discussed earlier, each cord can have its own specified use in accordance with the power it can allow to flow through. Check the number of Amperes your RV can accept before choosing a power cord and before plugging it in.

  • THE PROPER MATERIALS

After considering the size and capacity, you are now to evaluate the materials used in manufacturing the RV power cord.

As with most tools and equipment, the materials used in manufacturing the RV power cord influences the functions it can perform. The factors that are to be considered here is the flexibility of the wire itself, as well as the power capabilities. Most owners opt for RV power cords that are full copper because it does not deteriorate easy and it allows for more power to flow through. If the gauge being used is correct, the wire will not heat up.

Aside from considering the power factors, also consider its storage. Look for materials that are durable enough to withstand constant usage, especially if you are to use the RV power cord in numerous off-road travels or camping trips.

  • THE PROPER PRICE

After taking into consideration everything from size, usage, materials, the only thing left to consider is the price. Is the price reasonable, after evaluating all the factors? This is also where brand loyalty comes into play.

As we have different experiences with different brands, it is not unusual to choose a brand you have been using for a long time. It is not unreasonable, however, to take a look at other brands as well if you feel like there are greater deals for you. Buying an RV power cord can be considered an investment, so do not shy away from examining everything you need to know.

With its large size, people expect an RV to have enough space to accommodate a moderate number of people, while also having your own private comfort room, a functional kitchen, decent sleeping quarters, and a comfy receiving area where your passengers, friends, and family can get together and hang out to their heart’s content. The size alone of the RV carries the premise of being a spacious vehicle that is enough to store your regular household items, as well as a number of camping items that a family might need on the road. But even if it is your home away from home, it has its limitations. Try not to stock your RV up with too many appliances so as not to trip the breaker or cause your power cords to overheat.

Other Important Factors to Consider

50 amp rv extension cord

What is an RV power cord?

One of the most overlooked RV equipment is the RV power cord. However, if you think about it, it should not be the case. Since the RV electrical cord is needed both in the accommodation of the passengers as well as the actual traveling matters, it should be essential that is atop of an owner’s list. The RV power chord bridges the gap between a power supply and an appliance (or a piece of equipment). If not chosen and evaluated properly, it can spell out disaster in your travels. Just imagine the inconvenience!

How does it work?

The power cord works like any other wiring equipment out there. Basically, it connects a piece of equipment or an appliance to a power source, albeit its capacity is bigger since it’s powering up a motorhome.

The cord is typically connected to your house, a campsite power supply, or a generator. The other end is plugged into the motorhome to charge the battery or to power up all the appliances within.

What are the different type of RV power cords?

There are no classified types when it comes to RV power cords. Like all other equipment and tools, the variation mostly lies with the specific aspects and abilities that the RV power cord has.

For example, there are a number of variations of the RV power cord when thinking about the size. There are the standard 25 feet RV power cord, the longer 40 feet variation, the 50 feet, and so on. There are also the shorter ones that range from one to five feet, which serves as plug adapters or connectors between extensions. The size differs depending on the actual usage that the owners are looking for.

When it comes to Amp rating, there are a number of variations, with the main ones being the 15 Amp RV power cord (which is arguably the minimum for seasoned RV owners), the 20 Amp cord, the 30, the 40, and the 50 Amp cord.

Voltage ranges are also considered when buying the next RV power cord for you, ranging from 125 to 250 volts. It all boils down to what exactly your RV needs as different RVs have different electrical requirements.

As was discussed briefly, the RV power cords mostly differ with the function owners are looking for. Consider the kind of function you want of a specific cord and let it perform well within its capabilities. Are you are looking for an RV power cord that is for light usage, or heavy usage? Are you looking to use it for a quick time, or for hours an end?

As a seasoned RV owner, I find that most new owners, and even some longtime owners, are holding on to the fact that the RV power cord can be used in multiple functions. Be that as it may, it is better to have multiple ones if you are looking for multiple uses because that way, your RV power cord would not be worn out with frequent uses which can potentially be threatening to the safety of the RV’s passengers, which are most likely your friends and loved ones.

Why do you need an RV power cord?

The answer is simple: it’s because you need to supply electricity to your camper. Why bring an RV if you are planning on roughing it out and not use any of the appliances it has? An RV power cable connects you to the grid or to a generator that supplies the electricity, which is why it is one of the most essential items in an RV.

Frequently Asked Questions

best extension cord for rv

What are good RV refrigerator brands?

Most of the products we recommend either come from RV accessories manufacturing companies or power cord manufacturers. Here are good brands for you to choose from:

  • Camco is a well-known brand when it comes to RV accessories and appliances. I trust this brand as I’ve been using a lot of their products from the beginning. They’re not perfect, but they are surely one of the best.
  • Conntek is a company that specializes in power connection, not just for motorhomes but for other appliances as well. They really know what they’re doing.
  • Vetomile is a Chinese company that creates accessories and appliances for all kinds of vehicles.
  • LeisureCords is a company that focuses on producing RV power cords and adapters.

Either choose from these brands or choose the exact units mentioned in my recommended products above, and you are sure to have a satisfactory purchase.

What gauge extension cord for RV do I need?

It depends on your RV’s needs. Not all wires are the same, and if you get a wire that is below the rating of the amount of power that you will use the cord for, then it will heat up, burn the cord and maybe even cause a fire.

The first thing that you need to do is determine the electric current that your RV can accept. The wire gauge that you should get would be based on this.

Max Current (in Amps) Wire Gauge
15 14
20 12
30 10
40 8
50 6

Keep in mind that before you plug the extension cord, make sure the shore power is within the electric current range that your fifth wheel can accept.

Also, the current mentioned in the table above is the maximum. Exceeding this amount can cause overheating, as well as consistently using the maximum current for a long period of time.

Can you connect an RV power cord to an extension?

Yes, motorhome owners can connect their RV electric cord to an extension power line to extend its reach. For example, a 25-foot RV power cord might be insufficient to link to an RV park pedestal. Plugging the device into a 25-foot extension cord lengthens it to 50 feet.

However, RV owners must use an RV adapter cord with a similar electrical rating as the motorhome power cord. For example, a 30-amp motorhome power plug must connect only with a 30-amp extension power line. Otherwise, RVers risk not drawing sufficient electricity for their motorhome appliances.

One must never use a residential extension cord because these products have lower amperage ratings than RV requirements. For example, a 16-gauge extension power line can only deliver 13 to 15 amps to appliances, less than half the demand of RVs.

Moreover, domestic adapter power cords are not as weatherproof as RV extension lines.

It is also worth noting that amperage draw decreases with cord length. For instance, an ordinary 16-gauge power cord can provide 15 amps at 25 feet but only seven amperes at 150 feet.

Increasing the cord’s size can address this power reduction. Unfortunately, it also hikes the extension cord’s price.

Is a 30-amp RV plug 110 or 220 volts?

Thirty-amp travel trailer power cords plug into 110-volt electrical systems. These devices have three prongs that people insert into compatible receptacles. One prong delivers 110 volts through the system; another is a ground wire, and a third is the plug’s neutral wire.

On the other hand, a 50-amp electrical cord for camper units has a four-pronged plug. Two prongs deliver 110 volts each, producing 220 volts for the whole system. The other two prongs are the neutral and ground wires, similar to a 30-amp plug.

RV owners must realize that electrical outlets are 120 volts, not 110. Hence, a 30-amp RV power cord delivers a maximum of 3,600 watts to the motorhome (120 volts x 30 amps = 3,600 watts).

On the other hand, a 50-amp plug delivers as much as 12,000 watts (240 volts x 50 amps = 12,000 watts).

Hence, a 30-amp system is suitable for motorhomes with only several appliances with moderate power requirements.

Meanwhile, 50-amp systems are perfect for RVs with power-hungry electronics, such as microwave ovens, air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, and heaters.

How long can a 30/50 Amp RV cord be?

Extension cords are usually made to be up to 50 feet long. However, 30 feet is enough to get you going without facing any issues. Using too long a cord might mean more heat is lost and less power is transferred.

How to setup & use?

There is more to using an RV power cord that just plugging it into the source and recipient. First of all, you need to check test the shore power outlet. Compare the result of the test to what your RV needs. Is the power enough (power drop), is the power too much, is its polarity correct or is it reversed?

If the voltage is low, you will be able to run your appliances in the trailer, but they will likely be overworked and might get damaged. If the voltage is too high, your extension cord may burn up, and your appliances may get destroyed as well.

Once you have tested that the power being produced by the outlet is just right for your RV and your power cord, then you can safely plug the cord in.

How to care and clean?

Caring for your RV power cord is as easy as rolling them up and storing them away. Of course, wipe away the mud and dirt to make sure they won’t damage the PVC sheath while stored away.

Some power cords have handles and cords that help in keeping the wire coiled. If yours doesn’t have that, you can simply use lock ties to keep the cord coiled while in storage.

Where to buy?

RV extension cords are available at your local RV dealer shops. They usually hold accessories there. If you don’t have one, check Lowe’s or Home Depot. The best place to source out your choice of product is usually at Amazon.com. At least you can have a choice on what cord you want to purchase. You can even receive it within the next day or two. Once I had my order delivered at a campsite. How cool is that?

Conclusion

The RV is visibly larger and stronger than your average vehicle. However, knowing how to drive the RV is only half the battle. Knowing how to maintain it is the other part of it. And so how does an owner do that? Owners should do their part in the upkeep of the RV by only buying equipment and tools that are compatible and beneficial to the RV, for starters.

As always, when you are purchasing something related to electricity, whether it be a simple adapter or a really long extension cord, never ever settle. The quality of what you purchase may mean the difference between your safety and getting at risk of causing fires.

Even expensive ones at least have the reliability of being used for years to come, with proper care. This means you will still get the bang for your buck. The best RV power cord is one that you can trust. Don’t rely on the second-best; always go for the top choices.

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