How Much Stuff Can You Fit In A Small RV?
Tent and backpack campers know that when it comes to packing, less is more. However, when you decide to camp in an RV, the idiom changes to more is more! Since RVers lean towards the 'glamping' side of camping, bringing along the comforts of home is a reality tempered only by the amount of storage in the unit and the amount of weight your RV can handle.
When we decided on a small RV, we wanted to know just how much 'comfort' we could take along without being overwhelmed with stuff. Two hundred square feet qualifies as a tiny house, so restraint is definitely in order. Surprisingly, we can fit a remarkable amount of goods, groceries, and even a few toys into our 25-foot motorcoach.
For those contemplating renting or purchasing a small RV, here is our initial packing list. We use every storage space and use space bags for bulky items like blankets and towels.
RV Necessities
Bottled Water (drinking)
Tool Kit (basics are fine, don't forget the Duct Tape!)
Leveling Blocks & Chocks
Collapsible Hose
Heavy Duty Extension Cord
Surge Protector (exterior-grade)
30/50 amp Electrical Adapter
Tire Pressure Gage
Latex Gloves for Service Bay (you will need them!)
Black tank deodorizer
Biodegradable toilet tissue
Hand Sanitizer
Maps, Print-out of Reservations, Notebook
Pens, etc. (I bring an office kit)
Flashlight and Batteries
Walkie-Talkies (2)
Rain gear
Knee pads (see: check tire pressure above)
KITCHEN
Dishware
Flatware
Glasses, Mugs
Pots and Pans
Cooking Utensils
Can opener (manual)
Measuring cups, spoons
Wine opener
Chef's Knives
Dish Towels, Sponges, Scrubbers
Dish Soap
Pot Holders
Plastic Wrap, Foil, Baggies
Cutting Boards
Koozies
Mixing Bowls
Wine Glasses (either glass or plastic. If you choose to bring glass, wrap securely!)
Travel Mugs
Insulated Tumblers
Cooler Bag for Beach
Napkins, Paper Towels
Induction Burner (fires are overrated for cooking)
Glass Counter-Top Oven (I never said we were roughing it!)
Coffee Maker (we use a french press and a pour-over)
Electric Kettle
Groceries for the Trip (I suggest making a menu to get an idea of what to buy. Don't forget spices! Shop your pantry at home before you hit the grocery store)
BATH/BED
Bed Linens and Blankets
Pillows and Cases
Throw Blanket
Towels for Bath
Towels for Beach
Shower Tote (for using the campground bathhouse)
Shampoo
Body Wash
Bar Soap
Toiletries (his/hers)
Tissues
Laundry Bag
Laundry Soap
Clothes Pins and Line
Wash Cloths, Hand Towels
First Aid Kit
Bio-degradable Cleaner
Disinfectant Wipes
Glass Cleaner
Broom (there will be sand)
Dust Pan
FUN STUFF
Inflatable kayak, paddles
Life vests
Water shoes
Camp chairs
Small folding tables
Beach floats
Snorkel gear
Bikes and helmets
Cameras (video & still)
Music (pods, CDs or whatever)
Chargers for Electronics
Ukulele, Guitar
Bongos?
Bluetooth speaker
Real Books and/or Kindle
Laptop (handy for watching movies, researching area)
Cooler (good place for drinks to free up fridge space)
Binoculars
Hiking sticks and backpack
Golf Clubs and/or Fishing Gear
The list is not exhaustive but will give you an idea of how to prepare your own getaway list. Oh, I forgot to list clothes! Maybe a bathing suit, some flip flops, shorts, and tee shirts will do! Actually, we use a "capsule" concept for wardrobe keeping the number of pieces to a minimum and trying to keep everything mix-and-match. Not always fashion-forward but very practical.
NOTE: Your RVs Gross Vehicle Weight Rating will be your guide on how much stuff you can take along. Make sure you consult your RV’s documentation and have your fully-loaded RV weighed at a truck stop to make sure you are within safe guidelines.