Snowbird Checklist Special: What do I bring in my RV?

Making the long trek south for the winter in your RV can be an overwhelming task. You have to make sure you have everything you need and figure out what to pack, where to pack it, and how much to pack.

To help simplify things, we've made an RV checklist just for snowbirds. With these essentials, you'll be equipped for a wonderful winter getaway!

1. Give your RV a checkup (W.E.S.T.)

Water

Bring two lengths of fresh water hoses (white only) fitted with the necessary connectors and consider taking an in-line water filter for an extra purification and filtration step to your water. Avoid potential damage to the plumbing in your RV with a water pressure regulator. Water pressure varies between RV parks and excess water pressure can cause major damage.

Electrical

Check the electrical cord connector to access incoming power from the RV resort and make sure you have an extension cord in case you're unable to park close enough to the power source. You'll want to also bring any power or voltage adapters that you may need.

Sewage

Stock a full sewage disposal kit including the proper hoses, fittings, flushing connections, a sewer ring, rubber gloves, a sewer hose support to use while draining the black water tank, and any sewage tank additives for your RV's septic tank. Include a length of green garden hose and a tank-cleaning wand to clean the sewage holding tanks. You'll also want to make sure you have rapid-disintegration toilet paper designed specifically for RV use.

Tires

The average life span of an RV tire is about six years, but there are many factors that can affect when tires should be replaced. Tire inflation, sun damage, ozone pollutants, driving speeds and frequency of use are just a few causes that can affect the life span of your tires.

Since 2000, tire manufacturers have branding the sidewall of new tires with the first two numbers being used to identify the week and the second two digits used to identify the year the tires were produced. This should help aid in the decision of when new tires for your RV are needed.

2. First Aid/Medicine

Always have a first aid kit handy and well stocked with items such as a first aid book, bandages (assorted sizes), alcohol wipes, antibiotic cream, gauze pads, adhesive tape, tweezers, thermometer and hot/cold packs. A list of prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and physicians phone numbers should also be included for each traveler.

3. Cooking Supplies/Food Items

Bring everything you would use to prepare meals. Pack essentials like pots and pans, baking sheets, cooking utensils, mixing bowls, measuring cups, dishes, drinking glasses, eating utensils, coffee maker or teapot, mugs, oven mitts and hand towels.

You'll also want to plan to shop for and pack primarily non-perishable food items. This would include pre-packaged or boxed snacks, canned fruits and vegetables, canned soups, boxed pasta and jars of sauce.

4. RV Housewares/Toiletries

You'll need to take day-to-day items like garbage bags, paper towels, toilet paper (rapid disintegration), cleaning supplies, food storage bags, flashlights, fire extinguisher, batteries and basic tools.

Make sure you also include personal items like soaps, shampoo, deodorant, tooth brush and tooth paste, bedding, and towels.

5. Clothing

Make a general list of the types of clothing you'll need. Pack items like sleepwear, bathing suits, beach cover-ups, hats, jackets, shorts, pants, long and short sleeved shirts, sweaters or sweatshirts, evening wear, sandals, hiking boots and any other clothing for specific needs or special occasions.

6. Entertainment

This list may include modern-day favorites like tablets and laptops, as well as classics such as books or other reading material, games, and puzzles. You can also include recreational items like fishing poles, golf clubs, exercise equipment, and hiking gear.  

When you're making your lists, make sure to include the essential items that you use every day, followed by items that you would like to bring. Try not to stress too much over this; any items you forget can be purchased or replaced.

We hope this RV checklist helps you as you plan for your next snowbird trip. If you loved these RV packing tips, do us a favor and share them on social media to help others. Travel safely and enjoy your upcoming winter escape!  

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