Ultimate RV Checklist: Essentials for Your RV Travelling

RV trips are fun and give you a chance to make lifetime memories. Motorhomes allow you and your family to explore various parts of the country, while still enjoying the comforts and luxuries, just like home. Although touring in an RV is fun, forgetting any essential and emergency supplies can ruin your adventure. We are here to help you pack for your next big RV trip. We have various RV checklists to ensure you do not forget anything. So, let’s dive in!

RV Maintenance Checklist

Proper maintenance of your RV ensures your safety on the road and prolongs the longevity of your RV. Also, it ensures comfort and optimum performance of the RV. A maintenance checklist before, during, and after the trip enables you to remember all crucial parts that must be examined.

Here is a detailed maintenance checklist for your motorhome:

1. Pre-Trip

Before your RV trip, do the maintenance on the following parts.

A. Check the Engine and the Drivetrain

• Check and replace the engine oil, brake fluid, and the transmission fluids.
• Ensure the battery is charged and clean any corrosion on the terminals.
• Check the levels and the condition of the radiator coolant.
• Inspect the tire pressure and the depth of the treads.
• Ensure there is a spare tire and tools for replacing it.

B. Check the Exterior

• Ensure all lights are working including the brake lights, headlights, and turn signals.
• Verify the brakes are intact and well-functioning.
• Adjust and secure all the mirrors.
• Inspect the body for any leaks or cracks.
• Inspect the windshield wipers and ensure they are operational.

C. Systems and Utilities

• Ensure the HVAC systems are functioning properly.
• Check and ensure all appliances inside the RV are functioning.
• Check the pipes and water systems and ensure no leaks. Ensure the water pump is operational.
• Inspect the sewer system and ensure it is in good condition.

D. Inspect the Interiors

• Ensure all the detectors such as carbon monoxide, propane, and smoke are functioning properly.
• Ensure the fire extinguishers are not expired.
• Inspect and clean the refrigerator. Ensure it is running properly.
• Examine the RV windows, doors, and vents and ensure the locks are intact.

2. During Trip

During your trip, make occasional stops to check and ensure everything in your RV is functioning optimally. Here are the things you should focus on:

A. Routine Inspections

• Check the tire pressure continuously.
• Periodically check various fluid levels such as coolants and engine oil.
• Check for any fluid leaks occasionally beneath the RV.

B. Comfort and Supplies

• Check the battery charge level if you are using appliances.
• Empty the holding tank regularly.
• Monitor the propane levels continually.

C. Operational Safety

• Ensure all RV lights and signals are functioning well every day.
• Test the brakes regularly and ensure they are responsive.
• Ensure all loads and cargo are well fastened to prevent shifting as you travel.

3. After Trip

There is so much to do for your RV after embarking on your trip, from unpacking, and cleaning, to repairs. Here’s an RV checklist for after the trip:

A. Maintenance and Repairs

• Do a thorough checkup of the engine, brake, and tires to identify any damage and fix if there are any.
• Do any repairs needed on any part of the RV for instance the appliances, living areas, and amenities.
• Look out for any leaks in the RV and seal them.

B. Cleaning and Storage

• Clean the interior and the exteriors of the RV.
• Flush, drain, and rinse the gray and black reservoirs.
• Empty the water heater and water pipes, especially if you are nearing freezing weather.

C. Keep It Ready for the Next Adventure

• Keep the battery fully charged. Also, disconnect the battery if you don’t intend to use it for a prolonged time.
• Store the RV in a safe place and keep it well-covered.
• Keep the refrigerator doors open until the next use.

RV Packing Checklist

If you are planning for an epic RV trip, you must pack all the right things. Careful and informed packing ensures you have a safe, relaxing, and fun-filled adventure.

The following detailed RV packing checklist will help you prepare well for your trip.

1. Outdoor Gear and RV Camping Checklist

When traveling in your RV, there are plenty of other activities you can enjoy on various camping grounds. Some of the common activities that RVers enjoy include camping, hiking, fishing, and sports, among others. Therefore, as you pack for things you need for the RV, ensure you are also packing outdoor gear. Here is your RV Camping Checklist for the items you need to pack.

• Portable Renogy solar panels.
  Renogy portable solar panels are lightweight and easy to set up allowing you to access unlimited power even in remote places.
• A portable Renogy battery for power storage.
  You need a reliable and high-capacity battery to keep all your devices charged and connected. You can charge your Renogy battery with solar energy, which is abundant and sustainable.
• Foldable and lightweight camping and outdoor chairs and tables
• Insect-repellent ointments and bite pain relievers
• Sleeping bags and camping tents
• A fully equipped first-aid kit
• Pocket knives, lighters, or matches and Ropes
• Maps, GPS, guides, compass for hiking, etc.
• BBQ, grill, a camping stove, and such supplies as needed.
• Flashlights, outdoor lanterns, extra batteries, and bulbs.
• A battery-powered radio
• Proper hiking gear

2. Essentials Checklist

Here is a list of essential items you need for your trip to ensure safety, comfort, and legal compliance.

• Essential medications and prescriptions
• A medic bracelet in case of an emergency
• Your wallet, identification documents, and passports
• Eyeglasses and sunglasses
• Your cell phone, chargers, and backup power devices
• RV maintenance and manual records
• Spare RV keys
• Important documents such as RV licenses, insurance documents, and registrations
• Maps and tour guide magazines showing various RV campgrounds
• Roadside help information
• Cash and credit cards
• A duct-tape

3. Kitchen Supplies

Food is the most important part of the RV adventure. Ensure you have adequate food and kitchen supplies to make your adventures as fun as possible.

• Utensils such as cooking pots, cutting boards, spoons, cups, forks, knives, plates, bowls, glasses, bottle openers, Tupperware etc
• Food storage containers and water bottles
• Coffee maker machine and tea-making supplies
• Essential food wrapping items such as aluminum foils, shrink wraps, and plastic bags
• Kitchen cleaning supplies such as dish soap, sponges, trash bags, cleaning liquids, paper, and kitchen towels
• Dry food items such as salt, sugar, pepper, spices, condiments of choice, flours, cereals, oil, snacks, coffee beans, pasta, tortillas, rice, nuts, oatmeal, and dry tea
• Fresh and refrigerated food supplies such as milk, eggs, cheese, vegetables, fruits, and ice cubes
• Oven mitts
• Beverages and drinks such as beer, juices, wine, sparkling water, among others

4. Entertainment Checklist

Recreational and entertainment items that you need during your RV trips include:

• Various games and playing cards
• Books, magazines, e-books, and audiobooks
• Other reading materials such as travel information, nature guides
• Video games
• Cameras and binoculars
• Sporting equipment, fishing gear, and other outdoor recreational equipment
• Hammocks

5. Bedroom and Bathroom Checklist

The bathroom and bedroom supplies are key to ensuring you uphold your hygiene and rest well. Some of the bathroom and bedroom supplies you need are:

• Bathroom fabrics you should not forget are towels, washcloths, robes, and bath mats.
• Toiletries include body wash, bath soaps, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, body lotions, body oils, deodorants, sunscreen, hair brush, combs, sanitary pads, tampons, dental floss, shavers, shower flip flops, among others.
• Must-have bedroom things include bedsheets, pillows, blankets, and duvets. Ensure every passenger on the RV has a pillow.

6. Clothing Checklist

When packing clothes, consider the number of days you will be on the road. Also, check the weather predictions to help you pack the weather appropriately. Here’s a clothing packing list and guide:

• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
• Weather-appropriate clothes
• Warmer clothes for cold evenings and days
• Rain jackets, an umbrella, and waterproof gear
• Hats and sunglasses
• Hiking gear where applicable
• Swimwear and towels if applicable
• Adequate underwear
• A sewing needle, thread, and buttons for repairs
• Enough socks
• Clothing hangers

7. Pets Accessories Checklist

Here are things you should remember to pack for your pets:

• A leash, collar, and other pet gears
• Pet towel, blanket, and bed
• Vaccination and other crucial documents
• Pet medicine and supplements
• Pet utensils such as food trays, water bowls, floor protector, etc.
• Enough food, snacks, and treats
• Grooming equipment and toys
• Sanitary tools for scooping pet poop

8. Utilities and Tools Checklist

You must remember to pack the following crucial utilities and tools in your RV:

• Portable water hoses and filters for drinking water
• Portable water hose and coupler for cleaning purposes
• Sewer hoses, extensions, clamps, and couplers.
• Sanitary gloves
• Electrical adapters, extensions, and surge protectors
• RV cleaning supplies and tools
• Fire extinguisher
• Wheel chocks and leveling blocks

Advanced RV Checklist

The advanced RV checklist is important just like the rest of the checklists highlighted above. Unexpected weather changes changes of location, and circumstances can ruin your whole RV and camping experience. Additionally, your safety should be a priority.

The advanced RV checklist will enable you to stay safe in case of unprecedented occurrences. Here’s an advanced RV checklist to keep you prepared in any unprecedented situations.

1. Weather Preparedness

• Thermal blankets, heat sources for cold weather spells, and ice melts.
• Sun overexposure kits such as UV protection clothing, sunscreen 30+, and UV aloe vera gel.
• Pack a Storm Safety Kit which includes waterproof tarps, a weather radio, and a stormproof match.

2. Environmental Protection Checklist

• Pack portable waste disposal bags for use in remote places where there are no waste facilities in sight.
• Conserve water by packing water conservation equipment that helps minimize water wastage, especially in showers and sinks.
• Consider packing biodegradable and environmentally friendly toiletries such as shower gels, soaps, and cleaning supplies to reduce environmental impact.

3. Remote Location Readiness

• Pack a satellite communicator for easy communication in remote places where lack of service.
• Carry a portable water filter system or tablets for purifying drinking water.
• Have an extra fuel canister for additional fuel in case you stay longer in remote areas where you cannot access gas stations.

4. Security Measures

• A car tracking device or a GPS vehicle tracker to easily locate your RV in case you get lost and to prevent theft.
• Install vehicle door and window alarms for added security and alerts in case of a break-in.
• Ensure you have a lockbox or a safe for storing important documents and other valuables in the RV.

5. Health and Safety Measures

• A comprehensive first aid kit with the essentials such as assorted bandages, medical tapes, gauzes, and splints. Ensure you have snake bite kits, insect bite medicine, and thermal blankets.
• All the prescription medication is enough for the duration you will be on the trip. Pack extra medication in case of unprecedented delays.
• Print copies of the emergency contact list in case of medical, mechanical, and other types of emergencies.
• A portable fire extinguisher is essential in case of accidental fires.
• A road emergency kit with all necessary safety tools. Must-have items in the kit include jumper cables, flares, tire inflating machine, sealant, reflective triangle, and ice scraper.

6. Personal Comfort

• You need noise-cancellation headphones to help you rest or sleep undisturbed, especially when you are camping on a noisy campground or while on the road.
• Portable fans to help you cool down during hot days. You can power your larger size fans using Renogy solar panels.
• Outdoor mats for outdoor resting.
• Comfortable backpacks that can accommodate essential items such as water bottles, and snacks, among other items you need for short strolls.

7. Technical Failures

• In case you experience technical failures, carry spare parts such as light bulbs, additional fuses, and important engine components for your RV.
• Portable solar panels and batteries for harnessing solar energy and storing solar power for charging appliances, charging phones and laptops, and lighting your RV. Renogy portable solar system is enough to keep you powered on your entire trip.
• Ensure you have manual tools such as a hand crank radio, a non-electric coffee machine, and a manual can opener. Other basic tools you must have include pliers, wrenches, hammers, and screwdrivers for simple repairs in the RV.
• Other technical repair items you must have in your RV are oils and lubricants. Moving parts such as slides, hinges, and awnings will occasionally require oiling and lubrication for smooth operation and rust prevention.

8. Miscellaneous

Other non-essential but necessary to have during your RV trips include:

• Blogging and Journaling tools such as cameras and tripods for documenting and recording your adventures for memories.
• Purchase and download guides and apps for exploring local areas and sightseeing.
• Purchase cultural etiquette magazines or books if you are exploring a new area. It will help you learn basics such as greetings and how to act for a peaceful adventure.

Conclusion

Have packed everything? Double-check everything. Now you are ready for your fun-filled adventure. Having all the essentials ensures you have the most comfortable and safe trip while you have fun and make memories. Anytime you are planning for an RV road trip, refer to the above RV checklists just to make sure you have all you need. Happy and safe travels!