50 Amp RV Extension & Power Cords

What length 50 amp RV extension cord do I need?

Measure the distance from the campground pedestal to the end of your existing RV power cord, then add a few feet of slack so the cord isn't pulled tight across the ground. A 50 foot 50 amp RV extension cord covers most sites where the pedestal sits at the far end of the pad. Longer runs add voltage drop, so buy one cord of the right length instead of joining two shorter cords together. Check the wire gauge listed on each product before ordering.

What is the difference between a 50 amp RV power cord and a 50 amp extension cord?

A 50 amp RV power cord is the main shore power cord. It is either hardwired into your RV or plugs into a detachable inlet on the side of the coach. A 50 amp extension cord has a male 14-50 plug on one end and a female 14-50 connector on the other, and it adds length to the cord you already have. Before ordering, check whether your RV uses a hardwired cord or a detachable inlet. If your cord exits through a compartment door, our RV cable hatches are worth checking while you're replacing it.

Can I plug a 50 amp camper cord into a 30 amp pedestal?

Yes, with a 50 amp female to 30 amp male adapter. Your RV will then have 30 amps at 120 volts, about 3,600 watts, compared with roughly 12,000 watts on a full 50 amp service. That is usually not enough to run two air conditioners at the same time, so plan your load accordingly. Our RV detachable adapters include the common 50-to-30 and 30-to-50 configurations.

Do I need a surge protector with a 50 amp RV extension cord?

An extension cord carries whatever the pedestal delivers, including open grounds, reversed polarity, and low voltage. A surge protector plugged in at the pedestal checks the power before it reaches your extension cord and your RV. Our Southwire Surge Guard RV surge protectors come in 50 amp portable and hardwired models, and Bluetooth RV surge protectors let you check voltage and fault codes from your phone.

How do I know if my RV needs a 50 amp cord?

Look at the plug on your existing shore power cord. A 50 amp plug has four prongs, while a 30 amp plug has three. You can also check your RV's breaker panel for a 50 amp double-pole main breaker. If you're unsure which cord or connector fits your coach, text or call 817-984-1852 with your RV's make and model and our team will confirm the correct fit before you order.