The Ultimate Road Trip Camping List + RV Tips
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There’s something magical about hitting the open road, windows down, music up, and the promise of adventure ahead. Whether you’re pulling into a quiet campsite under a blanket of stars or parking your RV next to a jaw-dropping overlook, road trip camping is one of the best ways to combine travel, nature, and freedom.
Take it from the family who ventured on a 10,000+ mile cross-country 6-week roadtrip over the summer with our two kids and two dogs in tow. After countless miles and a fair share of “oops, forgot that” moments, I’ve put together the ultimate road trip camping packing list, plus a few RV tips to make life on the road smoother, cozier, and a little more magical.
Road Trip Camping Packing List
Think of this as your camping essentials starter kit, from the basics to those little extras that make road life easier.
Camping Essentials
Tent (or your campervan/RV sleeping setup)
Sleeping bag (appropriate for the season)
Sleeping pad or inflatable mattress
Camping pillows or travel pillows
Folding table (if your campsite doesn’t have one)
Headlamps & extra batteries
Lantern or string lights for ambiance
Multi-tool or Swiss army knife
Cooking & Food Gear
Portable stove or camp grill (with extra fuel)
Cooler or fridge (plus ice packs if needed)
Dish soap, sponge & small towel
Coffee maker (French press, pour-over, or small electric option)
Water filter or purification tablets
Trash bags (leave no trace!) and pop-up trash can
Personal Items
Biodegradable soap & shampoo
Toothbrush, toothpaste & toiletries
Sunscreen & lip balm with SPF
Medication & Personal Essentials
Clothing
Weather-appropriate and comfortable layers
Rain jacket or poncho
Hiking shoes
Camp sandals
Hat & sunglasses
Warm socks (yes, mornings can be chilly even in summer!)
Swimsuit (because you never know when you’ll find a hidden swimming hole)
Must Haves for Kids
TonieBox or tablet
Car Snacks (lots of them!) & Mini Cooler
Comfort Items
Outdoor Toys that don’t require a ton of space
Extras That Make a Difference
Portable charger or power bank
Extra charging cords for phones, cameras, etc.
Maps or offline navigation app
Journal & pen
Blanket for campfire nights
Games or cards
Music & Audiobooks
Documents
Tips for Campervan & RV Life
Road trip camping is an adventure no matter your setup, but if you’re rolling in a campervan or RV, there are a few insider tips that make a big difference:
1. Plan Your Stops, but Stay Flexible
It’s tempting to book every campsite in advance, but part of RV life is embracing spontaneity. Have a general route and must-see stops, but make sure to check cancelation policies and leave room for detours when you find that perfect lake or quirky roadside attraction. Or when an unexpected maintenance problem pops up and you have unexpected (and required!) detours.
2. Level Up (Literally)
Invest in leveling blocks. Sleeping in a slanted van or cooking on a tilted surface is no one’s idea of fun. Especially as you get out west in higher elevations or if you are offroading, this is imperative!
3. Power Management is Key
If you’re relying on solar or limited battery, keep an eye on usage. Charge devices during peak sun hours, and consider LED lights to save energy. Make sure to consider the weather when powering AC or heat with gas, solar or a generator, or you might find yourself uncomfortable and switching plans to get a good night’s rest!
4. Use Space Like a Pro
Bins, collapsible containers, and packing cubes are your best friends. Store heavy items low & away when possible, and keep everyday essentials within arm’s reach.
5. Campground Etiquette Goes a Long Way
Respect quiet hours, keep your area tidy, and don’t hog shared facilities. A friendly wave to your campsite neighbors never hurts either. Meeting new people in new places is a part of the adventure!
6. Test Your Setup Before You Go
If it’s your first time, spend a night in your driveway or a nearby campsite to figure out what you really need (and what you can ditch). If you are planning a longer trip away, make sure to do some short weekend trips first to test out your set-up!
7. Consider Purchasing a Camping Membership
Consider investing in a membership like Harvest Hosts. It gives you access to unique overnight stays at wineries, farms, breweries, and attractions across the country, often for less than a typical campground. Not only can it save you money, but it also turns a simple overnight stop into a memorable travel experience.
8. Pack a RV Emergency Kit
Always travel with a well-stocked emergency kit for your RV. Include essentials like an extra tow hitch (trust me, you don’t want to break one in Jackson, WY, where the nearest RV store with the right weight distribution hitch is 3 hours away!), basic tools for quick fixes, and a small ladder for those hard-to-reach repairs. A little preparation can save you a big headache on the road!
A road trip camping adventure is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The right gear can make it more comfortable, but the real magic comes from slowing down, breathing in fresh air, and letting the road lead you to new experiences.
So grab your camping list, pack your sense of adventure, and start planning your next road trip, whether that’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country odyssey in your RV.
Travel Advisor Tip: I help travelers design epic road trips, from scenic routes to the best campgrounds and unique stays along the way. If you’re ready to start your adventure, contact me here to plan your perfect trip.
