New RVers quickly learn that the RV itself is only part of the setup. Hoses, adapters, leveling gear and safety equipment make camping smoother and safer. At the same time, it is easy to buy too much.
This guide lists common RV must-haves by category. Some rentals include items; ask before buying. Follow manufacturer guidance for your RV’s systems.
Hookups
Electrical
- Shore power cord: Usually included with the RV
- Adapters: For connecting to different campground outlets
- Surge protector or power management system: Helps protect RV electronics from power issues
- Extension cord rated for RV use: If needed
Water
- Drinking water hose: Labeled for potable water
- Water pressure regulator: Helps protect RV plumbing
- Water filter: Optional but common
- Hose fittings and washers
Sewer
- Sewer hose: With fittings
- Sewer hose support: Helps drainage
- Disposable gloves
- Clear elbow: Lets you see when tanks are rinsed
- Separate hose for rinsing tanks: Never use your drinking hose
See RV water systems explained.
Leveling and Stability
- Leveling blocks or ramps
- Wheel chocks
- Bubble level or leveling app
- Stabilizer pads
See RV leveling blocks and chocks.
Safety
- Smoke, carbon monoxide and propane detectors, tested regularly
- Fire extinguisher suitable for RV use
- First aid kit
- Flashlights and headlamps
- Tire pressure gauge
- Roadside emergency triangles
- Emergency contact list
Tools and Maintenance
- Basic tool kit
- Work gloves
- Duct tape and zip ties
- Spare fuses
- Sealant for minor repairs, compatible with your RV
- Tire pressure monitoring system, optional
Kitchen
- Cookware sized for the stove
- Utensils and dishes, lightweight and unbreakable
- Collapsible containers
- Dish soap and towels
- Trash bags
Comfort
- Bedding sized for RV mattresses
- Camp chairs
- Outdoor mat
- Fans
- Blackout covers
Organization
- Bins and baskets
- Drawer dividers
- Hooks
- Shelf liners
- Tension rods for cabinets during travel
Navigation and Planning
- RV-aware navigation app or atlas
- Campground apps and reservations
- Paper map backup
Paperwork
- Registration and insurance
- Rental agreement, if renting
- Roadside assistance number
- Owner’s manuals
What to Skip at First
- Large decorative items
- Specialty gadgets
- Duplicate kitchen items
- Bulky outdoor furniture
Camp a few times before buying more.
Packing Tips
- Distribute weight evenly
- Keep heavy items low
- Secure items for travel
- Use a departure checklist
Questions to Ask
- Does the rental include kits?
- Which hookups will we use?
- What does the manual recommend?
Common Mistakes
- Using the wrong hose for drinking water
- Skipping a surge protector
- Not testing detectors
- Overpacking
- Forgetting leveling gear
Sample First-Trip Packing List
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Hookups | Surge protector, adapters, drinking water hose, regulator, sewer hose, gloves |
| Leveling | Blocks, chocks, level |
| Safety | Detectors tested, extinguisher, first aid kit, flashlight, tire gauge |
| Tools | Basic tool kit, tape, zip ties, spare fuses |
| Kitchen | Pots, pans, utensils, dishes, soap, towels, trash bags |
| Comfort | Bedding, chairs, mat, fans |
| Paperwork | Registration, insurance, manuals, roadside number |
A Note on Labeling
Label hoses, cords and bins so everyone in your group knows which hose is for drinking water and which is for rinsing tanks. Color-coded or clearly labeled gear prevents mix-ups, especially when setting up in the dark or in a hurry.
A Note on Weight
Everything you pack adds weight. RVs have cargo carrying capacity limits listed on labels or in manuals. Overloading can affect handling, braking and tire safety. Weigh your loaded RV at a public scale if you are unsure, and remove items you do not use.
Building a Departure Checklist
Many RVers keep a laminated departure checklist by the door. It might include retracting steps and slides, stowing the awning, lowering antennas, disconnecting hookups, closing vents and hatches, securing loose items, removing chocks and doing a final walk-around. Using the same checklist every time helps prevent costly mistakes.
Starting Small
If you are renting, ask what the company provides before buying anything. Many rentals include hoses, cords and kitchen kits for a fee. After your first trip, write down what you wished you had and what you never used, then build your own kit gradually.
Questions to Ask Experienced RVers
- What gear did you buy and never use?
- What do you wish you had bought sooner?
- Which hookups do you use most?
- How do you organize hoses and cords?
Experienced RVers often have strong opinions. Treat their answers as ideas, and choose what fits your RV and travel style.
A Note on Rental Kits
Some rental companies offer kitchen kits, bedding kits and camping chairs for a fee. Compare the cost of a kit with bringing items from home. Bringing your own pillows and a favorite knife can make a rental feel more comfortable, but check storage space first.
A Note on Seasonal Gear
Cold-weather trips may call for heated water hoses, extra blankets and window insulation. Hot-weather trips may call for reflective window covers, fans and shade. Pack for the season you are traveling in.
Final Pre-Trip Check
- Hookup gear packed and labeled
- Leveling blocks and chocks loaded
- Detectors tested
- Fire extinguisher charged
- Departure checklist by the door
- Manuals and roadside number on board
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important RV accessory?
Safety gear and correct hookup equipment.
Do I need a surge protector?
Many RVers use one to protect electronics.
Why do I need a water pressure regulator?
Campground pressure can vary.
Should I buy everything before my first trip?
No. Start with essentials.
What should renters bring?
Ask what the rental includes.
The Bottom Line
Start with hookups, leveling, safety, tools and basic kitchen and comfort items. Skip extras until you know what you need, and follow your RV’s manuals.
Editorial note: Campervanly is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.