If you’re new to RVing, count on a slight adjustment period as you start taking your road trips and figure out what works for you. It’s important to have your creature comforts and strike the balance between having the things that keep you comfortable and knowing what you can live without. Take a look at our RV tips for packing the essentials below!
Pack the Essentials
First, figure out the bare necessities. Everything in your new and used RV adds to its overall weight, and every ounce counts. Leave the extraneous stuff at home (do you really need four different frying pans in different sizes?) and pare back to the things that are multitasking pros – like a slow cooker that can handle a variety of meals, or a multitool that weighs less than a tool box of individual items but can handle all the jobs.
Figure Out a Meal Plan
Nothing will blow up your food budget faster than eating out more than you meant to. Dine out responsibly by making a meal plan and sticking to it. This will help you cut down on your overall trip expenses, and it has the added benefit of helping you pack those kitchen items knowing what you’ll need and what you won’t.
Go for Lightweight Gear
If any of your camping gear needs to be replaced (or you’re buying it for the first time), pick lightweight versions that are packable and foldable. Some heavier items can’t be avoided, but pick lightweight where you can: aluminum framed items over steel and quick-dry items like clothing, linens, and hammocks that pack well and don’t weigh you down.
Don’t Forget the Fun!
Once you’ve gotten your gear and equipment essentials out of the way, it’s time to pack your creature comforts. Are you a board game fanatic? Love to read? Is your ideal afternoon packed with hiking trails? Whether you need hiking boots, a good book, or a new board game, choose to pack the things that bring you joy and lots of smiles. Leave behind the things you don’t use often. For instance, if you don’t regularly use your bikes at home, you probably won’t on your camping trip, either. Leave ‘em at home! If there’s any equipment you don’t pack and wish later you had, you can probably find a good rental at a reasonable price at your campground (and you’ll know for next time you really did need the kayaks and life jackets!).
If It’s Breakable…Just Don’t
Sometimes there are bumps in the road…literally. Leave your breakables and valuables at home and stick to packing things that aren’t fragile. Melamine or disposable dishes are better than packing glass, and breakable items that are must-haves (like a coffee maker) should be packed securely to prevent being rattled around when the RV is in motion.
Armed with these packing tips, you can enjoy a road trip that’s fun and memorable. Contact us today – we can also get your RV ready for the road with some RV service – another essential for a great road trip!
