Hitting the open road in a travel trailer gives your family a chance to bond as you visit new places. A well-stocked camper makes a difference in the outcome of the trip. Packing the right things before you leave gives you more time to focus on entertainment instead of finding local stores to buy the forgotten items.
Food
Grocery shopping before you head to the campground saves you time and energy. By the time you arrive and set up your camper, grocery shopping probably won’t be at the top of your list. Write out a tentative menu for all meals on the trip. Base your grocery list on those meals, adding in snacks and drinks to round out the food.
Eating supplies also need to make it into the camper. This includes silverware, serving utensils, plates, cups and pans. If you plan to cook over the campfire, you’ll also need roasting sticks or grill grates. Most travel trailers include a stove cook top, but you might also need a separate camp stove to handle your cooking.
Clothing and Bedding
The clothing you pack depends on the time of year and expected weather on the camping trip. If you won’t have access to clothes washing facilities, pack extra clothing. At least one sweatshirt or warmer clothing item gives you a backup if the weather is unexpectedly cooler, especially at night.
Bedding materials depend on the sleeping accommodations in the travel trailer. Sheets to cover the beds, blankets and pillows are the basics to sleep comfortably. Sleeping bags and extra blankets keep the family warm in cooler camping conditions.
Tools
Tools in the trailer keep you prepared in case you need to make a quick repair. The basics, including a hammer, screwdrivers, pliers and wrenches, should be sufficient. Leveling boards, hoses, extension cords, stabilizing jacks and other items necessary for setting up the trailer also go onto the packing list. A saw or hatchet might also come in handy around the campground, along with flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for nighttime.
Toiletries and Medical Supplies
Your toiletry list will vary, depending on your usual habits. The basics include soap, cleansers, moisturizer, sunscreen, toothpaste, toothbrushes, brushes, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, deodorant, razors, towels and toilet paper.
A first-aid kit prepares you for minor injuries while camping. The kit should include an assortment of bandages, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic, instant ice packs, tweezers, gauze, thermometer, medical tape and pain reliever.
Entertainment
Nature provides entertainment in the form of hikes, exploration and water sports, but you might also want to pack other entertainment options. Board games, a deck of cards, crossword puzzles, bicycles and a few toys for the kids are options, depending on the amount of space available in the travel trailer. A camera allows you to capture all the memories.
