Best RV Water Hoses (Review & Buying Guide)

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If you use your RV for showering, washing dishes, and other related tasks, you need potable water. And in order to tap into that, a good RV water hose that fits onto your freshwater holding tank is critical.

The best RV water hoses are those that are durable, easy to use, and efficient. They are constructed of high-quality components and are designed to perform in both hot and cold temperatures. And before you think about it, no, you can’t use common garden hoses with your RV because they aren’t designed to be used for drinking water. So come along and check out our list of the best RV water hoses below.

Summary List

Our Methodology

Our selection of RV water hoses is based on their performance, durability, and price point. They are typically BPA-free as well as free of lead and phthalates. Another important feature for RV water hoses is that they remain kink-free; we looked for products that don’t tangle when in use and are durable enough to withstand fluctuating temperatures. We chose products that are long-lasting but not too expensive, and we avoided those known to fail after a short period of use.

Best RV Water Hose Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall

Gilmour 50-Foot Marine and Recreation Drinking Water Hose

Best Value

Camco 50-Foot TastePURE Drinking Water Hose

Most Visible

Flexzilla 50-Foot Lightweight Drinking Hose

Premium Pick

Aqua Joe Kink-Free RV Water Hose

Most Durable

Camco 50ft Premium Drinking Water Hose

Best RV Water Hose for High Pressure Flow

Valterra AquaFresh RV Drinking Water Hose

Best Abrasion-Resistant RV Water Hose

SmartFlex RV Hose

Our Verdict on the Best RV Water Hoses

Our top pick for the best RV water hose is the Gilmour 50-Foot Marine and Recreation D r inking Water Hose. It’s a great option for your RV.

What to Consider When Buying RV Water Hoses

RV water hoses might seem like simple pieces of equipment, but each one is different in subtle ways. It’s those small differences that can set some hoses apart for their top-tier quality, but they can also make certain hoses a challenge to use. How can you tell which RV water hoses are worth their weight? We’ve got the tips and shopping advice you’re looking for.

Types of RV Water Hoses

Potable

Potable water hoses are drinking water hoses. Potable simply means that the water is safe for consumption. When the RV water hose specifies that it is for drinking or potable water, it is typically made from BPA-free materials. Potable RV water hoses can be found in a variety of lengths, from 15 to 50 feet. You’ll often find potable RV water hoses that are white in color.

Heated

Heated RV water hoses are a slight upgrade from the basic model. Rather than including just the hose, manufacturers also fit these products with a heating unit to keep the hose from freezing in low temperatures. Heated RV water hoses are a must in any northern climate where temperatures frequently drop below freezing. Paying a bit more for a heated RV hose can be helpful because when you do need that protection, you’ll thank yourself for not having to purchase an entirely new hose (particularly under emergency circumstances).

RV Water Hose Key Features

NSF Certified, FDA Compliant

RV water hoses can be National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certified or Food and Drug Administration (FDA) compliant. These are features you might want to look for when purchasing an RV water hose as these hoses should be made of polyurethane instead of rubber or vinyl so that the water won’t pick up these tastes as it flows through the hose. RV water hoses should also be free of BPA, lead, and phthalates for a better drinking experience.

Kink-Free

Water lines don’t flow when there’s a kink, so the best RV water hoses are built to resist any sort of blockage in the line. Though the best RV water hoses are flexible, they are also stout enough to keep their shape when rolled up so that you can be sure your line won’t kink.

Durable

If a water line breaks while you’re on an RV trip, it can be frustrating. To keep this from happening, invest in a durable RV water hose. This is especially important if you’re going to use the hose outside where it might scrape across rocks, debris, or other sharp objects. A durable RV water hose will also hold up in various warm, dry, and cold environments.

Easy-Grip Fittings

Not being able to unscrew your RV water hose can be a big problem, especially when you’re trying to (quickly) solve an issue. Not having the right fittings can be a huge pain as well. The best RV water hoses are standard in terms of fittings, from the inner diameter of the hose to the threading of both ends.

RV Water Hose Pricing

Some hoses will run you less than $20 in total, and these hoses can offer good value if you need something that works without costing a whole lot. You’ll also find hoses priced between $21 and $40, which is where a lot of good mid-range and solid-quality products sit. And if you want a longer hose, specialized hose, or the top-of-the-line, you’ll spend $40 or more.

FAQs

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers!

Q: What’s the difference between a garden hose and an RV water hose?

A: Most garden hoses are heavy-duty and designed to withstand a variety of conditions. RV water hoses work in the same way but must be certified as drinking water safe. While it’s debatable if you should drink from a garden hose, you can be sure the water you drink from an RV water hose is safe.

Q: How long should my RV water hose be?

A: Most freshwater hoses available today are anywhere from 6 to 50 feet in length. For your particular application, check your RV owner’s manual. If you’re replacing a water hose, you can also simply get the same or similar length.

Q: When and how often should I replace my RV water hose?

A: You should periodically check your RV water hose just like you would with the other components of the RV. If there’s even a question of the hoses’ validity, replace it just in case. You don’t want to be on the road and find you have to cut your time short for repairs you could have avoided.