The open road is calling, but you risk forgetting essential items back home if you don’t have an RV camping packing checklist. Bring everything you need for a successful RV camping trip by reviewing our must-have checklist below. Print or bookmark this page to prepare for your next adventure with less stress so you can focus on what’s important — fun and relaxation!
Essentials to Pack in Your RV Camper
RV resorts allow for a comfortable camping experience, however, you need to pack appropriately for an enjoyable time. That’s why we’ve separated our RV camping packing checklist into multiple categories to make it easier to follow.
Keep in mind that you don’t need to bring every single thing on this list. Only pack what you need to minimize weight in your RV, allowing you to save on fuel.
Automotive
Stay safe on the road with automotive equipment and tools. Get your RV checked by a mechanic before any major trips to avoid a breakdown or vehicle issues.
- Electrical tape, duct tape
- Electrical adapters, extension cords, surge protector
- Leveling blocks, wheel chocks, cotter pins
- Motor oil, transmission fluid, tire pressure gauge
- Additional batteries, battery jumper cables
- Shovel, flashlight, tool kit
- Fire extinguisher, road flares
Water/Septic
It’s crucial your RV has safe drinking water and a properly operating septic system. While our RV sites offer full hook-ups and easy access to showers and bathrooms, it’s still a good idea to have enough water and a working toilet when traveling.
- Drinking water hose
- Water filter
- Water pressure regulator
- Toilet chemicals
- Septic-safe toilet paper
- Sewer kit, flashlight
Safety
Camping isn’t always a picnic, but that doesn’t mean your fun should come to a screeching halt! Take care of bug bites, scrapes, burns, headaches, and more to stay healthy on your trip.
- First-aid kit, bandages, tweezers
- Ibuprofin, aspirin, antihistamine
- Rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide
- Hand sanitizer, latex gloves
- Sunscreen, bug spray, hand sanitizer
- Burn ointment, heat/cold packs
- Eye drops, thermometer
Kitchen
Create an ideal kitchen setup by packing cookware, dishware, utensils, and cleaning supplies. Remember, you don’t want to add too much weight to your RV so only bring the essentials (i.e. leave the fancy gadgets at home).
- Cups, mugs, plates, bowls
- Reusable water bottles
- Measuring cups, cooking utensils
- Cutlery, serving spoons
- Dish sponge, dish soap, all-purpose cleaner
- Pots, pans, spatula, tongs
- Mixing bowls, cutting board
- Can opener, bottle openers
- Trash bin, trash bags
- Dish towels, napkins, paper towels
- Aluminum foil, food containers, zipper bags
- Lighters, matches
- Drawer/cabinet latches
Food Supplies
Enjoy snacks and meals in your RV by packing foods and drinks that are easy to whip up. Hamburgers and hotdogs are popular RV meals, but there are other simple recipes you can do like spaghetti, chili, and burritos as well as healthy foil packet meals at your RV site’s grill.
- Salt, pepper, seasonings, dressings
- Ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, BBQ sauce
- Baking ingredients, butter, cooking oil
- Fruits, vegetables, eggs, cheese, yogurt
- Grilling meats, deli sandwich meat
- Canned/jarred goods
- Oatmeal, rice, pasta
- Bread, buns, bagels
- Honey, peanut butter, jelly
- Cereal, granola, protein bars
- Crackers, chips, nuts, pretzels
- Chocolate, graham crackers, marshmallows
- Milk, juice, coffee, tea, soda
- Wine, beer, liquor
Personal Items Checklist
Depending on where you’re camping, the weather can swing from hot and sunny to cool and wet in just one day. Check the weather forecast before your trip and make sure you have appropriate clothing and personal items to have a pleasant stay.
- T-shirts, long sleeves, tank tops
- Pants, shorts, jeans
- Jackets, sweaters, gloves
- Socks, sneakers, boots, sandals
- Pajamas, sleeping mask
- Swimsuits, cover-ups
- Hats, sunglasses, tote bag
- Shampoo, conditioner, shaver, soap
- Deodorant, toothbrush/paste, lip balm
- Feminine hygiene products, sewing kit
- Medication, supplements
- Brush, comb, hair ties
- Rain jacket, umbrella
- Bedsheets, pillows, blankets
- Bath towels, beach towels
- Electronics, chargers
Pets
Taking your pet along? Keep your pup safe and comfortable by packing their food, medication, leash, and anything else they’ll need when traveling and camping. Check out our tips for bringing your dog to RV resorts before you take off on your trip.
- Kibble, treats
- Leash, waste bags
- Water bowl
- Medication
- Bedding, blanket
- Puppy pads, diapers
- Pet first-aid kit
- Pet toys swim vest
- Protective shoes
Recreation
Now to the fun stuff! RV camping allows you to disconnect and enjoy your favorite activities like hiking, swimming, fishing, reading, and more. Have fun with your loved ones by packing recreational items such as games, sports gear, and entertainment.
- Firewood, camping chairs, cooler
- Sports equipment, hiking gear, fishing gear
- Books, e-reader, magazines
- Headphones, radio, speaker
- Musical instrument (e.g. guitar)
- Pool toys, flotation devices
- Board games, puzzles, playing cards
Go RV Camping with Confidence
Planning a camping trip can be intimidating, but an RV camping packing checklist is a great way to take some of the stress out. Although there are certain things that everyone should pack in their RV, like automotive and safety supplies, there are other items you might not need to bring depending on where you’re traveling and what’s important to you. Have a packing checklist every time you go RV camping to set off on the road with confidence!
