Summer is one of the most popular times of year for RV
travel. The balmy months of June through August beckon you to jump behind the
wheel and venture into parts unknown. But before you head out on your
excursions, make sure that you’ve packed the most essential summer RV gear:
First Aid Kit
During the summer months you’ll have to modify your first
aid kit a bit. In addition to the traditional necessities, be sure to include
these summer related items:
- Tweezers: For tick bites,
- Jellyfish sting treatment: Vinegar is highly
effective at decontamination. - Instant ice packs
- Water: For dehydration, coconut water (for
electrolyte replenishment) - Hydrocortisone cream: For bug bites
- Water-proof band-aids: Stock in addition to
regular band-aids - Needle: To remove splinters
- Poison Ivy/Oak treatment
- Bug spray: This is essential for warding off
mosquitoes that swarm during the warmer months - Aloe Vera gel: To soothe burns, blisters, and
sunburns - Sunscreen: Even when you’re driving, you should
make a habit of applying sunscreen. - Ear plugs: Stock up on ear plugs for sleeping
and swimming. Aqua ear plugs help prevent swimmer’s ear, while ear plugs
designed for sleeping are great for blocking out outside noises (especially for
interim destinations that can be noisy).
RV Aid Kit
You’re RV may need some maintenance along the way. Packing
these items will ensure that you’re not left stranded:
- Tire repair kit
- Tire pressure gauge
- Jumper Cables
- Motor oil
- Windshield washer fluid
- Fire extinguisher: Use a B.C. rated extinguisher
located at least 24” from the main exit. - Road flares
- Tool Kit- Include a small hammer, wrenches, and
screwdrivers - Floor jack
- Gas powered generator
- Batteries
Lighting
- Flashlight
- Matches
- Lighter fluid
- Lantern
Adhesives
- Sealant: You’ll be surprised how handy this
substance can be! Sealants are great for patching leaks, filling cracks that
allow insects to get in, and repairing holes. RV by LIFE’s Life Seal sealants
are fantastic adhesives, specifically made for RVs. This silicone/polyurethane
blend forms a watertight seal that works on a variety of surfaces including:
metal, glass, wood, Lexan, and ABS. It also comes in a variety of colors such
as clear, white, black, cameo and aluminum for all your sealant needs. - Duct Tape
- Electrical tape
Sewage Essentials
- Sewer kit: Your sewer kit should include sewer
fittings, a sewer hose, sewer hose fittings and adapters, and a hose to clean
out the holding tank (some campgrounds provide these). - Portable waste storage tank: These are essential
if you don’t have a full hookup, but can also come in handy at a campground
with a dump station. Cody Smith discusses
in Camping Life that it can be cumbersome to pack up everything and drive to
the dump station once you have everything unloaded and set up, and suggests using
a portable sewage tank to avoid this hassle. - RV toilet paper: This paper disintegrates
rapidly and helps prevent clogging in your sewage tank. - Sanitizer: Hand sanitizer and tank sanitizer are
important. If you don’t properly take care of your sewage tank, you’ll end up
with costly problems later on.
Water Accessories
- Filter: It’s recommended that you use a water
filter even if you are accessing potable water. - Water pressure regulator: This will bring the
water pressure down to a safe level so it doesn’t damage your plumbing
fixtures. - White hose (w/ attachments): These hoses are
specifically designed for potable water transportation. Garden hoses should not
be used because the materials inside can flake off and contaminate your water
supply.
Electrical Cords and Adapters
- Extension cord: Great for reaching a distant
power supply! - Electrical cord adapter
- Voltage converter
Binding
Make sure you have rope and bungee cords in various lengths
and sizes. These tools can be used for a variety of purposes including hanging
your clothing to dry, tying down cargo, and securing equipment.
Guides
When you’re packing up your RV for your next trip don’t
forget these handy guides:
- Campground navigation: This will help navigate
you directly to the RV area. - Map: GPS can fail at times. It’s always good to
have a navigational backup. - Wildlife guide: Are there bears, mountain lions,
or bobcats where you’re venturing? Many wildlife fatalities are preventable if
you know how to react. A wildlife guide will tell you what bears to make eye
contact with, which ones to hold your ground with, and other wildlife best
practices.
Towels
Towels might seem like a no-brainer but during the
summertime, you’ll need more towels than you think. Be sure to pack bath, beach,
dish, and cleaning towels for your trip.
What are your summer RV essentials? Please let us know in
the comments section. Also don’t forget to grab a tube of RV by LIFE’s Life Seal sealants
today!
