Planning an RV trip is always exciting. However, if you’re new to RV road trips, planning them can be a little overwhelming because there’s so much to think about. For example, there’s coming up with a budget you can live with while still enjoying a memorable RV camping experience.
And then there’s picking RV friendly routes and choosing just a few destinations out of the thousands for worthwhile places to see. But that only comes after you’ve prepped the RV and packed all the necessities. This RV trip planning checklist is designed to simplify RV trip planning. It walks you through every stage of planning, so nothing gets missed. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a longer RV adventure, this checklist will help you travel with confidence.
Phase 1: Before You Choose a Destination
- Decide trip length and travel pace
- Set a realistic budget (fuel, campsites, food, activities)
- Consider weather and seasonal conditions
- Check campground availability and reservation windows
- Decide on travel dates.
- 💡 Tip: Avoid over-planning daily mileage—300–500 miles per day is ideal for most RVers.
Phase 2: Route & Campground Planning
- Check weather conditions
- Choose campgrounds, approximate overnighting spots
- Check RV size restrictions and road grades
- Plan fuel stops suitable for RV access
- Download offline maps (Google Maps, GAIA, etc.)
- Always plan routes using an up-to-date road atlas for guidance
- Note grocery stores, rest areas and possible overnight locations and dump stations along the route
💡 Tip: RV Life Trip Wizard, I-Overlander, and Freecampsites.net are all invaluable apps for planning an RV Trip.
Phase 3: RV & Vehicle Prep (1–2 Weeks Before)
- Check tire pressure (including spare)
- Inspect brakes, fluids, belts, and hoses
- Test lights, signals, and cameras
- Confirm propane levels
- Check batteries and charging systems
- Inspect roof, seals, and slide-outs
Phase 4: Packing Essentials
RV Gear
- Fresh water hose & pressure regulator
- Sewer hose & gloves
- Surge protector
- Leveling blocks
- Extension cords & adapters
Inside the RV
- Bedding and towels
- Kitchen essentials
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Toiletries and medications
- Food, snacks and beverages
Tech & Safety
- Phone chargers & power banks
- Emergency roadside kit
- First aid kit
- Printed reservations & ID
- Fire extinguishers
Phase 5: Day-Before Departure Checklist
- Secure loose items inside the RV
- Empty trash and fridge perishables
- Fill fresh water tank if needed
- Confirm reservations and weather
- Let someone know your travel plans
Phase 6: Departure Day Walk-Around
- Retract all slide-outs and awnings
- Retract all stabilization/levelling jacks
- Turn off all appliances and lights
- Secure cabinets and exterior compartments
- Close windows and doors
- Disconnect shore power and hoses
- Check tire pressure again
- Retract Stairs
- Final 360º walkaround
Final Thoughts
RV travel should feel freeing—not stressful. A good checklist removes the guesswork so you can focus on enjoying the journey in confidence, instead of worrying about what you forgot.
Lynne Fedorick is an RV expert and experienced outdoor author who has written hundreds of articles for RV Life, RV Trader, and other leading publications. She evaluates RV gear, portable power systems, and emergency preparedness equipment for real-world RV travel. Lynne is the founder of RVAdventureGuide.com, offering RV travel tips, reviews, and destinations from a uniquely Canadian perspective.
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