RV living is a great way to live affordably and embrace a lifestyle that is free from traditional tie-downs like mortgages or leases. In Texas, there is always more to explore, but it’s important to gather all the must-haves for RV living before you hit the road. Here are 12 of the most important supplies you should consider having in your RV for every trip you take.
Must-Haves for RV Living in Comfort
Even in winter, Texas can get hot during the day, so it’s important to pack reflective insulation for your windows and windshield to keep your space cool. You may also want to pack an awning to set out to offer some shade alongside some basic supplies to repair the awning if it begins to wear out.
1. Cleaning Supplies
While you won’t spend as much time cleaning your RV as you would a larger living space, it’s still important to keep things clean! Make sure you pack some supplies to wipe things down, such as disinfectant wipes or microfiber cloths, as well as solutions for larger messes, such as dish soap and floor cleaner.
2. Internet Connection
From booking your next campsite to researching activities in the area, you’ll want to be able to stay connected in each campsite and on the road. Does your RV have Mobile Internet or a Wi-Fi Booster? If not, is there a way you can set it up? Especially in more rural areas, cell phone data service may not be available, so it’s worthwhile to invest in an internet solution for your RV that will stay strong wherever you decide to park.
3. Thick Blankets
While you may not think of cold weather when you’re parking in Texas, nights can drop down to freezing. Especially if you are living in an RV with beds close to the windows, you will want to make sure you have thick blankets and any other supplies to make sure you stay warm enough to get a great night’s sleep.
4. Earplugs
Speaking of sleep, it may be time to invest in a good pair of earplugs. While you may love the sounds of nature, they can interfere with your ability to sleep. You may also need to consider noisy neighbors depending on where you decide to park, especially if they get a lot of weekend campers.
Earplugs and noise-canceling headphones can also help you to get a little space from the people you share an RV with, even when physically putting distance between you isn’t an option. Make sure you choose an option that is comfortable in your ears so you can wear it for long periods of time.
5. Privacy Curtains
Curtains that divide beds from the main living area or even split the main area into other sections can be helpful if you’re sharing an RV with multiple people. Whether you just want something to be a surprise or need a visual break for a bit, these curtains can make it much easier to ensure harmonious living even when you’re cooped up for the day.
6. First Aid Supplies
Especially if you plan to use your RV to get out in nature more, you’ll want to make sure you have any first aid supplies you might need on hand. Some examples of items to include in your RV first aid kit include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Antiseptic solution or wipes to clean minor injuries.
- Bandages in a variety of shapes and sizes.
- Topical treatments for sunburn, such as aloe vera gel or lidocaine spray.
- Tweezers for the occasional splinter.
- Sterile gauze pads to use for larger injuries.
- Instant cold packs.
You should also include any personal medical equipment in the RV kit. For example, if you or anyone you travel with has a severe allergy, this would be a good place to keep an Epi-pen.
7. Proof of Identity
While you may not want to bring a full filing cabinet with you in an RV, it’s important to bring a few essential documents with you. Birth certificates, passports, driver’s licenses, and government-issued identification cards are a few examples of documents you can carry for proof of identity. Everyone traveling with you should have at least one form of identification.
8. School Records
If you are traveling with children that you plan to enroll in school, you will want to make sure you bring any paperwork you may need for enrollment. This can include but is not limited to immunization records, academic records, and proof of residency.
9. Kitchenware and Appliances
Cooking over a fire and exploring local restaurants are always fun, but sometimes, nothing hits the spot quite like a hearty crockpot soup or a quick microwave meal. Consider what your RV’s kitchenette space has available – such as a mini fridge, stove burner, or microwave – and what other small appliances can help you make all your favorite meals.
You’ll also want to consider packing essential food safety items, such as a meat thermometer, and food storage solutions, such as vacuum-sealed containers or disposable food storage bags. Food prep tools like your favorite kitchen knife can also come in handy, but you’ll want to make sure you store them correctly so they don’t become a safety hazard when you move your RV.
10. RV Repair Supplies and Tools
A mechanic may be able to help you with larger repairs, but if something happens while you’re on the road, you want to be prepared. Having basic supplies and tools on hand, such as a tire pressure gauge, an adjustable wrench, duct tape, and a travel air compressor can help you make minor repairs in a pinch until you can take your RV somewhere to get more long-term fixes.
11. Space-Efficient Hobby Supplies
It’s important to be able to entertain yourself while you’re on the road or when the weather makes exploring the great outdoors an unappealing option. Some great options include an e-reader, a tablet with a stylus for art projects, and a screen to watch movies or TV shows.
What Is Needed for RV Living?
Most of what you need for RV living are the same basic items you’d need to live anywhere, supplies to maintain your RV on the road, and some storage and privacy solutions to make sure your RV travels and stays are always comfortable. Once you’ve got that, your positive attitude and strong research skills will take you far!
Once you’ve gathered your must-haves for RV Living and are confident with your setup, it’s time to start planning your next trip! At Meadow Lane RV Park, we strive to support your dreams of traveling in an RV exploring all there is to see and do. To make sure your RV plans in Austin, Texas, are always comfortable and fun, get in touch with us to explore the best options for parking your RV and enjoying local activities.