No matter where you are going or you plan on doing once you arrive, it is always important to be prepared. This means having the right gear for the weather, the activity, or any scenario that may arrive.
We have compiled the ultimate gear list and the average price of each item for backpacking, camping, and RVing. These things will keep you safe, prepared, and comfortable. Some of them are considered essentials while others are items you may have never thought of but will be happy to have should you need them.
There are a variety of things in each category and they fall into a wide spectrum of prices. It is important to choose the gear that best suits your camping style and your budget.
Many of the items on the list have example products and prices. However, some do not because they are specific to each individual, such as clothing and toiletries.
Be sure to use the table of contents to jump to your favorite section. We tried to cover everything you may possibly need for each section so each section is pretty long.
Clickable Table Of Contents
Backpacking Gear List and Cost
First up on our list is backpacking. Backpacking is a way to explore more than just your designated camping site. You can explore and adventure and see many more sites than a campground may be able to offer.
However, as you won’t have a “home-base” all of your gear must be carried along with you on your back. Some individuals only plan for a short trek and don’t mind carrying a heavier pack. Others, known as ultralight backpackers, may travel far distances with minimal gear.
Even if you are not planning an ultralight expedition, you will want whatever you choose to bring along to be compact and lightweight. If you have companions hiking with you, you will be able to divide the gear up between backpacks.
You can purchase your own gear or rent more expensive items. It is strongly recommended that some items you purchase, such as hiking boots. Select gear will need to be in good condition and specific to you, like boots, so it isn’t wise to borrow or rent these items.
You could rent a tent, a backpack, or hiking poles, however. In addition, friends or family may have camping cookware, headlamps, or even sleeping bags that you can borrow.
If you are not likely to backpack often, you will probably want to rent or borrow most of your gear. Whether you are buying or renting, you will want to make sure that the item is rated for the temperature and climate where you will be staying.
This is especially true for sleeping bags, tents, and outerwear. When backpacking, most of what you will take with you can be deemed essentials, since you will likely not want to carry any more than necessary. Still, the list below is divided into essential and not-so-essential.
Backpacking Camping Trips Essentials
These are the items that you will need to have with you for a safe and successful trip
- Tent
For backpacking, you will want an ultra-light and compact tent. These tents usually cannot accommodate more than two or three people and are not considered spacious. They can range from $30 to close to $400, with an average price of $150.
Our recommendation:
River Country Products Trekker Tent 2
Price: $52.95
Nemo Dragonfly Ultralight Backpacking Tent
Price: $389.95
For an in-depth look at tents prices, be sure to read this article that we wrote for you.- How Much Do Camping Tents Cost? ( Covers Most Types of Tents )
- Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags also have to be ultralight and have the ability to be stuffed into a compact space. However, this doesn’t mean that you should purchase a cheap sleeping bag. Because backpacking sleeping bags are a bit more specialized they typically are priced around $100.
Our recommendation:
WINNER OUTFITTERS Mummy Sleeping Bag with Compression Sack (3-4 season)
Price: $34.99
Kelty Tuck 22F Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag – 3 Season Ultralight
Price: $99.95
We have an article just to help you choose a sleeping bag here.
- Stuff Sack
Stuff sacks may come with your sleeping bag, or you may have to purchase one separately. When they are not holding your sleeping bag they can double as a pillow. The average price of a stuff sack is $25.
Our recommendation:
REDCAMP Nylon Compression Stuff Sack, 6L/15L/25L/35L
Price: $13.98
Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack
Price: $27.90-$89.99
- Backpack
A good backpack is something you definitely want to invest in as you will be carrying it for the majority of the time. A comfortable and well-designed backpack will help your trip to be safe and enjoyable. The average backpack price is $125.
Our recommendation:
Osprey Packs Rook 50 Men’s Backpacking Backpack
Price: $154.95
TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack
Price: $79.99
- Hiking Boots
Like your backpack, don’t opt for a cheap pair of boots. A well-made pair will save your feet and allow you to hike pain-free. Boots usually go for around $100.
Our recommendation:
Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot
Price: $73.77 – $167.54
SALOMON Men’s Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots
Price: $172.46 – $265.99
- Trekking Poles
A quality pair of trekking poles can be found for around $45. However, specialized poles can exceed $150.
Our recommendation:
Price: $36.99
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles
Price: $96.95-$296.95
- Stove
A stove shouldn’t be heavy and it should be rather compact. Stoves have a range of prices but usually can be found for around $45.00.
Our recommendation:
Etekcity Ultralight Portable Outdoor Backpacking Camping Stove
Price: $22.99
Jetboil Flash Camping Stove Cooking System
Price: $99.95
- Pot/Pans
Our recommendation:
Camping Equipment, Wuudi Outdoor Camping Pots And Pans Set 2PCS Camping Cookware
Price: $14.99
- Spork
Our recommendation:
Price: $12.95
-Cups/Plates/Bowls $2-$10
Our recommendation:
ME.FAN Silicone Collapsible Travel Cup
Price: $13.95
GSI Outdoors Ultralight Nesting Bowl and Mug
Price: $9.98
- Towel
Our recommendation:
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel
Price: $13.99-$16.99
- Multi-purpose tool
Our recommendation:
Rose Kuli 7” Portable Multipurpose Multitool
Price: $14.99
Multitool Pliers,Titanium 18-in-1 Multi-Purpose Pocket Knife Pliers Kit
Price: $27.99
- Energy Bars- Price Varies
- Water Bottle
Our recommendation:
Platypus Platy 2-Liter Ultralight Collapsible Water Bottle
Price: $12.95
Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle – Leak Proof Twist Cap
Price: $24.95
- Water Purification Method
Our recommendation:
Sawyer Products MINI Water Filtration System
Price :$42.38
Potable Aqua Germicidal Water Purification Tablets
Price: $7.03
- Jacket (Waterproof, wind, down, or a combination)
- Clothing Items
- Lighter/Fire Starter
Our recommendation:
Price: $12.79
- Meals
Our recommendation:
Peak Refuel | Freeze Dried Backpacking and Camping Food
Price: $6.49-$73.99
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
Our recommendation:
Julbo Sherpa Mountaineering Glacier Sunglasses with Flexible Arms and Side-Shields
Price: $37.41
- Bug Spray
Our recommendation:
Repel HG-94108 100 Insect Repellent, Pump Spray, 4-Fluid Ounce
Price: $7.69
- Hat
Our recommendation:
Columbia Unisex Bora Bora II Booney Hat, Moisture Wicking Fabric, UV Sun Protection
Price: $19.45
- Map
- Compass
Our recommendation:
Eyeskey Multifunctional Military Lensatic Tactical Compass
Price: $25.90
- Whistle
Our recommendation:
Price: $9.15
- Headlamp
Our recommendation:
Foxelli Headlamp Flashlight – 165 Lumen
Price: $12.97
- Batteries
- First Aid Kit
Our recommendation:
Surviveware Small First Aid Kit for Backpacking
Price: $36.95
- Toilet Paper
Our recommendation:
Coleman Company Biodegradable Camp Toilet Paper 4 Pack
Price: $8.24
- Trowel
Our recommendation:
Price: $9.00
- Toothbrush and Biodegradable Toothpaste
- Plastic Bags
- Nylon Cord
Our recommendation:
GEERTOP 6 Pack 4mm Reflective Tent Guide Rope Lightweight Guy Line Cord
Price: $14.99
- Duct Tape
Non-Essentials
These are items that can be useful on the trail and/or make your adventure more comfortable
- Tent Stakes
Our recommendation:
Lvgowyd 12 Pcs 7001 Aluminum Tent Stakes – Ultralight Adjustable
Price: $8.99
- Tent Footprint
Our recommendation:
GEERTOP 1-4 Person Ultralight Waterproof Tent Tarp Footprint
Price: $18.61 – $26.99
- Sleeping Pad
You really don’t need a sleeping pad, but they can make a night in the tent more peaceful. Specialized sleeping pads for backpacking can be expensive, cheaper options can be as low as $10; the average price is $30.
Our recommendation:
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress
Price: $126.90
- Biodegradable Soap
Our recommendation:
Sierra Dawn Campsuds Outdoor Soap Biodegradable
Price: $33.44
- Guidebook
- Bear Spray
Our recommendation:
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz
Price: $27.20
- Water Bladder
Our recommendation:
Platypus Big Zip Water Reservoir for Hydration Backpacks
Price: $39.90
- Sandals
- Biodegradable Wipes
Our recommendation:
Combat Wipes ACTIVE Outdoor Wet Wipes | Extra Thick, Ultralight, Biodegradable
Price: $7.30
Backpacking Safety Guidelines
When you are backpacking, there are a few things to keep in mind. Not only to protect yourself but to protect the environment and wildlife as well.
Safety First. The most vital thing when trekking through the wilderness is your safety. You should be aware of what animals and potential hazards exist in the area where you will be hiking. It is a good idea to have an itinerary and share it with at least one other person who will not be going on the trip.
It is safe to assume that you will not always receive cell phone reception. Therefore, an emergency contact should be aware of where you plan to be and when. You should carry topographical maps, a compass, and one extra day worth of food just in case you do get lost.
Choose a Campsite Wisely. Picking where to set up camp goes hand in hand with safety. On the first day, you can choose a site that isn’t too far out from your starting point, as it is not a good idea to overexert yourself right off the bat. Choose a spot that isn’t likely to attract animals and is safe from natural hazards like falling dead trees.
Pack your Backpack Correctly. Knowing how to pack the right way is essential for a safe and comfortable hike. You want the weight to be evenly distributed with heavier items on the bottom and lighter items towards the top. Keep all of your essentials and frequently used items, like a multi-purpose tool or water bottle in an external pocket that is easy to access.
“Take only photographs, leave only footprints”. Finally, leave no trace. Don’t litter, stay on designated trails or paths, and be sure to put out all fires. Your goal is to keep the space clean, natural, and pristine; with no evidence that you have been there.
Tent Camping Equipment Cost
Next up is camping. Camping is very similar to backpacking with the exception that you will not be responsible for carrying all of your gear. Therefore, you can afford to take more items along.
Like backpacking, you should make sure all of your stuff is rated for the weather and climate where you plan to camp. Unlike backpacking, there is a broader range of items which should be fine to be rented or borrowed.
You will probably have a tent, your vehicle, and the facilities at the campground. Still, you will not have access to many of the creature comforts of home. Therefore, you should plan for nearly every possibility and try to pack so that you can be prepared.
Meal planning is an important part of camping. You may be cooking for just yourself, or a large group. If you are camping with a group, it can be helpful to split up the meal prep and cooking duties.
Before you leave you will want to have created a meal plan. Meals should be easy to prepare, cook, and clean up. You will also want to choose items that share ingredients so you will have to pack fewer food items.
Box, canned, pre-prepared, or fresh items are all great at the campsite. Don’t forget to pack plenty of snacks and beverages as well.
Below is a list of essentials for camping as well as a few items for fun and/or comfort.
Essentials
Bring these things for a great camping trip!
- Tent
Tents have a wide price range depending on their size, season rating, and specialties. Below are a few different options. You can find tents small enough to accommodate two people or large enough to fit twelve. Furthermore, they can be rated for favorable warm weather or arctic expeditions. Make sure the tent that you select is large enough for everyone to easily fit inside and that it is rated appropriately. Usually, a decent tent for four people can be found for $160, but they can range from $30-$500.
Our recommendation:
The North Face Stormbreak 2 Tent (3 season)
Price: $159.00
Caddis Rapid 6 Tent(six person)
Price: $279.95
Big Agnes Flying Diamond 8 Tent (4 season)
Price: $639.73
CORE 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent (12 person)
Price: $269.99
HemiPlanet Cave Tent (specialized tent)
Price: $759.95 – $789.95
Skylink Outdoor Camping Tents Pop Up (4 person instant tent)
Price: $58.70
Be sure to check out our in-depth article on tent prices here.
- Tent Stakes
Hopefully, they will come with your tent. However, they may not or you may want a few extras. The average price is around $20.
Our recommendation:
Price: $23.99
- Rainfly
If your tent doesn’t come with a rainfly, you will probably want one. They will block the wind and moisture to keep you warm and dry. The average price is $25.00.
Our recommendation:
REDCAMP Waterproof Camping Tarp
Price: $25.99
- Sleeping Pad
Again, not a necessity but they can give you a better night’s rest. The average price is around $30.
Our recommendation:
Sleepingo Camping Sleeping Pad
Price: $35.99
- Sleeping Bag
If you are camping in mild weather just take a few blankets and sheets from home and your cost is $0! Still, a good sleeping bag is essential on almost all camping trips as you are bound to experience a bit of inclement weather. The average price is around $50 for a standard camping sleeping bag.
Our recommendation:
TETON Sports Celsius XXL Sleeping Bag
Price: $72.15
CANWAY Sleeping Bag with Compression Sack, Lightweight and Waterproof
Price: $42.99
- Pillow
A pillow from home is free! But a camping pillow or inflatable pillow’s average price is $25.
Our recommendation:
Nemo Fillo Inflatable Travel Pillow with Fabric Cover
Price: $33.96
- Backpack
These backpacks don’t have to be as specialized and a traditional backpack will do. Average price: $30.
Our recommendation:
Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Waterproof
Price: $22.99
- Stove
If it is just you or you and a friend you can get away with a smaller stove. For families and groups you will want a large multi-burner stove. For larger stoves, the average price is around $50.
Our recommendation:
Coleman Portable Butane Stove with Carrying Case
Price: $19.99
Price: $43.88
- Multipurpose Tool
Our recommendation:
14 in 1 Stainless Steel Multitool in Durable Black Oxide
Price: $23.98
- Cutting Board
Our recommendation:
MSR Alpine Deluxe Cutting Board
Price: $7.95
- Pot/Pans
When camping with a group, you will want a sturdy but lightweight set of pots and pans. These can range from $30 to $100 but usually can be found for around $50.
Our recommendation:
GSI Outdoors Bugaboo Camper, 4 Person Camping Cook Set
Price: $109.95
Terra Hiker Camping Cookware, Nonstick, Lightweight Pots, Pans
Price: $28.99
- Cooking Utensils
Our recommendation:
Wealers Camp Kitchen Utensil Organizer Travel Set
Price: $24.99
- Cutlery
- Cups/Plates/Bowls
Our recommendation:
Price: $25.00
- Paper towels
Our recommendation:
Coin Tissues | Compressed Towels | Camping Wipes | Toilet Paper Tablets | 500 Bulk Pack
Price: $33.27
- Dish soap
Our recommendation:
Sierra Dawn Campsuds Outdoor Soap in Nalgene Bottle
Price: $9.50
- Washbasin
Our recommendation:
Coleman Folding Double Wash Basin
Price: $14.99
- Sponge
Our recommendation:
Price: $4.95
- Garbage Bags
- Towel
- Energy Bars
- Water Bottle
Our recommendation:
Hydro Flask Water Bottle – Stainless Steel & Vacuum Insulated
Price: $42.95
BUZIO Stainless Steel Water Bottle (Cold for 48 Hrs, Hot for 24 Hrs)
Price: $19.99-$39.99
- Large water dispenser
Our recommendation:
Stanley Insulated, Rugged Water Jug, 1 Gallon and 2 Gallon
Price: $37.46
- Jacket (Waterproof, windproof, down, or a combination)
- Clothing Items
- Camp Chairs
You will definitely want a durable camp chair for relaxing at the campsite. On average, they sell for around $40 but a luxury or specialized model can be upwards of $100.
Our recommendation:
Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair with 4-Can Cooler
Price: $34.99
Coleman Camping Chair with Side Table | Aluminum Outdoor Chair with Flip Up Table
Price: $54.99
- Cooler
Investing in a heavy-duty cooler with excellent refrigerating properties is essential. However, they can be more expensive with an average price of $120.
Our recommendation:
YETI Tundra Haul Portable Wheeled Cooler
Price: $399.99
Igloo Polar Cooler (120-Quart, White)
Price: $59.39
- Lamp or lantern
Our recommendation:
Vont 2 Pack LED Camping Lantern
Price: $19.97
- Flashlight
Our recommendation:
Price: $17.99
- Lighter
Our recommendation:
Price: $14.99
- Meals
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
Our recommendation:
RIVBOS Polarized Sports Sunglasses Driving Glasses Shades for Men Women TR90 Unbreakable Frame
Price: $19.98
- Bug Spray
Our recommendation:
OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent I Smooth & Dry, 2 ct, 4 oz
Price: $7.97
- Hat
Our recommendation:
Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap
Price: $20.96
- Map
- Compass
Our recommendation:
Price: $10.69
- Whistle
- Firestarter
Our recommendation:
Swiss Safe 5-in-1 Fire Starter with Compass
Price: $7.99
- Headlamp
Our recommendation:
Black Diamond Spot Headlamp, Dark Olive, One Size
Price: $27.99
- Batteries
- First Aid Kit
Our recommendation:
Price: $39.95
- Toilet Paper
- Toothbrush and Biodegradable Toothpaste
- Plastic Bags
- Nylon Cord and/or Bear Canister
Our recommendation:
Lighter1 Big Daddy Bear Canister
Price: $99.95
- Duct Tape
Non-Essentials
These will likely not make your break your trip but can help to make it more enjoyable
-Guidebook
-Bear Spray (essential depending on where you are camping)
-Door Mat
Our recommendation:
Price: $12.99
-Screened shelter or house
Our recommendation:
Price: $102.81 – $169.65
-Broom and dustpan
Our recommendation:
Price: $12.99
-Extra blankets and pillows
-Camp table (if there is no picnic table)
Our recommendation:
MSSOHKAN Ultralight Camping Portable Aluminum Folding Table
Price: $19.99
-Hammock
Our recommendation:
HomEco Camping Hammock, Lightweight Nylon Parachute Travel Hammocks
Price: $34.99
-Table Cloth
Our recommendation:
Stansport Picnic Table Cloth with Clamps Combo Pack
Price: $12.24
-Clothesline
Our recommendation:
WaHe Outdoor Camping Lanyard with 10 Hooks| Camping Rope| Outdoor Camping Clothesline with Hook
Price: $15.96
-Coffee Pot
Our recommendation:
Coleman Stainless Steel Percolator, 12 Cup
Price: $30.41
-Sandals/Camp shoes
-Hatchet
Our recommendation:
Fiskars 378501-1002 X7 Hatchet (14″), 14 Inch, Black/Orange
Price: $26.90
-Roasting forks/prongs
Our recommendation:
Extendable Rotating Marshmallow Roasting Sticks
Price: $22.79
-Games
-Binoculars
Our recommendation:
Hontry Binoculars for Adults and Kids
Price: $22.95
-Music and speaker
Our recommendation:
Coleman 360° Sound & Light LED Lantern
Price: $49.99
-Activity gear (fishing, hiking, snorkeling)
-Trash Can
Our recommendation:
Price: $21.80
How to Keep Everything Organized
Investing in a few plastic storage bins, especially clear ones can be a great way to keep your campsite organized. You have a lot of gear to take along, and unlike at home, there will be no storage cabinets or pantries.
Clear tubs can be filled with all of your items grouped by their intended uses. For example, cooking essentials in one and outdoor recreation activities in another. Because they are clear you will be able to easily peer inside to see if the bin contains what you are looking for.
Besides, by storing everything in tubs all of your gear will remain dry, and free of animals and insects. When you arrive home the tubs can be stored until your next camping trip after replacing any missing items or perishables.
RV Camping Equipment and Cost
Finally, we have RVing. This is perhaps the scenario where you can bring the most extensive list of gear. RVs and campers can hold plenty of items and have storage for nearly everything you may want to bring along.
The key is not adding too much weight to your rig. It can be easy to overpack, but as you use your RV more and more you will be able to refine your packing list. If you are over the weight limit, you may need to pare down, even if your storage areas still have space available.
It is easiest to pack for an RV trip by looking at each section or area of your camper. For example, kitchen items, bathroom items, etc. Start with the necessities and then move to the creature comfort items.
Unlike camping and backpacking, you won’t have to worry too much about selecting the correct ratings for your gear. Since you will not be sleeping in a tent and have a reliable shelter to get out of the elements, you won’t need as much “outdoor hardy” gear.
Most campers and motorhomes have kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Therefore, you will have to bring cookware but not your own fire starter or fuel burner. Additionally, you won’t be limited in terms of food or water like you would tent camping or backpacking.
If you are boondocking it, there may need to be a slight adjustment to the packing list, since you won’t have access to water or electricity. Below you will find the “must-haves”, the “like to have”, and the “leave at homes”.
Essentials
Every RV should be equipped with these items before heading out
RV Gear and Mechanical Needs:
The average price of the cords, lines, and hoses for your RV depends on the model, make, and manufacturer.
-Electrical hookup cords
Our recommendation:
15A Male to 30A Female RV Power Adapter Cords Electrical Twist Lock Adaptors 12-inch(15M30T)
Price: $18.99
-Auxiliary cable for TV connection
-Mobile hotspot for reliable WiFi or other signal boost equipment
Our recommendation:
NETGEAR N300 Wall Plug Version Wi-Fi Range Extender
Price: $32.79
-Sewer hose
Our recommendation:
Titan 20 Foot Premium RV Sewer Hose Kit – Thetford 17902
Price: $43.52
Essential and Non-Essential
The list below can vary depending on your RV capacity, where you are traveling to, and for how long you will be gone. After a few trips in your RV you can revise your essentials and non-essentials lists.
Kitchen and cooking supplies:
Kitchen supplies are a necessity, but you may be able to use what you already have at home. If not, the average price for each is what you would typically find in department or home stores.
-Water bottles
Our recommendation:
Contigo AUTOSEAL Chill Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle, 24 oz., Very Berry
Price: $18.75
-Cutting board
Our recommendation:
Lipper International 8831 Bamboo Wood Over-The-Sink/Stove Kitchen Cutting and Serving Board
Price: $22.44
-Utensils/cutting knives
Our recommendation:
Cooking Utensils Set & Kitchen Knife Set
Price: $29.99
-Dishwashing Products
Our recommendation:
Camco Durable Mini Dish Drainer Rack and Tray Perfect for RV Sinks
Price: $6.11
-Bowls, plates, and cups
Our recommendation:
Price: $26.31
GSI Outdoors Infinity 4 Person Compact Table Set
Price: $39.95
-Garbage bags
-Plastic wrap
-Plastic baggies
-Potholders
-Dishtowels
-Napkins
-Can opener
-Pots and Pans
Our recommendation:
Price: $130.48
-Disinfecting wipes
-Matches and lighter
-Food storage containers
Our recommendation:
DWËLLZA KITCHEN Airtight Food Storage Containers
Price: $35.49
-Cooler
Our recommendation:
AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation
Price: $69.95
Food staples:
-Prepared mixes (Bisquick, pancake mix, etc)
-Fresh fruits and veggies
-Butter
-Cereal
-Condiments (ketchup, mustard, etc)
-Meats
-Eggs
-Salt, pepper, herbs, and spices
-Bread
-Common baking ingredients (flour, baking soda, etc)
-Canned foods
-Peanut butter and jelly
-Snacks
-Cooking spray or oil
-Soups
Clothing and bedroom items:
Like kitchen items, the average price of bedroom and bathroom items mirrors what you would typically spend on these things for your house.
-Hats
-Rain jacket
-Umbrella
-Footwear
-Clothing
-Clothes hangers
-Sewing kit
Our recommendation:
Price: $11.97
-Towels (hand towels, bath towels, and beach towels)
-Sheets and blankets
-Pillows
Personal items and toiletries:
-Chargers
-First-aid kit
-Sunscreen
-Bug spray
-Batteries
-Sunglasses
-Travel map and campground directory
-Toiletries
-Paper Products
Our recommendation:
Septic Tank Safe Toilet Tissue (2-Ply, 4 Rolls) for RV
Price: $10.49
Outdoor fun:
-Camera
-Camping chairs
Our recommendation:
ONIVA – a Picnic Time Brand Portable Reclining Camp Chair, Black/Gray
Price: $62.57
-Hammock
Our recommendation:
Legit Camping – Double Hammock – Lightweight Parachute Portable Hammocks
Price: $29.97
-Frisbee
-Fishing gear
-Recreation equipment (balls, bats,etc)
-Yard games
Our recommendation:
Price: $34.80
-Binoculars
-Books and magazines
-Playing cards
-Puzzles
-Music Speaker
-Headphones
-Laptop and cord
-Hatchet
Our recommendation:
Price: $19.99
-Lifejackets
Our recommendation:
Stearns Adult Classic Series Vest
Price: $19.47 – $47.18
-Kayaks, trekking poles, other outdoor gear
Our recommendation:
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump
Price: $85.69
-Electric Heater
Price: $89.99
Creature comforts, not necessities:
-Throw pillows and blankets
-Candles
-Decor
-Rugs and doormats
Our recommendation:
DII CAMZ11127 Seasonal Doormats, 18×30, Camper
Price: $23.99
-String lighting and outdoor decor
Our recommendation:
Price: $44.95
-Blenders, mixers, kitchen tools, and appliances
Our recommendation:
Portable Juicer Blender, Beckool Travel Personal USB Mixer Juice Cup
Price: $29.99
Leave at home items
-Firewood. In most cases, you cannot transport firewood across state lines due to the prevalence of pests and diseases. You are better off purchasing firewood locally when you arrive at your destination.
-An abundance of kitchen appliances. These items can add a lot of weight and take up a great deal of space. Some individuals choose to take only a small blender or mixer. You will not need things like a coffee/latte/espresso maker, instead, just take a coffee pot or tea kettle.
-Bulk food items. Initially, it may seem like a great idea to take food items in bulk. However, the food and the packaging can hog a lot of space. You will probably want to take your essential food items and non-perishables in organized containers. Additionally, you will likely be able to do most of your grocery shopping when you arrive at your location.
Tips on Packing Your RV
Even though it seems like your RV can handle a plethora of items (there is a lot of space after all!), you cannot overload it. Two considerations when packing an RV are max weight and distribution. RVs and trailers that are overweight and/or unstable are dangerous.
You will want to try and pack as light as possible, while still making sure to include all of the necessities. Minimalist packing doesn’t mean you have to forgo all comforts if you choose your gear wisely.
Items that can perform two functions, like a particularly versatile pot or cooking utensil, will help you to conserve space. Additionally, some items are very conducive to the traveling lifestyle, such as nesting bowls or collapsible colanders.
Taking items out of their boxes and packaging can also free up some space. Try to use sealing plastic food containers or bags to store all of your dry goods.
When you pack your items, arrange and store them as neatly as possible so you won’t have to go searching for them. Even though RVs are typically roomy, they can feel claustrophobic when overloaded with gear. Storage bins and baskets can keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
Making a List and Checking It Twice
It can be daunting to try and determine all the items you may need on your trip. Different types of camping certainly limit what you can and cannot bring. This is due to the space you have available, the weight of the items, and how exposed you will be to the elements.
There are a few items that are important to all three types of camping (backpacking, tent camping, or RVing). These include things like first aid kits, maps, personal items, and a cellphone.
No matter what type of adventure you are embarking on, you will want to create a packing list of gear essentials and go over it more than once. Being prepared for all possibilities will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable camping trip.
