Packing for an RV trip sounds easy until you're halfway down the road and realize the coffee maker is sitting on your kitchen counter, or worse, you forgot the power adapter you need to plug into your campsite.
The good news is that most RV packing mistakes only happen once. After a few trips, you'll figure out what gets used every day and what never leaves the storage compartment. If you're heading out for the first time, though, having a checklist makes life a lot easier.
Here's a practical RV packing checklist that covers the essentials without filling your camper with things you probably won't use.
RV Setup Essentials
Before you settle into your campsite, make sure you have the equipment needed to get connected safely.
- Sewer hose with supports
- Freshwater hose
- Water pressure regulator
- Water filter
- 30-amp or 50-amp power cord
- Electrical adapters
- Surge protector
- Leveling blocks
- Wheel chocks
- Basic toolkit
These aren't the most exciting items to pack, but they're the ones you'll miss the fastest if they're left behind.
Kitchen Must-Haves
The biggest advantage of RV camping is having your own kitchen. Keep it simple and bring what you'll actually use.
- Pots and pans
- Frying pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Can opener
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowl
- Plates and bowls
- Cups and mugs
- Silverware
- Cooking utensils
- Dish soap
- Sponge
- Dish towels
- Food storage containers
Don't forget coffee. Almost every experienced RVer will tell you that's one mistake you only make once.
Bedroom & Bathroom Essentials
A comfortable night's sleep makes every trip better.
Pack:
- Sheets
- Pillows
- Blankets
- Bath towels
- Hand towels
- Toiletries
- Toilet paper made for RV systems
- Shower shoes
- Laundry bag
- Extra clothes
If you're staying for more than a weekend, bring a few extra sets of clothes. Weather changes quickly, especially during spring and fall camping.
Outdoor Camping Gear
Most people don't spend the day inside their RV. That's the whole point.
A few items can make your campsite much more comfortable.
- Camping chairs
- Folding table
- Outdoor rug
- Flashlights
- Lantern
- Extension cord
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Cooler
- Fire starters
- Marshmallow roasting sticks
- Portable grill
- Charcoal or propane
- Reusable water bottles
- Picnic blanket
If you're staying at a Great Escapes RV Resort, you'll probably spend just as much time enjoying the resort amenities as relaxing at your campsite.
Safety Items You Shouldn't Skip
These don't take up much room, but you'll be glad they're there if you ever need them.
Include:
- First aid kit
- Prescription medications
- Extra batteries
- Fire extinguisher
- Work gloves
- Emergency roadside kit
- Jumper cables
- Tire pressure gauge
- Multi-tool
- Phone charger
- Portable power bank
It's also worth saving copies of your campground reservation and emergency contact information on your phone.
Entertainment for the Road
Downtime is part of camping.
Bring a few things everyone can enjoy.
- Books
- Playing cards
- Board games
- Fishing gear
- Bikes
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Bluetooth speaker
- Downloaded movies
- Travel journal
Sometimes the best evenings are the ones spent around the campfire with nothing more than a deck of cards and good conversation.
A Few Extras That Make Camping Easier
These aren't necessities, but experienced RV campers pack them almost every trip.
- Zip-top storage bags
- Paper towels
- Trash bags
- Clothespins
- Bungee cords
- Duct tape
- Zip ties
- Small broom and dustpan
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Clothes hangers
- Extra blankets
- Folding step stool
- Ice packs
- Refillable spray bottle
Little conveniences like these can save you an unexpected trip into town.
Before You Hit the Road
No packing list is perfect because every RV trip is different. A weekend getaway looks different from a month-long adventure, and camping with kids means bringing a few more essentials than traveling as a couple.
Still, this checklist covers the items most RV travelers use on nearly every trip. Save it, print it, or keep a copy on your phone before your next adventure.
Once everything is packed, the rest is easy. Pick your destination, settle into your campsite, and enjoy the reason you bought an RV in the first place.