Renting an RV? Not sure what essentials to take with you? The experts at Go RVing put together this helpful packing list.
Groceries:
These food items are easy to transport and simple to prepare.
- Breakfast items: cereal, eggs, bread, bacon, milk, coffee
- Lunch items: deli meats, cheese, peanut butter, jelly
- Dinner items: steaks, chicken, hot dogs, hamburgers, fish
- Condiments: ketchup, mustard, mayo, butter, salt, pepper, other spices
- Sides: fruits, veggies or salad ingredients (Stop at a roadside farm stand and buy local!)
- Snacks: chips, granola bars, cookies
- S’mores supplies: chocolate bars, marshmallows, graham crackers. (Don’t forget long skewers.)
Cooking supplies:
Here are some helpful essentials to have with you on the road. Your rental RV might be equipped with some basic cooking supplies.
- Paper towels
- Foil, plastic wrap, baggies
- Plastic utensils
- Dishes, utensils, pots and pans
- Tongs and long handle spatula
- Bottle/can opener
- Lighter/matches/fire starter
- Garbage bags
Read: Road tested advice for first time RVers
Toiletries:
- Toilet paper (Try to use Marine/RV toilet paper available at most campground stores.)
- Wet wipes
- Soap and shampoo
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- First aid supplies
Other items:
- Bedding – pillow, sheets, blankets and/or sleeping bags
- Bath and beach towels
- Folding chairs
- Umbrella
Fun stuff:
- Games
- Cards
- Books
- Binoculars
- Flashlights or lanterns
Clothing:
In addition to packing clothing appropriate for the season and the activities you’re doing, be sure to pack a sweatshirt or jacket because it can get chilly at night.
Read: 10 survival tips for taking an RV trip with kids
Additional advice:
This isn’t a complete list of everything you’ll want to bring, but it’ll get you started.
Many RV campgrounds have a small store on premise with basic supplies in case you forget something.
One thing you shouldn’t bring with you is firewood from home (or any other state) due to local regulations.
Read: How to see the national parks of the southwest by RV
For other RV-related advice, be sure to visit Go RVing.
