9 Essential Cab Accessories for Driving a Motorhome Cross Country

Staring down a 2,000-mile cross-country journey in a motorhome is both thrilling and intimidating. Unlike a standard road trip, driving a house on wheels requires sustained focus, intense situational awareness, and hours behind the wheel of a heavy machine. Outfitting the cab with the right tools transforms a stressful, fatiguing haul into a controlled, comfortable adventure.

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Preparing Your Motorhome Cab for Cross-Country Travel

Before turning the key on a multi-state trek, the driver’s cab must be treated as a command center rather than a standard car dashboard. A motorhome is taller, wider, and significantly heavier than a passenger vehicle, meaning reaction times must be longer and distractions must be minimized. Preparing this space is about establishing visual clarity and keeping critical tools within arm’s reach without cluttering the dashboard.

Proper preparation begins with a clean slate. Remove any loose items that could slide, fall, or roll under the brake pedal during an emergency stop. Take the time to adjust mirrors, test dash electronics, and secure all charging cables before leaving the driveway. This upfront organization reduces cognitive fatigue, allowing the driver to focus entirely on navigating narrow lanes and managing highway crosswinds.

RV GPS – Garmin RV 895 Specialized GPS Navigator

Standard smartphone mapping applications are designed for passenger cars, which can lead to disaster when driving a high-clearance rig. A bridge with a low overhead clearance or a winding road with strict weight limits can turn a pleasant drive into a dangerous bottleneck. A dedicated RV GPS takes the guesswork out of route planning by calculating paths based on the physical dimensions of the motorhome.

The Garmin RV 895 Specialized GPS Navigator stands out as the premium choice for this task. It features a bright, easy-to-read 8-inch display that can be mounted in portrait or landscape mode, making map reading effortless at a glance. Key features include:

• Custom routing based on the specific height, width, length, and weight of the motorhome.
• A comprehensive preloaded directory of RV parks and services, including search filters for preferred amenities.
• Road warnings for upcoming steep grades, sharp curves, and narrow passages.

Before purchasing, ensure there is adequate dashboard real estate to mount an 8-inch screen without obstructing the forward view of the road. While the unit updates via Wi-Fi, the initial setup requires inputting precise measurements of the rig, including any towed vehicles. This unit is indispensable for Class A and Class C drivers who travel off the interstate system, but it may be unnecessary for those in compact Class B campervans who stick strictly to urban areas.

Dash Cam – Garmin Dash Cam 67W Smart Camera

When piloting a vehicle that weighs several tons, stopping distances increase dramatically, and other drivers often underestimate the space an RV needs. A high-quality dash cam serves as an unbiased digital eyewitness in the event of an accident or insurance dispute. Beyond safety, it captures unexpected scenic moments along the route without requiring the driver to take their eyes off the road.

The Garmin Dash Cam 67W Smart Camera is a standout choice for its exceptional 180-degree field of view. This extra-wide lens captures cross-traffic and merging lanes that narrower cameras miss entirely. Crucial features include:

• 1440p HDR video recording to ensure license plates are legible in low light or direct sunlight.
• Voice control in multiple languages, allowing the driver to save footage or start audio recording hands-free.
• Compact, pocket-sized housing that mounts discreetly behind the rearview mirror.

Keep in mind that this camera requires a high-end, endurance-rated MicroSD card, which is usually sold separately. Cable routing requires some planning to keep the power cord from dangling across the dashboard. This camera is a vital safety investment for any RVer driving long distances, though drivers who only use their rig for local weekend camping may find it optional.

Seat Cushion – Purple Ultimate Seat Cushion

Sitting in a stock motorhome seat for six to eight hours a day can quickly cause lower back pain, hip soreness, and leg numbness. Many RV seats, especially in budget-friendly Class C rental rigs or older models, lack proper lumbar support and high-density foam. A specialized seat cushion prevents physical fatigue, allowing for longer, safer driving stints without the need for constant stretching stops.

The Purple Ultimate Seat Cushion is designed specifically for larger seats and heavier duty cycles. Using a patented Hyper-Elastic Polymer grid, it cradles the tailbone while distributing body weight evenly to eliminate pressure points. Notable specifications include:

• A contoured design that supports proper pelvic alignment.
• A breathable grid pattern that prevents heat buildup and sweating during summer drives.
• An anti-slip bottom cover that keeps the cushion firmly anchored to leather or vinyl seats.

Buyers must note that this cushion is thick and heavy, which will raise the driver’s seating position by a couple of inches. This height adjustment may require repositioning the steering wheel and mirrors to maintain comfortable ergonomics. It is an excellent solution for drivers dealing with sciatica or chronic back pain, though it might be excessive for those blessed with high-end, air-ride captain’s chairs.

Tire Pressure Monitor – EEZ RV Products TPMS

A tire blowout on a heavy motorhome can easily cause thousands of dollars in body damage, rip through plumbing lines, or result in a loss of vehicle control. Checking pressures manually with a hand gauge during a trip is tedious and only provides a snapshot in time. A wireless tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) offers real-time safety data while driving down the highway.

The EEZ RV Products TPMS is a trusted industry standard built for the demanding conditions of long-distance RV travel. It monitors both tire pressure and temperature, giving early warning of a failing wheel bearing or a dragging brake before a blowout occurs. Key highlights include:

• The ability to monitor up to 26 tires simultaneously, perfect for towing a trailer or dinghy vehicle.
• A large, backlit display with customizable high/low pressure and temperature alarms.
• Screw-on anti-theft sensors that are easily installed on standard valve stems.

Users should be aware that rubber valve stems can flex under the weight of the sensors; upgrading to metal valve stems is a crucial safety step. The system also requires a simple programming sequence to link each sensor to its correct position on the monitor. This safety tool is a non-negotiable accessory for multi-axle motorhomes and towing setups, while owners of small, single-axle campervans with robust dashboard TPMS systems might skip it.

Phone Mount – Ram Mounts Quick-Grip Holder

Even with a dedicated GPS, a smartphone remains essential for secondary tasks like streaming music, managing audiobooks, or communicating with travel companions. An unsecured phone sliding across the console or falling into the footwell is a dangerous distraction. A heavy-duty, vibration-resistant mount keeps the device secure and positioned directly in the driver’s line of sight.

The Ram Mounts Quick-Grip Holder utilizes a rugged, mechanical design that holds phones securely even on rough, unpaved roads. Unlike cheap plastic cradles, this mount relies on a robust spring-loaded mechanism that grips the phone tightly. Essential characteristics include:

• High-strength composite and powder-coated aluminum construction.
• Compatibility with the RAM B-size ball-and-socket system, allowing for infinite angle adjustments.
• A design that allows for one-handed insertion and removal of the device.

Note that this holder is sold as a component, meaning a separate mounting base (like a suction cup or adhesive mount) and arm must be purchased to complete the setup. The spring tension is quite stiff, which requires some physical effort to operate initially. It is perfect for adventurous RVers who tackle washboard roads, whereas casual highway drivers might prefer a simpler magnetic mount.

Windshield Sun Shade – WeatherTech Custom Fit

The massive windshield of a Class A or Class C motorhome acts as a giant greenhouse, trapping immense heat in the cab when parked. This thermal load strains the RV’s air conditioning system and degrades the dashboard plastics over time. A high-quality sun shade blocks damaging UV rays and provides instant privacy when parked at a campsite or a rest area.

The WeatherTech Custom Fit SunShade is laser-measured to fit the exact contours of specific motorhome windshields, leaving no gaps for light or heat to penetrate. It features a unique dual-purpose design that adapts to changing seasons. Key features include:

• A reflective silver side that repels heat to keep the cab cool during hot summer months.
• A reverse black side that absorbs heat and helps warm the interior during winter camping.
• A flexible, roll-up design with a built-in hook-and-loop strap for storage.

Because these shades are custom-made for specific chassis models (such as the Ford E-Series or Mercedes Sprinter), they cannot be transferred to a different vehicle. Their large physical size when rolled up requires dedicated storage space in a closet or under a bed. This accessory is a must-have for boondockers and hot-climate travelers, but it is less critical for those who always park under dense tree canopy.

Cup Holder Expander – WeatherTech CupCoffee

Most standard motorhome cup holders are designed for small disposable coffee cups or soda cans, leaving no room for heavy, insulated travel mugs. On a cross-country drive, staying hydrated with large water bottles or insulated tumblers is essential. A cup holder expander modifies the existing dashboard layout to accommodate wider, top-heavy drinkware safely.

The WeatherTech CupCoffee is a beautifully engineered accessory that sits securely inside existing cup holders without wobbling. It features a tapered base and interchangeable sizing cups to ensure a snug fit in almost any vehicle dashboard. Key specs include:

• An open-sided handle slot that accommodates mugs with large side handles.
• High-quality automotive-grade plastic construction that resists UV fading and warping.
• A design that positions the beverage higher and closer to the driver’s hand.

Be aware that if the motorhome’s factory cup holders are placed close together, installing this expander may block access to the adjacent cup holder. The elevated height of the drink can also create a slightly higher center of gravity, so extra care should be taken on sharp turns. This product is ideal for drivers who rely on oversized vacuum-insulated tumblers, but unnecessary for those who use standard-sized water bottles.

Seatback Organizer – Carhartt Cargo Organizer

Keeping the driver’s cab tidy is critical when living in a small space, as clutter quickly leads to frustration and lost items. Important travel documents, tire pressure gauges, flashlights, and maps need to be organized and accessible. A rugged seatback organizer utilizes unused vertical space behind the front seats, keeping the cab floor completely clear.

The Carhartt Cargo Organizer is built from the same heavy-duty Rain Defender durable water repellent fabric as their famous workwear. It is designed to withstand the daily abuse of life on the road without tearing or sagging. Key features include:

• Multiple pockets of varying sizes, including mesh pockets and hook-and-loop closures.
• Adjustable webbing straps that wrap securely around the headrest and seat base.
• Triple-needle stitching on main stress points for long-term durability.

This organizer requires seats with adjustable, dual-post headrests to mount properly, so it may not fit older, integrated high-back RV seats. In some Class C configurations where a dinette sits directly behind the cab, the organizer may slightly impede passenger legroom. It is the ultimate storage solution for organized road trippers, but less useful in rigs with ample dashboard glove boxes and storage cubbies.

Power Inverter – Bestek 300W Pure Sine Wave

While driving, the motorhome’s alternator charges the house batteries, but the dashboard outlets only provide 12V DC power. Charging sensitive electronics like laptops, camera batteries, or drone controllers requires clean AC power. A compact inverter plugs into the dashboard accessory port to bridge this gap without running the generator.

The Bestek 300W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter is the ideal choice for powering delicate microprocessors safely. Unlike cheaper modified sine wave inverters that can overheat or damage electronics, pure sine wave power mimics the electricity found in a residential home. Key details include:

• Two standard 110V AC outlets and two high-speed USB charging ports.
• A smart cooling fan that runs silently and adjusts speed based on load.
• Built-in protection against over-voltage, short-circuits, and overloads.

Please note that standard 12V dashboard cigarette lighter ports are typically limited to 150 watts of output; to utilize the full 300 watts, the unit must be connected directly to a battery using alligator clips. The cooling fan, while quiet, does produce a low hum that some drivers might find noticeable in a quiet cab. This inverter is essential for digital nomads and remote workers, but is redundant if the motorhome is already equipped with an active house inverter that charges outlets on the go.

How to Route Cables Safely in a Motorhome Cab

Adding GPS units, dash cams, tire monitors, and phone mounts can quickly turn a motorhome dashboard into a chaotic web of tangled wires. Loose cables are not just an eyesore; they present a genuine safety hazard if they snag on the gear shifter, steering column, or pedals. Taking the time to properly route and secure these wires prevents accidents and keeps the cab looking professional.

Start by mapping out the path for each cable, prioritizing runs that tuck into the seams of the dashboard panels or run along the windshield trim. Use adhesive cable clips and hook-and-loop wraps to anchor wires tightly against solid surfaces. Ensure there is enough slack near the devices to allow for screen rotation and adjustments, but not so much that a wire hangs free.

Never route cables across the path of steering wheels, brake pedals, or passenger airbags. If a wire must pass near a moving steering column, secure it using heavy-duty zip ties to permanent chassis brackets. A clean, cable-free dashboard reduces visual distraction and ensures that no wire can shake loose and fall under the pedals during a sudden stop.

Optimizing Your Cab Ergonomics for Long Drives

Driving a large motorhome requires physical stamina, as the driver must constantly make micro-adjustments to stay centered in the lane against crosswinds and road ruts. Poor driving posture leads to shoulder tension, neck strain, and lower back fatigue, which shortens driving range and ruins the destination experience. Establishing correct ergonomics before hitting the highway is key to long-term comfort.

Begin by adjusting the seat height so that the hips are slightly higher than the knees, which opens up the lower back and improves blood flow. Position the seat forward enough that the pedals can be fully depressed without reaching or stretching, maintaining a slight bend in the knees. The steering wheel should be adjusted so the driver’s elbows are bent at roughly a 90-degree angle, preventing shoulder fatigue.

Position all screens—especially the RV GPS and backup monitors—slightly below eye level and within the driver’s peripheral vision. This setup prevents the need to turn the head completely away from the road to check directions. Finally, schedule regular breaks every two to three hours to step out of the cab, stretch the hamstrings, and allow the eyes to rest from the strain of the road.

Preparing a motorhome cab for a cross-country journey is about balancing safety, comfort, and organization. By investing in specialized gear like custom-fit sun shades, robust mounts, and dedicated RV electronics, drivers can navigate with confidence and ease. With the cab fully optimized, the focus shifts from managing road stress to enjoying the unfolding landscape on the open road.