There’s a lot to think about when you head out in an RV. Like a regular road trip, you’ll want to make sure the vehicle itself is ready – that it’s safe to drive and has oil and gas and windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze and good tires and all those things. But it’s also a dwelling, and you’ll need to make sure you have the water tanks filled, and that all your hoses work, and that you have adequate power. Finally, you’ll need the general things everyone needs when going on a trip – clothes and toiletries and food and sunscreen and fun toys like bikes or kayaks.
We’re here to help. Here’s a list of RV camping supplies you’ll want when you head out on your next trip.
RV camping supplies list
Everyone’s camping and RV supplies are going to be a little different, depending on what you’re planning on doing and your unique travel situation. Obviously, a family is going to have different needs than someone traveling solo, or a couple traveling with pets. The best advice is to use this list as a jumping-off point, and add the things you need to it, or subtract the things that don’t fit your lifestyle. Take a physical copy of your list with you, and check things off as you pack them so you don’t have to keep too much in your brain!
RV and camping supplies
- Sleeping bag and tent – even if you’re not planning on sleeping outside, they’re useful to have. If you have a large group, you may even want to consider having some people sleep in the tent
- First aid kit – always travel with a first aid kit! You can find well-stocked kits at stores like Target or Walmart, and often even at the grocery store. Make sure everyone in your group knows where the kit is stored and what it includes.
- Flashlights and/or headlamps with extra batteries
- Extra chargers for phones, tablets, and other devices
- Pocket knit
- Maps – even if you have a GPS, those signals don’t always work! Make sure you have maps of the areas where you’ll be and that you know how to read them
- Compass (see above)
- Rope
- Tarps
- Folding chairs for setting up outside the RV
- Water filter
- Inflatable boat, fishing gear, paddles
- Toolbox
RV camper supplies
Inside your camper or motorhome, you’ll want a few other things. When packing your RV fridge, consider the following:
- Check your fridge to be sure there is air flowing through it to keep your food cold. Make sure there is plenty of space between the cooling fans and other items. Don’t pack your fridge too tightly or the air can’t circulate and keep everything cold. Keep the door closed, and use tension bars to prevent spilling. Try to pack food with a long shelf life, like peanut butter.
Other kitchen items
Other things to bring for the kitchen are:
- Pots, pans, bowls, cups, measuring cups and spoons, utensils
- Oven mitts, dishtowels, dishcloths or scrubbers, drying rack
- Blender
- Coffee maker
- Trash bags
- Ice
- Water bottles
- Foil
- Dishsoap
- Drying rack
- Matches
- Fuel if you intend to grill (propane or charcoal)
- Firewood if you have a firepit
Food including:
- Cereal
- Canned goods
- Breakfast bars
- Coffee
- Jerky
- Drink mixes or drink pouches
- Crackers
- Instant foods
- Some fresh foods (plan a menu!)
- Snacks
Personal camping RV supplies
Besides items you need to set up camp and cook, you need personal items. Don’t forget to bring:
- Laptop, tablet, phone, or other electronic devices
- Clothing (don’t forget a bathing suit! Also, be sure to bring layers)
- Prescriptions and over the counter medicine for headaches, allergies, colds, and other common ailments
- Toilet paper
- Bath toiletries (toothpaste, soap, shampoo, brush, face wash, cosmetics, lotion)
- Towels and washcloths
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Pet gear
- Books, movies, games
- Umbrella
How to safely pack your RV and camper supplies
Once you have all your camper RV supplies, you’ll want to make sure they’re packed safely so they don’t break or fall or get tossed around while you’re driving. Don’t pack your RV lopsided, but be sure the weight is evenly distributed. Keep your rig bottom heavy (like your fridge!). Check your manual to see how much weight each axle can carry.
Keep your rig organized as well. When you put random items all over the place, or just shove things in cupboards, it’s frustrating to try and find them later.
Take a few minutes to brainstorm any other items you may need on your trip. Consider the weather and terrain where you’re traveling, the people or pets you’re traveling with, and any special activities you plan to do on your trip.
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