How to prioritize
Dealers and rental companies often include some gear, and every rig differs, so start by checking what you already have. Then buy in this order: items that protect the RV’s systems and your safety first, items that make setup easier second, and comfort extras last. For a pre-trip task list rather than a gear list, see our RV camping checklist.
Water gear
- Drinking-water-safe hose. Usually white or blue, and meant for fresh water only. A standard garden hose is not designed for drinking water.
- Water pressure regulator. Campground water pressure can vary, and a regulator helps protect the RV’s plumbing from high pressure.
- Inline water filter. Reduces sediment and some tastes and odors. It is not a guarantee of safe water.
- Water supply for dry camping. Without a hookup, you rely on the fresh tank and any portable containers.
Power gear
- Surge protector or EMS (electrical management system). Helps guard against faulty pedestals, wiring problems, and voltage spikes. Hardwired and portable versions exist.
- Adapters. Many RVs use a 30-amp or 50-amp plug, and pedestals may offer other outlets. Check which your rig uses and carry the adapters you need. Note that adapters change the plug shape, not the available power, so avoid running more than the circuit can supply.
- Heavy-duty extension cord rated for RV use if the pedestal is far from the rig.
- Circuit tester. An inexpensive way to check a pedestal before plugging in.
Sewer gear
- Sewer hose kit with a secure connector, plus a support or cradle so the hose slopes downhill.
- Clear elbow fitting so you can see when the water runs clear.
- Disposable gloves and a dedicated bag or bin for sewer equipment.
- RV-safe toilet paper and tank treatments if you choose to use them.
Leveling and stability
- Leveling blocks or ramps. A level RV helps appliances like absorption refrigerators work properly and makes sleeping more comfortable.
- Wheel chocks. Used every time you park.
- Stabilizers or jack pads. Stabilizer jacks are not designed to lift the RV; pads spread weight on soft ground.
Safety and roadside
- First aid kit, restocked regularly (the top 10 camping essentials cover what a basic kit contains).
- Fire extinguisher, checked and accessible, plus working smoke, carbon monoxide, and propane alarms.
- Roadside emergency kit with reflective triangles or flares, flashlight, and gloves.
- Tire pressure gauge and a plan for a flat. Know whether you carry a spare and how you would change a tire or call for help.
- Basic tool kit with screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, duct tape, and spare fuses.
Kitchen and sleeping
Pack compact cookware, a cutting board and knife, dish soap, trash bags, and storage containers. Space saving tips for camping and car camping cooking have ideas for small kitchens. Bring bedding that suits the space, and consider an extra blanket since temperatures drop at night. Our beginner’s guide to RV camping has more on getting comfortable on a first trip.
Campsite comfort
- Outdoor mat to keep dirt out
- Camp chairs and a table
- Outdoor lighting
- Portable grill or stove, if the campground allows it (see propane tank sizes for camping)
- Shade or awning accessories
Nice to have, not necessary at first
Wait until you have taken a trip or two. Often useful later: leveling systems, tank monitors, a portable generator or solar setup for dry camping, and cold-weather gear such as a heated hose (see cold weather RV camping).
A note on “rules”
You may see phrases like the “4-4-4 rule” for travel or “80/20” rules for gear use. These are informal community sayings with differing definitions, not requirements. Pack what you need for your own trip and trim after each outing based on what went unused.