Complete RV Checklist for First-Time Campers [PDF Checklist]

New to RV camping? You’re in for an adventure! But first, you need the right gear.

Packing can be tricky for first-timers. That’s why we made a list covering all the essential RV camping gear you need.

From kitchen tools to safety must-haves, this guide covers it all, so you can camp with confidence and focus on the fun. Let’s make sure you're ready for the road!

• Pre-Trip Planning
• RV Essentials
• Adventure & Outdoor Living
• Kitchen & Food
• Bathroom & Hygiene
• Bedroom & Sleep Comfort
• Clothing & Weather Gear
• Safety Items
• Maintenance & Repair
• Tech & Entertainment
• Conclusion

Pre-Trip Planning

A smooth trip starts before you leave. Whether you are going to some of the best RV parks in Florida or you are driving cross-country, you must have a solid plan in place.

Check these off first:

• Book your campsite
• Plan your route (and stops)
• Check the weather
• Make a meal planWrite your shopping list
  
• Download maps, in case you lose your signal
• Let someone know where you are going and when you’ll be back
• Test your RV systems (water, power, fridge)
• Fill propane and water tanks
• Check tire pressure and tread
• Pack important documents (ID, insurance, reservations)

Good planning saves time, stress and money.

RV Essentials

These items keep your RV running and your trip safe. While they may not be the most exciting items on your packing list, you don’t want to leave home without them.

Make sure your RV is stocked with the following gear: 

• Water/sewer hoses
• RV toilet chemicals
• Leveling blocks
  
• Wheel chocks
• Surge protector
• Power adapter (30/50 amp)
• Extension cords
• Extra fuses and bulbs
• RV jack pads

These are some RV must-haves for setup and daily use.

Adventure & Outdoor Living

Choosing the right camping gear for RV adventures is all about the surroundings you will be in. You want to get outside and explore, so your gear should reflect your intentions.

Pack these outdoor must-haves:

• Camping chairs
• Portable table
• Camp stove or portable grill
• Lanterns and flashlights
• Outdoor games and gear
• Cooler with ice or ice packs
• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
• Hammock or portable swing
• Bug spray and citronella candles
• Sunscreen
• Water shoes or sandals
• Outdoor rug or mat (keeps dirt out of the RV)

Pro Tip: For a first-time camper looking to ride an Ebike while in the wild, try the Heybike Ranger S Ebike. It’s a powerful, foldable bike that's perfect for all skill levels, and makes for a great companion for adventures around and outside of the campsite

Download the RV Checklist PDF Here

Kitchen & Food

You won’t always be able to eat out, so having your own food saves money and keeps everyone happy. Your RV kitchen may be small, but it can still do a lot, so keep your packing list smart.

Here’s what to bring:

• Pots and pans (non-stick)
• Plates, bowls and cups
• Forks, knives and spoons
• Cooking utensils (tongs, can opener, spatula, etc.)
• Cutting board and a sharp knife
• Dish soap, sponge and towels
• Paper towels
• Trash bags
• Food storage containers and bags
• Foil wrap or plastic wrap
• Seasonings and oil
• Coffee maker or kettle
• Easy meals and snacks
• RV-friendly coffee mugs
• Collapsible strainer or colander
• Pot holders or oven mitts
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Reusable water bottles or travel mugs

Bring food you know your crew will eat. And don’t forget marshmallows!

Bathroom & Hygiene

Staying clean on the road is a must, especially when working in a small space. RV bathrooms are compact, so every item needs to count.

Stock your RV bathroom with these basics:

• RV-safe toilet paper
• Hand soap
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo, conditioner and body wash (in travel-size toiletry bottles)
• Towels and washcloths
• Hairbrush or comb
• Razor and shaving cream
• Makeup and skincare
• Wet wipes and sanitizer
• Shower caddy or hanging organizer
• Bath mat or small rug
• Laundry bag or hamper

Forget these, and your RV might start smelling wilder than a week out in the wilderness with no shower!

Bedroom & Sleep Comfort

Good sleep makes happy campers and you don’t want to let a bad night ruin your day. RV beds aren’t always cozy, so pack what makes you comfortable.

Here’s what helps:

• Sheets and blankets
• Pillows (don’t cheap out)
• Mattress topper
• Comfortable sleepwear
• Earplugs or a white noise machine
• Extra blankets for colder nights
• Small fan for hotter nights
• Blackout curtains or window covers
• Storage bins for clothes or bedding
• Sleep mask

The road is more fun when you’re well-rested and everyone will be much happier if you're not grumpy after a night with no rest.

Clothing & Weather Gear

When you’re out camping, the weather can change quickly. One minute it’s sunny and warm, the next it might rain or get chilly. Packing the right clothing keeps you comfortable, no matter what.

Here’s what to bring:

• T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts
• Shorts and pants
• Warm jacket
• Poncho or raincoat
• Hat and sunglasses
• Comfortable shoes or sandals
• Socks and underwear (pack extra)
• Gloves and a warm hat (for colder nights)
• Swimsuit and towel
• Camp hoodie or sweatshirt
• Lightweight backpack or day bag
• Rain boots or waterproof shoes

Check the forecast before you leave, but always expect the unexpected!

Safety Items

A safe trip is a fun trip, so you need to be ready for small problems so they don’t turn into big ones.

These items don’t take up much space, but they matter a lot:

• First-aid kit
• Flashlights with extra batteries
• Fire extinguisher
• Emergency roadside kit
• Jumper cables
• Extra phone charger
• Whistle or air horn
• Bear spray (if you are camping where bears live)
• Reflective vests (for roadside emergencies)
• Fire blanket
• Emergency contact list
• Travel insurance info
• Carbon monoxide and propane detectors (check batteries!)

All of this gear is the stuff you hope you never need, but are grateful to have if you do.

Maintenance & Repair

Sadly, things can break while on the road. It’s just part of RV life. A small fix now can save you from a big headache later.

Keep these tools and supplies on hand:

• Basic tool kit (pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, etc.)
• Duct tape
• Electrical tape
• Zip ties
• Tire pressure gauge
• RV sealant or caulk
• Work gloves
• Extra fluids (oil, coolant, etc.)
• Multimeter for electrical checks
• Owner’s manuals
• Jack and lug wrench
• Tire repair kit or plug kit
• Bungee cords or ratchet straps
• WD-40 or other lubricants!

You don’t have to be a pro, but you should be prepared to handle the little stuff.

Tech & Entertainment

Even off-grid, a little technology can go a long way. Bring devices that keep you connected and prepared, but don’t forget to include devices that provide some good old-fashioned fun!

Here’s what to pack:

• Phone and charger
• Portable power bank
• Tablet or e-reader
• Bluetooth speaker
• Laptop (if needed)
• Headphones
• HDMI cable (for RV TVs)
• Board games and cards
• Books or coloring for kids
• Camera or GoPro

Depending on where you camp, Wi-Fi might be spotty, so download shows, movies or playlists before you go. And don’t forget backup batteries. Bored campers get cranky fast!

Conclusion

Your RV trip is a big adventure, and a little planning will go a long way. With the right gear, you’ll be ready for anything from quiet nights under the stars to unexpected weather or quick fixes.

Use our comprehensive checklist to pack smart, stay safe and have fun. You don’t need to bring everything, just what helps your trip run smoothly.

Remember: every camper learns as they go. You’ll figure out what works best for you.

Now load up, hit the road, and enjoy the journey. Your RV adventures are just getting started!