81% of Americans believe themselves to be good at packing.

Despite how good we think we are, we’ve all found ourselves over-packing or forgetting an essential item for a trip.

But what items are worth lugging around a state, or even the country? And which items are better left at home, purchased only as needed along the road?

Keep reading to learn RV packing tips, in addition to our ultimate RV packing checklist.

RV Packing Tips

Although our packing list is amazing, you’ll first need some generalized tips to help you get started.

Here are 3 tips you’ll want to follow when packing your RV.

Things Move Around

This one seems obvious, but you’re in for a surprise. Anything in your RV that isn’t closed in a cabinet or tied down will move around.

Not only can this unexpected movement be inconvenient, but it can also be very dangerous. No matter what you’re bringing into your RV, be sure to anticipate this fact and prepare yourself and your belongings for a bumpy ride.

Embrace Minimalism

We could all use more minimalism in our lives, but especially when our home is an RV. You’ll want room to move around, play cards, sleep, or read a book. So, don’t fill that space with clutter that you won’t need.

Not only will these unnecessary additions take up vital room, but they will also weigh down the RV, and can become hazardous if not properly secured. You can also save money for your next RV trip by reducing how much new gear you put into your RV.

Plan (and Play it by Ear)

Planning your activities and meals ahead of time can save you a lot of stress overpacking. You’ll know exactly what meals and foods you need, reducing clutter in your cupboard. You’ll also remember to bring your bathing suit and goggles if you already planned a day of swimming.

But while all this planning is certainly helpful, remember that it’s also okay to play it by ear. Forgetting spoons for chili night won’t be the end of the world. Most items, you can purchase at some point along the way. So, try not to stress too much, and embrace the spontaneity that RV travel often requires.

RV Packing Checklist

Here are some essentials that you’ll need to bring, organized by category:

Important Kitchen Utensils and Food You Must Bring on Your Camping Trip

• Cups, mugs (plastic/unbreakable ones)
• Bowls and plates
• Knives
• Cutting boards
• Utensils and serving utensils
• Can opener
• Bottle opener
• Pots/pans
• Matches/Lighter
• Mixing bowls
• Tupperware/aluminum foil/ziplock bags
• Paper towels, rags, and napkins
• Dish-cleaning supplies
• Condiments and spices
• Cooking oils and butters
• Packing nonperishable snacks like nuts, granola, jerky, and canned goods will help avoid any emergency snack cravings

Bedding for Camping Trips

• Bed linens
• Pillows
• Blankets and sleeping bags

Bath Essentials for your next Camping Trip

• Shampoo/conditioner
• Soap
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Towels
• Toilet Paper
• Deodorant
• Other personal hygiene products

Make Your Next Camping Trip Fun 

• Books
• Cards/games
• Fire camp songs/stories
• Writing utensils and paper – Tic Tac Toe, Charades, and more!
• Outdoor games – Hide & Seek, Freeze Tag, Relay games, and more!

Vehicle/Safety – Camping Tools 

• Flashlights
• Fire extinguisher
• Rope, maybe tarp.
• Shovel
• Batteries
• Tool kit
• Flares
• Jumper cables
• Tire pressure gauge
• Trash bags
• Propane
• Tape
• Extension cords
• Light bulbs

Outdoor Camping Supplies

• Water bottles
• Sunblock
• Sunglasses
• Hats
• First aid supplies
• Bug spray
• Backpack
• Hiking, running, or water shoes
• Comfortable attire or swimsuit

Hit the Road – Contact Campground Membership

Camping is a great family vacation option for many reasons. Not only is it affordable, but it puts your entire family in the natural environment and gives everyone a chance to disconnect from technology, unwind, and see why people have been escaping into the solace of nature for hundreds of years. Now that you have a few RV tips and a packing checklist, you’re ready to hit the road and explore.

We have campground memberships available for parks all over the country. Once you decide where you want to go, you’ll need to make sure you have all of the necessary gear you’ll need for your family to stay warm, dry, and comfortable. Contact us today to plan your next adventure!