Stocking Your Camper Trailer: The Ultimate Guide

Stocking a camper trailer is a tricky task. You need to balance taking enough items to be comfortable with the limited space available. Weight is also a factor, as the heavier the trailer, the more fuel you will use. You must also be careful not to exceed the trailer's weight rating. This article will provide an overview of the essential items to stock in your camper trailer, including tools and safety gear, camp furniture, kitchen supplies, clothing, and personal items. We will also offer tips on how to maximise space and weight restrictions.

Kitchen and cooking supplies

When it comes to stocking a camper trailer kitchen, it's important to be mindful of space constraints and select items that are functional and versatile. Here are some detailed suggestions for kitchen and cooking supplies to include when stocking your camper trailer:

Pots, Pans, and Cookware:

• A large ceramic skillet or frying pan with a lid.
• A medium-sized ceramic pot or saucepan.
• A stockpot or Dutch oven, especially if you're cooking for a larger group.
• Collapsible or nesting pots and pans to save space.
• An electric griddle or skillet for versatile cooking options.

Utensils and Cutlery:

• A set of cooking utensils such as spoons, spatulas, tongs, whisks, and serving spoons.
• A variety of knives for different tasks, such as a chef's knife and a Santoku knife.
• Wooden or stainless steel cutlery, including forks, spoons, butter knives, and steak knives.
• Plastic cutlery and utensils for children.

Food Storage and Containers:

• Airtight containers to store dry goods and keep them fresh.
• Reusable and disposable resealable bags for storing marinated meats and fresh produce.
• Food storage containers for leftovers and meal prep.
• Clear plastic storage baskets or bins to organize and store food items in cabinets or the fridge.

Meal Prep and Cooking Essentials:

• Cutting boards, including a large one that fits over the sink for added prep space.
• A collapsible colander for draining pasta or rinsing produce.
• Measuring cups and spoons for precise cooking and baking.
• A can opener and a bottle opener—these are easily forgotten but essential items.
• A wine bottle opener if you plan on enjoying some wine with your meals.
• A potato peeler for quick and easy vegetable prep.
• Mixing bowls, preferably stainless steel or plastic nesting bowls with lids for convenient storage.
• A large bowl for marinating meats, making popcorn, or storing large quantities of food.

Coffee and Tea Essentials:

• A coffee maker or a simple pour-over brewer with an electric kettle for boiling water.
• Coffee filters and coffee beans or grounds.
• Tea bags or loose-leaf tea, along with a tea infuser if needed.
• Coffee mugs and tea cups.

Cleaning and Sanitation:

• Dish soap and a dish drainer that fits inside your kitchen sink.
• Antibacterial wipes for quick cleanups and sanitizing surfaces.
• A strainer to catch any food remnants before they go down the drain.
• A funnel to help dispose of grease or oil into an empty bottle for trash.
• Paper towels and kitchen towels for wiping down surfaces and cleaning up spills.
• Basic cleaning supplies like rubber gloves, a sponge, and your preferred cleaning spray.

Remember to measure your camper trailer's kitchen space, including cabinets, countertops, and the oven, to ensure that the items you choose will fit perfectly. It's also a good idea to test out your setup by taking your camper trailer out for a long weekend to identify any additional items you may need.

Clothing and bedroom items

When packing clothing and bedroom items for your camper trailer, it's important to consider the limited space available. Here are some tips to help you stock your trailer efficiently:

Organize Your Clothing

To make the most of the space in your camper trailer, consider using a portable closet organizer to keep your clothes, towels, and other items neat and accessible. If you have limited storage space, install shelving units to maximize storage capacity. You can also utilize hanging shelves or tension rods with S-hooks to create additional hanging space for your clothes.

Choose the Right Clothing

Select clothing that is appropriate for the weather conditions and activities you plan to do. For example, pack shorts and t-shirts for summer camping trips, and sweaters and jackets for winter excursions. Make sure to bring enough clean clothes for each day, including socks, underwear, and pajamas. Additionally, consider packing older clothes that can be left in the trailer, reducing the need to pack and unpack for each trip.

Efficient Packing Techniques

Learn space-saving folding techniques, such as the KonMari method, to maximize the number of clothes you can fit in your trailer. You can also use unique hangers, such as S-shaped pants hangers and cascading hangers for collared shirts, to save space on the closet rod. Packing cubes and vacuum bags are great for organizing and compressing your clothes, making them easier to store in tight spaces.

Bedroom Essentials

In addition to clothing, don't forget to pack comfortable shoes that are waterproof, lightweight, and easy to clean. Bring pillows, blankets, and sleeping bags or both, depending on the number of people joining you. It's also a good idea to have dedicated bedding for each bed in the trailer, including pillows and blankets, to save you from hauling them back and forth.

Personal Items and Toiletries

Remember to pack your personal care items, such as toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, soap, and any other toiletries you regularly use. If there are members in your family with chronic conditions or allergies, ensure you bring any necessary medications. A first aid kit is also essential for any camping trip.

Personal items and toiletries

When packing personal items and toiletries for your camper trailer trip, careful planning is essential. Consider the weather conditions, the length of your trip, and any activities you plan to do. Here is a list of personal items and toiletries to bring:

Toiletries

• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Face wash, body wash, and shampoo
• Conditioner
• Bug spray and sunscreen
• Soap and hand soap
• Shaving cream and razors
• First aid kit
• Medications
• Baby wipes
• Paper towels
• Cleaning solution
• RV-friendly toilet paper

Personal Items

• Clothing and shoes: Pack according to the weather and activities. Don't forget waterproof jackets, boots, and umbrellas for unexpected rain.
• Sleeping essentials: Sleeping bags or warm blankets, pillows, and sheets.
• Entertainment: Games, music players, laptops, or tablets.
• Books: Bring a good book or two for quiet evenings.
• Other items: Phone and smartwatch chargers, a deck of cards, and extra towels.

Remember to use packing cubes or vacuum bags to save space and keep your items organised. You can also opt for travel-sized toiletries to save space.

Camping and outdoor fun gear

When it comes to camping and outdoor fun, there are a few essential items you'll need to make your trip enjoyable and memorable. Here are some key things to consider:

Kitchen and Cooking Gear:

• Pots, pans, and other cookware: Opt for a smaller set of cookware that can be stored away easily. Consider the heat source you'll be using—if you're cooking over an open fire, you'll need pots and pans that can withstand high temperatures.
• Utensils and cutlery: Include spoons, ladles, tongs, peelers, whisks, spatulas, and serving spoons.
• Food storage: Bring along airtight containers to store pantry staples like salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
• Cleaning supplies: Pack dish towels, washcloths, soap, scrubbers, and a dish drainer for cleaning up after meals.
• Outdoor grill: If you plan on grilling, don't forget to bring a grill brush and cleaner.
• Coffee maker: A small drip brewer or a pour-over brewer with an electric kettle can be a great addition.
• Cooler: A cooler full of ice will be handy for storing perishables and keeping drinks cold.

Entertainment and Comfort:

• Camping chairs: Bring one per person to ensure everyone has a comfortable seat around the campfire or table.
• Electronics: Laptops, tablets, or a portable DVD player can provide entertainment during downtime.
• Games and music players: These can add to the fun and create memorable experiences.
• First aid kit: Assemble a kit with bandages, gauze pads, antibiotic ointment, tweezers, and any other essentials.
• Clothing and footwear: Pack comfortable, waterproof, and lightweight clothes and shoes that are easy to clean.

Sleeping Essentials:

• Sleeping bags or blankets: Ensure you have enough for everyone, depending on the number of people in your camper trailer.
• Pillows: Check if your trailer includes pillows; if not, consider purchasing some for a good night's rest.

Remember, the key to stocking your camper trailer is planning and personalisation. You might not need everything on this list, so tailor it to your specific needs and preferences. Happy camping!

Tools and safety gear

When stocking your camper trailer, it's important to have the right tools and safety gear to ensure your safety and security while on the road or at the campground. Here are some essential tools and safety items to include:

Basic Tools and Gear:

• Water pressure regulator
• Electricity converters (to move between 20, 30, and 50 amps)
• Fuse replacement kit
• Rechargeable flashlight

Other Safety Gear:

• First aid kit with supplies like bandages, gauze pads, antibiotic ointment, tweezers, and medications for any specific conditions or allergies.
• Fire extinguisher
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detector
• Emergency radio

RV Toolbox Essentials:

• Socket wrench set (standard and metric)
• Phillips head and flat-bladed screwdrivers (in various sizes)
• Standard and channel-lock pliers (medium and large)
• 10-inch crescent wrench
• Small drill bit set (1/16- to 1/4-inch)
• Cordless drill with a spare battery
• Sturdy claw hammer
• Pocket knife
• Hobby knife with blade protector and extra blades
• Wire cutters
• Small tape measure
• Mini hacksaw with extra blades
• Small two-way bubble level
• Folding tree saw

Adhesives and Sealants:

• "Super" glue
• Vinyl adhesive
• Threadlocker glue
• Multi-purpose adhesive
• Silicone sealant
• Seam sealer (for tents)
• Duct tape

Hardware and Fasteners:

• Assorted wood, machine, and self-tapping screws
• Small bolts in various sizes and lengths with matching nuts and washers
• Plastic zip ties (removable and permanent)
• Cabinet door catches
• Assorted fuses
• Spare bulbs for brake, turn, running, and interior lights
• Miniature voltmeter
• Roll of 10- to 12-gauge insulated wire
• Electrical tape
• Soldering iron and solder

Hand Protection:

• Latex or nitrile rubber gloves
• Leather work gloves
• Pre-moistened wipes or waterless skin cleanser

Miscellaneous:

• Tube of ball hitch lube
• Small travel-size can of spray lubricant
• Spare freshwater hose washers
• Roll of Teflon plumber's tape
• Wide-tipped permanent marker
• Coupler or kingpin lock
• Bungee cords
• Two-way radios

Frequently asked questions