First-Timer’s RV Camping Guide
Before you go RV camping this summer for the first time, it’s important that you prepare yourself and your RV to ensure a rewarding experience. Jumping in headfirst without a plan will lead to bumps in the road. That’s why we created this RV camping guide for the summer so you can have a vacation you won’t forget — for all the right reasons! Even if you’re not a newbie, you should still review the information below to make sure you’re not forgetting anything.
Set off in your RV with confidence this summer, whether you explore new destinations or return to your favorite spots.
Getting Ready for Summer RV Camping
There are many reasons why camping is better than hotels like freedom, privacy, and lots of fresh air. Enjoy these benefits and more by following our summer RV camping guide.
1. Make Checklists
Stay organized by making checklists of all the things you need to do and the essential items you’ll need to bring. Here’s an example of an RV packing list for summer travel:
- Drinking water hose and water filter
- Electrical adapters
- Extension cords
- Surge protector
- Toilet chemicals
- Water pressure regulator
- Septic-safe toilet paper
- Leveling blocks
- Wheel chocks
- Electrical and duct tape
- Shovel
- Cotter pins
- Motor oil
- Transmission fluid
- Battery jumper cables
- Emergency road kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Lighter & lighter fluid
- Flashlight
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tool kit
- First-aid kit
- Storage solutions
- Kitchen supplies
- Bedding & towels
- Sewing kit
- Phone chargers
- Electronics
- Food & beverages
- Toiletries
- Clothing & swimsuits
- Hats & sunglasses
- Camping chairs
- Sports equipment
- Pool toys
- Games & puzzles
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Rain gear
Check out our 37 RV hacks that will help make your summer camping trip easier!
2. Pack and Secure Your RV
It’s important to properly pack and secure your belongings to prevent your RV from being weighed down or items from flying all over the place. For instance:
- Be mindful of how much you pack to save on gas
- Evenly distribute the weight
- Fill your tires with more air if you have a heavy load
- Pack the heaviest items down low
- Use latches or bungee cords to secure items
3. Find RV Campsites
Summer is a popular camping season so there are plenty of open RV campsites across the country. Many RV sites are also pet-friendly so the whole family can enjoy the fun! Look for RV resorts that combine the best of campgrounds and resorts — close to nature, privacy, and on-site amenities like pools, playgrounds, rentals, and more. Additionally, our RV sites feature:
- Comfortable spacing
- Full hookups
- Adaptable to accommodate big-rigs
- Pull-throughs and back-ins
- 20/30/50 amp service
- Fire pits, grills, and picnic tables
- Free Wi-Fi
Save money on your RV site and really explore the area by booking a monthly rate!
4. Follow Safety Precautions
Review safety precautions with everyone going on the RV camping trip to help prevent accidents, medical emergencies, theft, and more. Here are some camping safety tips you should always follow:
- Make sure your tires are in good condition
- Don’t drive over the speed limit
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Never approach or feed wild animals
- Lock up your camper when you’re away
- Don’t leave valuables out in plain sight
- Learn basic first aid and CPR
- Use the buddy system
- Pay attention to weather forecasts
- Keep dogs on a leash
Explore New Destinations in Your RV
It’s understandable for newbies to be apprehensive about their first RV camping trip. Fortunately, it’s not complicated to get you and your RV ready for the adventure. All you need to do is take the time to research and prepare. With our RV camping guide for the summer, you’ll be relaxing in nature and making special memories in no time.
Plan your camping trip this summer with RVC Outdoor Destinations! We have RV resorts across the country for you to explore: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and our newest destination in Sandusky, OH.
