There are a few tools that every RVers should carry with them. Near the top of the list is an air compressor or tire inflator. Since most RVers spend a lot of time on the road and take frequent road trips, an air compressor or tire inflator is a must-have. Most moderately-sized towable recreational vehicles will have at least four tires. RVers in motorhomes may have six or more tires. Of course, this is in addition to the ones a tow vehicle. The reality is that RVers have a lot more tires to worry about than a passenger vehicle, and with every additional one, there’s a chance for something to go wrong.
When traveling with an RV, you can’t simply pull into a gas station and add air. So investing in a reliable air compressor or tire inflator is one of the first things you should do when outfitting your RV with tools and gear. In addition to inflating tires, these tools are convenient for RV camping to use for inflating bike tires, pool toys, and blowing out water lines when winterizing.
While it may cost a little more upfront, a good one will last you many years. Below, we discuss some things to look for when purchasing an air compressor or tire inflator and suggest good options you can purchase today.
Types of Portable Air Compressors and Tire Inflators
One of the first decisions that you’ll need to make when selecting an air compressor or tire inflator is how it’s powered. You’ll have three primary options available to you. Each of the following styles has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at them:
110V AC (plug-in to standard wall outlet)
If you’re seeking the most power and an endless run time and aren’t worried about portability, you may want to consider an AC plug-in model. While you can find them in smaller sizes, they’re not as common as the traditional portable model that you keep in the car. However, in an RV, they have their advantages.
Many AC-powered air compressors will feature a storage tank. Rather than a compressor pumping air directly into the tire, it fills and pressurizes the tank with compressed air, which you draw from when requesting air. The onboard compressor will keep the tank at the specified pressure. This setup is ideal for running air tools or inflating things like innertubes or large tires. More air and higher pressure are the key features of this style compressor. In addition, they typically have a powerful motor and a higher CFM rating.
Unfortunately, they do have some disadvantages. The biggest downside is that it needs to be plugged into a standard 110V AC outlet to run. This limitation makes these air compressors unreliable for emergency use on the side of the road or while boondocking when you have a flat tire. Additionally, they’re typically bigger and bulkier, especially for units with a larger tank size. Additionally, It will take up more space in your RV or tow vehicle.
12V DC (plugs into standard 12V car socket)
Until the last several years, the go-to portable air compressor or tire inflator has been a 12V DC option that plugs into a 12V socket (cigarette lighter) in the vehicle. The great thing about this style is that you have reliable power as long as you have a running vehicle. While they may not have as much oomph as an AC plug-in option, they provide plenty of power and produce enough pressure for most standard-size tires. Some will also have a smaller tank attached, which will give you a little more air pressure when needed. They’re also typically compact and allow for easy storage.
On the negative side, these can be a little cumbersome when maneuvering the 12V cord around the vehicle. While the included cord is usually long enough to reach all four tires of a passenger vehicle, it may prove troublesome for larger trucks and RVs. Unfortunately, most 12-V corded models won’t be able to reach from the tow vehicle to the RV tires unless you have an extension cord (an added expense) or a conveniently located 12V socket (rare).
Cordless battery powered
Historically, battery-powered options we’re not very powerful. They also didn’t have a lot of capacity for more than a standard fill. However, this has all changed, and now battery air compressors are available to accomplish any task other plug-in models can. For example, if you require a large AC style compressor with a tank, you can find a similar one powered by a battery. In addition, many affordable options are available if you simply need a small tire inflator for filling car tires or even a larger one for truck and RV tires.
For RV owners, a battery-powered air compressor or tire inflator is the best choice. They are not only capable of meeting all of your needs, but they’re also ultra-portable and won’t take up much space in your trunk or cargo area. In addition, you don’t need to mess with cords or long hoses to reach your tires- it’s easy to carry them around to the locations where you need air.
Assuming you purchase the right one for your needs, the only downside to a battery-powered option is the need to keep a charged battery on hand at all times. It won’t be very useful if you forget to charge your battery.
Air Compressor vs. Tire Inflator
You’ll often see these terms used interchangeably (I am doing it in this article). However, there’s a technical difference between the two. Tire inflators are a specialized type of air compressor. They are designed for low-demand purposes like adding air to a tire. A full air compressor is usually larger, has a tank, and is not typically portable. Air compressors are designed for high-capacity jobs like powering pneumatic air tools or producing lots of air at high pressures. Don’t worry about the name or description for your RV needs- focus more on the product’s intended use and size. All products have an onboard compressor that will deliver pressurized air for your intended needs.
What to look for in a portable air compressor?
When choosing an air compressor or tire inflator, there are a few considerations to consider. These include horsepower, max psi (maximum air pressure in pounds per square inch), cubic feet per minute (CFM), air tank capacity (if applicable), preferred power source (AC, DC, or battery), and added features described below. You’ll also need to think about your needs. For example, do you need an air compressor to inflate a tire, or do you plan to use it for other purposes like inflating pool floats, power air tools, or blowing out your water lines when winterizing your RV? Finally, the more demands you place on the air compressor or tire inflator, the bigger (and maybe more expensive) it will be.
Key Features
You can purchase an inexpensive air compressor or tire inflator for as little as $15. However, it may be undersized or won’t meet your specific needs. On the other hand, some air compressors and tire inflators have useful features that make it worth spending a little extra money. We’ll review some of these features below.
Power Source
As mentioned above, the power source may be one of the first features that you look for in an air compressor or tire inflator. You can choose from 110V AC, 12V DC, or battery operated. If you want the best of both worlds, a better idea is to look for a model that you can power via multiple sources.
Inflation Speed
Inflation speed is another important feature to think about. Some tire inflators have a maximum PSI as high as 150. This PSI rating is typically the highest range that you’ll find in a portable unit, and it will translate into a faster inflation time (flow rate) in comparison to tire inflators with a PSI of 80 or 100. A small inflator can take a long time to fill tires on large vehicles. en deciding which PSI to aim for, it is important to keep in mind the size and ratings of your truck or RV tires. For example, large truck or RV tires will require a more powerful compressor than a small passenger vehicle. A heavy duty truck, for example, cannot have its tires filled by a tire inflator that is suited for a Toyota Corolla. It would take too long and likely overpower the duty cycle of the tire inflator. For larger tires, choose a model that has fast inflation specs.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of a tire inflator are also important factors to consider when shopping for an air compressor or tire inflator. A smaller, more compact design may be a good choice if you plan to keep the compressor in the car, truck, or RV when traveling. However, even if you plan to keep it inside the RV or in the cargo area, large 110V AC compressors with a large tank will take up precious storage room- even the smaller ones. So when looking at size and weight, plan to purchase one that will easily meet the demands you’ll place on it, but avoid being tempted by the big powerful units intended for home or shop use.
Cord Length
If you’re choosing a corded model, one important factor to consider is the length of the power cord. It is helpful to have a tire inflator with a long enough cord to reach all the tires on your car or truck without needing to move the tire inflator. Unfortunately, it will be hard to achieve this for the RV. Therefore, you’ll likely need to purchase an extension cord, an added expense. However, some models offer a direct battery hookup, which will allow you to connect it directly to your RV battery with alligator clamps. When looking at the cords, it is also important to ensure that it’s made from durable material. You will also want to inspect the hose length. While most will be adequate, pay special attention to the hose if you have unique setups like tall tires or hard-to-reach valve stems. A long hose or extension hose may be particularly important if you have air cushions on your truck that you need to fill with the unit.
Hose Chuck
One of my most sought-after air compressor or tire inflator features is the hose chuck. The chuck is the small metal piece on the end of the hose that connects the air system valve in the tire. Some tire inflators have a screw-on chuck, a click-on chuck, and others require you to hold the hose to the valve while you inflate the tire. My personal preference is a screw-on chuck as it tends to be the most secure and affords you the ability to inflate your tires hands-free. Additionally, I would avoid manual checks at all costs as they’re inconvenient and are usually only found on the cheapest and less durable models. A bonus feature is that some tire inflators also have adaptors that allow you to inflate other household items like blow-up mattresses, inflatable decorations, and more. This feature can be a “must-have” for RVers who typically need to inflate pool toys for their kids.
Noise
Tire inflators are generally loud and noisy when operating, so another factor to consider is the compressor’s noise level. While noise does not impact the ability of the tire inflator to function properly, it can make using it annoying to you or your RV neighbors. While I wouldn’t be too concerned about noise since inflators are only used intermittently, a well-built one will be quieter than a cheaply designed one.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle is an important thing to consider when looking for a tire inflator. The duty cycle refers to the ability of the tire inflator to work for an extended time without needing to shut off to cool down. For example, a 50% duty cycle means that the tire inflator can run for 30 minutes but then would need a 30-minute cooldown instead of a 100% duty cycle, which can run for a full hour without needing to cool down. This feature can be important if you have large tires or lots of them to fill. It’s important to factor fill speed and duty cycle together since a smaller compressor with the same duty cycle as a larger one will require different run times. Compressors can heat up quickly when used. Even in cold weather, they can turn off when used heavily.
Pressure Gauge
Almost all tire inflators will include a pressure gauge on the unit. A tire inflator that has a built-in gauge is helpful to know when to stop filling the tire. This gauge needs to be accurate to know when you reach the required PSI for your tires. There are two types of gauges, analog and digital. The analog looks like a dial with a needle and can often be a little harder to read.
On the other hand, digital gauges show you a precise PSI via a small LCD display, but they can also be a little less accurate. If the tire inflator does have a pressure gauge, ensure it can read the tire pressure for your RV or truck. Since some are built primarily for passenger cars, they may not show a reading for higher pressures required for RV or truck tires. The ease of use is typically much better on units with a digital gauge.
Automatic Shut-off
A very handy feature is an automatic shut-off. These are primarily found on units with a digital pressure gauge. With this feature, you can set the intended maximum pressure, turn on the pump, and it will continue filling until it reaches the set pressure. In addition to convenience, this is also an important safety feature preventing you from overinflating the tires. If there is too much air in the tires, the high pressure can be dangerous, increasing the risk of a blowout, which can cause extreme damage to the tire if the car hits any bumps or potholes in the road.
Other convenience features
In addition to the items above, some air compressors or tire inflators will offer bonuses that may be useful in helping you choose the best portable air compressor. These include rubber feet (reduces vibration), a pressure switch, carry bag, car battery clamps, or even a built-in light. A word of caution, though. There are many poorly made portable tire inflators for sale online that will advertise a lot of features, but the build quality and durability leave a lot to be desired. If you search Amazon for “small air compressor,” you’ll quickly realize that the RV air compressor market is saturated with cheap Chinese knock-offs. It’s a good idea to spend a little extra time to find the right options and invest in a high quality product with good reviews and built-in safety features.
Special Battery Powered Inflator Tips
If you’re opting for a battery-powered tire inflator or air compressor, a key piece of advice from one RVer to another is to purchase a portable tire inflator that uses the same battery as the other power tools you own. I highly recommend choosing a battery-powered tool ecosystem and sticking to it for all your tool needs. For example, I’m a Milwaukee guy. My battery-powered tools at home and in the RV all use the same battery. This setup allows me to swap batteries between tools, have a single charger in my RV, and keep everything organized. I typically pack my tire inflator, drill and impact wrench, leaf blower, and portable light in my RV. They all use the same battery, which is extremely convenient.
Best Air Compressor and Tire Inflator Options
Now that you understand what to look for when purchasing an air compressor or tire inflator, let’s look at the best options. I’ll provide the best choices and top picks for each category for a portable RV air compressor or tire inflator. I’ll also include several good options for battery-powered units since I believe they are the best all-around choice for RVers.
Best Portable Air Compressor for RVs (with a tank)
If you're looking for a standard air compressor with a tank, that is also portable, the Makita MAC 100Q is a really good option. Makita Air Compressors are favorites for their faster recovery time, lower noise, longer tool life, and consistent performance. The Makita ½ HP 1 Gallon Compact in an Oil-Free, Electric Air Compressor built with a Quiet Series Design, offering great performance with less noise (only 58 dBA,)
It is powered by an efficient 1/2 horsepower induction motor and provides up to 135 PSI. The best aspect of this compressor, which makes it ideal for RV travel, is its lightweight design. It's only 25lbs, which allows it to be easily moved and stored when not in use. It also features a roll-cage design that protections the pump and motor assembly when transporting, storing, or using. It also has a low AMP draw, helping to keep your RV breaker from tripping while in use. The oil-free dual-piston pump also offers maintenance-free operation.
- Quiet Series design at only 58 dB for operator and crew comfort; ideal for indoor use
- Runs at a lower RPM (1, 750) resulting in longer motor and pump life
- Complete roll-cage construction provides protection to withstand a variety of job-site, transporting, and storage environments
- Oil-free dual-piston pump designed for maintenance-free operation
- Efficient 1/2 HP induction motor provides .7 CFM at 90 PSI with a maximum tank pressure of 135 PSI
- Lightweight design for increased job site portability
- You will need to purchase an air hose and other accessories to use with this style of air compressor.
- Expensive compared to tire inflators
- Must have access to 110V outlet
- Not ideal for roadside emergencies
If you're looking for the best air compressor that offerest flexibility when it comes to powering it, then the Dewalt Flexvolt is for you. The 60V MAX* FLEXVOLT 2.5 Gallon Cordless Air Compressor offers all of the convenience and portability of cordless, but it doesn't skimp on power. If you're already using the Dewalt battery ecosystem, then this is a great choice if you want a full compressor. Its OneTurn Regulator means you no longer have to fight with the dial. Plus, it's made in the USA with global materials.
- Brushless motor paired with a heavy-duty oil-free pump of the portable air compressor provides cordless convenience with the power of a corded tool
- The cordless air compressor features OneTurn regulator for fast, accurate pressure adjustments
- DEWALT portable air compressor is lightweight and portable at only 21.5 lbs
- Heavy-duty roll cage
- Compressor Made in the USA
- 79 dBA operational noise level (tested per ISO 3477)
- 1.2 SCFM @ 90 PSI (tested per ISO 1217)
- You will need to purchase an air hose and other accessories to use with this style of air compressor.
- Expensive compared to tire inflators, especially if you need to purchase a battery
- A little bulky to use for roadside emergencies
The DEWALT Air Compressor D55140 is a small air compressor that packs a big punch. It has a low-profile design, which makes it great for storing in your RV or tow vehicle. It’s also very light, weighing just 24 lbs. It features a one-gallon tank and a 2.6 amp motor to deliver 0.75 SCFM at 135 PSI max. The compressor’s high flow regulator provides maximum air pressure that enhances the performance of the machine. It also has a lower noise level of 69 dBA, which makes it a good option when used at the campground. The Oil-free operation of the Air Compression makes it easy to maintain as you will not have to worry about filling in the compressor with oil or changing the pump regularly.
- Heavy-duty 1-gallon trim compressor with protective roll cage
- 135 psi maximum, durable oil-free pump, low 71 dB rating, low 2.6 amp motor
- Includes 1 compressor; hose & nailer not included
- 9-inches wide; 24 pounds; 1-year warranty
- You will need to purchase an air hose and other accessories to use with this style of air compressor.
- Must have access to 110V outlet
- Not ideal for roadside emergencies
Best Portable 12V Portable Tire Inflators
The Viair 400p-rv is one of the most popular RV models on the market. Viair compressors will inflate large RV's tires tire up to 275/80/22.5 tires to a max of 150PSI with ease. If you have big tires to fill, the Viair air compressor is a perfect choice. While a little pricey, it features some of the best RV air compressor reviews when compared to everything else on the market. , While these units are intended for RV use, they can also be used for virtually any tire since they come with accessories for many different inflation needs, providing you as much pressure as you need.
VIAIR’s Automatic tire inflators make tire filling simple! While most portable air compressors must be turned off between tire fills and checking tire pressure, the compressors only operate while the trigger on the inflation gun is pulled.
- Automatic Shut-Off Function
- Primary & Extension Air Hoses (60ft total)
- Vibration-Resistant Diamond-Plate Sand Tray
- Heat Shielded Quick Connect Coupling
- Gas Station-Style Tire Inflation Gun with 160 PSI Gauge
- Heavy Duty Dual Battery Clamps with Inline Fuse
- Power Cord Length: 8 ft.
- 90-Degree Twist-On Chuck
- 45-Degree Extended Reach Chuck (For Dual Rear Wheels)
- 3 pc. Inflation Tips Kit
- Heavy Duty Deluxe Carry Bag
- Expensive compared to other options
- Lots of parts that can get misplaced.
- No digital display
Best Battery Powered Tire Inflators
The Dewalt may be the best tire inflator on the market, primarily due to its flexibility and features. The 20V MAX Corded/Cordless Air Inflator can run on any one of three power sources for maximum versatility: DEWALT 20V MAX battery, 12V DC, or 110V AC. It features a high-pressure rubber hose and a threaded chuck with plenty of accessories to make it easy to inflate any item that needs air at the campground. It has a digital display, making setting the desired air pressure simple. It also has a built-in auto-shutoff that provides accurate inflation. The high-volume hose allows fast inflation of mattresses and other inflatables with the push of a button. You can also move the hose to the deflation port for quick and easy deflation. As an added bonus, it also has an onboard LED light that is perfect when you're working in low light or a dark space. Finally, the heavy-duty rubber feet help reduce walking while in use. If you're in the Dewalt battery ecosystem. this inflator is a no-brainer for the RV.
- High-pressure inflation mode with automatic shutoff
- High-volume inflation and deflation modes
- Three power sources for inflation on a jobsite and on the go (DEWALT 20V MAX battery, 12V DC, or 110V AC)
- LED light helps to provide illumination
- Convenient onboard accessory storage
- Heavy-duty rubber feet help reduce walking when in use
- Threaded chuck for secure connection to the inflation valve
- Includes (1) DCC020I air inflator, 12V DC power cord, (1)high-pressure tapered nozzle, (1) Presta valve adapter, (1) inflator needle
- More expensive if you need to purchase a battery
- While the hose management systems work well, it would be better if the large inflator hose was more discretely stored.
- Limited reach for RVs without a battery, but this shouldn't be an issue if you plan to use it via battery power.
The new Milwaukee M18 is one of the most powerful air compressor tire inflators on the market that's powered by a battery. The M18™ Inflator delivers fast, accurate, easy inflation with the portability to take anywhere. Optimized for passenger, light truck, and other medium-duty tires. It's rated to deliver max 150PSI, the high-efficiency motor tops-off 33” light truck tires in under 1 minute. The TrueFill™ Technology features an auto-pressure check that is designed to WAIT for the pressure to stabilize, CHECK the system pressure, and FILL until the desired target is reached. In addition, an Auto Shut-Off feature will stop inflation at selected PSI to prevent overinflation allowing users to set it & forget it. Furthermore, the unit includes 4 PSI memory slots, anti-vibration feet, a 36” inch hose with an all-brass Schrader chuck, and an on-board hose and nozzle storage. If you're like me and you're already invested in the Milwaukee ecosystem, then this is a great choice for the RV. I also own the 12V model, which is perfect for smaller applications.
- Fastest 18V Cordless Tire Inflator: Top off 33" Light Truck Tires in Under 1 Minute
- Truefill Technology: Auto Pressure Check Feature Activates to Ensure PSI Target is Achieved, Automatic Shut-off at Selected PSI Prevents Overinflation
- Tire Capacity: Premium Components and Unmatched Durability to Handle Tires Over 100 PSI, Rated for 150 PSI Max
- Optimized for Passenger, Light Truck and Other Medium Duty Tires
- PSI Memory Preset: Save Your Most Used PSI Rating With Up to 4 PSI Slots
- On-Board Hose & Nozzle Storage: Easily Store 36" Hose and Attachments
- Accessories: Includes All Brass Schrader Chuck, Inflation Needle, Inflator Nozzle, & Presta Chuck
- Anti-Vibration Feet: Minimize Tool Walk While in Use
- Fits All M18 Batteries
- 5 Year Tool Warranty
- The most expensive battery-powered option
- No option for power other than battery
- Not as many accessories as other options.
The final choice in the battery-powered lineup is the Craftsman air compressor tire inflator. The V20 Cordless Air Inflator provides added versatility allowing the user the freedom to use this product with a V20 battery, AC wall plug, or a vehicle's 12V adapter. This multi-power option makes it a great choice for RV and travel. Tackle any task ranging from an air mattress to an automobile tire. The automatic shutoff feature of the portable tire inflator allows you to enter your PSI setting and walk away, while the digital gauge provides an easy-to-read display.
- LOW VOLUME OUTPUT: High pressure of air compressor tire inflator allows you to quickly inflate anything from a tire to an air mattress
- ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE: Digital tire inflator comes with 3-power sources including V20 20V MAX* battery, AC wall plug, or 12V car adapter plug
- AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF: Portable tire inflator for a car allows you to set your PSI and the unit will shut off once it is reached
- EASY READ DISPLAY: Digital PSI gauge
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Unless you use Craftsman tools, you'll need to purchase a separate battery and charger
- Slightly bulkier than other battery tire inflator options.
- Build quality is good, but not as heavy-duty as Milwaukee.
I have own a Viair 45053 450P-RV. My camper tires require 125psi so its very hard to get a small compressor that either works that high, or takes forever. It doesn’t even flinch. Nice bag, stores very well, and airs up anything that I need, all while using a jumper cable clamp that’s easy to hook up to any 12v DC battery.
Great real-world example. Thanks for sharing!