Quick Navigation:
- RV Basics Everyone Needs
- Motorhome Essentials
- Travel Trailer Essentials
- Smart Storage Solutions
- Daily Comforts
Whether it’s your first RV or fifteenth RV, packing is always an exciting step. Even if your rig came fully loaded, there are a few things you'll want to have packed away from day one. Some make setup easier, some make daily life more comfortable, and others will save you a major headache down the line.
In this guide, we’ll go over the essentials you’ll want to stock up on before you hit the road and then a few specific items for motorhomes and travel trailers.
RV Basics Everyone Needs
Regardless of what kind of motorhome you drive, there are some things every RVer should have on hand. These are the unsung heroes of RV life—the gear you don’t always think about until you need it.
One of the first things you’ll need is a good sewer hose and gloves. RVs don’t just magically empty themselves, and having the right hose (with the right fittings) will make the task cleaner and easier. Also, be sure to have a fresh water hose.
Pro Tip: Label one hose “Drinking Water” and the other for rinsing tanks.
You'll also want leveling blocks. Many campgrounds have uneven sites, and sleeping on a slant isn’t fun. Blocks or ramps help you get your rig balanced quickly, and some travel trailers even require it for fridge performance.
Don’t forget surge protectors and power adapters. Campground hookups aren’t always reliable, and a surge protector helps keep your RV’s electrical system safe. Meanwhile, adapters allow you to connect to 30-amp or 50-amp power sources, depending on your RV’s needs.
Inside, a basic toolkit is essential. Screws loosen, latches rattle, and things shift during travel. Having a multi-bit screwdriver, pliers, tape, and zip ties on board can save a trip to the hardware store when you’re miles from town.
Motorhome Essentials
If you're rolling in a motorhome, whether it's a compact Class B or a full-sized diesel pusher, there are a few extra things you’ll appreciate having from the start.
First, invest in a good set of tire pressure gauges and consider a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Unlike a car, a motorhome carries a lot of weight, and improper tire pressure can affect safety, handling, and fuel economy. It’s also one of the top causes of RV breakdowns, which means any preventative measures you can take will help ensure you’re always road-ready.
Navigation becomes a whole different game when you're driving something that’s 30+ feet long and 12 feet high. Make sure you’re using a GPS system or app that factors in RV-specific routes, including low bridges and tight turns. No one wants to have their RV can-opened because they go under a low bridge.
Don’t forget blackout curtains or window shades too. They’re great for privacy at night and also help regulate temperature during the day.
If you're towing a car (often called a “toad”), you’ll also need the appropriate tow bar, brake system, and safety cables. It’s not a small setup, but it gives you the flexibility to explore local spots without packing up your entire home-on-wheels.
Travel Trailer Necessities
Towing a travel trailer means your setup process looks a little different, and naturally so do your gear needs. After your hitch and sway control setup, chocks and stabilizer pads become your best friends. Once you're parked, you'll want to stop movement and stabilize the trailer quickly.
Wheel chocks are essential for safety, especially when unhooking. Stabilizer pads give your jacks a wider base, which is especially helpful on soft ground or gravel. A cordless drill with a socket adapter can also save time lowering stabilizer jacks manually.
If your trailer didn’t come with built-in steps or the ones it has are too steep, look into portable steps or step stabilizers. They make a big difference when climbing in and out multiple times a day,
Storage outside is often tight on travel trailers, so collapsible items like buckets, ladders, or dish racks can be a game-changer. Many travel trailer owners also swear by a simple outdoor rug. It helps keep dirt out and makes your campsite feel a little more like home.
Lastly, we highly recommend you include a hitch lock when you’re parked. It’s a simple item that offers peace of mind when you leave the site for the day.
Smart Storage Solutions
When you're living or vacationing in an RV, every square inch counts, which is why maximizing your space with smart storage solutions is essential for maintaining order and peace of mind. Items such as stackable storage bins, over-the-door organizers, and collapsible containers allow you to keep your essentials tucked away while still having easy access to them, creating a more functional and livable space.
Hanging closet organizers and drawer dividers can help you assign a specific place for clothing, tools, or kitchen items, while magnetic strips and adhesive hooks make excellent use of your RV’s vertical surfaces. Whether you're heading out for a quick weekend trip or settling in for a longer adventure, having the right storage tools on board can make the difference between a cramped experience and a comfortable journey.
Daily Comfort Items You'll Thank Yourself For
Beyond the setup essentials, a few simple additions can turn your RV into a comfortable living space.
A portable fan or space heater (depending on the season) helps keep your temperature just right. If you’re traveling in hot conditions, a simple fan can help circulate the air as you try to cool it down. Insulated window covers are another easy upgrade that helps with heat, cold, and even noise at busy campgrounds.
Hooks, hangers, and over-the-door organizers go a long way in tight spaces. You’ll also need to think about cookware and utensils. Buying an inexpensive seasoning rack may seem simple, but no one likes to make a last minute and special trip away from your site just for salt and pepper.
Outdoor chairs and a folding table make it easy to enjoy meals outside or simply relax under the awning. Insect repellent like citronella candles, or fly traps can prevent some pesky bites and visitors as you enjoy the great outdoors.
Starting Out Right
RV life is all about freedom, but a little preparation goes a long way. Having the right accessories can help you avoid common frustrations and keep your focus on the fun—like quiet mornings at the lake or evenings by the fire.
If you're considering RV financing or just bought your first rig, take the time to stock up smartly. You don’t have to get everything at once, but starting with the essentials gives you confidence from your very first trip.
Learn more about RV ownership and financing options on our website, or contact us with any questions.
