Packing for a camping trip might seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. We compiled the ultimate RV camping pack list to help ensure you have everything you need for the trip of a lifetime.
June 01, 2019
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For the first time camper, the thought of packing for the unknown often leads travelers to pack everything … and the kitchen sink! When you have limited space, overpacking can make your RV rental feel a little crowded. We pulled together the ultimate RV camping pack list to get you on the right track.
MUST-BRING SUPPLIES
Once you have an idea of how much space you’ll have, start your packing list with the simple, bare necessities. If you’re truly looking to embrace the laidback spirit of camping, consider leaving extra, non-essential items at home.
General Supplies:
- Dish Soap
- Cleaning Supplies
- Sponges or Rags
- Trash Bags
- Food Storage (i.e., Tupperware, aluminum foil, plastic or reusable bags, etc.)
- RV Toilet Paper (yes, that IS a thing)
- Paper Maps (remote areas may not always have cell phone service)
- Flashlights (or other portable lights)
- Batteries
Personal:
- Toiletry Kit: shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, tweezers, etc.
- Pharmacy: allergy, anti-inflammatory, cold, prescriptions, etc.
- Earplugs for the light sleeper
- Insect Repellant
- Device Chargers and Outlet Adapters
- Sunscreen and Lotions
- Hair Needs: brushes, combs, hair ties, clips, hair dryer, etc.
- First Aid Kit
Recreation:
This is where some of the more optional items come in. If you’re going to do a digital detox by leaving your electronics at home, be sure to bring lots of options for entertainment, including:
- Indoor Activities: card games, board games, magazines, books, puzzles, etc.
- Outdoor Activities: Frisbees, sports equipment (football, soccer ball, baseball), portable horseshoe game, etc.
- Rain Gear: jackets, umbrellas, ponchos and boots
- Swim Gear: swimsuits, inflatable rafts or tubes, sandals, etc.
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Hats or Visors
- Firewood : for making s’mores over a campfire
The key to building the perfect RV camping pack list is to stick to the essentials. If you can go a few days without an item or accessory, leave it at home. And, pass on bringing your portable WIFI and laptop if you’re looking to really disconnect. RV camping is all about the less-is-more mentality. You might consider packing an “if it fits” box that you can take with you to pick up your RV rental, but can leave in the car if you just don’t think it will fit.
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Pro Tip: Check with your RV campground ahead of time to see if they sell firewood for campfires so that you have one less thing to bring with you.
CRUISE AMERICA RESOURCES
One of the benefits of renting from an RV provider like Cruise America is how easy we make preparing for your upcoming camping trip. You can go in person to one of our many RV rental locations and scope out the size of the different vehicles, helping you accurately gauge just how much space you’ll have available. Or you can take a 360* virtual tour of each camper van online.
.jpg "Ultimate RV Camping Pack List for the First-Time Camper (3)")
Depending on the model, Cruise America RV rentals have lots of nooks for storing your luggage.
Don’t want to purchase or pack a whole bunch of camping items for your trip? Another perk of renting from Cruise America is the kits available to our renters to add to their RV package. We recommend reserving these at the time of your RV rental to ensure availability.
Vehicle Provisioning Kit ($110 each):
- Broom
- Can Opener
- Carving Knife
- Coffee Cups
- Colander
- Cooking Fork
- Cooking Spoon
- Cookware
- Dinner Forks
- Dinner Knives
- Dinner Plates
- Flashlight
- Mixing Bowl
- Paring Knife
- Soup Bowls
- Soup Spoons
- Spatula
- Steak Knives
- Tea Kettle
- Teaspoons
- Tumblers
Personal Kit ($60 each):
- Bath Towels
- Dish Towel
- Pillow
- Pillowcase
- Sheet
- Sleeping Bag/Comforter
- Wash Cloths
Like with most adventures, you might not get your RV pack list perfectly right on your first trip – but that’s just part of the adventure! Consider going for a short trip your first time to try it out. Check out our RV rental deals to get you going!
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Conditioning - Fresh
Water Toilet - Gas
Cooktop - Generator
USA - Towing
Allowed - Pet
Friendly - Refrigerator
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
I'm an outdoor enthusiast with extensive experience in RV camping and outdoor adventures. I have spent countless hours exploring various camping sites, from national parks to remote wilderness areas. Through these experiences, I've developed a deep understanding of the essential gear and equipment needed for a successful RV camping trip. I've honed my expertise through firsthand experience, learning how to pack efficiently and prioritize the most crucial items for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.
Ultimate RV Camping Pack List for the First-Time Camper
When preparing for an RV camping trip, it's essential to create a comprehensive pack list to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article and provide relevant information for each category.
General Supplies
- Dish Soap, Cleaning Supplies, Sponges or Rags, Trash Bags: These items are essential for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene during your camping trip. Dish soap and cleaning supplies help keep your cooking and eating utensils clean, while trash bags are necessary for waste disposal.
- Food Storage: Tupperware, aluminum foil, and reusable bags are essential for storing and preserving food during your trip.
- RV Toilet Paper: Specially designed RV toilet paper is important for maintaining your RV's sanitation system.
- Paper Maps: In remote areas with limited cell phone service, paper maps are crucial for navigation.
Personal
- Toiletry Kit: Pack essential toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and any personal grooming items you require.
- Pharmacy: Carry necessary medications, including allergy relief, anti-inflammatory drugs, and any prescribed medications.
- First Aid Kit: It's important to have a well-stocked first aid kit to address minor injuries and ailments during your trip.
Recreation
- Indoor and Outdoor Activities: Bring entertainment options such as card games, board games, magazines, books, and outdoor sports equipment to keep yourself entertained.
- Rain Gear and Swim Gear: Prepare for various weather conditions by packing rain gear, swimsuits, and appropriate footwear.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle.
- Firewood: If you plan to have campfires, bring firewood for a classic camping experience.
Cruise America Resources
- Vehicle Provisioning Kit: Cruise America offers kits with essential items such as cookware, utensils, and other kitchen supplies, which can be convenient for renters.
- Personal Kit: Additionally, there's a personal kit available, including bedding and bath essentials, which can save you from having to pack these items yourself.
By carefully considering these categories and items, you can create a well-rounded RV camping pack list that covers all your essential needs while avoiding overpacking.
If you have any specific questions about RV camping or need further assistance with preparing for your trip, feel free to ask!
