RV Packing Checklist

If you’re planning a trip in your RV, you’re going to want to have a packing checklist complete with all of the essentials. Because we all know that sinking feeling when you realize you forgot something essential like toilet paper or supplies for s’mores. Whether this is your first RV trip or you’re a seasoned pro, it never hurts to make a list and check it twice.

Essential RV Items for Safety and Maintenance Checklist

These are the most basic things you will want to keep in stock to ensure everything operates smoothly and that you have what you need in case of an emergency or if you need to make a quick repair.

• Electrical adapters
• Sewer kit
• Toilet chemicals
• Trash/recycling cans and bags
• Tarp
• Leveling/wheel blocks
• Duct tape
• Light bulbs
• Tire pressure gauge
• Gloves
• Scissors
• Extension cords
• Rug for interior and exterior
• Phone charger
• Flashlights
• Fire extinguisher
• Road flares
• Ropes
• Shovel
• Bungee cords
• Road map & campground map
• RV manual, insurance & warranty papers, and registration
• Jumper cables or battery jumper
• Motor oil/fluids
• Spare fuses
• Spare batteries
• Portable generator
• Rags
• Tool kit

RV Grocery Staples Checklist

Take advantage of the fact that you have the ability to refrigerate items and cook for your family. These are the most basic items, so feel free to be specific and bring the food you and your family loves!

• Pancake/waffle batter
• Maple syrup
• Butter or Cooking oil
• Eggs
• Bread and Buns
• Tortillas
• Peanut butter & Jelly
• Lunch meats
• Cheese
• Fruits and vegetables
• Trail mix or mixed nuts
• Beef jerky
• Condiments (ketchup, mayo, mustard, hot sauce, bbq sauce etc.)
• S’mores ingredients (graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate)
• Baking items (flour, cornmeal, sugar, etc)
• Canned foods
• Snacks (crackers, pretzels, chips, etc.)
• Grilling meats (hot dogs, brats, hamburger)
• Cereal or Oatmeal
• Breakfast bars or pop-tarts
• Milk and Juice
• Powdered drink mixes
• Soda or sparkling water
• Beer, wine, liquor
• Drinking water
• Ice

Kitchen RV Checklist

When you’re traveling in an RV, you do have the option to prepare meals inside rather than only on the campfire, so you won’t want to forget the essential kitchen items.

• Glasses, cups, and mugs
• Bowls and plates
• Forks, knives, spoons
• Serving bowl
• Knives
• Spatula
• Tongs
• Bottle/can opener
• Pot holders
• Cutting boards
• Measuring spoons/cups
• Vegetable peeler
• Pots and pans
• Baking sheet
• Foil
• Casserole dish
• Dish/hand soap
• Sponges
• Dishtowels
• Spray cleaner
• Broom and dustpan
• Tupperware
• Ziplock bags
• Matches/lighter
• Coffee maker

RV Checklist for Clothing and Bedding Items

You will be able to sleep inside your RV at night versus being in a tent, but that doesn’t mean you won’t still want to be prepared with the proper bedding and clothing. Remember, it could rain or the kids might get extra dirty, so bringing a few extras is a good idea!

• Rain gear (umbrellas, ponchos, etc.)
• Bathing suit
• Shoes (sandals, sneakers, hiking shoes, etc.)
• Hat
• Short and long sleeve t-shirts
• Pants and shorts
• Socks and underwear
• Clothing hangers
• Sewing kit
• Pillows and pillowcases
• Sheets and blankets
• Laundry detergent
• Laundry bag
• Clothesline

Bathroom & Personal Items RV Checklist

Since you will likely have access to a toilet, shower, and sink in your RV or at your campsite, you can easily keep up with your personal hygiene routine. So, don’t forget to pack the essential items to keep yourself feeling fresh and clean!

• Body wash
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Shower caddy
• Shaving cream and razor
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush/comb
• Toothpaste
• Floss
• Toothbrushes
• Face and body lotion
• Aloe vera gel
• Sunscreen
• Nail clippers
• Hair ties
• Feminine hygiene products
• Hand soap
• Toilet cleaner and cleaning brush
• Hand sanitizer

RV First Aid Checklist

It’s all fun and games until somebody gets hurt. But hey, that’s life! Be prepared for any scrapes, bruises, or aches and pains with a well-stocked first aid kit for your RV trip.

• Bandaids
• Rubbing alcohol
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Pain relievers
• Antibiotic ointment
• Gauze
• Cotton balls
• Cotton swabs
• Scissors
• Thermometer
• EPI pen
• Snakebite kit
• Allergy medication
• Prescription medications
• Vitamins
• Antacid
• Imodium
• Instant hot/cold compress
• Elastic bandage
• Disposable gloves

Outdoor Gear Checklist

While it is important to be prepared for the basics of your RV trip, don’t forget to pack items that will help you and your family have the most fun you can!

• Firewood
• Fishing gear (rod, tackle, etc.)
• Hammock
• Camping chairs
• Binoculars
• Sports gear (baseball with mitt, football, etc.)
• Frisbee
• Volleyball net and ball
• Yard games (horseshoes, corn hole, washers, etc.)
• Playing cards
• Puzzles
• Books or magazines
• Flotation devices and life-jackets
• Guitar and hand drums
• Headphones
• Radio
• Bug spray
• Citronella candles

Ready to Roll!

Now that you feel confident in what items you need to have on board for your next RV trip you can relax and enjoy the ride! If you still need other RV accessories to travel safely and confidently, check out Blue Ox’s flat towing products such as tow bars, baseplates, and other towing accessories like the SwayPro.