What to Pack for Your First RV Trip
Planning a camping trip? Skip the tent and Go RVing instead! Learn why an RV is great for camping, plus print our free First RV Trip Checklist! Sponsored by Go RVing.
Our First RV Camping Trip
Growing up, my family attempted camping a few times. Notice that I said “attempted” rather than we “went camping.” That’s because we always tried tent camping and it usually ended in disaster!
I’ve always held out hope that camping could be fun and I just knew that my kids would love the adventure. So when Go RVing invited us to try out an RV rental and plan a camping trip, I jumped at the opportunity.
Through the process, I learned that you can rent an RV for your camping trip, just like you can a hotel room, house, or cabin. How cool is that?!
Using websites such as Outdoorsy and RVShare, you can choose an RV by location, type, size, number of guests it sleeps, and more options to plan the perfect trip. GoRVing.com also has great tools to find RV dealers close to home, RV rentals, and campgrounds!
For our trip we rented a 30-foot travel trailer. A travel trailer is a non-motorized RV that you tow with a separate vehicle to your destination. It is one of the most popular types of RVs because they come in such a wide variety of sizes and with countless options.
I love the idea of renting an RV because it gives you a chance to try out different types. If you’ve ever thought about buying an RV, this is a great first step and a way to try out different styles before you make a commitment.
RV Camping vs Tent Camping
As I mentioned earlier, all of my previous camping experience has been tent camping. And it usually didn’t go very well!
After trying camping in an RV, I don’t think I’ll ever go back to tent camping! There are so many benefits to camping in an RV versus camping in a tent:
- An RV is sturdier than a tent, so you’re more protected from the elements.
- With an RV you can enjoy some of your favorite comforts of home, such as bathrooms.
- There’s no sleeping on the ground in an RV!
Camping in an RV provides so much flexibility! You can set your own schedule, pack almost anything you want, cook your own food or try the local fare. Enjoy the amenities inside or explore nature outside. Or all of the above!
First Time RV Camping Tips
If it is your first time renting an RV, I highly recommend asking about a delivery and set-up option from the owner. With our rental, the RV owner towed the travel trailer to our campground spot, parked it, connected the water, and got the AC running by the time we arrived. This made the trip SO much easier for us and we could just focus on having fun!
I would also recommend staying at an established campground that offers plenty of amenities. You don’t have to use them all, but it is nice to have things like a laundry facility just in case.
Our campground had a lake, pool, playground, and dog park. Each of the RV spots featured a patio, grill, fire pit, and picnic table. This meant that we did not need to bring our own table/chairs or fire pit, allowing us to travel lighter. The playground and jump pad were a hit with the girls.
We also chose a campground that was near a town so we would be able to go to a store if we realized that we forgot anything. Just a few things to consider for your first trip!
Questions to Ask Before You Rent an RV
Every RV rental is different, so be sure to ask plenty of questions before you make your final choice!
- Do you need to bring your own sheets, bedding, and towels? (Regardless, you may want to bring your own linens!)
- Who handles the set-up, clean-up, tanks, etc. and are there extra fees for any of these options?
- How many people does the RV sleep and where are the beds located?
- What supplies are included? (Think: pots and pans, televisions, etc.)
- Are pets allowed?
- How many seatbelts? (If renting a motorized RV)
It’s better to ask questions ahead of times so you know exactly what is included and what to expect. It makes for a smooth and pleasant experience for everyone!
What to Pack for your first RV trip
If you’re wondering, “what do I need for my first RV trip” we’ve got you covered! We created this RV packing list that you can print for your planning.
I’ve also included a text list below:
Cleaning Supplies
- Paper Towels
- Dish Soap
- Trash Bags
- Cleaning Spray
- Sponges
- Laundry Bag & Detergent
Outdoor Supplies
- Bug Spray
- Lawn Chairs
- Charcoal
- Outdoor Rug
- Sunscreen
- Grilling Supplies
Toiletries
- Toilet Paper
- Soap & Shampoo
- Hand Soap & Sanitizer
- Toothbrushes & Toothpaste
- Hairbrush
- Deodorant
- Nail Clippers
- Prescriptions
Basic Essentials
- Clothing & Shoes
- Towels
- Sheets, Pillows, Blankets
- Chargers
- Driver’s License
- Flashlight
- Glasses, Contacts, etc.
- Plates & Utensils
Keep in mind that this can vary based on the amenities provided by the RV owner and what is available at your destination. I also highly recommend bringing entertainment items, such as books, board games, and movies.
We are in the middle of a heat wave in Texas, so we spent middays inside the RV. The kids loved exploring the vehicle, reading in their bunks, and playing games together as a family.
We truly enjoyed our first RV camping trip! In fact, on the first night of our stay the girls were already asking when we could come back again!
Want to know more about RVing or plan your first trip? Visit GoRVing.com for more info!
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