What camping gear do you actually need, and how do you get it without overspending? The essentials can be broken down by trip type: RV camping requires hookup gear like a water pressure regulator and leveling blocks; tent camping requires shelter and cooking basics from scratch; and every trip needs key health and safety items, regardless of how you’re sleeping. Quality affordable options exist in every category — you don’t need to pay premium prices to be comfortable and safe outdoors.
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Key Takeaways
- RV camping requires far less standalone gear than tent camping. Much of it may already be in your rental, but always confirm with the owner rather than assume.
- A water pressure regulator and surge protector are inexpensive, non-negotiable protection for your RV’s plumbing and electrical systems.
- Unlevel parking can damage an RV’s refrigerator, but only if it’s an absorption-style fridge. Compressor/residential-style units aren’t affected the same way.
- Tent campers need to build a full kitchen and sleep system from scratch, so budget accordingly.
- Health and safety basics (first aid, sun protection, bug spray) apply no matter how you’re camping.
What Gear Do I Need for RV Camping?
RVing requires less standalone outdoor gear than tent camping, since much of what you need may already be built into the rig. However, on a peer-to-peer rental, that varies from listing to listing. Always confirm what’s included with your specific owner rather than assuming, even for items which are commonly provided.
RV Camping Must-Haves
| Item | Why You Need It | Usually Included in Rentals? |
| Sheets, blankets, pillows | Bedding for RV beds | Sometimes — confirm with owner |
| Pots, pans, cooking utensils | The kitchen is a major RV perk, but only if it’s stocked | Varies widely |
| Plates and bowls | For eating the home-cooked meals | Varies widely |
| Surge protector | Protects the RV’s electrical system from power surges | Often, but confirm — don’t assume |
| Water pressure regulator | Prevents high campground water pressure from damaging RV plumbing | Often, but confirm — don’t assume |
| Fresh water hose | Connects RV to city water or fills the fresh tank (must be a dedicated white potable hose, not a garden hose) | Often, but confirm — don’t assume |
| Sewer hose | Dumps black and gray tanks | Often, but confirm — don’t assume |
| Leveling blocks | Keeps the RV level for comfort and appliance function | Sometimes — confirm with owner |
| Wheel chocks | Prevents the RV from rolling while parked | Owners of their own rig should keep a set on board |
Does an unlevel RV really damage the refrigerator? Only if it’s an absorption-style refrigerator — these cool via a gravity-fed system and can suffer real (sometimes permanent) damage if run unlevel for extended periods. It’s generally recommended to stay within about 3 degrees side-to-side and 6 degrees front-to-back. Compressor-style (residential) refrigerators, which are increasingly common in newer RVs, aren’t sensitive to this. If you’re not sure which type your rental has, ask the owner.
What Gear Do I Need for Tent Camping?
Tent camping means bringing along everything you need to cook and sleep, since you won’t have an RV’s built-in amenities. Here are the core essentials:
- Tent — a reliable, classic dome-style tent is a solid, affordable starting point.
- Sleeping bag — these can range in warmth so choose one rated for the season you’re camping in.
- Sleeping mat — this cushions you and can provide a small amount of insulation from the ground; look for one that packs down small.
- Pillow — a home pillow or an inflatable camping pillow both work.
- Camp stove — a small propane stove is a simple, inexpensive cooking solution.
- Cooking gear kit — a nesting cookware set saves pack space.
- Cooler — without a fridge, cold storage depends entirely on ice and insulation.
- Lantern and flashlights — useful for tent camping and a good backup for RV camping too.
- Dishpan and biodegradable soap — since dishwater is often dumped outside, biodegradable soap protects the surrounding plants and wildlife.
What Health and Safety Gear Should I Pack Regardless of Camping Style?
These items will keep you safe and healthy, regardless of how you’re camping.
- Sunscreen — you’ll want this year-round … even in winter.
- Sunglasses — protect your eyes during outdoor activities.
- Lip balm — protects against wind and sun exposure.
- Bug spray — especially important in summer months.
- First aid kit — keep one in your RV or tent, and a second in your hiking bag.
What Should I Pack for a Day Hike?
You’ll want to bring some items along if you’re leaving camp for the day. Here’s what you’ll need for a hike.
- Hiking backpack — sized to carry your gear comfortably on the trail.
- Water bottle — any bottle works, though a wide-mouth option is easy to refill and clean.
- Hiking snacks — trail mix, protein bars, and jerky travel well.
- Map and compass (or a downloaded offline trail map app) — don’t rely on cell signal in remote areas.
- Hiking shoes — a solid pair doesn’t have to be expensive.
- Weather-appropriate layered clothing
- Multi-tool — useful for unexpected repairs or tasks on the trail.
- First aid kit
- Sunscreen
What Do I Need to Camp with a Pet?
Pets require their own special items when they head out camping.
- Food and water bowls — collapsible versions save packing space.
- Food and treats — pack enough for the full trip, plus some extra.
- Harness and leash — required at most campgrounds for walks and hikes.
- Poop bags — for responsible cleanup.
- Pet bed — gives your pet a familiar, comfortable place to sleep.
- Toys — keep pets entertained and comfortable in a new environment.
- Kennel — useful for travel safety or when you need to leave your pet briefly at camp.
- Medical records — many campgrounds require proof of vaccinations, and records are essential in a veterinary emergency.
See our full pet camping gear checklist for more detail on what to bring.
What Extra Gear Do I Need for Cold Weather Camping?
Cold-weather camping is all about staying warm, using materials that resist moisture and retain heat without added bulk.
- All-season or winter-rated sleeping bag — a summer bag won’t cut it in freezing temps.
- Double sleeping pads — layering pads adds insulation from the cold ground.
- Merino wool long underwear — worn as a base layer; avoid cotton, which holds moisture against your skin.
- Wool socks — wool provides warmth even when wet, while cotton socks provide none.
- Fleece-lined pants and warm layers — worn over your base layer.
- Warm hat and insulated gloves
- Coat — an extra insulating layer you can remove as needed.
- Waterproof pants, jacket, and boots — keep you dry in wet winter conditions.
What Extra Gear Do I Need for Hot Weather Camping?
Hot weather camping means looking for moisture-wicking materials and clothing that will keep you cool.
- Lightweight, light-colored, UPF-rated clothing — nylon and polyester breathe better than cotton in heat; cotton can also cause chafing.
- Sun hat — a breathable, wide-brimmed style offers the most protection.
- Hydration pack — carries more water than a bottle alone and keeps it accessible on the move.
- Neck cooler — a wet bandana works, but a purpose-built cooling band performs better.
Common Mistakes First-Time Campers Make
- Assuming an RV rental includes hookup gear (surge protector, hoses, regulator) without confirming with the owner
- Packing a summer sleeping bag for a shoulder-season or winter trip
- Wearing cotton socks or base layers in cold or wet conditions
- Skipping the water pressure regulator and risking damage to RV plumbing
Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Gear
The gear included with RV rentals varies significantly by listing since RVshare is a peer-to-peer marketplace. Some owners include hookup gear, bedding, and kitchen basics; others provide only the RV. Always confirm directly with your owner rather than assuming.
Yes, you need a water pressure regulator. It’s an inexpensive way to prevent high campground water pressure from damaging your RV’s plumbing lines and fittings.
Yes, a surge protector is really necessary. It protects your RV’s electrical system from power surges and unstable campground wiring, and is inexpensive insurance against costly electrical repairs.
RV camping may already include a kitchen, bedding, and hookup basics (depending on the rental), while tent camping requires packing and bringing everything you need to cook and sleep with you.
Unlevel RV parking only damages the fridge in the case of absorption-style refrigerators. Compressor/residential-style fridges, increasingly common in newer rentals, aren’t affected the same way. Ask your owner which type your rental has if you’re unsure.
Ready to find your first RV rental? Browse RV rentals and confirm what gear is included before your trip.
