Jul 15, 2021
10 min. read
Heading into the great outdoors with a well-equipped recreational vehicle (RV) is the camping equivalent of “taking it all with you.” Here’s what you need to know before escaping to the great outdoors in your RV.
If you’re looking to rent an RV, CanaDream CanaDream has a fleet of over 1,000 RVs that includes maxi travel campers and maxi plus motorhomes. CAA Members can save five percent off the vehicle rental charge and receive a free additional driver when booking.
RV packing list
Before hitting the road, here are some essential packing lists.
Everyday items that will be used in your RV:
Pillows, bed sheets and blankets (enough for each person)
Bowls, plates, bowls, cups and utensils (one set for each person)
Cutting board
Can opener
Knives
Scissors
Skillets, pots and pans
Tongs, spatulas and skewers
Matches and lighters
Towels
First-aid kit
Include some household cleaning supplies to keep your space tidy.
Dish soap and sponge
Dish towels
Disinfecting wipes
Paper towels
Garbage bags
Make sure your fridge and pantry are well stocked with snacks for the drive and ingredients for meal preparation. Some staples to keep on hand are:
Canned foods like beans
Dry foods like cereal, pasta, pasta sauce or pancake mix
Bread
Peanut butter
Butter or margarine
Fruits and vegetables
Grill meats like hot dogs or hamburgers
Snacks like chips or nuts
Cooking oil or spray
For entertainment, consider:
Books and magazines
Board games
Playing cards
Laptops or tablets (don’t forget the chargers)
Camping chair
Flotation devices
For your RV, include items like:
Electrical adapters
Tire pressure gauge
Emergency road kit
Safety check
Double-check the safety condition of your RV before rolling out.
Ensure tires are properly inflated and lights are in working order.
Top up engine fluids and check the oil level.
Make sure that there is sufficient propane in your RV and that tanks are in good shape.
Inspect the underside of your RV for any leaks or other damages.
Water supply
Bring a garden hose for the fresh water connection at your campsite.
RVs generally have on-board storage tanks for clean and dirty water, meaning campers can enjoy a morning shower even if their chosen getaway spot is in a remote area. Staying at a site without water services is called “dry camping.” If this is in your plans, RVers should remember to fill their trailer’s fresh water tank at the beginning of their trip.
Locate dumping station locations along your route where you can dispose of the dirty water in your RV waste tank during your trip.
Power at your campsite
Many campgrounds catering to RV travellers have plots with electricity available, fresh water and septic hookups. These are commonly called “three-way” sites. If your RV is so equipped, look for facilities advertising 30-amp electrical hookups. This amount of power is sufficient to operate several electrical items at once without plunging everyone into total darkness.
Popular RV Parks in Canada
Many RV parks have play areas for the little ones, laundry facilities and public restrooms. The most popular ones will also have amenities like a pool, games or organized activities. The Muskoka area is home to 4 Seasons Tent & Trailer Park, a 100-acre spot with all these features and beautiful scenery. Down east, Hidden Hilltop Family Campground in Nova Scotia is a surefire winner. To the west in Nanaimo, B.C., check out Living Forest Oceanside Park.
Road Ready
Before you head out, be sure to upgrade your CAA Membership to include coverage for your RV. Plus and Premier Members can extend their coverage to include motorhomes, campers and select trailers with Plus RV or Premier RV.
You can also download the CAA Mobile App™ in case you need roadside assistance during your trip. From a mobile phone, Members can visit CAA SCO, call *222 or text "Rescue" to *222247. (Note that standard message and data rates may apply.)
You can also use the app to find deals and track savings from CAA Rewards® partners along your route.
Image credit: pchoui/iStock