The Ultimate RV Road Trip Packing List: What You Actually Need (and What to Leave Behind)

May 21, 2025
The Ultimate RV Road Trip Packing List: What You Actually Need (and What to Leave Behind)
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RV road trips are the perfect way to discover new landscapes, connect with nature, and explore at your own pace. But a poorly packed RV? That can quickly take the "fun" out of your adventure. Knowing what to pack (and what to skip) can make all the difference between a smooth, enjoyable trip and an endless scramble for forgotten essentials.

To help you maximize comfort, function, and storage space, here's the ultimate RV road trip packing list broken down into essentials you’ll truly use and items you can leave behind.

Fresh Water Essentials

Clean water is non-negotiable on the road. It keeps you hydrated, helps you prep meals, and ensures you can maintain hygiene while camping in unfamiliar areas. These must-haves will help you simplify your water setup and stay refreshed throughout your trip:

1. For Filtering Potable Water

Must-Have: Tastepure RV/Marine Inline Water Filter (40045) 

If you’re working with water sources that aren’t always reliable, this 2-pack of inline water filters is vital. Using advanced Hex-Flow 6-step filtration technology, these filters remove impurities, sediment, and the dreaded chlorine taste. They'll make meal prep, drinking, and even post-hike hydration much more refreshing. 

Rated to meet NSF/ANSI standards, these filters are lead-free and safe for your health. Plus, they’re versatile enough to work with any garden or drinking water hose. If you’re tired of dealing with water that smells funky or leaves residue, toss these in your travel bin and sip with confidence.

Leave Behind: Disposable plastic water bottles. They're wasteful, take up space, and are unnecessary with clean, filtered water on hand. 

2. For Drinking Water Access

Must-Have: EvoFlex2 Drinking Water Hose (22579)

Packing a premium-quality drinking water hose is a no-brainer for RVers. Camco’s EvoFlex2 Drinking Water Hose is flexible, kink-resistant, and durable enough to handle the demands of the road. With aluminum fittings and UV-resistant fabric, this hose ensures you get clean, potable water without worrying about leaks or wear and tear.

Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to store, while its hassle-free setup will save you precious time for exploring—not wrestling with stiff hoses.

Leave Behind: Basic garden hoses. They may leak, kink, or, worse, leach harmful chemicals into your water. 

3. For Softer Water in Hard-Water Areas 

Must-Have: Tastepure Portable Water Softener (40655)

If your route takes you to areas with hard water, pack the Camco Tastepure Portable Water Softener. This handy item reduces calcium and magnesium in your water, preventing buildup in your appliances and providing softer water for showers or cleaning. The compact design makes it easy to stash, while the carry handle and straightforward regeneration process keep things simple.

Your skin (and your RV's plumbing) will thank you for this small-but-mighty addition.

Leave Behind: Larger, permanent water treatment systems. They take up too much space and aren't necessary for shorter trips. The portable option gets the job done perfectly. 

Sanitation Must-Haves

No one enjoys dealing with RV sanitation, but having the right tools can make a huge difference in keeping things clean and odor-free. Here's what stays on our list:

4. For Treating Dump Tanks

Must-Have: TST Pro (Drop-INs & Liquid Formulas—41770, 41771)

Managing your RV’s black tank doesn’t have to be a hassle! With Camco’s TST Pro, it’s smooth sailing. Choose the no-mess ease of pre-measured drop-ins or go for the flexibility of liquid formulas. Either way, you're getting fast-acting enzymes that break down waste and wipe out odors in no time. Black tank care? Consider it handled!

Leave Behind: Generic chemical tank treatments that aren't TST branded. They may potentially compromise your tank's protective surfaces, causing long-term issues.

5. For Efficient Tank Cleaning

Must-Have: Rhino 25' Clean-Out RV Black Water Hose (22990)

Flushing your RV’s black and grey water tanks (or even a tote tank) is much easier with the Rhino 25' Clean-Out Hose. This bright orange hose is designed to keep things clean and safe by preventing cross-contamination with your drinking water hose. 

Made of durable PVC with a 5/8" internal diameter, it’s tough enough to handle the job while ensuring a smooth flow. Its 25' length makes it easy to reach your tanks without awkward setups, and the threaded ends fit standard garden hose connections for a hassle-free experience.

Leave Behind: Weak, off-brand hoses that can split, leak, or lead to mix-ups. Stick with a reliable option that gets the job done right!

6. For Cleaning Hard-to-Reach Tank Walls

Must-Have: Camco Flexible Swivel Stik Rinser (40071)

Stubborn tank buildup, begone! Camco’s Flexible Swivel Stik Rinser uses powerful rotary jet-cleaning action to flush away tough deposits and odor-causing grime inside your tanks. Its flexible build means it can easily access those hard-to-reach spots in offset tanks.

With an ergonomic grip and flow control valve, it’s user-friendly, efficient, and makes RV maintenance less of a chore.

Leave Behind: Rigid tank wands. They aren't designed to properly reach offset or curved areas, leaving behind residue and odors.

Leveling & Stabilization Necessities

A stable, level RV isn’t just about comfort; it’s essential for safety and proper function. These products ensure your RV stays secure and steady, wherever you park:

7. For Faster, Easier Leveling

Must-Have: FasTen Premium RV Leveling Ramp Kit (44535)

No one wants to spend precious camping time fussing over uneven parking. Cue Camco’s FasTen Leveling Ramps. With secure tire curves, an AccuPark ridge for precise alignment, and a convenient T-handle for easy storage, they simplify your setup process.

These sturdy ramps make leveling stress-free, even in rugged terrains. Plus, they’re made in the USA, so you can trust their quality.

Leave Behind: Heavy wood planks or DIY solutions. They're bulky, unreliable, and often unsafe.

8. For Enhanced Stability 

Must-Have: FasTen Big Blocks RV Stabilizing Jack Supports (44539)

Keep your RV steady and secure with FasTen Stabilizing Big Blocks. When the ground is out of reach, these tough, durable blocks give your stabilizer jacks the support they need to keep your RV level. Designed to handle uneven terrain like gravel, dirt, or grass, they ensure reliable stability so you can enjoy a stress-free stay anywhere you park. 

Thanks to their clever nesting design and convenient carry handle, transporting and storing them is simple. Plus, they free up your leveling blocks for other important tasks, making them a versatile and essential addition to your setup.

Leave Behind: Makeshift stabilizers like bricks or cinder blocks. They’re heavy, awkward, and aren’t designed for RV use. Stick with support designed specifically for the job!  

9. For Customizable Leveling

Must-Have: FasTen 2x2 RV Leveling Blocks (44512)

FasTen’s 2x2 stackable leveling blocks are a must-have for your RV or camper. With 10 in a pack, you can easily build a stable, custom base for single wheels, double wheels, tandem axles, or fifth-wheel jacks. The bright yellow color makes them easy to spot, and the interlocking design keeps everything secure and simple to use.

Plus, the T-handle makes stacking and carrying straightforward when it’s time to pack up and hit the road.

Leave Behind: Broken or low-quality blocks. They won't provide a secure leveling experience and could cause damage.

Electrical Non-Negotiables

10. For Powering Up Safely with the Right Electrical Gear

When you’re hitting the road in your RV, safe and reliable power should be a top priority. The right gear can save you from fried appliances, costly repairs, or worse. Here’s must-have for your setup:

Bring This: Power Grip Circuit Analyzer Dogbones with Surge Protection (55460, 55461, 55563)

Think of these electrical accessories as your RV’s first line of defense against bad power. Power Grip Circuit Analyzer Dogbones are your go-to for checking electrical outlets and protecting your RV’s vital systems. They’re like having a tech-savvy friend by your side, helping you avoid all those nerve-wracking moments of “Is this plug safe?”

What makes them so useful?

  • Fault Detection with LED Indicators
  • Built-in Surge Protection
  • Comfortable Power Grip Handles
  • Power Grip handle for easy plugging/unplugging

They're available in setups for different needs, like:

  • 30-Amp Male to 50-Amp Female (#55460)
  • 30-Amp Male to 15-Amp Female (#55461)
  • 50-Amp Male to 30-Amp Female (#55563) 

Leave Behind: Old cords or flimsy adapters that might not do the job. Stick to dependable products like Power Grip Dogbones to safeguard your RV and avoid unnecessary stress. 

Outdoor Living Staples

When you’re traveling in an RV, your outdoor space is an extension of your home. It’s where you relax after a long day, share meals with family, and make memories under the stars. Creating the perfect campsite doesn’t have to be complicated—with the right essentials, you can enjoy both practicality and comfort outdoors. From setting the mood with cozy lighting to keeping your meals fresh and your drinks cold, these must-haves ensure your outdoor setup is as enjoyable as the open road itself.

11. For Outdoor Ambiance

Must-Have: Camco Quick-Set RV Awning Party Light Hangers (42700)

Transform your campsite into an inviting space with these clever light hangers. Designed to attach easily to awning roller bars or canopy bars, they help you turn any RV setup into a cozy, lit-up oasis.

The flexible design makes them easy to use, and with a 7-pack included, you’ll have plenty to work with for all your decorative needs.

Leave Behind: Bulky, complicated light setups. You don’t need the headache or heavy electrical cables.

12. For Fresh Food On-the-Go 

Must-Have: Camco Portable Refrigerators (51510, 51512, 51520, 51522)

Forget about melting ice and soggy sandwiches; these portable fridges are RV life-changers. They keep your food and drinks perfectly cool or even frozen without the need for ice.

Here’s why you’ll love them:

  • No Ice Needed. Say goodbye to the mess and extra stops for ice.
  • Power Options. Easily switch between plugging into a standard outlet or using a 12V vehicle outlet.
  • Custom Temps. Adjust the temperature anywhere from 68°F to -4°F based on your needs.
  • Tech-Savvy Controls. Use Bluetooth to manage temperatures from your phone.
  • Built Tough. With carry handles and wheels (on larger sizes), moving them around is a breeze.

Available in multiple sizes, you can find the perfect fit:

  • 51510: CAM-200 (20L with single zone cooling)
  • 51512: CAM-300 (30L with single zone cooling)
  • 51520: CAM-750 (75L with dual zone cooling)
  • 51522: CAM-950 (95L with dual zone cooling)

Leave Behind: Old-School Coolers. Those bulky coolers that rely on ice? Leave them at home. They’re messy, take up space, and make you stop constantly to replace melted ice. Camco’s Portable Refrigerators take care of the cooling without the hassle. 

Final Thoughts

Packing for an RV road trip doesn’t have to feel like a juggling act. The secret? Smart, reliable gear that makes life on the road smooth and hassle-free. Camco’s essentials are built to take the stress out of planning so you can focus on the real reason you're out there—to explore, relax, and make memories.

By ditching clunky, outdated gear and switching to space-saving, practical tools, you’ll travel lighter and stay more organized. Plus, you’ll have all the confidence that comes with being fully prepared. Whether it’s maintaining your tanks, relaxing under a well-lit awning, or always having fresh food on hand, the right gear sets the stage for amazing adventures.

Your RV is your ticket to freedom, so pack wisely and enjoy every mile. The road is calling, and with the right setup, you’re ready to answer.

Happy travels!

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