Ultimate RV Trip Packing Checklist

Travelling to your favourite destination with all the luxuries onboard is a dream for many. And if your dream is about to come true, why not ensure you have everything onboard to make your journey more memorable and joyful?

Figuring out what to put on the shelves and cabinets can be difficult if you have never done an RV trip. You must carefully choose the items you want to pack for your RV trip. Otherwise, you may not be able to enjoy your trip as much as you had thought.

If you have no idea what to pack for your RV trip, read this blog until the end for an ultimate RV trip packing checklist.

Important Documents

Before even turning on the ignition of your RV, make sure your paperwork is in order. These aren’t just “nice to have,” but non-negotiables. Losing or forgetting any of these can quickly turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Keep all your documents in a waterproof, organized folder that’s easily accessible when required but secure. Here is the list of must-have documents for your next RV trip:

• Driver’s license (and any special RV endorsements, if applicable)

• RV registration and proof of insurance

• Roadside assistance membership card/information

• Health insurance cards and medical documents

• Travel itinerary and campground reservations

• Copies of all documents (stored separately or digitally)

Other Essentials:

• Mobile phone and charger

• National park passes or entry permits

• Wallet with cash and credit/debit cards

• Maps or printed directions (don’t rely solely on GPS)

RV Tools

Imagine being stranded in the mountains where you cannot get help easily; it will turn your dream RV trip into a nightmare. To ensure a smooth RVing experience, always carry the right tools in your RV. Though you might not be able to fix complex problems, you can easily fix minor issues and leave that place easily. Here are the essential tools you must consider carrying in your RV:

• Basic toolkit

• Tire pressure gauge

• Portable air compressor

• Jack and the lug wrench

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Utility knife and zip ties

• Duct tape and electrical tape

• Work gloves and safety glasses

Maintenance Supplies:

• Spare fuses and light bulbs

• Levelling blocks and wheel chocks

• RV-friendly extension cords and adapters

• Freshwater hose and water pressure regulator

• Sewer hose and fittings (plus disposable gloves)

• Extra motor oil, coolant, and transmission fluid

• Cleaning supplies (both for interior and exterior)

Cooking Gear

What makes you happy on the go? Good meals? If so, carry essential kitchen and cooking gear in your RV. Doing so will ensure you can cook a hearty breakfast before a hike or a dinner for your campfire adventures. However, since the space is limited, focus on multipurpose items, durability, and efficiency. Here are the most essential cooking gear you can’t afford to forget carrying:

• Mixing bowls

• Pots and pans

• Cooking utensils

• Colander or strainer

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Can opener and bottle opener

• Cutting board and sharp knives

Dining Essentials:

• Plates, bowls, and cups (preferably unbreakable)

• Reusable cutlery

• Insulated mugs or tumblers

• Dish soap, scrubbers, and a drying towel

• Food storage containers (stackable and airtight)

• Trash bags and zip-top bags

Appliances:

• Coffee maker or French press

• Electric skillet or slow cooker

• Toaster or toaster oven

• Portable grill or camp stove (plus propane)

Pantry & Staples:

• Salt, pepper, spices, and cooking oil

• Shelf-stable basics (rice, pasta, canned goods)

• Snacks, condiments, and coffee/tea

• Paper towels and aluminum foil

• Refillable water jugs or a filtered water pitcher

Bedding and Sleeping Items

After a delicious dinner, all you need is a good night’s sleep, and it’s impossible without comfortable bedding. To ensure you get enough sleep while on your way to your dream destination, carry essential bedding and sleeping items in your RV. Here is the list of bedding and sleeping items you can’t forget to carry in your RV:

• Pillows with washable cases

• Sleeping bags (handy for guests or outdoor use)

• Mattress topper (if your RV mattress is thin or firm)

• Fitted sheets and flat sheets (sized to fit RV beds or cut to fit)

• Blankets or comforters (layered options for changing temperatures)

For Added Comfort:

• Heated blanket

• Eye masks and earplugs

• Extra throws or fleece blankets

• Portable fan or white noise machine

If you are looking for an RV campsite in Vernon with state-of-the-art amenities, you can contact Habitat RV and Motorcoach Resort, where you’ll have access to campsites with full hookups and many more…

Clothing and Personal Items

Pack the right clothes for your RV trip to stay clean and comfortable across changing weather. The clothes you pack must be enough, but make sure you don’t overpack, as RVS often have limited space. Also, pack easy-care fabrics that you can easily wash on the go. If you are wondering about what clothing you should carry in your RV for a delightful experience, here are some suggestions:

• Sleepwear

• Comfortable pants and shorts

• T-shirts, long sleeves, and tank tops

• Undergarments and socks (bring extras)

• Weather-appropriate outerwear (rain jacket, warm coat, windbreaker)

Footwear:

• Sandals or slip-ons for around camp

• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots

• Shower shoes (especially for public campground facilities)

Accessories & Extras:

• Sunglasses

• Belt and/or travel wallet

• Hat or cap (sun protection)

• Gloves and a beanie (for cold-weather trips)

• Compact laundry bag or collapsible hamper

Bathroom and Hygiene Supplies

Staying clean and fresh is important for your health and comfort. You will need bathroom and hygiene supplies to ensure cleanliness, comfort, and freshness during your RV trip. But you cannot carry all the bathroom and hygiene supplies in your RV. Pack the basic bathroom and hygiene supplies. Here is the list of essential bathroom and hygiene supplies you cannot survive without:

• Toilet paper (RV-safe type)

• Hand soap and body wash

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Towels and washcloths

• Shampoo and conditioner

• Hairbrush or comb

• Razor and shaving cream

• Nail clippers

• Wet wipes and tissues

• Feminine products (if needed)

• Trash bags for the bathroom

• Air freshener

• First-aid basics (band-aids, painkillers, etc.)

If you’re a beginner in RVing and Camping, we have curated a list of RVing and camping tips and guides for beginners, including things to look for when you are first-time packing. This article includes tips, guides, packing tips, and more that will make your experience better. 

Entertainment and Comfort

How can you forget to pack entertainment and comfort items when going on an RV trip? Ensure you bring a mix of entertainment and cozy items that help make your RV feel like home. However, while packing items for entertainment and comfort, ensure you don’t clutter your RV. Here are some items you can consider carrying in your RV for entertainment and comfort:

• Snacks and drinks

• Books or magazines

• Favourite coffee or tea

• Flashlights or lanterns

• Travel journal and pen

• Headphones or speakers

• Blankets and extra pillows

• Board games or card games

• Camera or phone for photos

• Tablet or laptop with charger

• Camp chairs and an outdoor mat

• Hammock (if you like relaxing outside)

Emergency and Safety Items

Even the perfectly planned trips can come with surprises, so it’s smart to be ready for anything. Before you hit the road, ensure you have the right emergency and safety items onboard. Even if you don’t end up using them, having these essentials onboard will give you peace of mind while you’re out on the road. Here is the list of items you must consider packing before embarking on your journey:

• Fire extinguisher

• Backup power bank

• Emergency contact list

• First-aid kit (complete set)

• Whistle or emergency alarm

• Spare tire, jack, and tire tools

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• RV repair manual or contact info

• Copies of ID and insurance papers

• Weather radio (battery-operated)

• Extra water and non-perishable food

• Maps or printed directions (in case GPS fails)

• Roadside emergency kit (jumper cables, tools)

On the Final Note

RVing is a wonderful experience and a dream of many travellers. And it seems you will fulfill it very soon. However, this delightful experience can become a nightmare due to a lack of planning. To ensure a fantastic trip, have all the essential items onboard that make you feel at home. Some of the most essential supplies you may need on the go are mentioned above in this blog. If you need more information on RVing, stay tuned to Habitat RV & Motorcoach Resort.

FAQs

Q. What is the 3 3 3 rule for RV travel?

Drive no more than 300 miles, arrive by 3 PM, and stay at least 3 nights.

Q. What should you not bring in an RV?

Avoid heavy, bulky items, breakables, and anything you won’t use regularly.

Q. What is the best size RV for 2 people?

A 22–28 foot Class C or small travel trailer is ideal for two people.

Q. How to pack for full-time RV living?

Pack only what you need daily, choose multi-use items, and organize by space and function.