New RVers: Bring the Kitchen Sink

That's my motto when setting out for an RV adventure but let me qualify...make it a smaller version

You could bring this handy sink (doubles as a bucket)

with multiple uses.  Yep, that's the trick.  There's no reason to rough it or go without when you head out on an RV adventure.  I add and take things away from our RV packing list all the time as our travel needs change.  If the trip is short I may be able to grab a basketful of extras that I only need for longer trips then return it to the RV when we get home.  Of course, it's always easier if you can permanently stock your RV with at least some staples and tools.  But if that's not feasible you can just make your list and check it off each trip.

Since first publishing this post I've had several requests for info on this sink.  It was developed in Australia as a product to save and reuse water from one use to the next.  You can watch this Hughie sink informative video and obtain it for $25 (currently) from this website.


Here are some basics in 7 categorizes that I begin organizing days or even weeks before departure.



1.THINGS TO DO IN ADVANCE

• Map out approximate itinerary for family and friends
• Check weather reports for destinations and routes
• Organize emergency contact information in each person’s wallet 
• A 'bug out' (emergency exit) bag with valuables and health, insurance records
• Conveniently but securely locate your cash, travelers checks and credit cards
• If you make reservations, have the confirmation info easy to reach upon arrivals.  Ask the park about their amenities and regulations when reserving to avoid problems once you arrive.
• If pets will be in tow organize their records and if necessary get motion sickness meds from your vet.  Remember that some RV parks require immunization records.

2. GENERAL CAMPING ITEMS

• Cell phone with at least one battery charger for each phone (your phone can double as a camera, alarm, GPS and weather service...remember "multiple uses.")
  
• Maps, a compass if you would use it
• If you can't 'disconnect,' your laptop or tablet plus chargers  (passwords if necessary)
• Weather radio or the equivalent app on your phone
• Folding knife
• First Aid kit and any prescription meds.  In your 'bug out" bag keep important medical info for family members
• Binoculars
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Backpack if you intend to take day trips or hikes
• flashlight with sufficient batteries
• Bug spray or healthier alternative
• Bedding or sleeping bags
• Your tool box (hammer, screw drivers, pliers, etc.)
• Writing Paper and Pencil 
• Waterproof matches and lighter
  (preferably a long shank one is more convenient)

3. CLOTHING ITEMS

• Warm weather clothes 
• Cold weather clothes 
• Underclothes 
• Sleepwear
• Caps / hats / gloves 
• Rain gear 
• Slippers / Shoes / socks 
• Hiking boots / thick socks 
• Optional depending on your destination: Iron and travel ironing board.  I cut a thin board and padded it to fit the top of our washer. It works great as an ironing board.

4. PERSONAL

• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Soap / shampoo 
• Towels
• Deodorant 
• Shaving kit 
• Hair care products (comb, brush, hair dryer) 
• Toilet paper 
• Contact lenses / contact solution / prescription glasses 
• Laundry bag 
• Mirror 

5. KITCHEN  SUPPLIES

• Meal Plan
• Groceries or pre-made meal portions
• Seasonings and spices (salt, pepper, steak sauce) 
• Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise) 
• Drinking water and containers 
• Water filter and treatment chemicals 
• Utensils, cups, dishes 
• Can opener, wine bottle (cork) opener
• Pots, pans, skillets (remember 'multiple uses')
• Oven mitts and hot pads 
• Airtight containers- it's best if they nest inside each other (to keep away critters) 
• Ice Chest and ice 
• Ziploc bags
• Aluminum Foil
• Dish washing items (soap, sponge, drying towels) 
• Trash bags 
• Comet - to keep ants away from the RV

Ÿ6. PET CHECKLIST

• Pet food
• Treats
• Food & water bowl (the ones their used to)
• Water
• Toys
• Leash/harness
• Plastic bags to pick up after dogs
• Blanket and bed
• Towel
• Registration tags, shot records and any needed meds

7. If you like to enjoy the outdoors, consider:

• Lanterns or outdoor lighting
• Firewood & cutting tools (remember some parks prohibit bringing in wood and/or cutting any wood in the park)
• Camping stove and burner
• Grill and fuel (propane, charcoal) plus grilling utensils
• Folding Lawn Chairs/Table
• Patio mat/carpet
• Lighter fluid for charcoal (pack safely)
• Fishing gear, outdoor games (optional)  
• Mosquito repellant

I've been wanting to post this for a long time so that if I missed anything y'all would remind me in the comments.  I'll be waiting for your comments/additions to a Complete RV Packing List.  So whether your RVing at our RV Park near San Antonio or anywhere in the US or beyond, don't forget to share this with your RV friends and ask for their ideas so we can really make a detailed list.  Once I see additions in the comments I'll add them to the post itself.  In the near future I will be adding a link to the RV Camping Check list below with a printable pdf Checklist to use before your next RV trip.

Teri Blaschke is the RV Park operator of family owned HiddenValley RV Park in San Antonio, TX and writer of the park blog “A Little Piece of Country in San Antonio.” Teri contributes to various other blogs with a focus on either travel or social media and how it relates to the outdoor hospitality industry but her passion is serving the RV travel community by providing a memorable RV camping experience and growing the Hidden Valley RV family.  Connect with Teri on Google+, Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter@HiddenValleyRV and our RV Country Daily Magazine and don't forget to Say hello to the voice of Hidden Valley