Picking out the best RV leveling blocks is more than a simple matter of convenience—it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring a comfortable, functional trip. Top players like Camco, Tri-Lynx, and Andersen-style levelers offer a solid mix of durability, stability, and user-friendliness. Nailing down the right set for your specific rig is the first real step to a stress-free campsite setup.
Why Your RV Leveling Blocks Are So Important
Every RVer dreams of that perfectly level campsite, but it’s something many newcomers overlook until things start going sideways—literally. Beyond just avoiding a slanted bed, getting your rig properly leveled is absolutely critical for the health and function of its most essential systems. If you skip this step, you’re not just setting yourself up for an uncomfortable night; you’re actively risking expensive damage.
It’s surprising just how rough an unlevel RV can be on its components. Even a slight tilt can disrupt the coolant flow in an absorption refrigerator, leading to permanent damage and a repair bill that can run into the thousands. It’s a simple matter of physics: these common RV fridges depend on gravity to properly circulate the ammonia-based coolant. When unlevel, the liquid can pool and overheat, permanently blocking the cooling unit.
Protecting Your RVs Essential Systems
It’s not just the fridge. A whole list of other critical RV components are affected when you’re not level. An unlevel rig can stop your plumbing from draining correctly, leading to nasty backups in your sinks, shower, and holding tanks. Even worse, deploying slide-outs on uneven ground puts a massive amount of strain on their motors and tracks. Over time, this can cause them to bind, get misaligned, and eventually lead to expensive mechanical failures.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key systems that take a hit from an unlevel setup:
| RV System | Impact of an Unlevel Setup | Potential Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Disrupts coolant flow in absorption models. | Inefficient cooling, or permanent damage. |
| Plumbing | Prevents proper drainage of grey/black tanks. | Tank sensor misreads, backups, unpleasant odors. |
| Slide-Outs | Creates uneven stress on motors and tracks. | Misalignment, binding, and motor failure. |
| Frame & Structure | Causes twisting and uneven weight distribution. | Long-term stress on welds and structural integrity. |
At the end of the day, the job of leveling blocks is to create a stable, flat foundation that lets all your RV’s systems work exactly as the manufacturer intended. Skipping this step just invites unnecessary wear and tear.
Think of using high-quality RV leveling blocks and systems as a form of preventative maintenance. They protect your appliances, keep your slide-outs running smoothly, and prevent long-term stress on your RV’s frame. A few minutes spent leveling your rig will save you from a world of headaches and costly repairs down the road, making it a non-negotiable part of every single trip.
The Main Types of RV Leveling Systems
Before you can pick the right leveling blocks for your rig, you’ve got to know your options. The choices out there operate very differently, and each one shines in certain situations. Understanding the pros and cons is key to making a smart buy. The three main players you’ll see in just about every campground are interlocking plastic blocks, curved ramp-style levelers, and good old-fashioned wood blocks.
With RV travel more popular than ever, a lot of innovation has gone into these simple but essential tools. The global market for leveling blocks was valued at $320 million and is expected to hit $540 million by 2033—that’s a whole lot of RVers trying to get level! You can dig into these market trends to see how RV accessories are evolving.
Interlocking Plastic Blocks
These are the ones you see everywhere, and for good reason. They look like giant Lego bricks and are made of high-density plastic designed to stack and lock together. This lets you build a custom-height platform right under the tire that needs a lift. Their modular design is their biggest plus.
But they’re not just for leveling wheels. I often use them to create a solid base for my tongue jack on soft ground or slide them under the stabilizer jacks. This reduces how far the stabilizers have to extend, which really cuts down on that annoying RV wobble. That kind of multi-purpose functionality makes them a staple in my gear bin. A set like Camco 44512 FasTen Leveling Blocks (10-pack) or the heavy-duty Tri-Lynx Lynx Levelers 10-pack is a classic choice.
- Best For: All-around use, dialing in custom heights, and supporting stabilizer jacks.
- Common Materials: UV-resistant polypropylene or other tough plastics.
- Key Feature: The ability to build pyramids or staggered stacks for rock-solid stability.
Curved Ramp-Style Levelers
Ramp-style levelers are all about speed and precision. Instead of stacking blocks and guessing, you just place a single curved wedge in front of the low tire and drive up until you’re perfectly level. A second chock piece slides in to lock the wheel, and you’re done.
This design completely takes the guesswork out of how many blocks to use. You get an exact height adjustment anywhere along the ramp, usually giving you anywhere from half an inch to four inches of lift. I’ve found these are a favorite among solo travelers or anyone who just wants to get set up and relaxing as fast as possible.
The real win with a curved ramp is getting precisely level without the whole “pull forward, check, back up, add a block, pull forward again” routine. That “drive-on, chock-it” process is a huge time and frustration saver.
Just remember, they are specialized tools. They’re only meant for leveling wheels—don’t ever use them under jacks or other support points. Their shape can also be a tight squeeze if you have tandem axles with minimal space between the tires.
Traditional Wood Blocks
The original DIY solution! Plenty of old-school RVers (and plenty of new ones, too) still swear by wood blocks for their raw strength and low cost. A few cuts from a 2×8 or 2×10 plank, and you’ve got something incredibly durable with a large, stable footprint that won’t sink into soft ground like mud or sand.
Of course, they have their downsides. Wood is heavy, takes up a lot of space, and isn’t easy to store neatly. If you don’t treat and dry them properly, they’ll soak up moisture, start to rot, and can even attract insects. They also don’t have the handy interlocking design of their plastic cousins. Still, for pure, brute strength under a heavy tongue jack, a lot of us seasoned RVers still keep a couple of sturdy wood blocks on hand as a fail-safe.
How to Choose the Right Leveling Blocks
Picking out the right leveling blocks isn’t as simple as grabbing the first box you see on the shelf. The best set for you really comes down to your specific RV, where you like to camp, and your setup style. Thinking through a few key factors upfront will save you from frustration when you pull into a new campsite.
Getting it wrong can mean dealing with wobbly blocks, a setup that takes way too long, or even potential damage. Let’s walk through what really matters so you can get it right the first time.
Match the Weight Capacity to Your RV
This is the non-negotiable factor: weight capacity. Your leveling blocks must be rated to handle your RV’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which you can find on a sticker in your RV’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. Do not guess or assume.
Pushing a block past its weight limit is asking for it to crack or completely collapse, which is a seriously dangerous situation. This is especially true for the big rigs like heavy Class A motorhomes or large fifth wheels. I always tell people to choose blocks with a weight rating that’s comfortably above your RV’s total weight. That extra buffer is your safety margin.
Consider Material and Durability
Most modern leveling blocks are made from a high-density, UV-resistant polypropylene plastic. This material is engineered to be surprisingly lightweight yet tough enough to take on thousands of pounds without deforming. The huge advantage over a stack of 2x4s is that this plastic won’t rot, soak up water, or become a home for pests.
But not all plastic blocks are built the same. I’ve seen cheaper ones bend or sag under the focused pressure of a heavy tire. The best ones have a strong internal structure, often a honeycomb or grid-like design, which does a much better job of spreading the weight evenly and preventing any weak spots. Premium sets like Ultra-Fab Ultra Leveling Blocks (10-pack) or Tri-Lynx Lynx Levelers are good examples of this kind of construction.
Analyze the Block’s Footprint and Stability
A block’s footprint—how much surface area it covers—is a huge deal for stability, particularly if you’re parked on soft ground like grass, sand, or gravel. A wider base distributes the RV’s weight more effectively, which keeps your stack from sinking and becoming a wobbly mess.
An 8×8 inch block is usually fine on pavement or hard-packed dirt. But if you frequently camp in more natural, rustic spots, you’ll want something with a wider base, or at least plan on using a base pad underneath your stack to create a solid foundation.
A wider base is your best defense against sinking. If your blocks start to sink, the entire stack can shift, compromising the level and potentially causing your RV to slip off. Always prioritize a stable footprint.
Prioritize Ease of Use and Storage
Let’s be honest, your leveling system should make setup easier, not add another chore to your list. Interlocking blocks that click together like Legos are super popular for a reason—they’re intuitive and create a secure stack. For even faster setup, curved ramp-style levelers offer a simple drive-on solution that takes all the guesswork out of how high to stack.
Don’t forget about storage, either. It’s a small detail, but most block sets come with a zippered bag or a carrying handle that keeps them from rattling around in your storage bay. I’ve found this makes a massive difference in keeping my gear organized and easy to grab when I need it. The market has definitely noticed, with top sellers like those seen in this analysis of popular RV accessories favoring durable, interlocking designs with convenient storage.
Comparing Key Features of Leveling Systems
To help you visualize the trade-offs, here’s a quick breakdown of the most common leveling systems I see out on the road. Each one shines in different situations.
| Feature | Interlocking Blocks | Curved Ramp Levelers | Wood/DIY Blocks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Versatility | High (Wheels & Jacks) | Low (Wheels Only) | High (Wheels & Jacks) |
| Precision | Good (1″ increments) | Excellent (Infinite) | Fair (Fixed heights) |
| Speed | Moderate | Very Fast | Slow |
| Soft Ground | Good with a wide base | Fair (Can slip/sink) | Excellent |
| Weight | Lightweight | Lightweight | Very Heavy |
As you can see, there isn’t one “perfect” solution—just the one that’s perfect for you. Interlocking blocks offer great all-around performance, ramps are unbeatable for speed, and wood is a beast on soft ground but a pain to lug around.
By weighing these factors against your own RVing needs, you can confidently choose the best RV leveling blocks that will give you safe, stable, and headache-free setups for many adventures to come.
Comparing the Top RV Leveling Block Brands
Once you know what to look for, the next step is seeing how the top brands stack up in the real world. Not all leveling blocks are created equal, and leaders like Camco, Andersen Hitches, and Tri-Lynx have each carved out a niche by focusing on what different RVers truly need. A set of blocks that’s perfect for a lightweight travel trailer just won’t be the right choice for a heavy Class A motorhome.
This isn’t about just listing features. We’re going to look at how these blocks perform in practical situations. We’ll break down which brand is best for specific types of RVers—from the solo traveler who values a quick setup above all else, to the family with a massive fifth wheel that needs maximum stability on questionable terrain. Making the right choice means matching a brand’s strengths to your personal camping style.
This infographic breaks down the three core pillars of choosing leveling blocks: capacity, durability, and size.
As you can see, these three factors form the foundation of a smart purchase. Get these right, and you’ll have a set of blocks that is safe, long-lasting, and practical for your specific RV.
Camco FasTen: The Industry Standard for Versatility
Camco is probably the most recognized name in the RV accessories world, and their bright yellow FasTen leveling blocks are a staple in campgrounds everywhere. Their biggest strength is their jack-of-all-trades design. These interlocking blocks are lightweight, incredibly easy to use, and versatile enough for almost any leveling task you can throw at them.
They are the perfect companion for the weekend warrior with a small to mid-sized travel trailer. You can build a sturdy pyramid under a low tire, create a solid base for your tongue jack on soft ground, or just shorten the extension of your stabilizer jacks to reduce that annoying rig wobble. The convenience of having one tool for multiple jobs is a huge plus. Sets like the Camco 44512 FasTen Leveling Blocks (10-pack) or the larger-format Camco FasTen 17″ x 8-1/2″ blocks are solid all-rounders.
But that versatility comes with a few trade-offs. While they’re strong, they can sometimes warp under the direct, concentrated pressure of a bottle jack or the landing gear of a particularly heavy fifth wheel. For most standard jobs, they are more than enough, but they might not be the most robust option if you’re pushing the upper limits of weight.
Andersen Hitches: The Champion of Speed and Precision
Andersen Hitches took a completely different path with their iconic red curved ramp levelers. Forget stacking. You simply drive onto the ramp until your RV is perfectly level, then slide a chock underneath to lock it in place. This system is all about speed and precision, making it a favorite among solo RVers or anyone who dreads the trial-and-error game of stacking blocks.
This design offers a key advantage: incremental adjustment. You can achieve any height up to its maximum lift (typically around 4 inches), whereas stacking blocks limit you to 1-inch increments. That level of precision is fantastic for getting your rig dialed in just right.
The main catch with the Andersen system is that it’s specialized. These ramps are designed only for leveling wheels and should never be used under jacks or other support points. They also require a certain amount of ground clearance and can be tricky with tandem-axle trailers that have minimal space between the tires.
The real game-changer with Andersen is the elimination of guesswork. The “drive-on, check level, chock it” process is way faster and less physically demanding than building block towers. For anyone who prioritizes a quick and effortless setup, it’s the clear winner.
Tri-Lynx Lynx Levelers: The Original Heavy-Duty Stacker
Tri-Lynx, with their distinctive orange Lynx Levelers, pioneered the interlocking block design. They are known for their robust, crush-proof construction that feels noticeably more rigid than some competitors. This makes them an excellent choice for heavier RVs, including large fifth wheels and Class A motorhomes.
Their open, grid-like design is fantastic at distributing weight and resisting sinking on softer surfaces like gravel or firm dirt. Many seasoned RVers I know swear by Tri-Lynx for their sheer durability and the confidence they inspire when supporting a heavy rig. You can stack them high without worrying about compression or instability. If you want a proven workhorse, the Tri-Lynx Interlocking Lynx Levelers 10-pack is a go-to option.
Like other stacking blocks, they take a bit more effort to get the height perfect. You’ll still be doing the “pull forward, check, back up, adjust” routine. However, for RVers who need a bombproof, versatile solution that can handle serious weight under both wheels and jacks, the extra setup time is a worthwhile trade-off for the peace of mind.
Making the Final Call: Situational Recommendations
So, which brand offers the best RV leveling blocks for you? It really boils down to your rig and how you camp.
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For the Weekend Warrior (Travel Trailers & Smaller RVs): Camco is an excellent place to start. Its versatility and affordability make it a practical all-in-one solution for most common leveling needs. A starter set like the Camco 44505 10-pack leveling blocks covers a lot of ground.
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For the Solo Traveler or Efficiency Expert: Andersen is hands-down the winner. If your priority is getting level as quickly and painlessly as possible, the speed and precision of their ramp system can’t be beat.
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For the Heavy Hauler (Large 5th Wheels & Class A’s): Tri-Lynx provides the rugged durability and stability needed to safely support big rigs. Their robust construction is ideal for handling higher weight loads and providing a solid foundation on all kinds of terrain. Pair a Lynx kit with heavy-duty jack pads from our RV levelers and stabilizers section for maximum confidence.
Ultimately, the top brands have earned their reputations for good reason. By matching their specific strengths to your RV’s weight, your desire for speed versus versatility, and the types of campsites you visit, you can confidently invest in a system that will make every trip safer and more enjoyable.
How to Use Leveling Blocks Safely and Effectively
Having the best RV leveling blocks is a great start, but knowing how to use them correctly is what really matters for a safe and stable campsite. A solid setup process doesn’t just protect your rig from damage—it prevents nasty accidents that can ruin a trip. I’ll walk you through the essential steps I use to get a secure and level setup every single time.
Your first move is always to park your RV on the most level part of your site you can find. Before you unhitch or put down any jacks, grab a bubble level or a leveling app on your phone to see which side is low. This quick check tells you exactly which tires need a boost and gives you a good idea of how many blocks you’ll need.
The Pre-Leveling Safety Checklist
Before you even touch a leveling block, you need to think about safety. I’ve seen what happens when people rush this part—an RV can roll unexpectedly, which is a dangerous and incredibly expensive mistake.
Always get these steps out of the way first:
- Chock the Wheels: Securely place wheel chocks on the side of the RV that you will not be lifting. In my experience, this is the single most important step to prevent your rig from rolling forward or backward while you’re working.
- Use a Spotter: If you can, have someone outside the RV to guide you onto the blocks. A good spotter makes all the difference, helping you line up the tires perfectly and telling you when to stop so you don’t drive right over them.
- Confirm Ground Stability: Never build your stack of blocks on soft, muddy, or super uneven ground. If the surface looks sketchy, I always recommend using a wider base pad or even a sturdy piece of wood underneath to distribute the weight and stop the stack from sinking.
Building and Driving onto Your Blocks
Once you’ve figured out which side is low and have your wheels chocked, it’s time to build your platform. For interlocking blocks, I create a stable, pyramid-like stack that’s wide enough to support the tire’s entire tread. The one thing you want to avoid is a single, tall, narrow tower—that’s just asking for trouble.
With your blocks in place, slowly and carefully drive your RV forward onto the stack. Your spotter will be key here to make sure your tire is centered. Once you’re on top, put the rig in park and engage the emergency brake before checking your level again.
Crucial Tip: Always get your RV level before you even think about extending any slide-outs. Deploying a slide on an unlevel rig puts a ton of stress on the slide mechanism and frame, which can lead to expensive alignment problems and motor damage down the road.
This kind of attention to detail is more important than ever. RV wholesale shipments recently hit a record 600,200 units in one year, and towable RVs made up over 90% of that total. With more people hitting the road, understanding fundamental safety like proper leveling is essential for everyone. You can learn more about the growth of the RV market at GMI.
After you’re level and stable, you can go ahead and unhitch and set up the rest of your campsite with confidence.
Keeping Your Leveling Blocks in Top Shape for a Longer Lifespan
Your leveling blocks take a beating. They’re constantly getting crushed under the weight of your RV and exposed to everything from mud and gravel to damaging UV rays. A little bit of care is all it takes to make them last and keep them performing safely for years. Trust me, spending a few minutes on maintenance after each trip will go a long way in protecting your investment.
If you just toss them back in the storage bay caked in mud, you’re asking for trouble. When debris gets jammed in the interlocking teeth, you can’t get a secure fit. Caked-on mud can also make those anti-slip surfaces useless, which is a serious safety hazard when you’re setting up.
Cleaning and Inspection: Your Post-Trip Routine
Before you pack everything up, give your blocks a quick but thorough cleaning. For most plastic blocks, all you need is a stiff brush and a good spray-down with a garden hose to knock off the dirt, sand, and grime. This is the single most important step for keeping those interlocking grooves clear and working as they should.
Once they’re clean and dry, give each block a quick once-over. Making this a habit is the best way to spot a small issue before it turns into a catastrophic failure on the road.
What to Look For:
- Stress Fractures: Keep an eye out for fine, hairline cracks, especially around the edges and on the top surface. These are the first warning signs that the plastic is starting to get fatigued.
- Warping or Bending: Check if any blocks are bowing or distorted. A warped block won’t stack flat, and that creates a dangerously unstable platform for your rig.
- Discoloration: A little fading from the sun is normal, but if the plastic looks chalky or feels brittle, it’s a sign that it’s starting to break down.
It’s far better to catch a stress fracture during a quick five-minute inspection than to have a block fail under the weight of your RV. That simple check gives you invaluable peace of mind.
Smart Storage for Longevity
How you store your leveling blocks matters just as much as how you clean them. Tossing them loose into a storage bay where they can rattle around causes unnecessary wear and tear. Proper storage protects them from both physical damage and the elements.
Most of the best RV leveling blocks come with their own carrying bag or handle, which is obviously the easiest solution. These bags keep the set organized, clean, and ready to grab for your next trip. If your set didn’t include one, a simple canvas tote or a small plastic bin works perfectly fine. The main goal is just to keep them contained and out of direct, prolonged sunlight, which will absolutely degrade the plastic over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Even after you’ve got your gear, questions always pop up at the campsite. Getting a straight answer can be the difference between a frustrating setup and a smooth start to your trip. Here are some of the most common questions I hear from fellow RVers about leveling blocks, with practical answers to get you level safely.
How Many Leveling Blocks Do I Really Need?
For most travel trailers and smaller motorhomes, a standard 10-pack of interlocking blocks is a great starting point. That’s usually enough to handle the moderately uneven sites you’ll find in established campgrounds, giving you the flexibility to lift a wheel four or five inches if you have to.
However, if you’re rolling in a larger rig like a fifth wheel or a Class A, or if you love camping off the beaten path where the ground is rarely flat, I’d strongly recommend carrying two sets (20 blocks). It’s always better to have a few extra blocks you don’t use than to come up short and not be able to get your rig properly leveled. Picking up a pair of 10-packs—like Camco 44505 blocks or a combination of Camco and Lynx Levelers—gives you a ton of flexibility.
Can I Use Leveling Blocks Under My Stabilizer Jacks?
Yes, and you absolutely should. Putting blocks under your stabilizer jacks is a classic trick seasoned RVers swear by. It cuts down on how far the jack has to extend, which makes the whole RV feel much more solid and gets rid of that annoying side-to-side wobble when people are moving around inside.
This simple step also keeps the metal feet of your jacks from digging into soft ground. Whether you’re on dirt, sand, or hot summer asphalt, a block gives you a solid, wide base that spreads the weight and protects both your gear and the campsite.
Using a block under your stabilizers is one of the easiest ways to improve your RV’s stability. A shorter jack extension means less flex and a much more solid-feeling rig.
Are Curved Levelers Better Than Stacking Blocks?
One isn’t necessarily “better” than the other—they just shine in different situations. It really comes down to what you value most during setup.
- Curved Ramp-Style Levelers: These are the champions of speed and precision. If you’re a solo RVer or just want to get leveled as quickly as possible, these are fantastic. You can make tiny height adjustments just by rolling forward or back an inch, no guesswork needed.
- Interlocking Stacking Blocks: These are the masters of versatility. You can stick them under your wheels, your stabilizer jacks, or even your tongue jack. You can also build them into a pyramid for extra stability on soft ground, making them adaptable to almost any scenario.
Bottom line: Choose ramps if you want a fast, exact setup. Go with stacking blocks if you need an all-purpose tool that offers maximum flexibility for all your leveling jobs.
What’s the Safest Way to Stack Interlocking Blocks?
Always build a pyramid or a tiered, interlocking structure. I see a lot of people make the mistake of creating a single, tall tower of blocks, which can get wobbly and unstable under the immense weight of an RV tire.
Instead, stagger the blocks as you build up. Make sure each level locks securely into the one below it. This creates a much wider, more stable base that distributes the RV’s weight effectively and dramatically cuts down the risk of blocks shifting, slipping, or kicking out from under the tire.
Ready to find the perfect foundation for your adventures? RVupgrades.com offers a wide selection of top-rated leveling blocks and systems from trusted brands like Camco, Tri-Lynx, Ultra-Fab, and more. Shop our RV leveling blocks and systems today and make sure every trip starts on solid, level ground.
