When it comes to RV campgrounds, there is nothing more fun and free about having the opportunity to travel the country in search for a new life or simply an outdoor adventure. For those who are retired, it can be rather fun to visit sites out there that they may have never visited before. Now recreational vehicles have been around for some time, but are more popular today than ever before. As camping has become a very common hobby that many people take part in, understanding the needs pertaining to RV camping is more important than ever.
For starters, RV camping provides you a chance to do something different for a change. There may be some of you who have never actually gone camping. If, this is your first time, knowing what to look for in RV campgrounds is a critical piece to having a great outdoor experience. Here we will cover a full checklist of what to look for and what to bring to your RV campgrounds. Also, for those that may not own an RV, you can easily opt to rent one by looking online for some great deals. This will give you a chance to see if the RV life is really for you without the huge investment.
RV Campgrounds Essentials
Some of you probably have not tried RV camping, so try to make sure you have everything you need and that you know what the campground you will staying at has to offer. As long as you are prepared, it should not be a big deal venturing out into camping. Depending on the campgrounds various amenities will dictate what you will need to bring.
For everyone that will be going on the road trip, please be sure that they have an outline of the agenda. Either friends or family; be sure they carry maps as well.
You will need to carry a sufficient supply of both cash or travels checks and credit cards. Be sure that you know what types of payments the campground accepts. You will need to know if they require a deposit and if they provide refunds due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Determine how the campsite spaces are designed in the grounds you intend to visit. Are they pull through or back in.? This becomes very important as it will determine how easy it will be to access based on the length and size of your RV.
Be sure that everyone carries a cell phone. Be sure to bring charging cords and extra batteries if applicable. A tablet, iPad, or even a laptop is a great idea as well. You will want to check if the campground offers Wi-Fi or even cable for your television.
As part of your RV campgrounds checklist, see if the facility has a camp store. If so, find out what they offer as far as medicines and first aid. You should already come prepared with an appropriate amount based on the number of campers on trip. Don’t forget any prescriptions for those that need them.
Check to see what kind of power sources are provided. Most campgrounds for RV’s will provide electrical, water, sewage, and even cable or satellite for televisions. Knowing that will determine what type of lighting you should bring. Torch type lights are good, since they use fuel and help to repel bugs.
Speaking of bugs, do not forget to carry cans of bug spray. Bug spray with Deet in it is the most effective against mosquitoes. You can also bring mosquito nets or even an electrical bug zapper to set outside the RV.
If the campgrounds have a pool, it’s likely you will spend a lot of time in the sun. Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and cover-ups to protect you from getting overexposed or even burned.
Since much of the heating you will do while camping is fuel or propane based in an RV, it is important to know if your RV campgrounds offers propane refills or gasoline for both the RV/ truck and any generators you will be using.
Likewise, see if the camp store sells firewood. Many areas do not allow firewood to be brought in from other regions due to possible insect related infestations that can seriously harm the native woodlands. Therefore, if you are planning a campfire, you will need to source your firewood locally.
Check to see if the RV campgrounds has any kind of mechanical repair shops or parts supplies. It is not unusual to experience a breakdown of some kind during your camping trip and you would like to know what is available and/ or close by. That said, it is a good idea to bring items like: tire pump, pliers, pressure gauge, trailer jack, extra fuses, and a complete tool kit. A roadside kit that includes flares and caution cones could also come in very handy.
Your camp store should sell RV related gear like jumper cables, tape, and various fluids. You should also be able to find camping gear to include folding chairs and cookware, should you have forgotten anything. If you are planning on fishing or hunting, your RV campgrounds will normally offer any local license or permit required along with bait and tackle.
Your RV checklist should include items like bed sheets, towels, toiletries, pillows, blankets, and paper supplies. See if your campgrounds have laundry facilities so that you have the ability to clean any of your clothes or linens. The camp store should sell paper products; like toilet paper and paper towels.
Speaking of food, find out if your campgrounds has any hot/ ready to eat food on site or do they only offer traditional groceries. Either way, you will want to be sure to know how to replenish your food and beverage supply during your trip. Don’t forget things like ice, storage bags, coolers, and even dish soap for clean up after meals.
As for clothing, be prepared for any kind of possible weather. Just because it ma be hot and sunny wear you start your trip does not mean that is what the weather will be like where you decide to actually camp. In can get rather chilly in the mountains, even in the summer, and rain is always a possibility. Be sure to have rain coats, ponchos, and umbrellas available.
If you are wanting to take pictures and you are worried about getting your camera wet, check the camp store for waterproof disposable camera. Yep, despite the digital age, they do still exist. Also, be sure to have plenty of batteries, chargers, and those SD cards to store your photos or videos on for your digital camera.
If you are planning on taking your four-legged friends on the trip with you, be sure to check the RV campgrounds rules and regulations. Find out what the leash rule is and if there is a size or breed restriction. If you are good to bring them then be sure you have all of their food, treats, chew toys, medication, blankets, and a cage if needed.
The best possible thing to do is to plan in advance, in a stress-free manner, so you don’t miss out on any part of your RV campgrounds checklist. You will also want to get your RV thoroughly inspected prior to any trip; better to be safe than sorry.
Camping is meant to be a fun leisurely experience, especially for those that enjoy the outdoors. It is a great way to see the open road and all the wonderful destinations this county has to offer. It is also an economical way to it without the airfares and hotel costs associated with travel. Not to mention the way you can meet new people, see new places, and experience new adventures. So, be sure to take plenty of pictures or lots of video and share the journey with those that were not fortunate enough to go along for the ride. The road is all yours.
