RV Packing List: Essentials for Road Trips and Camping Adventures

Who is this article for?:  This article is for anyone planning on taking their RV out for a trip. If you need a guide to tell you what to pack, you have come to the right place!

Jump to a section:
Clothing and Personal Items
RV Kitchen Essentials
Bathroom and Toiletry Items
Outdoor & Camping Gear
Tools & Maintenance Gear
RV Living Essentials
RV Organization & Storage
What Not to Pack

Packing for an RV trip is all about finding balance — bringing everything you need without overcrowding your space. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend camping adventure or an extended cross-country journey, having a detailed RV packing list keeps things organized and easy to find. This guide breaks down exactly what to bring for a safe, comfortable, and fun trip on the open road.

RV Trip Basics: Plan Before You Pack

Before you start filling drawers and storage bins, take a few minutes to plan your route, weather expectations, and hookups. RV packing is easiest when you know what you’ll be doing and where you’ll be staying.

• Hookup Sites: Pack fewer items if your RV park includes power, water, and sewer.
• Boondocking or Dry Camping: Bring extra water, power sources, and waste solutions.
• Seasonal Travel: Cold-weather trips need layers and heating gear, while summer requires cooling fans and breathable fabrics.

Taking time to plan ahead ensures you only pack what you’ll truly use. It also helps you avoid unnecessary weight that can impact fuel efficiency and comfort.

Clothing and Personal Items

RV life means comfort first, but versatility matters too. You’ll need outfits for driving, lounging, hiking, and weather changes.

What to Pack:

• Lightweight tops, shorts, and activewear
• Sweatshirts and jackets for cool nights
• Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers (try these great hiking shoes if you need a new pair)
• Swimwear and sandals
• Sleepwear and undergarments
• Hat, sunglasses, and rain gear

Packing by outfit type helps you stay organized in limited storage space. Roll clothes instead of folding to save room and reduce wrinkles.

RV Kitchen Essentials

Good meals make every trip better. A well-stocked RV kitchen lets you cook easily, store leftovers safely, and enjoy food on the go.

Cooking and Prep:

• Portable stove or grill (Coleman sells a great Propane Stove that we recommend)
• Propane and lighter
• Cookware set like pots, pans, and a skillet (Our daily pan is a Lodge Skillet)
• Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs, ladle, can opener)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups (if you need a new set to keep in the RV, order this set from Farberware)

Food Storage and Serving:

• Plates, cups, and silverware
• Reusable food containers (try these collapsible containers)
• Cooler or Electric Ice Chest for perishables (Coleman has a great and affordable cooler)
• Zip-top bags or reusable silicone bags
• Aluminum foil and plastic wrap
• Trash bags and dish soap
• Paper towels and napkins

Having everything you need for cooking on the road makes mealtime enjoyable and efficient. A little prep — like labeling containers and pre-cutting ingredients — keeps your RV kitchen tidy and makes cleanup quick.

Bathroom and Toiletry Items

RV bathrooms are compact but can feel like home with the right essentials. Focus on portability and organization.

What to Pack:

• Biodegradable soap, shampoo, and conditioner (you can order a set of shower products here)
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant
• Toilet paper (RV-safe only like the these here)
• Towels and washcloths
• Small first-aid kit (This first aid kit would make a great addition to your RV)
• Sunscreen, bug spray, and aloe vera
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

Keep toiletries in a hanging organizer for easy access and storage. Use refillable bottles to reduce waste and keep clutter down.

Outdoor & Camping Gear

Your outdoor setup is the heart of the RV experience. With the right gear, you can relax by the fire, enjoy nature, and make every campsite feel like home.

• Firewood or campfire logs
• Roasting sticks for marshmallows or hot dogs
• Headlamps (If you don't have one order this Energizer Headlamp)
• Lanterns (another great product by Energizer, we recommend their Lanterns)
• Extra batteries
• Portable clothesline or drying rack
• Insect repellent and citronella candles
• Portable Generator (Our family uses these Jackery Solar Generators)

Creating a comfortable outdoor area extends your living space and enhances your trip. Keep this gear in an easily accessible bin for quick setup when you arrive at camp.

Tools & Maintenance Gear

Unexpected repairs can happen anytime, so having a small toolkit can save your trip. These basics help with quick fixes and regular maintenance.

• Screwdrivers, wrench set, and pliers (This is a great time to order a new KingTool toolset here)
• Tire pressure gauge and air compressor (Get a new Air Compressor from Dewalt)
• Jumper cables (if you are alone a good solutions is to have a NOCO Portable Jump Box)
• Extra fuses, bulbs, and duct tape
• Leveling blocks or wheel chocks (we recommend these wheel chocks here)
• Extension cords and surge protector`
• Hose for fresh water and sewer connections

Preparation is key to keeping your RV running smoothly. A simple repair kit gives peace of mind when you’re far from a service station.

RV Living Essentials

Having the right daily living items makes RV life smoother and more enjoyable. This section focuses on comfort and convenience for both driving and downtime.

• Bedding and pillows for each person
• Sheets, blankets, and extra throws
• Towels, washcloths, and microfiber towels for quick drying
• Folding chairs and outdoor mat for your campsite setup
• Cleaning supplies (multi-surface cleaner, disinfecting wipes, broom, dustpan)

Once you have your living space stocked, you’ll be ready to settle in quickly wherever you park. Keeping these essentials organized helps your RV feel like home no matter where the road takes you.

RV Organization & Storage Tips

Space is limited in any RV, but a few simple tools can help you stay tidy. Smart organization keeps your essentials secure and easy to access.

• Collapsible Storage Bins (Stay organized with these Citylife bins)
• Over-the-Door Organizer (these are great for your RV or home organization)
• Command hooks for hanging keys or jackets
• Non-slip cabinet liners
• Vacuum-seal bags for clothing
• Label maker or markers for bins

Taking time to organize before departure saves stress once you’re on the road. You’ll spend less time searching for things and more time enjoying your destination.

What Not to Pack

RV storage space fills up fast, so skip anything bulky or easily replaceable. Packing light gives you room to move and keeps your vehicle safe on the road.

• Extra kitchen gadgets you rarely use
• Large furniture or heavy decor
• Full-size cleaning equipment (use compact versions)
• Non-collapsible storage items
• Too many clothes or shoes

Keep your load manageable and your RV weight balanced. Traveling light makes setup, driving, and unpacking much easier at every stop.

Time to Pack the RV!

RV travel is all about freedom — the ability to go anywhere while taking the comforts of home with you. With this complete RV packing list, you’ll have every essential covered for cooking, sleeping, relaxing, and exploring.

Pack smart, stay organized, and enjoy the open road with confidence. Whether you’re camping for a weekend or crossing the country, your RV is ready to roll when you are.

If you love the RV life, I assume you either like fishing or camping. Click those links to learn what you should pack for those situations!