RV Camping Checklist- 20 Essentials

Planning a trip can be quite exciting, but it also requires foresight. When you are preparing for an RV camping adventure, it is very important to plan ahead of time to avoid any frustration later on. While the list of supplies needed can be quite long, as well as dependent on the area and length of your camping trip, consider these 20 essentials a good starting point for any general RV camping trip, from which you can tailor your list as need be.

1. RV Toolbox/Repair Kit

Safety first! It is very important to be prepared for the worst. While you may be able to find some tools in your home, purchasing a full set of repair tools exclusively for your RV is a smart investment. Even if some of the tools may seem unimportant or you think you will never use them, you should feel a sense of relief kowing you are set for any emergency. While other specific toolbox needs may vary by RV, make sure the kit includes battery jumper cables.

2. First-Aid Kit

While outdoor activities are fun, they can result in cuts, scratches and burns. For immediate treatment is necessary to avoid potential infections. In addition to basic medical supplies provided in such kits, consider gathering further necessities such as allergy medicine, pain relievers, insect repellent and hand sanitizer.

3. Toiletry Kit

Don’t be the smelly camper; invest in a good toiletry kit with everything you need to stay clean. Such kits include basic items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, deodorant, soap, shampoo, and towelettes, but can also be customized to fit your needs. And while you could gather these products from your bathroom, you’re much less likely to forget something if you simply have a separate kit that stays part of your camping supplies.

4. Sewer Hose with Hookup Fittings

You will need a high quality sewer hose for removing your RV’s grey and black water tanks. Investing in a high-quality sewer hose limits the possibility of leakage, and as it will help you avoid the sort of stinky mess that could happen otherwise, it is one of the best investments you can make for your RV camping trip. Do your research before purchasing and be sure you have the right hookup fittings for your RV.

5. Wheel Chocks

Keeping your RV put and in one place is a part of your safety, so wheel chocks are a necessity. Keep in mind that you should select the wheel chocks best for your RV’s specific tires, so do your research.

6. Multi-Purpose Cleaner

Without doubt, a multi-purpose cleaner is crucial to your RV’s maintenance. Pick a product that may be used on any surface, including wood, glass, laminate countertop, plastic, and more, as you’ll get better use out of such varied use. Additionally, if you simply make using a multi-purpose cleaner part of your daily RV routine, you can help cut down on hygiene and sanitation issues as well.

7. Plastic Waste Containers

Similar to a multi-use cleaner, good waste containers can make a huge difference in keeping your RV tidy. Set the tone by placing appropriate containers in appropriate places around your RV. And if you choose to use waste containers outside your RV, make sure that they seal and are critter-proof (including bear-proof if in bear habitat).

8. Dust Pan and Broom

Cleaning up with a dust pan and broom is easy and without any hassle (unlike with a vacuum, for instance, as you don’t need electricity), and with a dust pan and broom you can touch up and clean up as needed and as the day goes by, both inside and out.

9. Extension Cords

Extension cords allow you to stretch your outlet’s accessibility, as well as charge a greater number of items at a time. Additionally, some appliances you will want to keep plugged in at all times, such as the mini-fridge or coffee machine. I recommend two extension cords, each with a surge protector and multiple outlets.

10. Fire Extinguisher

As your RV serves as a home on wheels, it needs be protected as such—and Rvs are frequently more prone to fire-related hazards than your normal home, which means the risk should be taken very seriously. As a result, it is cruical to assure the possession of a fire extinguisher before taking your RV out on what should be a blissful excursion. Safety at all costs should be a primary concern as you pack, and that means including a good fire extinguiser (and making sure you know how to use it)!

11. Portable BBQ Grill

Although eating canned food may be easier, barbecuing is a great part of a good camping trip. Having a BBQ night, for instance, can help spice up your RV camping trip. Grab some steaks, hamburgers, or hot dogs, grill them up, and enjoy a nice dinner meal. When selecting a grill, choose a decent size (with enough cooking area for the number of campers you’ll most often feed), and choose a charcoal or propane gas grill, as both charcoal and propane are easily found in most places.

12. Plastic Dinnerware

Getting plastic dinnerware sets can make storage and cleaning much simpler. Not only will you not have to worry about any dish falling and breaking or making a mess, but cleanup and storage can also be far simpler than with traditional dinnerware.

13. Food Storage Supplies

Not only do you need to store your original food supplies, but you also need a way to store leftovers and open canned food. To better save space, consider using packing foil, plastic containers, ziploc bags, and plastic wrap as able.

14. Camping Chairs

From enjoying your morning coffee to gathering together for long nights, camping chairs are a necessity. Additionally, as many camping chairs fold and pack quite nicely, you can pack to ensure camping chairs for everyone. Do some research and try a few before finding the design that works best for you and your camping style.

15. Folding Table

Packing a portable folding table requires little space, yet makes a huge difference when camping. Not only does a folding table mean you can dine outside and enjoy nature, but it also helps enable as much outside time as you want, especially if you set it up to help establish a lounge area. Use your table for drinks, snacks, or any meals, as well as for playing card or board games.

16. Jacket

Checking the weather before your RV camping trip can be helpful, but it is not always accurate. Prepare for chilly nights. In short: Be prepared for any realistic weather possibility. If camping in a place with rainy weather, for instance, be sure you have a raincoat. (Perhaps an umbrella, too.)

17. Hiking Shoes

RV camping means significant time outside. Invest in a good pair of hiking shoes to be as comfortable as possible while hiking and adventuring. Lightweight trail runners are recommended, and are great for hiking. Consider boots if the area of your camping site will be wet and muddy. Generally, good shoes are necessary to avoid feet pain, blisters, and discomfort that can interfere with your trip.

18. Radio

Music can set a great mood for everyone. For variety, I recommend getting blank CD’s and asking your lovely campers for song suggestions. This way you get a good selection of songs that everyone likes, and you can add those songs dto mixes. Alternatively, you can bring an iPad, a laptop, or even use your phone; just make sure you have the songs you want added to your playlists or otherwise available. (Bluetooth speakers are a good option as well.)

19. Blankets

Make sure you pack up a couple extra blankets! Nights and early mornings can be chilly when camping. Whether you are up late or up early in the morning, a blanket can be wrapped around your upper body, or wrap up your legs and feet for extra warmth. Your friends and family will love you if you have extra blankets for them, too.

20. Potable Water

The importance of safe drinking water cannot be underestimated. Consider bringing your water with you, especially in another area/state that you are not familiar with, where you can be exposed to different viruses and bacteria. For additional protection, you can—and perhaps should—filter and/or boil you water if you fear potential contamination.