If you love getting on the open road in your RV or camper, you’ll want to keep reading to get the skinny on the best must-have items to bring on your camping trip. Preparing for traveling can sometimes be a little stressful, but when you’ve got helpful guides like this one, you can decrease some of that stress and know before you go. All of the items on the list may not appeal to you if you’re just getting into RV-ing. But wherever you are in your RV journey, you’ll appreciate having a checklist to get your brain juices flowing, because every camping trip is different and may require specific considerations.
1. Phone Signal Booster
When you’re riding through rural areas or parked at a remote location, it’s likely that you won’t have the best reception on your phone. Part of the draw of camping and RV-ing is getting away from the hustle and bustle and seeing new places, but you still want to be connected. To remedy the lack of cell reception you’ll want to get the best vehicle cell phone booster you can find. These devices can amplify a weak cell signal so you’re never out of range when an emergency arises.
2. Leveling Blocks
If your parking spot is on a slope, you’ll be glad to have leveling blocks. They help to level out your RV when you’re unable to find a flat parking spot or if you just want to fine-tune the spot you have. A level camping spot is just easier to work with and eliminates avoidable discomforts.
3. Dissolvable Toilet Paper
If your RV has a toilet facility, you need to know that it’s not a regular toilet. It requires a special dissolveable toilet paper that is thin and breaks down quickly. Using regular bathroom tissue will cause you a big problem that you do not want to have and clog up your system.
4. Toolkit
Even if you take your RV in for servicing before your trip, things happen. You’ll want to be ready for any eventuality that comes your way. Having a small toolkit with some essential tools like Allen wrenches, screwdrivers, duct tape, and a box cutter can save the day in a pinch.
5. First Aid Kit
Accidents happen when you’re camping. Bandages, antibacterial ointment, tweezers, and iodine are just some of the things you want to have in your first aid kit. You can choose to build your own first aid kit or purchase one that already has the essentials. Even if you don’t need it, you may be able to assist a fellow camper in their time of need. The old saying goes, “Better safe than sorry.”
6. Entertainment
There are plenty of ways to occupy your time when you’re on an RV camping trip, like hiking, fishing, and swimming. But it’s a good idea to bring a few games, magazines, books, and other amusements to pass the time should the weather turn sour or you just want to spend a day inside.
7. Outdoor Rug
Having an outdoor rug or a doormat will help keep your RV a little cleaner. You’ll have somewhere to drop your shoes before you go inside, knock off any loose dirt, and catch any fallen leaves. It can also serve as a little patio area if it’s large enough or you pack more than one.
8. Protected Documents
Your owner’s manual is going to be invaluable on your camping trip. It is in your best interest to store it in something to protect it from the elements. A folder or zipper bag can suffice. You can also put any other important documents in it for safekeeping, like reservation confirmations, emergency contact information, and insurance cards. Not only are they kept out of the elements, but they will also be kept in one place that’s easily accessible when you need them.
9. Emergency Road Kit
It can’t be said enough, but unforeseen circumstances are out there. And when or if they decide to pop up, you’ll be glad you’re prepared. An emergency road kit with flares, jumper cables, and emergency blankets will be helpful in an emergency. The items in the kit can help keep you and your passengers safe in the event of a situation.
10. Flashlight
If you need to leave the RV after dark, it’s a good idea to have a flashlight or headlamp on hand. It also comes in handy if there’s a power outage at the campsite or you’re parked in a remote spot where there’s no electricity. Don’t forget to pack more than one. It’s ideal to have one per person.
11. Regulator
It’s a good idea to have a surge protector to safeguard your electrical system. A water pressure regulator can also ensure that you’re not getting too much pressure. It will keep you from getting splashed every time you turn on a tap.
12. Separate Hoses
Separate hoses are a must when camping with an RV. You’ll want to have one hose for gray water and another for drinking water. Label them clearly and choose different colors if possible. This will reduce the chances of you inadvertently contaminating your drinking water.
13. Wheel Chocks
The last thing you want to happen is to find yourself rolling away from your campsite. Wheel chocks are blocks or wedges that you put on both sides of the wheels to ensure that it won’t be going anywhere you don’t want it to.
14. Water Filter
When you’re out enjoying nature, you don’t always have the luxury of treated water. To ensure that you’re drinking safe and potable water, it’s a good idea to have some sort of water filter available. There are pitcher filters, straw filters, and other styles that you can use to give your water a good cleaning before drinking.
15. Electrical Adapters
Every RV park is different, and they may not always have the same electrical outlet. Choose an adapter that goes from 30 to 50 amps (or vice versa), so you can plug in anywhere without any trouble.
This list is a great starting point, and there are other items that you may find helpful when traveling in your RV. Use this checklist to get your mind flowing regarding the things that you don’t want to be without.
