RV camping allows you to tackle a new world of adventures while toting along many of the welcome comforts of home. The spacious storage options in an RV make it easy to stay prepared for any eventuality. Start your vacation prep with this comprehensive packing list so you can hit the road fully prepared for a worry-free camping experience.
Checklist for RV Camping
There are a lot of things that you need to pack for your RV camping adventure. This includes everything from personal items that each individual will use to day-to-day essential equipment for your RV hookup and maintenance. Some campers like to keep a checklist of the most important items so they can cross each one off as it goes into the camper. You can even laminate your list to use it again and again.
Below are some important items that you should pack for RV camping. Use this as a starting point for your list and customize it as you go to include personal details, such as the exact medications that you need to bring.
Basics for Setting Up
Every RV is different, so you should consult your owners manual for the specifics. However, there are some basics that every RV camper needs to get set up, such as:
- Electrical adaptor.
- Extension cables.
- Surge protector.
- Water pressure regulator.
- Sewer kit.
- Wheel chocks.
- Leveling blocks.
RV Camping Essentials for Daily Use
You’ll want to have basics on hand for your campfire and cleaning tasks, such as:
- Lighter and matches.
- Trash bags.
- Disinfectant wipes.
- Broom.
- Handheld vacuum.
Bathroom Essentials
Keep your RV bathroom functioning properly with critical items, including:
- Toilet chemicals.
- Toilet deodorant.
- Fast-dissolving RV toilet paper or septic-safe toilet paper.
- Sanitary rubber cleaning gloves.
Clothing and Personal Items
Customize this list so it’s tailored to the exact activities you have planned for your trip. You may want your trusty fishing hat and vest if you’re an angler. Families who are staying at a campground with a pool will want to make sure everyone has their swim gear, cover-ups, and beach towels. It’s always best to pack layers so you can adjust your outfits to the weather, adding or removing clothing as needed to stay comfortable outdoors. Your packing list will likely include:
- Socks.
- Underwear.
- Shirts.
- Shorts or pants.
- Hoodies or jackets.
- Rain gear.
- Swimming suits.
- Shoes, including hiking boots for trails, tennis shoes for easy walking, and sandals for swimming or lounging.
- Sunglasses.
- Hats.
Sleeping Essentials
Make up your beds so you’re comfortable and cozy in the RV, so pack:
- Sheets.
- Blankets and comforters or sleeping bags.
- Pillows.
Lighting
Plan to take adequate lighting for both inside and outside. This may include decorative lighting like, such as string lights to hang from your canopy. At a minimum, you need:
- Lanterns.
- Flashlights.
- Headlamps.
- Extra batteries.
Toiletries
Each individual will need items such as:
- Soap.
- Shampoo and conditioner.
- Sunscreen.
- Lip balm.
- Bug spray.
- Lotion.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Dental floss.
- Deodorant.
- Razor and shaving cream.
- Comb and brush.
- Hair ties, clips, or headbands.
- Nail clippers and nail file.
- Makeup.
- Towels.
Kitchen Essentials
Every RV camper has their own unique approach to cooking. You may prefer to cook in your RV’s kitchen with pots, pans, and skillets. The campfire might call your name for silver turtles wrapped in foil, or you may be a grillmaster who needs to pack plenty of charcoal. Make a menu for your trip and consider all the items you’ll need to prepare each meal. Include the food that you’ll need as well. Some basics include:
- Cutting board.
- Can opener.
- Utensils and knives.
- Plates and bowls.
- Cups and mugs.
- Food storage bags and containers.
- Aluminum foil.
- Napkins and paper towels.
- Dish soap.
- Spices, including salt and pepper.
- Cooking oil or spray.
- Drinking water.
Safety and Emergency Gear
Keep all essential documents you need in one place so you can find them easily. Placing them in a plastic bag will also keep them safe from water damage. You should always have:
- Vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
- RV manual.
- IDs and driver’s licenses.
- Medical insurance cards.
- Other medical information, such as a list of prescription medications.
You should also pack all the items you might need in case of an emergency, mechanical trouble, or other unwelcome event. This includes:
- Fire extinguisher.
- Tire pressure gauge.
- Digital line monitor.
- Digital voltmeter/multimeter.
- Duct tape.
- Electrical tape.
- Motor oil.
- Transmission fluid.
- Jumper cables.
- RV toolbox.
- Emergency roadside safety kit.
- Sewing kit.
- First aid kit.
- Medications.
- Hatchet.
- Flotation devices.
Keep potentially hazardous liquids, such as the motor oil and transmission fluid, in airtight, waterproof containers. Make sure emergency items, such as your first aid kit and roadside assistance kit, are easy to reach.
Entertainment and Comfort Items
One of the great benefits of RV camping is that you can tote along many of your favorite forms of entertainment, including television and music. You’ll also want to bring along everything you need to enjoy your surroundings, whether you’re planning on fishing, hiking, or playing music around the campfire. The following are only suggestions for some of the items you may want to bring along for fun. Customize your list and consider some of the following:
- Charging blocks and cables.
- Headphones or earbuds.
- Mobile devices.
- Books and magazines.
- Playing cards and games.
- Binoculars.
- Frisbees.
- Kickballs, baseballs and mitts, and other sporting equipment.
- Fishing poles, tackle, fishing license, and other fishing gear.
- Guidebooks and hiking maps.
- Camp chairs.
- Picnic blankets.
- Hammocks.
- Guitar, harmonica, or other instruments.
- Laptop or tablet.
Find the Right RV Products for Your Trip
RV camping lets you explore new and exciting destinations while maintaining easy access to all the essentials for safety and comfort. With the right camping essentials, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes from a well-packed RV that’s prepared for anything. If you’re missing some of the items on our list, come visit Cheyenne Camping Center in Walcott, Iowa, to stock up. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find everything you need for your next adventure.
white Maul type-C motorhome by Hanson Lu is licensed with Unsplash License