Campervanly

RV and van life guides for road trippers and builders

Author: Campervanly Team

  • RV Must-Haves: Essential Gear for New RVers

    RV Must-Haves: Essential Gear for New RVers

    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

    See planning an RV road trip.

    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.

  • Camper Van Layouts: Beds, Kitchens, Storage and How to Choose

    Camper Van Layouts: Beds, Kitchens, Storage and How to Choose

    Camper van layouts shape everything about life on the road: where you sleep, cook, work and store gear. Because space is so limited, every choice involves tradeoffs. A layout that suits a weekend couple may not work for a full-time traveler with a dog and a bike.

    This guide covers common layout elements and how to think about them. It does not cover specific van models or electrical and plumbing installation details, which should follow manufacturer guidance and applicable codes. See van insulation basics for related build topics.

    Start with How You Travel

    Before sketching a layout, answer:

    • How many people sleep in the van?
    • Do you travel on weekends or full-time?
    • Do you work from the van?
    • Do you carry bikes, boards or other large gear?
    • Do you camp with hookups or off-grid?
    • Do you travel with pets?
    • Do you need a bathroom?

    Your answers determine priorities.

    Bed Layouts

    Fixed Rear Bed (Widthwise)

    A bed across the back of the van. Taller people may not fit widthwise in narrower vans.

    Pros: Always made; garage storage underneath
    Cons: Takes up much of the rear

    Fixed Rear Bed (Lengthwise)

    Runs along the length of the van.

    Pros: Fits taller people; leaves an aisle
    Cons: Uses more floor length

    Raised Bed with Garage

    A raised fixed bed creates a large storage space underneath for bikes and gear.

    Pros: Big storage
    Cons: Less headroom above the bed

    Convertible Bed

    A bench or dinette converts into a bed.

    Pros: Frees daytime space
    Cons: Daily setup

    Lift or Murphy Beds

    Beds that raise or fold away. They save space but add complexity and weight.

    Pop-Top Sleeping

    Pop-top roofs add sleeping space and headroom on some vans.

    Kitchen Layouts

    Galley Along One Side

    A countertop, sink and cooktop along one wall.

    Rear Kitchen

    Slide-out or rear-door kitchens let you cook outside.

    Essentials

    • Countertop space
    • Sink and water supply
    • Cooktop and ventilation
    • Refrigerator or cooler
    • Storage for food and cookware

    Ventilation and safe fuel use are essential when cooking inside. Install carbon monoxide and smoke alarms. See RV water systems explained.

    Bathroom Options

    • No bathroom: Use campground and public facilities
    • Portable toilet: Stored in a cabinet
    • Composting toilet: Separates waste; requires maintenance
    • Wet bath: Shower and toilet in one space; takes significant room
    • Outdoor shower: Simple and space-saving

    Seating and Workspace

    • Swivel front seats add living space
    • Dinettes double as workspaces
    • Fold-down tables save space
    • Bench seats with storage

    If you work remotely, plan for a comfortable seat, table height and power.

    Storage

    • Overhead cabinets
    • Under-bed garage
    • Bench storage
    • Wall organizers
    • Roof racks and rear carriers, within weight limits

    Secure everything for driving.

    Weight and Balance

    Every addition adds weight. Check your van’s payload and axle ratings, and distribute weight evenly. Heavy items such as water tanks and batteries are best placed low and between the axles when possible.

    Power and Systems

    Layouts must allow space for batteries, wiring, water tanks and ventilation. See the boondocking power guide.

    Testing a Layout

    • Tape the layout on the floor of the van
    • Build a cardboard mockup
    • Rent a similar van first. See the RV rental cost guide.
    • Spend time in friends’ vans

    Questions to Ask Before You Build or Buy

    • Can everyone sleep comfortably?
    • Is there room to cook and eat?
    • Where will gear and water go?
    • Is the van within payload limits?
    • Is ventilation adequate?

    Common Mistakes

    • Overbuilding and adding too much weight
    • Ignoring ventilation
    • Choosing a bed too short for occupants
    • Not securing storage for driving
    • Copying another layout without considering your needs

    Comparison of Common Bed Setups

    Bed setup Strength Tradeoff
    Fixed widthwise Garage storage, always made Length limited by van width
    Fixed lengthwise Fits tall sleepers Uses floor length
    Raised with garage Large gear storage Less headroom
    Convertible dinette Daytime space Daily setup
    Pop-top Extra sleeping space Added cost and complexity

    A Note on Living with Your Layout

    A layout that looks great in photos can feel different after a week of rainy days. Think about where wet jackets and muddy shoes will go, where you will sit when it is too cold to be outside and how two people will move past each other while one is cooking. Small details, such as a hook by the door or a spot for a trash can, affect daily life more than you might expect.

    Starting Small

    Some people start with a simple, removable build: a platform bed, a cooler and a portable stove. After several trips, they know what they want in a permanent layout. Removable builds also make it easier to change your mind.

    A Note on Insulation, Wiring and Plumbing Order

    Layout decisions affect where wiring, plumbing and vents go. Plan these systems before building cabinets, since moving them later often means tearing out finished work. See van insulation basics.

    Final Layout Check

    • Bed fits every sleeper
    • Kitchen has counter space and ventilation
    • Storage secured for driving
    • Weight within payload
    • Room for power and water systems

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the best camper van layout?

    The one that fits how you travel.

    Fixed bed or convertible bed?

    Fixed beds are convenient; convertible beds free space.

    Do I need a bathroom?

    Not necessarily; many vanlifers use public facilities or portable toilets.

    How do I keep weight down?

    Choose lightweight materials and carry only what you need.

    Should I rent before building?

    Renting can help you decide what you need.

    The Bottom Line

    Design your camper van layout around how you travel. Choose a bed style, kitchen, bathroom option and storage that fit your needs, watch weight and ventilation, and test ideas with tape, mockups or rentals before building.

    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.

  • RV Rental Cost Guide: What Affects the Price and How to Budget

    RV Rental Cost Guide: What Affects the Price and How to Budget

    Renting an RV is a popular way to try the lifestyle before buying or to take a road trip with your kitchen and bed along for the ride. The nightly rate is only part of the cost, though. Mileage, generator use, insurance, fees, campgrounds and fuel can add up quickly.

    This guide explains what affects RV rental costs and how to build a realistic budget. It does not quote specific prices, which vary widely by company, location, season and vehicle. Always read the rental agreement and get a written quote before booking.

    Types of RV Rental Companies

    Traditional Rental Companies

    Fleet companies rent standardized RVs from depots. Policies and pricing tend to be consistent, and many offer roadside assistance and kits.

    Peer-to-Peer Platforms

    Owners list their own RVs on marketplace platforms. Options vary widely, from older trailers to new motorhomes. Insurance, fees and policies depend on the platform and the owner.

    Local Dealers and Independent Owners

    Some dealers and individuals rent RVs directly. Read contracts carefully and confirm insurance coverage.

    Factors That Affect the Base Rate

    RV Class

    • Class A: Large bus-style motorhomes
    • Class B: Camper vans
    • Class C: Cab-over motorhomes built on truck or van chassis
    • Travel trailers and fifth wheels: Towed by a separate vehicle

    See Class B vs. Class C RVs.

    Size and Amenities

    Bigger RVs with slide-outs, more beds and upgraded features usually cost more.

    Season and Location

    Summer, holidays and popular destinations typically have higher demand. Shoulder seasons may offer better rates.

    Trip Length

    Some companies offer different rates for longer rentals or require minimum nights.

    Age of the RV

    Newer units may cost more; older units may be cheaper but check condition.

    Additional Costs to Expect

    Mileage

    Many rentals include a set number of miles per day or charge per mile. Unlimited mileage may be available at extra cost. Estimate your route before choosing.

    Generator Hours

    Motorhomes with generators may charge per hour of use. If you plan to camp without hookups, factor this in. See the boondocking power guide.

    Insurance and Protection Plans

    Rental companies and platforms offer protection packages with varying deductibles. Your personal auto policy or credit card may not cover RVs. Call your insurer to confirm.

    Kits

    Kitchen kits, bedding kits and camping chairs may be extra.

    Cleaning and Dumping Fees

    Returning the RV with full holding tanks or a dirty interior can trigger fees.

    Pet Fees

    Many rentals charge pet fees or do not allow pets.

    Prep and Service Fees

    Some rentals charge preparation or platform service fees.

    Security Deposit

    Expect a refundable deposit, often held on a credit card.

    One-Way Fees

    Picking up and dropping off in different locations often costs extra.

    Delivery

    Some owners deliver RVs to campgrounds for a fee.

    Trip Costs Beyond the Rental

    Fuel

    RVs typically use more fuel than cars. Estimate fuel by dividing route miles by an estimated fuel economy from the rental company and multiplying by current local fuel prices.

    Campgrounds

    Campground fees vary by location and hookups. Free and low-cost options exist on some public lands, with rules. See planning an RV road trip.

    Propane

    Some rentals require returning propane at the same level.

    Food, Activities and Tolls

    Budget for groceries, park entry fees, attractions and toll roads, which can charge more for larger vehicles.

    Building a Budget

    1. Get a written quote for the rental with all fees
    2. Estimate miles and calculate mileage charges
    3. Estimate fuel cost
    4. List campgrounds and their fees
    5. Add insurance, kits, deposits and pet fees
    6. Add food, activities and tolls
    7. Add a buffer for surprises

    Ways to Save

    • Travel in shoulder seasons
    • Choose a smaller RV
    • Plan routes to reduce miles
    • Stay longer at fewer campgrounds
    • Cook meals in the RV
    • Bring your own bedding and kitchen items, if allowed
    • Return the RV clean and with tanks emptied

    Reading the Rental Agreement

    Check mileage limits, generator charges, cancellation policies, insurance deductibles, roadside assistance, prohibited areas, smoking and pet rules, return conditions and what happens if the RV breaks down.

    Questions to Ask Before You Book

    • What is included in the base rate?
    • How are mileage and generator hours charged?
    • What does insurance cover, and what is the deductible?
    • What fees apply at return?
    • What happens if the RV breaks down?
    • Is roadside assistance included?

    Common Mistakes

    • Comparing only nightly rates
    • Underestimating fuel and mileage
    • Assuming personal insurance covers RVs
    • Forgetting campground fees
    • Returning with full tanks

    A Sample Budget Worksheet

    Category How to estimate
    Base rental Written quote for your dates
    Mileage Planned miles minus included miles, times the per-mile rate
    Generator Expected hours times the hourly rate
    Fuel Route miles divided by estimated fuel economy, times local fuel price
    Campgrounds Sum of nightly fees from reservations
    Insurance and fees From the quote and agreement
    Food and activities Your own estimate
    Buffer A margin for surprises

    A Note on Deposits

    Ask when the security deposit is released and what deductions are possible, so the hold on your card does not surprise you.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the biggest hidden cost in an RV rental?

    Mileage, fuel and fees often add the most beyond the base rate.

    Does my car insurance cover an RV rental?

    Not necessarily. Ask your insurer and the rental company.

    Is a peer-to-peer rental cheaper?

    Sometimes, but compare fees, insurance and policies carefully.

    Do I need a special license?

    Requirements vary by location and RV size. Check local rules.

    How can I lower the cost?

    Travel off-peak, choose a smaller RV, plan efficient routes and cook your own meals.

    The Bottom Line

    The real cost of an RV rental includes the base rate plus mileage, generator use, insurance, fees, fuel and campgrounds. Get written quotes, read the agreement, estimate miles and fuel and add a buffer. See the first-time RV rental checklist.

    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.