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There are an awful lot of RV accessories out there on the market, but one of the most important ones for you to consider is an RV jack stand. Some RVs have jack stands built in nowadays, but if you have a vintage or less-equipped rig like me, you may wish to consider purchasing jack stands now.

But what even are jack stands, and why might they be important for the life of your RV? And what type suits your rig best? We’re going to cover that and more but if you want to skip ahead and see which jacks made the list you can see them here:

What is an RV Jack Stand?

An RV jack stand is an integral part of a rig, which is why I’m glad they make them standard nowadays! RV jack stands are essentially stabilizers and are often called this as well. These stabilizers do exactly what they sound like they do: stabilize your rig when it is not in motion!

Stabilizers are built to hold up your RV when it is parked and provide a more stable walking surface for you and any inhabitants inside your rig. There are RV jacks made for your RV’s frame as well as for your rig’s slide outs. These stands are often portable and compact since many must be removed before you can leave camp!

RV jack stands come in a variety of styles, strengths, and lengths. While it may seem overwhelming right now, you’ll soon learn what you need for your new or old RV. What might be the best fit for you?

Types of RV Jack Stands

RV stabilizers aren’t “one size fits all”, because RVs are very unique, and so are their inhabitants! You may have different priorities from someone else, and your rig may be of a certain weight that it narrows down your choices. Here are the different types on the market and what makes them special.

Tripod Jacks

One of the most affordable styles of RV jack stands, tripod jack stands are exactly as they sound. They are set up on three legs, which means that your rig will have stability given the triangle nature of their shape. They are also portable, not attached to your rig.

However, tripod jacks often aren’t often built to support more than 500 pounds per jack. They also usually require a pad or other flat support from beneath so that the skinny legs don’t sink into soft earth should you go camping off the beaten path. 

If you don’t have a very heavy RV, these affordable and easy to operate tripod jacks may be a great option for you! I own a four pack of small tripod jacks for my 19 foot long rig, and they work great!

Scissor Jacks

Looking for something with a bit more stability? Landing gear stabilizers are built to support over 10,000 pounds, depending on their manufacturer. Plus these guys are usually easy to operate, and can be both manual or electric.

However, these guys need to be permanently installed onto your rig, which can prove frustrating if you are doing it at home. Plus, you run the risk of installing them improperly, which can be dangerous. Most newer RVs utilize these types of jacks, already installed at the manufacturer.

Given how much weight they can support and their permanent installation, these jacks can be a bit pricier than others. However, having something permanent and electric can make it much easier to use your rig!

Electric Stabilizers

Much like landing gear stabilizers being automatic and electric, there are various other styles of electric stabilizers. These little guys can be really cool, and are most often portable. You simply set them and their electronics can raise and stabilize your rig without you needing to lift a finger. 

Sounds too good to be true, right? It can be, especially because each one of these stabilizers can support over 5,000 pounds! The main drawback to this style of RV jack is their price. If you’re looking for ease and aren’t concerned about cost, these might be the stabilizer for you.

Pipe-Mounted Stabilizers

One of the most common varieties of stabilizers, pipe-mounted options can be a great “one size almost fits all” style. These guys come in a variety of weight capacities, as well as being portable or permanent.

Their price point isn’t too bad, and one jack can often hold up to 7,000 pounds. However, they are manual more often than not, and they can be tricky to set up properly. If you are purchasing ones with a permanent installation option, make sure you install them properly so that you don’t cause damage to your rig!

Leveling Systems

If you have a newer, more sophisticated rig, you may have an onboard leveling system already included. These systems can be purchased after market, and are designed to electronically adjust your RV until it is level.

This system can be fairly straightforward to handle and set up, and the weight limits are often in the thousands. However, this style of RV stabilizer isn’t meant to raise up your RV very much, and is really just meant for basic support. Plus they can be fairly pricey! If you’re concerned about your rig being level, this may be the right fit for you.

What to Look for in an RV Jack Stand

Knowing the types of RV stabilizers is important and useful before you go shopping. However, there’s even more you should be considering. If you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to stabilizing your new rig, check out some key things to keep in mind and watch out for while you are shopping!

Weight of your rig

We’ve talked an awful lot already about the importance of knowing the weight of not only your RV but also important metrics like your tongue weight capacity. It can matter for your tow vehicle, your hitch, how much you can bring with you. The weight of your rig matters the most when it comes to buying stabilizers. 

Knowing how much your rig weighs when it is all full up and occupied is the most important number you should know before shopping around for RV jacks. No doubt you are buying stabilizers to keep your rig level and no longer bouncy. So you need to make sure you purchase jacks that can support the full weight of your rig!

How many you might need

RV jacks are often sold in two packs or greater, but you can even buy one if that’s all you need. Knowing the weight of your RV is the most important factor when it comes to deciding how many jacks to buy. It is rare to find an RV jack that supports your entire rig, and distributing the weight across many jacks is a good idea.

Height of your rig (your clearance)

My vintage rig is very low to the ground, almost dangerously so. I was nervous about purchasing RV jacks that could fit beneath it. I found ones that work for me, and you’ll find ones that work for you too! However, the height of your rig should be a number you know when it comes to purchasing your stabilizers. 

Even the adjustable ones should be cross-referenced with the clearance of your rig so that you don’t get something too low or too tall! It’s easy to figure out, and most jacks are very adjustable. However, if you have a low rider like me, keep this in mind for sure!

Material

Most all RV stabilizers are made of heavier-duty metal, but the materials should be something to consider should you be looking to maximize the longevity of this particular RV accessory. Some RV jacks are made of more reliable materials than others, as well as rust resistant or water resistant. 

Permanent installation

Are you hoping to install your RV stabilizers and then forget that they are there? You may want to look for jacks with a permanent installation option, rather than smaller and more portable. Portable jacks are often more affordable, but you’ll have to consider where to store them while you’re on the road.

Budget

I know my budget is always my first priority, but I’m a coupon clipper. Thankfully there are plenty of RV stabilizer jacks on the market, for a wide variety of budgets! However, if you have a limited budget like I did, some electric stabilizers may not be an option for you.

Adjustability

Whether you want automatic leveling detection or choose to crawl under your rig to manually crank your stabilizers, the adjustability of your jacks is important. Ease of adjustability also matters and is something you should consider as well.

Pros and Cons of RV Jack Stands

You may be wondering if purchasing RV stabilizers is worth it. My short answer is yes, they are more often than not a necessary RV accessory! However, there are various other perks to buying an RV jack, as well as some potential negatives.

Pro: It won’t feel like a boat when you walk around inside your rig!

When I first began my full-time RVer journey, I had done very little research about RV jacks. I figured my 19 foot rig was stable enough that I could forgo them. I got this, I thought to myself, no need to buy something else!

However, day after day I felt like I was getting seasick on a boat. Walking around made everything sway, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything very physical inside the rig due to how much it moved around.

Purchasing stabilizers for my rig was one of the best purchases I have ever made. It is completely stable; I could do jumping jacks inside if I wanted! It makes me home on wheels feel like a home on the ground, and that to me is a necessity.

Con: Where am I gonna keep yet another RV accessory?

This can be a pain for those of you RV owners with very little storage space. Living full time in my rig always makes me second guess what I can and should buy, what I can wedge in my storage compartments or in the back of my truck.

RV jacks can take up a decent amount of space should you choose to purchase portable ones. However, they try to keep them small as manufacturers know the value of this to RV owners. And you can always buy permanently fixed stabilizers if you’re worried about storage!

Pro: Your rig’s frame will thank you!

Having a rig from 1976, I am always thinking about my ancient frame. When I first looked at buying stabilizers, I read that your RV’s frame can eventually warp and bend should it not have proper support.

I was so happy to read this, because it made me positive that I needed stabilizers. Anyone hoping to extend the life of their rig’s frame should consider RV jacks. Your frame may seem strong, but the years can take a toll on it for sure!

Con: You mean my RV accessory NEEDS an accessory!?

The real bummer about RV accessories is that, more often than not, you need additional accessories before the first accessory can reach its full potential. RV jacks are one of these accessories.

Only rarely do RV jack stands have reliable flat supports, perfect for gravel or dirt locations, any soft soil. So buying RV jacks is step one, then you’ll most likely need to buy support pads as well. If you plan on parking your rig anywhere that isn’t concrete, plan to buy jack pads too!

Pro: Being level can be a necessity for some RV systems

Owning RV jacks usually means you are helping your rig get level. This can be a necessary piece of your set-up puzzle, as having a level rig usually helps your RV systems. From water to propane, a level rig is a happy rig!

Some of these systems don’t work properly if your rig isn’t level. Wouldn’t it be the worst if you went camping and couldn’t get your propane to work due to how non-level your rig is!? RV jack stands can fix this problem, no problem.

The Best Jack Stands for Your RV

Feeling confident about your wants and needs regarding RV jack stands and stabilizers? Now comes the fun part: choosing the product that works best for you! Here are my top picks of the RV jacks currently on the market.

Best Overall: EAZ LIFT 48860 Telescopic Jack

Let’s start with some triangle jacks, because why not! Sometimes simple can be best, and these jacks by EAZ-LIFT might be exactly what you need. Sturdy, portable, and adjustable- they may be the whole package for you and your rig.

The Eaz-Lift Telescopic RV Jack provides a safe and easy way to stabilize your RV. It features a zinc-plated inner tube, quick release pin, screw assembly and is adjustable from 16-inches to 30-inches. The jack’s sturdy steel construction and powder coat for maximum rust protection has a certified 6000 lb. load capacity per jack. Comes in a set of two, which means you can purchase as many or as few as you like.

These little guys have stable bases, but you might still need to purchase some jack pads. I also wouldn’t extend them to full height as they can lose some stability at that point. I would recommend something else for a taller rig. However, these stabilizers fit a lot of options, and may work great for you too! You can read more reviews and check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

 

Editor’s Choice: Camco Olympian Aluminum Stack Jacks

I’ve already mentioned that I’m a bit of a coupon clipper, so these aluminum jacks by Camco were perfect for me. These guys could also go under our budget RV jack category, but I bought these and they’re still going strong, so I figured I’d claim my own category!

Camco’s Olympian Aluminum Stack Jacks are designed to stabilize and level your RV. Made of durable cast aluminum, they can support up to 6000 lb. each and are adjustable from 11-inches to 17-inches. Easy to use, simply position each stack jack underneath your RV, and raise to the proper height to reach appropriate leveling and stabilization. They may not rise very high, however; I’d recommend these jacks for lower to the ground rigs for sure!

When finished with camping, they are easy to pack up and store. They weigh less than 10 pounds total too, and are very compact! The stack jacks come in a pack of 4, which is exactly what I needed for my rig. While they aren’t the most stable fully extended like most triangle jacks, these little guys are amazing otherwise. I rarely need to use my jack pads with them, and my rig doesn’t move and bounce anymore. Amazing! You can check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.

 

Best for Heavy Rigs: LIBRA Set of 2 True 7500 lb Heavy Duty 24″ RV Trailer Stabilizer Leveling Scissor Jacks

If you’ve got a big rig with no manufacturer installed jacks, you should check out these scissor jacks by LIBRA. This is the whole package, though you may need more than two. This set includes 2 steel jacks, 1 crank handle, and includes a 3/4″ hex magnetic socket to raise and lower your jack faster by power drill, 

This kit also includes self taping mounting screws and matching 9/16″ socket for easy install, so that you can feel reassured about proper installation. Each one of these jacks can hold up to 7500 pounds, with an extended height of 24″. These guys also aren’t bad for storage, or for permanently installing beneath your rig, measuring 5″ retracted height and a 26″ retracted length.

These jacks are chunky and can handle heavy duty rigs, made of 11 gauge steel! They’re easy to install but just make sure they’re a good fit for the height of your rig before purchasing.

You can learn more and check the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

 

Best Electric Option: Lippert Components High Speed Power Stabilizer Jack Kit

Move over, manual jacks! Here’s the good stuff. This Lippert Components power stabilizer jack kit comes with a handy dandy remote that will stabilize your rig for you. This bar is permanently installed underneath your rig, and it can take your leveling from here.

Built with heavy gauge steel, embossed legs, and a powder-coat finish — when it comes to durability, this power stabilizer was made to withstand the elements and perform with efficiency, day after day.

With the flip of a switch, you can take the sway out of your RV or trailer in minutes. No more manual cranking. No more hassle. Uneven terrain? No problem. Each leg of the stabilizer operates independently, automatically reacting to bumpy, rugged surfaces until the RV is secured safely in place.

Plus, these PSX1 Power Stabilizers are compatible with most RVs and trailers on today’s market. In addition, this jack is backed by a name you can trust with a reliable one-year manufacturer’s warranty for added peace of mind on the road.

The main issue with this bad boy is that you may need two, one on each end of your RV. Lippert does not provide a weight limit for this power jack either, but four points touching the ground is more stable than two. And that means double the cost, which is already pretty high.

However, if you are replacing existing electric jacks, this guy installs easily where your old ones were. And then you don’t have to worry or think about being stable ever again! Check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

 

Best for Slide Outs: Dumble RV Slide Out Stabilizer Jacks

Do you have unsupported slide outs that could use stabilizing? Check out these slide out jacks by Dumble. Using your camper slide out for extended periods of time can cause sagging and bending in the slideout rails which can create operation issues and costly frame repairs. Use this two-pack to alleviate tension and increase stability in your travel trailer, RV, and camper slide out rooms!

Heavy-duty steel and zinc finish provides maximum strength and longevity for these rust-resisting RV levelers. This RV slide out supports set features adjustable RV slide out camper stabilizer jacks that can adjust from 26 inches to 49 inches in height. Many people say that these are a cinch to install, and the company gives you instructions too!

From the lowest setting, slide your RV slideout stabilizers travel trailer jacks under your slide out rail then use the folding handle to raise the bracket slowly to meet the RV slideout supports bars. The trailer stabilizing jack screw mechanism provides support to your slide out room when it is in use for weeks or a full season! Some folks mention the skinny base as being unstable, but this can be easily fixed with some jack blocks!

Read more reviews and check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

 

Best Permanent Installation: Eaz-Lift 24″ RV Stabilizing Scissor Jack

Scissor jacks are a very popular style of jack nowadays, and EAZ-LIFT has already been on this list, making them a popular RV brand! A division of Camco, EAZ-LIFT has designed some sturdy and permanent RV jacks for you. Granted, these can be temporarily installed too, but these beasts are worth leaving on your rig!

Eaz-Lift’s Olympian 24″ Scissor Jacks fit pop-ups, trailers and other large vehicles. They allow for either bolt-on or weld-on installation. The scissor jacks have a certified 7500 pound load capacity and are constructed of heavy-duty steel and powder-coated for maximum rust protection. Comes as a set of two. Measures 4-3/8-inches high when fully collapsed and 23-3/4-inches when fully extended.

What else can be said for these jacks? They will be backed by Camco’s lovely customer service and any of your questions will be answered by them. These only come in a two pack and you may need four if you have a large rig. They are also not the most budget-friendly. However, they are built to last! You can learn more and check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.

 

Best for Small Rigs: Red Hound Auto 4 Telescoping Folding Trailer Stabilizer Jacks

Are you looking for the Goldilocks of RV stabilizer jacks because your rig isn’t as big as all the others? These telescoping jacks by Red Hound Auto are amazing! Compact, built for lighter rigs, these permanent installation jacks may be all that you need. If your rig weighs under 4000 pounds, read on.

These little guys conveniently fold up for travel and fold down for use. Their adjustable telescoping function establishes an ideal height for most rigs. Each stabilizing jack can hold up to 650 pounds lift capacity or 1,000 pound support capacity if used properly! These extend from 12 inches to 18 inches, so make sure they will work for your rig’s clearance.

Constructed of premium, weather resistant, industrial grade material that is powder coated for rust protection, you won’t have to worry much about these little guys once they’re installed. Reliable and made to last, this deluxe kit includes 4 jacks, adjustment jack rod handle, and eight 3/8″ self-tapping mounting screws. Install has been reportedly easy, but just make sure these are only being used on lightweight rigs!

Read more reviews and check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

 

Conclusion

Having a rig that no longer bounces or sways while you’re parked is an amazing idea, and thankfully that’s what stabilizers were made for. Know how much weight you need to support, make sure your stabilizers are installed correctly, and enjoy your next RV outing with a bit more stability in mind!