Things Needed for RV Camping

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    • motorcoach,motorhome,rv image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com

      RV camping is a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without the more uncomfortable aspects of tent camping. Most RVs come equipped with kitchens, beds, couches, televisions, heat, air conditioning and private bathrooms. Despite the small living space, some RVs are quite luxurious, with home theaters and satellite dish capabilities. Like any camping trip, there are certain items necessary to ensure you get the most from your RV experience.

    Kitchenware

    • Most RVs come equipped with full kitchens. Ensure the kitchen is well stocked with the following items: dishes, plates, cups, mugs, flatware, coffee makers, toaster, charcoal grill, dishtowels, paper towels, dish soap, sponge, measuring cups and spoons, can opener, plastic wrap, aluminum foil, resealable bags, pots, pans, bowls, cutting board, folding table and outdoor chairs. Cooking outdoors is part of the camping experience, but bad weather won't ruin your dinner with a nicely stocked RV kitchen. Meals can be prepared inside on a propane heat source in the warmth and dry comfort of the RV.

    Toiletries and Personal Care

    • RVs are also equipped with bathrooms, most with showers and some with tubs. Camping for extended periods of time is easier when you can freshen up, and enjoying the privacy of your own bathroom is a welcome luxury. Travel sized toiletry items save on space and are readily available at most supermarkets and drug stores. Shampoo, conditioner, soap, shave cream, razors, mouthwash, toothpaste, toothbrush, hairspray and styling products, deodorant, powders and perfumes are all perfectly acceptable to bring along on your RV adventure, especially if you want to dine out on the town once in a while.

    Special Equipment

    • There are a few items you will need specific to the RV itself. A 15- to 20-foot sewer hose with clamp and coupling devices will allow you to park a little further away from the campground sewer connection. A vinyl water hose with connecting devices, from 25 to 50 feet in length should be used to connect to campground fresh water supply. Rubber hoses can make the water taste funny, and are not recommended. A water pressure regulator will keep water pressure from the campground water source and the RV balanced. Toilet chemicals will keep the toilet functioning correctly. Coaxial cable for campgrounds that offer cable television is a good item to have aboard. Ensure the cable has both male and female connectors (campgrounds vary). Finally, a good pair of work gloves and disposable rubber gloves should be worn when hooking up sewer connections, to keep your hands sanitary.

    Additional Tools

    • Keeping the RV level is important. Newer RVs come with hydraulic levelers under the body of the RV, but older RVs need to be leveled manually. This is to ensure the refrigerator is level. A simple carpenter's level can be used on any flat surface inside the RV to check to see if the vehicle is plum. Leveling ramps can be used in older RVs to get things even.

    Electrical Needs

    • Amperage adapters are a necessity for RVers, since campgrounds vary in what they offer for an electricity source. Adapters can convert a 50 amp to a 30 amp or a 30 amp to a 20 amp. To keep your appliances safe and avoid shorting out your system, never run all appliances at once. Shut off the air conditioner before running the microwave and keep the TV off if you are using other appliances. Additionally, stock upon plenty of batteries for flashlights, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, gas leak detectors and any other device needing battery power.

    Odds and Ends

    • Other things to bring along to complete your RV camping experience: puzzles, games, maps, DVDs, MP3 players. GPS, a portable vacuum, whisk broom, toilet paper, bungee cords, matches, insect repellent, bathing suit, sunscreen, cell phone, bicycle, compass, water bottle, binoculars, camera, comfortable walking or hiking shoes and comfortable clothing.

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