What to take on a RV camping trip? Summer has arrived, and with it, the most popular RVing season of the year. We have officially entered peak RV season this summer, when upwards of 155,000 RVs will be on the road across the United States and Canada. These RVers range from older married couples to single people traveling with pets to young families with children, among others. These individuals will be moving to a variety of locations, such as campgrounds, Harvest Hosts, national parks, and other places. While RVing is a fantastic way for people to spend their vacations, it comes with lots of work and planning.
Over-packing is something that everyone has done at one time or another. Unless you are a strict minimalist, your luggage likely contains at least one item that you do not require. Those unwanted and wasteful things might get in the way on your first RV journey, adding to the weight and unnecessary items can be cumbersome when it comes to packing for a trip.
That is not to say that today’s RVs are not spacious; in fact, there are several storage spaces to make traveling much easier. However, you will need certain items with you. You may also have to make some sacrifices as you prepare your luggage.
We find it most convenient to divide things up into distinct categories: Kitchen, Bed/Bath, and all RV necessities. You will also see a few items that we recommend leaving at home to save room and guarantee a good time on your first trip.
Hygiene And Health
The first and most important thing is to have a high-quality first-aid kit on hand in case of any injuries incurred during travel. Antibiotic ointment, animal/insect bite treatment, burn ointment, gauze, scissors, bandages, and anything else you can fit are all required for your first-aid kit. If you do not have the time to make your own kit, purchase one that has been made specifically for camping.
Kits like these are generally certified and come with step-by-step instructions to assist you with basic maintenance. Your first-aid kit should be kept in an area where everyone in the family can access it. It should be returned to its proper location after usage so that no time is lost looking for it in an emergency.
Camping Gear
Let’s speak about your camping tent. If you are a first-time camper, it is possible that you will say to yourself, “I do not need a tent; I already have an RV for that!” However, many RVers find themselves pitching tents from time to time during their travels. If you have room in your rig and are not using it, bringing one is never a bad idea.
Of course, if you want to spend the night outside for one night or more, you will need additional supplies in order to guarantee a pleasant and safe evening.
Kitchen Items
Many RVers intend to cook the majority of their own food since most RVs are equipped with a full kitchen. As a result, you will need to bring all of the equipment necessary for cooking and eating. This is a summary of the most frequent cooking and dining essentials.
- cups and mugs
- plates
- Bowls
- can opener
- utensils (forks/knives/spoons)
- paper towels
- napkins
- cooking utensils (tongs, ladles, big spoons and so on)
- frying pan
Bed And Bath Needs
If you are traveling as a pair, you will only need one set of bedding, but be sure to bring extra everything for each pull-out or bunk.
- Sheets and blankets
- Pillows
- Towels and washcloths or shower puffs
- Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Toilet paper and tissues
- Shower house bag and flip flops
- Laundry detergent
Food
Making your own meals reduces the amount of food you bring. It will also be necessary to bring along all of the necessary ingredients. When driving, you will need to prepare plenty of snacks and easy meals that are light on calories. This list varies depending on what you plan to serve while on vacation, but it is a good place to start.
- cereal
- milk
- salt, pepper, spices
- condiments (mustard, ketchup, mayo, BBQ sauce, relish, salad dressing)
- meats (chicken, hot dogs, brats, burgers, etc.)
- cooking oils
- fruits and vegetables
- pancake mix
- peanut butter and jelly
- lunchmeat and cheese
- Bread
RV And Camping Needs
If you have ever gone camping before, you will know what to pack. Keep in mind that you are going out to unwind—to get away from it all. You may still have to work while on vacation but consider the many ways you will be able to play. Aside from your camping gear, here is a list of stuff that folks like to bring for further enjoyment!
- Flashlights
- Refillable water bottles
- Headlamps
- Clothes (be sensible)
- Sunscreen and insect repellant
- Deck of cards
- Camping chairs
- Outdoor rug
Toiletries
Although toiletries and other small items may look similar, packing a modest bag of toiletries for a flight differs from stocking a tiny bathroom for an RV trip in almost every way. Remember to bring first-aid supplies, medicines, and water for the whole family. Here is a list to get you started.
- Rubbing alcohol
- Peroxide
- pain relief medicine (Advil, Excedrin, Tylenol, Aleve, and so on)
- Dramamine – motion sickness
- any other medications you may need
- hand soap
- first-aid kit
- body wash
- face wash
The No-Go List
It is crucial to keep a few things in mind before you go on any trip. Unless you are going to be a full-time traveler, you do not need to pack up your entire life. Sure, some beautiful decorations for the RV. Otherwise, be realistic and remember that you will be camping. Second, storage capacity is important in an RV, but so is weight. These are a few items we suggest avoiding bringing with you when traveling by RV.
- Heavy tools
- Abundant kitchen appliances
- Firewood
- Food in bulk
Although it may appear to be a long list of items, these are the most essential necessities for any RV vacation. Many of these goods can be purchased and stored in your RV so that they do not have to be packed up before every excursion. Check out this checklist before you pack to know what you will need on your trip, whether it is for a weekend or a month.
