RV Camping Checklist for Families: Set Up and Essentials

RVing as a family is a great way to bond and make memories that will last a lifetime. But getting started can be intimidating. You’ll need to buy some new gear, but you’ll also want to make sure you don’t overspend or buy gear you don’t need. Focus on items you’ll use every time you go on a trip so they earn their keep. And before buying anything, check what came with your RV. Many RVs already include items such as a fire extinguisher, basic cookware, hoses, and other equipment.

Family RV Camping Checklist: The Essentials

Leveling blocks and wheel chocks
Sewer hose kit (hose, connectors, support, clear adapter)
Freshwater hose, water filter, pressure regulator
Surge protector, RV-rated extension cord, electrical adapters
Outdoor mat, camp chairs, small table
Bedding, extra blankets, blackout covers
Collapsible cookware, dishes, food storage
First-aid kit, fire extinguisher, flashlights
Cleaning supplies (wipes, vacuum, trash bags)
Basic tool kit, tire gauge, duct tape, roadside emergency kit

Full breakdown by category below, plus what it costs to outfit an RV from scratch.

What Do You Need to Set Up an RV Campsite?

You’ll need leveling blocks, wheel chocks, a full sewer hose kit, a freshwater hose with filter and pressure regulator, and RV-rated electrical adapters. The first thing you’ll do when going camping is set up your campsite. A few tools will help keep your camping trip comfortable and safe. You’ll probably start by leveling your RV. This matters not only so you don’t feel off-balance, but also because some refrigerators can be damaged or stop working if they’re not level. So you’ll want leveling blocks in order to get your RV even and stable. You’ll also want wheel chocks to make sure the RV doesn’t move after you park it.

You’ll want an RV sewer hose, connectors, a sewer hose support, and a clear sewer hose adapter so you can see when your tank is actually done draining. You’ll also need a freshwater hose, water filter, and pressure regulator. An RV surge protector and an extension cord rated for RV use are both useful as well. Also, bring the electrical adapters needed for your RV, including adapters that allow you to connect to different campground electrical outlets.

Finally, you’ll want some outdoor items to make your stay more comfortable. An outdoor mat in front of the door keeps dirt and sand from getting inside. Camp chairs and a small table allow you to relax and enjoy the fresh air. Depending on the size of your group, you may want an extra table or shelter as well.

How Much Does It Cost to Outfit an RV?

Outfitting an RV from scratch runs $500–$1,500 for basics, or $1,500–$2,500+ with upgrades like a generator or solar setup. Add-ons like a canopy or upgraded outdoor furniture can also push your budget higher. You can cut costs by buying used equipment or bringing supplies from home while slowly acquiring items to keep just in your RV.

RV Sleeping & Comfort Essentials

Pack bedding for everyone, extra blankets, and blackout covers for cab windows or sunroofs. Next, you’ll want to look at where everyone will sleep and what they’ll need. Bring bedding for everyone, plus extra blankets in case it gets cold. You’ll also want to think about blocking the sun in the mornings. Most RVs have curtains, but you may want blackout covers for an over-cab window or sunroof.

Pack any gear you’ll need for the weather, including ponchos or rain jackets, sunscreen, and sun hats. You may also want to pack shoes or socks to wear inside the RV, in case your outdoor shoes get dirty. If you’ll be using the shower house at the campground instead of the RV shower, bring a shower caddy or backpack, a bag for clothing and towels, and any other supplies you’ll need.

RV Kitchen Packing List

Stick to collapsible, nesting, or multitasking kitchen gear — cookware, dishes, food storage, and a multicooker if you have room. One of the greatest conveniences of having an RV is that you can bring your kitchen anywhere you go! However, it’s important to remember that the kitchen is much smaller than a kitchen in a brick-and-mortar home. The key with kitchen supplies is to look for items that are collapsible, nest inside each other, or that multitask. Collapsible cookware, dishes, food storage containers, and silverware are all important. You might also want a multicooker like an Instant Pot, because of all the different functions it can perform when cooking.

If you want a campfire, bring supplies including a lighter or matches, firewood, and roasting sticks for marshmallows.

RV Camping Organization & Safety Checklist

A first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, working smoke/CO detectors, and flashlights are non-negotiable for every trip. Several items can help you stay organized and ready for your day. RV outlets can be sparse, and a multi-port USB charging station ensures everyone can keep their devices charged and ready. A basic first-aid kit with common over-the-counter medications, bandages, blister care, and sunburn treatment is a must. Make sure your RV also has a fire extinguisher and that everyone knows where it is and how to use it. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before your trip as well. You’ll also want flashlights or exterior lighting in case people want to leave the RV at night.

Cleaning supplies are also important – bring disinfectant wipes, window and mirror cleaner, a cordless handheld vacuum, and extra trash bags. Bring laundry supplies if you’ll be on the road a while and expect to need a laundromat.

RV Camping Entertainment & Kids’ Gear

Outdoor games, bikes, board games, and a folding wagon cover most family camping downtime. Don’t forget to bring along entertainment as well. If you’re camping as a family, you may want outdoor games and sports equipment like footballs or frisbees, bikes, and scooters (with helmets). Finally, bring indoor card and board games, books, crafts, and any electronics everyone might want after dark or on a rainy day indoors.

Kids should also have individual water bottles and sun hats and possibly their own small backpacks for hikes. Kid-friendly camp chairs give them a place to chill out outside the RV, and a folding wagon to haul kids and gear is hugely helpful.

RV Maintenance & Repair Kit

A basic tool kit, tire pressure gauge, duct tape, and an emergency roadside kit will get you through most on-the-road issues. You’ll also want to bring some tools in case you have trouble with your RV at the campsite or on the road. The following items are useful: