As temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall up north, many retirees and adventurous travelers are packing up their RVs and heading south, eager to chase the warm sun and avoid the depressing sounds of a 7 AM snowblower. If you're searching for that perfect gift for the snowbird in your life, whether they’re a seasoned full-timer or a rookie RV enthusiast, look no further. We've curated a list of the best RV gifts that are sure to delight any snowbird this holiday season—and beyond.
From practical must-haves that make RV living more comfortable and convenient, to clever gadgets and accessories that add a touch of fun and personality, these RV gifts cover all the bases.
Induction Cooktop: For most RVers, managing energy consumption and production while living on the road can be a major concern. An induction cooktop makes a great gift because it offers a highly efficient cooking solution that reduces reliance on propane. By using electricity to generate heat directly in magnetic cookware, it minimizes energy use while providing quick, precise cooking without the danger of an open flame inside the camper. In fact, induction cooktops can boil water up to 40% faster than traditional electric or gas stovetops. Plus, they’re portable and easy to store—perfect for RV snowbirds with limited kitchen space. Just be sure your recipient has induction-compatible cookware, such as cast iron or stainless steel—or consider gifting a compatible set!
Bug Zapper: For RV snowbirds, enjoying the outdoors is one of the best parts of escaping winter. However, pesky insects like mosquitoes, moths, and flies can quickly ruin the experience. A bug zapper is the perfect gift to keep those annoying pests at bay.
These devices use UV light to attract insects, and some models include titanium dioxide to boost the attraction, simulating natural light that insects are drawn to. With a built-in trap or electric grid, bug zappers offer a clean, chemical-free solution, making them a more pleasant alternative to strong-smelling sprays and repellents. Since they’re often battery-operated, they’re highly portable and ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, so your snowbird can enjoy the fresh air without the nuisance of bugs.
Dehumidifier: If you know anything about RVing, then you know that moisture build-up is a common issue. It’s even more concerning for snowbirds, since they often head south to more humid climates for the winter. While an electric dehumidifier might not be the most glamorous gift to unwrap on the big day, it’s one that will get plenty of use and likely be appreciated far more than expected.
These units are more effective than passive desiccant-based dehumidifiers because they actively pull moisture from the air, offering faster and more powerful humidity control. Plus, since they’re designed for continuous use, they’re perfect for large spaces. For smaller, enclosed areas like closets or under bathroom cabinets, consider adding a few passive moisture absorbers to the gift as well. They’re compact, convenient, and help keep those spaces dry without needing electricity.
Backup Camera: Driving an RV of any size can be a daunting task, but backing it up is often the most nerve-wracking part. A backup camera is the perfect gift to help your favorite RVer improve their confidence and safety when reversing. Designed for RVs of all sizes, these cameras typically feature a wireless setup with a color monitor, providing a clear view of what’s behind them.
Many models also include additional features like multiple camera views, graphic overlays to show real-time distances, and LED lights for enhanced night vision. Easy to install and offering high-quality, uninterrupted video from impressive distances—some up to 100 feet—a backup camera is a simple yet invaluable tool to make RV driving much safer.
Electric Tongue Jack: For many RVers, the physical demands of hitching and unhitching a trailer can be challenging, especially for those with back, mobility, or strength concerns. An electric tongue jack is a thoughtful and practical gift that simplifies this task by effortlessly raising and lowering a trailer’s A-frame at the push of a button. Rated for various weight capacities, these jacks eliminate the need for stooping and cranking, making setup and breakdown faster and easier. Many models also come equipped with extra features, like bright LED lights for improved visibility during nighttime hookups and convenient power alert systems to indicate when the remote is activated. For smaller trailers, lighter models are available at a more affordable price point, making this a versatile gift for RV snowbirds with any rig size.
LED Lights: Brighten up your favorite RVer’s space with some energy-efficient LED lights to create a festive, functional, or stylish vibe at the campsite. Whether the person on your list prefers the trendy look of sleek Edison bulb strands, the whimsical fun of patio lights shaped like little chili peppers, or the minimalist simplicity of a clear rope light, there’s an LED option to fit any style and purpose.
Consider mixing and matching options to boost safety and ambiance—such as puck lights for inside the camper, patio lights around the awning, and motion-activated lights under the steps. For an extra special touch, offer to help with installation so your snowbird can enjoy a well-lit, personalized space all season long!
Surge Protector: Hooking up an RV to a campground’s power pedestal always carries a bit of risk, as you can’t be sure how stable or clean the power source will be. Few things can ruin your RV experience more than an unplanned power surge that fries the electronics in the rig and costs hundreds or even thousands of dollars to repair. Help your favorite RV snowbird prevent this by gifting them a quality surge protector.
Look for one that doubles as an energy management system (EMS) to provide comprehensive protection—not only against voltage surges, but also issues like reverse polarity, open ground, low voltage, and open neutral. If you really want to make the snowbird on your list happy, gift them an option that has a large, easy-to-read LCD or LED display for added ease of use.
Camping Chairs: Most RVers likely already have a camping chair, but upgrading to something more comfortable or having a couple of spares for guests is a thoughtful and practical gift idea. And you don’t have to settle for the basic folding lawn chair, either. From portable loveseats for cozying up by the fire to heated chairs for creating your own warmth, this product category has come a long way in recent years. For those who love outdoor lounging, consider options with extra features like reclining backs, built-in cup holders, or even chairs that come with their own shade canopies. Upgraded camping chairs make for a thoughtful gift that brings comfort and style to any RV setup.
Find the Perfect Gifts for Your RV Snowbirds
From practical essentials to fun upgrades, Parts Via has everything you need to make your favorite RVer’s journey even better. Explore our selection of gifts and create a unique bundle—mix and match items from this list or add in extras like themed accessories or even state park passes for added adventure! And don’t forget to take advantage of our FREE ship-to-store option, making it easy to get holiday-ready with the perfect gift for every snowbird.