Last updated on May 15th, 2023 at 11:24 am
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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 there are many different types of RVs – they 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, and not attached to your rig.
However, tripod jacks often aren’t 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 and 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 its 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 aftermarket, 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 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, and 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 ones. Portable jacks are often more affordable, but you’ll have to consider where to store them while you’re on the road, which can be annoying if you live full-time in your rig.
Budget
I know my budget is always my 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 decisions I have ever made. It is completely stable; I could do jumping jacks inside if I wanted! It makes my 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, as well as 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, or 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 also buy jack pads!
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 unlevel your rig is!? RV jack stands can fix this problem without an issue.
7 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
- Easy to operate
- Compact for storage
- Rust resistant
- Stable for high weights
Let’s start with some triangle jacks, because why not! Sometimes simple can be best, and as I live in an old rig, I guess I am drawn to old-school, simple pieces of kit. That’s why I’ve kicked off this list with these jacks by EAZ-LIFT. Sturdy, portable, and adjustable- they tick most of my boxes, and with plenty of raving reviews, it seems I’m not the only one!
This EAZ-LIFT Telescopic RV Jack provides a safe and easy way to stabilize your RV, a bonus in my eyes, as safety always comes first, especially when it comes to stopping my RV from rocking and being unstable! I like that it features a zinc-plated inner tube, quick-release pin, and screw assembly as it means this jack is built to last and I’ll be able to use it for many years of adventure to come.
It’s easy to use and is adjustable from 16 inches to 30 inches, so I have the freedom to choose the exact height I need for my RV. The jack’s sturdy steel construction and powder coating offers maximum rust protection, a standout feature for me as we all know, rust can be a nightmare once it sets in.
The fact that this EAZ-LIFT jack is certified to handle a 6000 lb load capacity per jack gives me peace of mind that the weight of my heft rig is fully supported. As it comes in a set of two, the weight can be distributed evenly, with the option of purchasing more jacks if needed.
These little guys have stable bases, but I would suggest purchasing some jack pads too for extra stability. It also might not be the best idea to extend the jacks to full height as they can lose some solidity at that point. So if you have a large rig, I would recommend something able to cope with the additional weight and height. 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
- Four pack
- Budget-friendly
- Strong and lightweight
- Camco is a reliable brand
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 RVs. Made of durable cast aluminum, they can support up to 6000 lb each and are adjustable from 11 inches to 17 inches, so I can figure out the precise height I want my rig to be raised. I love that these jacks are easy to use, I simply have to position each stack jack underneath my RV and raise it to the proper height to reach appropriate leveling and stabilization. They may not rise very high, however, so I’d recommend these jacks for rigs that are lower to the ground for sure!
When finished with camping, they are easy to pack up and store which is a game-changer for me. Packing down can be a bit of a mission, especially when I’ve been parked somewhere for a few days, which happens a lot because I tend to follow the 3-3-3 rule for RVing. But these jacks weigh less than 10 pounds total and are very compact, so I can get them stored away effortlessly.
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 when fully extended like most triangle jacks, these little guys are otherwise pretty awesome. 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
- Heavy duty weight limit
- Easy to install
- Permanent or portable installation
- Comes with all that you need
My rig setup is far smaller than other big rigs out there, but if you have a large RV without manufacturer-installed jacks, these ones by LIBRA are worth a look! This set includes everything I’d need for a large RV, with 2 steel jacks, 1 crank handle, and also a 3/4″ hex magnetic socket to raise and lower the jack faster by power drill. I would recommend purchasing two of these kits if your rig is on the extra-large side as I always think it’s best to air on the side on caution when using RV jack stands.
I like that this kit is simple to install with self-tapping mounting screws and a matching 9/16″ socket, to make things a whole lot easier. These jacks are durable and can hold up to 7500 lbs, and extend to a height of 24″. This is impressive, but what I also love, is that these jacks have a retracted height of 5″ and a length of 26″, so they are RV-storage friendly!
These jacks are chunky and can handle heavy-duty rigs, as they have an 11-gauge steel construction! 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
- Totally automatic
- Can handle fairly heavy loads
- Easy to install where existing jacks were
- Waterproof remote
Move over, manual jacks! Here’s the good stuff. This Lippert Components High-Speed Power Stabilizer Jack Kit comes with a handy dandy remote that will stabilize my rig for me. It doesn’t really get any easier than that, and I love that this jack is doing all the hard work for me! The bar is permanently installed underneath the rig, and all I have to do is simply press a switch, with no manual cranking in sight. Adding accessories to RVs can be daunting, but the video below provides a great step-by-step method for installing these Lippert jacks.
As you can see in the video, these jacks are 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; something I look for in any RV accessory I bring into my rig.
It’s hard to believe a flip of a switch is the only thing I have to do to make my trailer level and stable. But what about those days when I park somewhere on uneven terrain? Each leg of the stabilizer operates independently, automatically reacting to bumpy, rugged surfaces until the RV is secured safely in place. This is an outstanding feature in my eyes, as boondocking or RVing off-grid often results in me parking on uneven ground.
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 I know I 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 I think 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. Once fitted in place, I know I 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
- Affordable
- Easy to adjust
- Easy to install
Do you have unsupported slide-outs that could use stabilizing? Slide-outs are awesome when they run smoothly, as they are great space-enhancers, which is a game-changer for RVing as space really matters! That’s why I’ve added these slide-out jacks by Dumble. Using camper slide-outs for extended periods can cause sagging and bending in the slideout rails, leading to operational issues and costly frame repairs.
Using this two-pack can alleviate tension and increase stability in travel trailers, RVs, and camper slide-out rooms. I want stabilizer jacks to be strong, after all, they need to be able to handle a considerable amount of weight! Therefore the heavy-duty steel and zinc finish providing maximum strength and longevity is a big draw for me. These are also rust-resisting, so hopefully will stay in the best condition possible for longer, without being eaten by the orange stuff!
I’ve realized there’s a bit of an art to getting my trailer level, but this RV slide-out support set features adjustable RV slide-out camper stabilizer jacks that can adjust from 26 inches to 49 inches in height. This makes things a lot easier when I need to stabilize my rig, and the instructions from Dumble are simple to understand too.
To use these jacks, all I have to do is from the lowest setting, slide my RV slideout stabilizers travel trailer jacks under my slide-out rail, then use the folding handle to raise the bracket slowly to meet the RV slideout support bars. The trailer stabilizing jack screw mechanism provides support to slide-out rooms when it’s in use for weeks or a full season!
The skinny base can be a tad unstable if under a particularly heavy load, and if this is the case for your rig, I would suggest using some jack blocks to make for a more secure setup.
Read more reviews and check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.
Best Permanent Installation: EAZ-LIFT 24″ RV Stabilizing Scissor Jack
- Heavy duty
- High weight limit
- Backed by reliable brands
- Permanent or portable install options
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 that can also be installed temporarily, great for indecisive RVers like me!
The EAZ-LIFT Olympian 24″ Scissor Jack fits pop-ups, trailers, and other large vehicles. I like that these jacks allow for either bolt-on or weld-on installation, as I have been known to change my mind at the last minute! My rig is pretty heavy too, and I can get nervous raising it, but these scissor jacks have a certified 7500-pound load capacity and are constructed of heavy-duty steel and powder-coated for maximum strength and rust protection.
As these jacks come as a set of two, I can place them in the best position to provide ultimate stability for my rig. Measuring 4-3/8 inches high when fully collapsed and 23-3/4 inches when fully extended, I know I can pack them away easily until I need them again next time.
What else can be said for these jacks? They are backed by Camco’s lovely customer service, which is the place I’d turn to with any questions I may have. These only come in a two-pack which may not be enough for super-big rigs, and having to purchase more raises the overall cost, which is already high for these jacks. They are, however, built to last and can safely and securely support big RVs.
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
- Permanent install
- Perfect for small rigs
- Easy to install and operate
- Affordable
Not all RVs are the same, some are tall, heavy, and long, while others are short, lightweight, and agile. Although my rig isn’t the lightest in the world, it’s also not the heaviest, so if I can avoid purchasing huge bulky stabilizers I don’t need, I will! That’s why I’ve added this Red Hound Auto Telescoping Folding Jack to this list.
These jacks can handle anything weighing less than 4000 lbs and are a compact, permanent installation; a one-time fit, long-term-use piece of kit. I like the convenience of these jacks, as they simply fold up for travel and fold down for use, with an adjustable telescoping function to help achieve the height I need for my rig.
Safety is paramount for me, so I like knowing these jacks can hold up to 650 lbs lift capacity or 1000 lbs support capacity when used correctly. They extend from 12 inches to 18 inches, so I would advise making sure they will work for your rig’s clearance before purchasing.
Constructed of premium, weather-resistant, industrial-grade material that’s powder coated for rust protection, I 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, an adjustment jack rod handle, and eight 3/8″ self-tapping mounting screws. Installation and use are straightforward, but as I mentioned earlier, these jacks are best suited for smaller RVs.
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 are made for. Before purchasing an RV jack stand or stabilizer, my biggest pieces of advice would be to know how much weight you need to support, make sure your stabilizers are installed correctly, and take the necessary safety precautions so you can enjoy your next RV outing with a bit more stability in mind and no RV regrets!
Philipclopez says
There’s one minor caveat I found with Camco Stabilizer Jack, and it is the screw. This part feels loose during the first installation. With this issue, you can add nuts on both sides to ensure a solid grip.