Top 10 RV Surge Protectors (Basic, Budget and Premium Picks)

Whether you’re camping at your favorite park or boondocking in a remote location, reliable power is imperative. That’s what makes RV surge protectors a must-have. Our guide will provide the information you need to make an informed choice. Considering what’s at stake, it’s a worthwhile investment.

RV Surge Protectors

  Source: thecurveahead.net

Buying Guide

Surge protectors go the gamut from your basic power strip to more sophisticated models meant for handling large loads. These products protect your appliances and other devices during a voltage spike, such as a lightning strike. Let’s face it. Shore power has its hiccups, which can wreak havoc on any powered device in your rig.

Features to consider include:

  • Types of Electrical Management System (EMS): Surge protectors have metal oxide varistors (MOVs), which take the hit to the ground instead of your stuff. An EMS does the same thing but also safeguards your rig by tripping the electricity source to keep the spike from damaging anything. They are the premier choice between the two.
  • Kinds of RV Surge Protectors: Primary models sit between the power source and your house, or in this case, your RV. The secondary ones include various forms of power strips. You’ll also see uninterrupted power supply surge protectors, which keep the juice flowing with a battery.
  • Standard Features: Specs vary with the type, but ones you may see include max spike current, energy rating, amps, Underwriter’s Laboratory certification, and MOV indicator lights.

Buying Recommendations

CyberPower CSP600WSU Surge Protector, 1200J/125V, 6 Swivel Outlets, 2 USB Charging Ports, Wall Tap Design, Black
Progressive Industry SSP-50XL RV Camper Circuit Analyzer Surge Protector w/Grip Handles—30 & 50 Amp Portable & Hardwired Surge Guard w/Fault Detection
GE 6-Outlet Surge Protector, 6 Ft Extension Cord, Power Strip, 800 Joules, Flat Plug, Twist-to-Close Safety Covers, Protected Indicator Light, UL Listed, Black, 33661
Protection Type
Surge
Five-mode including reverse polarity detection
Surge
Installation
Plug-in
Plug-n-play
Plug-in
Surge Protection
1200 joule
50 amps; 1650 joules
15 amps; 800 joules
Warranty
Lifetime $75,000 Connected Equipment Guarantee
Lifetime
Limited lifetime warranty
Best Budget
CyberPower CSP600WSU Surge Protector, 1200J/125V, 6 Swivel Outlets, 2 USB Charging Ports, Wall Tap Design, Black
Protection Type
Surge
Installation
Plug-in
Surge Protection
1200 joule
Warranty
Lifetime $75,000 Connected Equipment Guarantee
Best Premium
Progressive Industry SSP-50XL RV Camper Circuit Analyzer Surge Protector w/Grip Handles—30 & 50 Amp Portable & Hardwired Surge Guard w/Fault Detection
Protection Type
Five-mode including reverse polarity detection
Installation
Plug-n-play
Surge Protection
50 amps; 1650 joules
Warranty
Lifetime
Best Basic
Recommendations
GE 6-Outlet Surge Protector, 6 Ft Extension Cord, Power Strip, 800 Joules, Flat Plug, Twist-to-Close Safety Covers, Protected Indicator Light, UL Listed, Black, 33661
Protection Type
Surge
Installation
Plug-in
Surge Protection
15 amps; 800 joules
Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty

Best Budget RV Surge Protectors

1. CyberPower CSP600WSU Surge Protector – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Protection Type: Surge
Installation: Plug-in
Surge Protection: 1200 joule
Warranty: Lifetime $75,000 Connected Equipment Guarantee
CyberPower CSP600WSU Surge Protector, 1200J/125V, 6 Swivel Outlets, 2 USB Charging Ports, Wall Tap Design, Black
CyberPower CSP600WSU Surge Protector, 1200J/125V, 6 Swivel Outlets, 2 USB Charging Ports, Wall Tap Design, Black
The CyberPower CSP600WSU Surge Protector is a handy device if you have limited space. The device includes two USB ports so that you can save the outlets for other things. The unit has an indicator light, which we always like to see on these devices.

What we like about it
  • The sides swivel out for convenient placement in tight spaces.
  • It includes additional filters for optimal performance.
  • There are also two USB ports.
Drawbacks
  • Warranty terms include proof of purchase with damaged items.
Sale
CyberPower CSP600WSU Surge Protector, 1200J/125V, 6 Swivel Outlets, 2 USB Charging Ports, Wall Tap Design, Black
  • 6 NEMA 5-15R SURGE PROTECTED OUTLETS: Provide 1200 joules of protection for home and office computers, electronics, and home theater equipment
  • 2 USB CHARGING PORTS: Share 2.4 amps are perfect for keeping tablets, smartphones, and other rechargeable devices ready to use
  • COMPACT DESIGN AND SWIVEL OUTLETS: 2 banks of swivel outlets are perfect for providing power in tight spaces, such as behind a bookshelf or desk

2. AmazonBasics 6-Outlet Surge Protector

Specs
Protection Type: Surge
Installation: Plug-in
Surge Protection: 15 amp circuit breaker; 200 joule
Warranty: Maximum of $20,000 for connected devices
No products found.
No products found.
The AmazonBasics 6-Outlet Surge Protector is a value buy if you need multiple outlets in a small space. The design is compact. You can also mount it to save space. You get two, six-outlet strips with your purchase. They also have indicator lights on them so that you know they’re still working correctly.

What we like about it
  • The package includes two power strips.
  • An indicator light tells you if it’s still functioning.
  • There are pre-drilled holes to mount the unit.
Drawbacks
  • The power cords are short.

No products found.

Premium RV Surge Protectors

1. Progressive Industries SSP-50XL Surge Protector – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Protection Type: Five-mode including reverse polarity detection
Installation: Plug-n-play
Surge Protection: 50 amps; 1650 joules
Warranty: Lifetime
Progressive Industry SSP-50XL RV Camper Circuit Analyzer Surge Protector w/Grip Handles—30 & 50 Amp Portable & Hardwired Surge Guard w/Fault Detection
Progressive Industry SSP-50XL RV Camper Circuit Analyzer Surge Protector w/Grip Handles—30 & 50 Amp Portable & Hardwired Surge Guard w/Fault Detection
The Progressive Industries SSP-50XL Surge Protector provides excellent protection up to 50 amps. The product is well-built to handle the elements. The LED display lets you know the state of your system. It’s hard to beat the fact that it also has a lifetime warranty.

What we like about it
  • The product is UL-certified.
  • It offers complete protection with five modes.
  • You can use it with a 30-amp outlet with the correct adaptor.
Drawbacks
  • You must get it installed through a qualified RV tech as per the warranty terms.
Sale
Progressive Industry SSP-50XL RV Camper Circuit Analyzer Surge Protector w/Grip Handles—30 & 50 Amp Portable & Hardwired Surge Guard w/Fault Detection
  • Maintain electronic safety - This 50 Amp RV Surge Protector by Progressive Industries is a real guard for your RV electronics. Its smart surge protection capacities help to protect your RV appliances against voltage fluctuations and power surges.
  • Prevents costly damage - With a 50A/120-240V/12,000W rating, SSP-50XL can absorb surges of up to 1,650 joules. This surge protector prevents severe and expensive damage to RV accessories and equipment attached to your motorized or towable RV.
  • Powerful fault detection - As a 50 amp surge protector for RV, SSP-50XL can give protection against over/under voltage, open ground/neutral, reverse polarity, and surge failure; as well as A/C frequency protection.

2. Hughes Autoformer PWD30 Power WatchDog Surge Protector

Specs
Protection Type: Surge
Installation: Plug-n-play
Surge Protection: 2400 joules
Warranty: Two-year warranty on the device
Power Watchdog PWD30, Bluetooth Surge Protector, 30 Amp, Portable
Power Watchdog PWD30, Bluetooth Surge Protector, 30 Amp, Portable
The Hughes Autoformer PWD30 Power WatchDog Surge Protector takes safeguarding your rig and gear to the next level with smart technology. You can monitor the unit’s operation remotely using the manufacturer’s mobile app. It is well-made and backed by a manufacturer’s warranty.

What we like about it
  • You can get alerts on your smartphone about possible issues with its mobile app and Park Power Diagnostics.
  • It has an IP rating of 65 for optimal protection.
  • You can replace the surge module if a spike damages it.
Drawbacks
  • There are occasional issues with Bluetooth connectivity.
Power Watchdog PWD30, Bluetooth Surge Protector, 30 Amp, Portable
  • Replaceable Surge / Spike Module: Should a large spike happen, surge module is completely replacable instead of replacing the entire unit.
  • Wirelessly Monitor voltage, amperage, and wattage on your smartphone in real time using our free mobile app! Oldest and most reliable phone app in the business!
  • Complete LED Park Power Diagnostics with wireless fault alerts ensure you are aware of any hazardous park power conditions.

Basic Power Protection

1. GE Outlet Surge Protector – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Protection Type: Surge
Installation: Plug-in
Surge Protection: 15 amps; 800 joules
Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
GE 6-Outlet Surge Protector, 6 Ft Extension Cord, Power Strip, 800 Joules, Flat Plug, Twist-to-Close Safety Covers, Protected Indicator Light, UL Listed, Black, 33661
GE 6-Outlet Surge Protector, 6 Ft Extension Cord, Power Strip, 800 Joules, Flat Plug, Twist-to-Close Safety Covers, Protected Indicator Light, UL Listed, Black, 33661
The GE Outlet Surge Protector has the features you’d expect from a company with decades of experience. Safety features include twist covers on each of the six outlets, a must-have option if you have small children. You get your choice of cord length, which we appreciated.

What we like about it
  • It has both an indicator light and safety covers for outlets that you aren’t using.
  • The plug sits flat against the wall.
  • The warranty is impressive, considering what it is.
Drawbacks
  • The LED lights on the strip are too bright.
GE 6-Outlet Surge Protector, 6 Ft Extension Cord, Power Strip, 800 Joules, Flat Plug, Twist-to-Close Safety Covers, Protected Indicator Light, UL Listed, Black, 33661
  • Expand your power – 6 grounded and protected 3-prong outlets provide power from a distance – perfect for creating a centralized hub for your electronics at your home, office, workshop or garage.
  • Versatile Cord – 6ft. power cord housed in a durable PVC insulation and jacket with a space-saving flat plug to allow unit to fit closely to the wall. This surge protector extension cord is strong enough to last a lifetime and pliable enough to easily fully extend.
  • Protection – 800 Joules protection rating safeguards your electronics from harmful voltage spikes. Integrated circuit breaker cuts power to your surge protector should it experience overvoltage or overheating.

2. AiJoy Surge Protector

Specs
Protection Type: Surge
Installation: Plug-in
Surge Protection: Automatic shut-off over 2500 watts
Warranty: n/a
Power Strip Tower with USB Ports, AiJoy Surge Protector with 8 AC Outlets and 4 USB Ports, Fast Charging Station with Extension Cord 10FT, Office Supplies & Dorm Essentials
Power Strip Tower with USB Ports, AiJoy Surge Protector with 8 AC Outlets and 4 USB Ports, Fast Charging Station with Extension Cord 10FT, Office Supplies & Dorm Essentials
The UL-certified AiJoy Surge Protector is a welcome space-saver for smaller campers. It has eight outlets and four USB ports with two fast-charging ones. The unit also has a built-in circuit breaker to protect you from voltage spikes. The design leaves enough room around each outlet to avoid crowding.

What we like about it
  • The product has plenty of outlets and ports, along with a long cord.
  • The manufacturer went the extra mile with several certifications, including UL and FCC.
  • It has an automatic shut-off to protect your rig and devices.
Drawbacks
  • The unit is too lightweight to manage the use of all its outlets and ports.
Sale
Power Strip Tower with USB Ports, AiJoy Surge Protector with 8 AC Outlets and 4 USB Ports, Fast Charging Station with Extension Cord 10FT, Office Supplies & Dorm Essentials
  • Power Strip with USB and Multi Outlets Plug: The surge protector with usb has 4 USB ports and 8AC outlets, the 10ft extension cord supports wide voltage 100V-250V. The 8 AC outlets electrical power surge protector can afford up to 1250W ~ 125V / 2500W ~ 250V. 4 USB charger with 3.1A max per port (most of others is 2.4A max per port) quickly charges your latest devices in higher speed.
  • Long 10 ft Extension Cord &UL Listed Cable : The power surge protector power strip 10ft cord fits just about anywhere and allows for distance from wall plug in. This UL-listed cable has a housing made of heat-resistant PVC materials , and a cable core made of 100% copper. Provide safe and reliable power for your home electronic.
  • Power Your Safety: The power strip surge protector tower has passed FCC, CE, RoHS certification, it has surge protection, overload protection, short circuit protection, lightning protection. The extension cord with multiple outlets use the ceramic SPD to automatic cut off the power fastly when voltage surge is detected.

30 Amp Surge Protector

1. Camco 55312 Circuit Analyzer – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Protection Type: Surge
Installation: Plug-n-play
Surge Protection: 2100 joules
Warranty: One-year warranty
No products found.
No products found.
The Camco 55312 Circuit Analyzer is an excellent choice if you want to monitor the state of the power going into your camper. A series of LED lights provide real-time info. It includes things such as open neutral and reverse polarity. While it is weather-resistant, it is not waterproof.

What we like about it
  • The LED lights make it quick and easy to diagnose electrical issues.
  • The ergonomic ends make it easy to use.
  • The company produces several accessories to accompany this product for customizing it to your needs.
Drawbacks
  • You must keep it in an upright position to protect it from the elements.

No products found.

2. Surge Guard 44280 Portable Surge Protector

Specs
Protection Type: Surge
Installation: Plug-n-play
Surge Protection: 2100 joules
Warranty: One-year warranty
TECHNOLOGY 3A Co. Surge Guard 44280 Portable Surge Protector - 120V, 30A,Black
TECHNOLOGY 3A Co. Surge Guard 44280 Portable Surge Protector - 120V, 30A,Black
The Surge Guard 44280 Portable Surge Protector keeps your rig safe with real-time info on the state of your power source and the unit itself. The LED display is easy to read. It’s a sound investment for protecting your camper and device against campground power problems.

What we like about it
  • The product is UL-certified.
  • The item has a thermal sensor to prevent further issues from overheating.
  • It comes with a rain cover for additional protection against the elements.
Drawbacks
  • The LED lights could be brighter.
Sale
TECHNOLOGY 3A Co. Surge Guard 44280 Portable Surge Protector - 120V, 30A,Black
  • Identifies Faulty Park Power Plus Offers Surge Protection
  • Tests For And Indicates Open Neutral, Open Ground, Reverse Polarity, Open Circuit/No Power, Surge Protection Status, And Overheating Plug/Receptacle
  • Increased Receptacle Brass Thickness Reduces Heat

50 Amp Surge Protector

1. Southwire 34950 Surge Guard – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Protection Type: Surge
Installation: Plug-n-play
Surge Protection: 4200 joules
Warranty: Lifetime warranty
No products found.
No products found.
The Southwire 34950 Surge Guard covers all the bases for protecting your right against spikes and problems with shore power, such as a misfiring pedestal. That allows you to identify issues quickly before they cause damage. It offers excellent surge protection for larger rigs.

What we like about it
  • The delay provides additional protection for your air conditioner.
  • The surge protection is among the best we’ve seen.
  • Diagnostics of shore power is a godsend.
Drawbacks
  • The product is expensive.

No products found.

2. Hughes Autoformers PWD50-EPO-H Smart Surge Protector

Specs
Protection Type: Surge
Installation: Plug-n-play
Surge Protection: 4800 joules;50 amp
Warranty: Two-year warranty
Power Watchdog PWD50EPO, Bluetooth Surge Protector with Auto Shutoff, 50 Amp, Portable
Power Watchdog PWD50EPO, Bluetooth Surge Protector with Auto Shutoff, 50 Amp, Portable
The Hughes Autoformers PWD50-EPO-H Smart Surge Protector is another excellent all-around product that both diagnoses and prevents damage from power spikes automatically. It is well-made with an easy-to-read display. You can also replace the surge module if an event occurs.

What we like about it
  • The product acts like an EMS and will automatically shut off the power.
  • The smart device has Bluetooth connectivity.
  • The display is easy to read.
Drawbacks
  • It is spendy.
Power Watchdog PWD50EPO, Bluetooth Surge Protector with Auto Shutoff, 50 Amp, Portable
  • Replaceable Surge / Spike Module: Should a large spike happen, surge module is completely replacable instead of replacing the entire unit.
  • Wirelessly Monitor voltage, amperage, and wattage on your smartphone in real time using our free mobile app! Oldest and most reliable phone app in the business!
  • Plug-n-Play ensures a minimal 4-second power-on analysis to determine if power conditions are safe, while other brands can take up to two minutes.

Final Thoughts About RV Surge Protectors

While RV surge protectors aren’t sexy products, they are critical for keeping your rig and devices safe. They are a worthwhile investment that will pay for themselves the first time they prevent damage from natural causes or your shore power sources.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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