Planning your first RV trip? RVing is a great way to explore new areas and embark on exciting adventures. Keep reading as we discuss the 5 things you need to buy before your first RV trip for a smooth and enjoyable journey!
Before you hit the road, you must have all the necessary items to make your RV trip comfortable and convenient. Let’s dive in.
5 Things You Need to Buy Before Your First RV Trip – The List
1. Portable Water Hose
A portable water hose designed for drinking water is crucial for your RV trip. Not all hoses are suitable for drinking water; some may add a taste or smell to your water supply. Invest in a high-quality portable water hose that is safe for drinking water, and ensure it has a mechanism to prevent dirt and insects from entering the hose when not in use. This will ensure you always have a clean and reliable water supply in your RV.
2. Water Filter
Even with a drinking water hose, using a water filter is important to remove any impurities or contaminants from your water supply. A water filter will ensure the best quality water for drinking and cooking in your RV. Look for a water filter that meets your needs and removes common contaminants such as bacteria, fluoride, viruses, chlorine, heavy metals, and more.
3. Levelers
Leveling your RV is essential for a comfortable and stable experience, especially when parked on uneven ground. Invest in a set of levelers that will help you level your RV and ensure that your supplies inside the RV remain steady. This will prevent any items from falling over and ensure that your refrigerator works properly, keeping your food cold.
4. Sewer Hose and Supports
Proper waste management is crucial for any RV trip. Be sure you have a strong and reliable sewer hose to empty your RV’s sewer tanks effectively. Look for a long hose to reach the sewer connections at your camping site. Additionally, consider getting connectors and supports to ensure a secure and hassle-free dumping process.
5. RV Toilet Chemicals
To maintain a pleasant and odor-free environment in your RV bathroom, it’s important to use RV toilet chemicals. These chemicals help break down waste in your RV’s waste tank and prevent bad odors. Choose toilet chemicals designed for RV use and effectively control odors while promoting proper waste breakdown.
5 Things You Need to Buy Before Your First RV Trip Key Takeaways
- Invest in a portable water hose designed for drinking water to ensure a clean and reliable water supply in your RV.
- Use a water filter to remove impurities and contaminants from your RV water supply, ensuring the best quality water for drinking and cooking.
- Levelers are essential for a comfortable and stable RV experience, especially when parked on uneven ground.
- Choose a strong and reliable sewer hose and support for proper waste management in your RV.
- Use RV toilet chemicals to prevent bad odors and facilitate waste breakdown in your RV’s toilet.
Portable Water Hose
A portable water hose that ensures clean and safe drinking water throughout your journey is one of the first things you must buy for your RV trip. Not all hoses are equal; some can add taste or odor to your water supply. That’s why investing in a hose for drinking water in your RV is important. Look for a hose labeled as suitable for drinking water and made of non-toxic materials.
When choosing a portable water hose, ensure it has a mechanism that allows you to connect one end to the other when not in use. This helps prevent dirt and insects from entering the hose. It’s also important to look for a hose that is easy to handle and store, as you’ll be using it frequently during your RV trips.
In addition to providing clean drinking water, a portable water hose is essential for other purposes in your RV. It can be used for showering, washing dishes, and filling up your RV’s water tank. Having a reliable water hose ensures you access fresh water wherever you go, making your RV trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
Benefits of a Portable Water Hose:
- Provides clean and safe drinking water
- Easy to handle and store
- It can be used for various purposes in your RV
- Allows you to have access to fresh water wherever you go
Having a portable water hose is an essential item to bring along on your RV trip. It ensures that you have access to clean and safe drinking water and water for other purposes in your RV. Invest in a high-quality hose that is specifically designed for drinking water to ensure the best water quality during your travels.
Water Filter
Ensure the highest quality water in your RV by investing in a reliable water filter that eliminates bacteria and impurities. Even if you use a drinking water hose, there are chances that the water may still contain some bacteria and impurities that you cannot see. That’s why connecting a water filter to your water supply is essential.
Opt for a water filter like Big Berkey Water Filters to get the best quality water. These filters are designed to meet your specific needs depending on your water supply and how many people will use it. They eliminate bacteria, fluoride, viruses, chlorine, heavy metals, parasites, chloramines, pharmaceuticals, radiological, pesticides, herbicides, petroleum contaminants, and more. With a water filter, you can quench your thirst with the best water without any chances of getting contaminated.
Benefits of Using a Water Filter:
- Removes bacteria and impurities that can cause health issues.
- Provides clean and safe drinking water for you and your family.
- Improves the taste and smell of the water.
- Ensures the water is suitable for cooking and other uses.
- Preserve the lifespan of your RV water system.
Investing in a water filter for your RV is a wise decision to enhance your overall RVing experience. Don’t compromise on water quality; enjoy clean and purified water wherever your RV takes you.
Levelers
Don’t let uneven ground ruin your RV trip – invest in quality levelers to ensure a stable and comfortable experience. When you arrive at a campsite or parking spot, you want to ensure your RV is level to avoid discomfort or risk of items falling over. Levelers provide a simple solution to this problem, allowing you to adjust the height of your RV and create a stable foundation.
Here are some reasons why levelers should be on your RV checklist:
- RV Stability: Levelers ensure that your RV remains stable and balanced, preventing any swaying or tilting while parked. This is especially important when you have slide-outs or use appliances like refrigerators requiring a level surface to function properly.
- RV Leveling Blocks: Levelers come in various forms, including leveling blocks. These blocks can be stacked or adjusted to the desired height, allowing you to level your RV on uneven terrain. They are lightweight, easy to use, and compact for storage.
- RV Leveling System: Some RVs come with built-in leveling systems that automatically adjust the height of the RV to achieve a level position. These systems make the leveling process quick and effortless, saving you time and effort.
- RV Parking: Leveling your RV is crucial when parking for extended periods. It enhances your comfort inside the RV and prevents strain on the RV’s structure and appliances. Levelers ensure that you have a solid base, minimizing the risk of damage to your RV.
- RV Leveling Tips: Following some leveling tips for optimal results when using levelers is important. Start by parking on a flat surface if possible. Place the levelers under the wheels that need to be raised. Use a level to check the RV’s position and adjust the levelers accordingly. Double-check the level before settling in.
Investing in levelers is a small but essential step to ensure a pleasant and worry-free RV experience. They provide stability, comfort, and peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your trip without concerns about uneven ground. So make sure to add levelers to your list of RV essentials!
Sewer Hose and Supports
Avoid unpleasant odors and leakage during your RV trip by investing in a high-quality sewer hose and supports for your waste management needs. A strong and reliable sewer hose is essential for proper waste disposal in your RV, ensuring a clean and comfortable experience.
When choosing a sewer hose, opt for one about 15-20 feet long, as some sewer connections can be far from your camping site. Look for a hose with swivel fittings, making connecting to the dump port easier. It’s also important to have connectors and supports to ensure everything is securely in place.
Supports such as sewer hose ramps or stands help to keep the hose elevated and prevent it from getting damaged by dragging on the ground. They also aid in maintaining a steady flow of waste, preventing clogs or backups in the system.
Investing in a high-quality sewer hose and supports will make the dumping process more efficient and prevent any potential accidents or unpleasant odors. With the right equipment, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free waste management experience throughout your RV trip.
Key Points:
- Invest in a high-quality sewer hose and support for waste management in your RV.
- Choose a sewer hose that is 15-20 feet long and has swivel fittings for easy connection.
- Use supports such as ramps or stands to elevate the hose and prevent damage.
- Ensure a smooth and efficient waste disposal process to avoid unpleasant odors and leakage.
The right sewer hose and supports are crucial for a clean and hassle-free RV trip. Invest in quality equipment to ensure proper waste management and enjoy a comfortable and odor-free experience on the road.
RV Toilet Chemicals
Use effective RV toilet chemicals to keep your RV smelling fresh and maintain proper waste breakdown. Having a clean and odor-free bathroom is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable trip when you’re on the road in your RV. Here are a few key points to consider when it comes to RV toilet chemicals:
1. Choose the right RV toilet chemical:
- Opt for chemicals specifically designed for RV toilets, as they are formulated to break down waste and control odors effectively.
- Look for RV toilet chemicals that are eco-friendly and safe for septic systems, as they will not harm the environment or cause damage to your RV’s plumbing system.
2. Understand how RV toilet chemicals work:
- RV toilet chemicals come in liquid or drop-in form. Liquid chemicals are typically added directly to the RV toilet holding tank, while drop-in chemicals are pre-packaged and dissolved.
- These chemicals work by breaking down waste and controlling odors. They contain enzymes and bacteria that consume and break down organic waste, preventing the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
3. Follow proper usage guidelines:
- Read and follow the RV toilet chemical manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure you are using the product correctly.
- Use the recommended amount of RV toilet chemicals for your tank size to maximize effectiveness.
- Regularly empty and clean your RV toilet holding tank to maintain optimal performance and prevent buildup.
Using RV toilet chemicals can eliminate unpleasant odors and ensure the proper breakdown of waste in your RV toilet. This will make your RV trip more enjoyable and comfortable, allowing you to focus on exploring and creating lasting memories.
Food
Stock up on essential food and beverages to ensure a satisfying and nourishing RV trip. When planning your meals, consider the following:
- Plan your meals ahead of time to ensure you have enough food for the duration of your trip. Pack a variety of options, including cooked, frozen, fresh, and packaged foods.
- Include fruits and vegetables in your meal plan for a balanced diet.
- Focus on protein and energy-giving foods to provide the strength and sustenance you need during your travels.
- Bring enough beverages like water, juice, soda, and energy drinks to stay hydrated throughout your trip.
Having the right kitchen items is essential for cooking and enjoying your meals on the road. Consider packing the following kitchen essentials:
- Cooking pots
- Cooking and eating utensils
- Mugs and plates
- Bottle opener
- Tongs and spatula
Bring reusable containers, plastic wraps, and aluminum foils to keep your food fresh and ensure proper food storage. Additional items for outdoor cooking include a Dutch oven, camp stove, cast-iron skillet, and skewers.
Remember to pack only the necessary food items to avoid overpacking and taking up too much space in your RV. Bringing dishwashing soap and plastic utensils is also good for easy cleaning and maintenance. You can enjoy delicious meals during your RV trip with the right food and kitchen essentials.
Electronics for RV Trip
Stay connected and entertained with the necessary electronics and gadgets on your RV trip. Whether you are a full-time RVer or just taking a short vacation, having the right electronics can enhance your experience and make life more convenient.
Here are some must-have electronics for your RV:
- Wi-Fi Router: Keep yourself connected to the internet no matter where you are. A Wi-Fi router will ensure you have a reliable internet connection for work, entertainment, and staying in touch with loved ones.
- Adapters, Chargers, and Extra Batteries: Make sure you have the necessary adapters and chargers for your phones, laptops, cameras, and tablets. Having extra batteries on hand for emergencies is also a good idea.
- Walkie-Talkies: These devices can be a lifesaver when you’re exploring the great outdoors and need to stay in touch with your fellow travelers. They provide reliable communication, especially in areas with limited cell phone coverage.
Aside from these essentials, you may also consider other electronics that can enhance your RV experience, such as a GPS navigation system, entertainment devices like a portable DVD player or streaming device, and a cell phone booster to improve your phone connectivity. These items will ensure you have all the tools you need for a comfortable and connected journey.
Extra Clothes
Be prepared for any weather or activity on your RV trip by packing extra clothes for all occasions. The key to a successful and comfortable trip is having the right clothing to suit different weather conditions and outdoor activities. Here are some tips and essentials to consider when packing your RV wardrobe:
- Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. Bring warm clothes for cooler temperatures, including jackets, sweaters, and thermal layers. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves if needed.
- Pack lightweight and breathable clothing for hot weather, such as shorts, t-shirts, and lightweight pants. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats to protect yourself from the sun.
- Include versatile, layered, mixed, and matched clothing, providing flexibility for different activities and temperature changes.
- Bring comfortable and sturdy shoes for walking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Consider waterproof and slip-resistant footwear for wet conditions.
RV Packing Tips
To maximize space and organization in your RV, follow these packing tips:
- Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and prevent wrinkles.
- Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space further and keep items organized.
- Utilize storage compartments and bins in your RV to keep your clothes neatly organized and easily accessible.
- Consider the storage limitations of your RV and pack only what you need. Avoid overpacking and prioritize essential items.
RV Clothing Storage
Since space is limited in an RV, efficient clothing storage is crucial. Here are some storage solutions to help you stay organized:
- Utilize hanging organizers and hooks to maximize vertical storage space in your closet or bathroom area.
- Use collapsible storage bins or stackable drawers to neatly store folded clothes and accessories.
- Opt for multi-purpose items, such as jackets with removable linings or convertible pants, to save space and reduce the number of clothing items you need to pack.
- Label and categorize your storage containers to easily locate specific items.
By packing extra clothes and following these tips for your RV wardrobe, you’ll be prepared for any weather conditions and outdoor activities during your RV trip. Remember to pack smart, stay organized, and prioritize comfort and versatility.
Documents
Ensure a smooth and hassle-free RV trip by carrying all the necessary documents with you. These documents are essential for identification, safety, and compliance with legal requirements. Here are the important documents you should have:
- RV Travel Documents: This includes your RV registration, insurance papers, and any other documents specific to your RV. Make sure all the paperwork is up to date and readily accessible.
- RV Identification: Always carry your driver’s license and identification cards with you. These documents are essential for identification and may be required when checking in at RV parks or campgrounds.
- RV Manual: Keep a copy of your RV’s manual handy. It contains important information about your RV’s systems, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting tips.
- RV Maintenance Records: Maintaining a record of your RV’s maintenance and repair history is crucial. It helps you keep track of any repairs or services performed and can be helpful in case of warranty claims or resale.
Having all these documents organized and easily accessible will save you time and prevent any potential issues during your RV trip. Remember to make copies of these documents and store them in a secure location, such as a safe or digital storage, in case the originals are lost or damaged.
5 Things You Need to Buy Before Your First RV Trip – Wrapping Up
You can have a stress-free and enjoyable RV trip by ensuring you have all the necessary documents. Be prepared and organized, and always keep your documents in a secure and easily accessible place. With everything in order, you can focus on exploring new destinations and creating lasting memories on your RV adventure.
Personal Effects
Don’t forget the essentials! Pack all the necessary personal hygiene and grooming items for a comfortable RV trip. When you’re on the road, it’s important to maintain cleanliness and comfort, so be sure to bring these items along:
- RV toiletries: Bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss to keep your teeth clean and fresh.
- RV hygiene products: Don’t forget your soap, shampoo, and conditioner for daily showers.
- RV personal care: Pack your shaving gadgets, including razors and shaving cream, to keep up with your grooming routine.
- RV bathroom essentials: Bring toilet paper specifically designed for RVs to avoid any plumbing issues.
- RV grooming items: Remember to bring your hairbrush, comb, and any other grooming tools you use on a regular basis.
Having these personal effects will ensure that you and your fellow travelers can stay clean, fresh, and comfortable throughout the entire trip. So don’t forget to pack them!
Camping and Outdoor Gear
Make the most of your RV trip by packing the necessary camping and outdoor gear for a fun-filled adventure. Whether you’re planning to stay at RV parks or campgrounds, having the right equipment will enhance your experience and allow you to fully enjoy the great outdoors. Here are some essential items to consider:
Kitchen Items
- Cooking pots
- Cooking and eating spoons
- Mugs
- Plates
- Bottle openers
- Tongs
- Spatula
Ensure that none of these items are fragile because they would easily break due to the movement of the van. The best way to eat and save space is using plastic plates because they are small and don’t need a secluded area.
You should also bring along dishwashing soap and plastics to keep the kitchen area and utensils clean. For food storage, bring the basics like reusable containers, plastic wraps, and aluminum foils.
If you plan on outdoor cooking, some of the things you need to bring include:
- Dutch oven
- Camp stove, electric skillet, or griddle
- Cast-iron skillet
- Skewers
Camping and Outdoor Equipment
When you plan for a road trip, you are sure that you will stop at a campsite where you will spend the night and maybe even a few days. Some of the things you should bring for this include:
- Camping chairs and a folding table
- Hammock
- Fishing equipment like fishing rods, fishing licenses, and tackles
- Sports equipment like balls
- Bikes and safety gear
- Portable fire pit
- Sleeping bags
- Camping pads
One of the biggest limitations of having an RV is limited space, which limits the number of things you can bring. You have to pack only the things you need so that you are left with enough space to do other things like cook, eat, and shower. You should avoid carrying things you will not need or can get from the campsite. So, prioritize camping and outdoor gear that will enhance your enjoyment of nature and outdoor activities.
The 5 Things You Need to Buy Before Your First RV Trip – Conclusion
When going on an RV trip, it is important to pack the necessary items to ensure comfort and convenience. These items include a portable water hose, water filter, levelers, sewer hose and supports, RV toilet chemicals, food and beverages, electronics, extra clothes, important documents, personal hygiene and grooming items, camping and outdoor gear, and kitchen items.
Take advantage of the resources and support available in the RV community, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice from fellow RVers.You can have a memorable and enjoyable RV trip by being prepared with the right items.
The 5 Things You Need to Buy Before Your First RV Trip FAQs
Q: What are the essential items for my first RV trip?
A: The essential items you need for your first RV trip include a portable water hose, a water filter, levelers, a sewer hose and supports, RV toilet chemicals, food and beverages, electronics, extra clothes, important documents, personal hygiene and grooming items, camping and outdoor gear, and kitchen items.
Q: Why do I need a portable water hose for my RV trip?
A: A portable water hose is necessary to ensure that you have clean and high-quality water in your RV for drinking and cooking. Choosing a hose specifically designed for drinking water is important to avoid any taste or smell being added to your water. The hose should also have a mechanism to prevent dirt or insects from getting into it when not in use.
Q: How does a water filter benefit my RV trip?
A: Even if you use a drinking water hose, there may still be bacteria and impurities in the water that you cannot see. A water filter connects to your water supply and removes bacteria, fluoride, viruses, chlorine, heavy metals, parasites, chloramines, pharmaceuticals, radiological substances, pesticides, herbicides, petroleum contaminants, and more. It ensures that you have the best quality drinking water and prevents any contamination.
Q: Why do I need levelers for my RV trip?
A: Levelers are essential for ensuring your RV is level and stable, especially when parked on uneven ground. This ensures a comfortable sleep and operation and prevents any items from falling over inside your RV. It is particularly important for properly functioning your refrigerator, as it may not work properly on uneven ground, leading to food spoilage.
Q: How does a sewer hose and supports benefit my RV trip?
A: A strong and reliable sewer hose is necessary for emptying your RV’s sewer tanks to prevent unpleasant smells and leakages. It is recommended to have a sewer hose about 15-20 feet long to reach sewer connections far from your camping site. Connectors and supports are also important to ensure proper functioning and prevent any mishaps.
Q: Why do I need RV toilet chemicals for my trip?
A: RV toilet chemicals help fight bad odors and break down waste in your RV’s waste tank. They make your RV trip more comfortable and make it easier to transfer waste to a sewer when connected with a sewer hose. Using toilet chemicals ensures a more pleasant and hygienic experience while using your RV toilet.
Q: What should I pack for food on my RV trip?
A: It is important to pack enough food for your RV trip, including cooked, frozen, fresh, and packed food. Make sure to include fruits, vegetables, proteins, and energy-giving foods for a balanced diet. Also, bring enough beverages such as water, juice, soda, and energy drinks.
Q: What electronics do I need for my RV trip?
A: Some essential electronics for your RV trip include a Wi-Fi router to stay connected to the internet, adapters, chargers, and extra batteries for your phone, laptop, camera, and tablet, and walkie-talkies to communicate with your fellow travelers and for emergencies.
Q: Why do I need extra clothes for my RV trip?
A: It is important to pack extra warm clothes for your RV trip as the weather at your destination may vary. Additionally, having a bathing suit is recommended in case you come across a waterfall or lake where you can swim.
Q: What documents should I bring for my RV trip?
A: It is important to carry your personal identification documents such as passports, ID cards, and driver’s licenses. Additionally, have your RV manual and maintenance history handy in case of any issues or emergencies.
Q: What personal effects should I pack for my RV trip?
A: Personal effects that you should pack for your RV trip include toothbrushes, soap, shaving gadgets, shampoo, lotion, RV toilet paper, and deodorant. These items ensure that you remain clean, fresh, and comfortable throughout your trip.
Q: What camping and outdoor gear should I bring for my RV trip?
A: Some essential camping and outdoor gear for your RV trip include camping chairs and a folding table, a hammock, fishing equipment, sports equipment, bikes and safety gear, a portable fire pit, sleeping bags, and camping pads.
Q: Why is it important to pack kitchen items for my RV trip?
A: Packing the necessary kitchen items ensures that you have the tools needed to cook and eat during your RV trip. Make sure to bring cooking pots, eating utensils, mugs, plates, bottle openers, tongs, and a spatula. It is recommended to use plastic plates to save space and prevent breakage during travel.