Lots of articles tell you what to pack when you go on an RV trip, but very few articles tell you what you need to leave at home. Your RV is designed to help you get from point A to point B in comfort. The truth is, nearly everything is already in your rig. There is no need to over pack. It will only frustrate you in the long run. So here are a few things I suggest you toss before you start your journey.
TOP 5 Things To Leave At Home When Packing Your RV
1. Excessive Kitchen Gear
Utensils, glass containers, and margarita makers all make for a well-stocked kitchen. But when packing your RV, these items just get in the way. Glass breaks and is heavy. Most utensils go unused. Margarita makers rarely get used. Bring the bare essentials. You’ll be amazed at how creative you can get when faced with a less-than-gourmet kitchen.
TIP: Stock your RV kitchen with lightweight, multi-purpose items that are easy to clean.
2. Too Much Entertainment
Do you really need your iPad, computer, video games, DVDs, and a closet full of games? Probably not. If you are going to bring entertainment, stick with two main items. If your iPad can double as a computer, map, and e-reader, then choose it and forgot the additional laptop, GPS, and set of paperback novels. If you plan to play board games, bring your favorite instead of a series of games. When it comes to entertainment, less is more.
TIP: Think small. Bring card games rather than board games, and MP3s rather than CDs.
3. An Extra Wardrobe
Bring clothes you can layer and mix and match for multiple days. You do not need a new outfit twice a day. Bring two pairs of shoes and no more. You probably won’t ever get out of your flip-flops or hiking shoes anyway. If you discover you’re cold, buy a souvenir sweatshirt. In addition, pare back on the beauty treatments. Bring the basics and make sure the family can share all the items. Believe it or not, baby shampoo works on all types of hair. Eliminate one of each and only bring what you need. Packing your RV is simple. Make a list and then cut it in half.
TIP: The travel section at Walmart often sells pre-packed bags filled with everything you need. Shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and wash cloth. All your toiletries in one easy-to-carry bag.
4. Too Much Food
Make a list of meals and bring the ingredients you will need…plus two alternatives. You do not need a full pantry for a weekend trip. You will not need baking supplies and a pile of canned goods. Plan ahead. If you need produce, stop and get only what you need along the way. Too many RVers pack for an army and then end up eating out anyway. Don’t let this be you. Plan your meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You will have more than enough left over for snacks.
TIP: Prep and freeze your meals ahead. You can also use tin foil or crock pot recipes to keep your pots and pans use to a minimum.
5. Inflexibility
No one likes a spoil sport. If you are going on a family vacation, you will have a moment or two of conflict. If you’re traveling with a bunch of friends, don’t be surprised when someone gets their feelings hurt. Good intentions go south, so prepare to be flexible. If you choose a good attitude BEFORE the crisis happens, you can save the trip. When packing your RV be sure to bring along a big smile.
TIP: If you’re not a people person, find ways to give yourself a break from the crowd. A few moments of “quiet” can restore your sanity.
In the end, your RV trip is an adventure. Expect to have a great time. The lighter you pack the less stress you’ll encounter. Besides, if you forget something…well, you are CAMPING, aren’t you? You can probably do without for a few nights. 🙂
What items do you think should be left at home? Phones? Game boys? Animals? Kids? List your top 5 things to leave at home in the comments below! Then share this article by tweeting, pinning, liking, or even emailing it to your friends.
