Making the leap to full-time RV living is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming when you start thinking about what to pack. One of the most common questions new RVers ask is what items they really need for full-time RV living. The truth is, it’s often more important to know what not to bring in your RV than what to pack.
Having helped countless families downsize for RV life, I’ve noticed that most people tend to overpack, especially when it comes to household items they rarely end up using. Before you start filling your RV with unnecessary things, let’s look at what experienced RVers have learned to leave behind. Here’s a practical guide to the items you don’t need for full-time RV living, helping you save valuable space for the things that really matter.
1. Skip the Round Containers and Storage Bowls
The shape of your storage containers might seem like a minor detail, but it makes a big difference in an RV. Round containers waste valuable cabinet space because they leave empty gaps between containers.
Square or rectangular containers fit together more efficiently and make better use of your limited storage areas. This applies to everything from food storage containers to mixing bowls and cookware. When every inch of cabinet space counts, choosing the right container shapes can help you store more items in the same amount of space while keeping everything organized and easily accessible.
2. Leave Your Full-Size Grill at Home
Many RVers initially think they need to bring their full-size backyard grill, but this is rarely practical. A large grill takes up significant storage space and can be cumbersome to set up and move around.
Instead, consider a smaller, portable grill that can be easily stored and transported. While you might need to cook in batches for larger groups, the space savings and convenience of a compact grill make it a much better choice for the RV lifestyle. Plus, many campgrounds provide communal grills if you need to cook for a larger gathering.
3. Say Goodbye to One-Use Kitchen Tools
When space is at a premium, every item in your RV kitchen needs to earn its keep. Those specialized gadgets like avocado slicers, egg separators, and banana slicers might seem handy, but they take up valuable space while only serving one purpose.
Instead, focus on versatile tools that can handle multiple tasks. A good chef’s knife can replace many single-use items, and basic kitchen tools like spatulas and wooden spoons will serve you better in the long run. Remember, if your grandmother could cook without it, you probably can too.
4. Portable Ice Makers Are Unnecessary
While having unlimited ice on demand might sound appealing, portable ice makers are one of those luxury items that take up far too much precious counter and storage space in your RV.
Many RVers initially think this appliance will be essential, especially since RV freezers don’t typically come with ice makers. However, you’ll quickly discover that regular ice trays or bags of ice from the campground store work just fine. Plus, that counter space could be better used for more essential items like a coffee maker or food prep area.
5. Forget Your Full-Size Bakeware
If you’re coming from a traditional home kitchen, you’ll need to rethink your bakeware situation. RV ovens are significantly smaller than standard home ovens and typically only accommodate a 9½ x 13 inch pan on a single rack.
Those full-size cookie sheets and large baking pans from your house simply won’t fit. Instead, invest in appropriately sized bakeware for your RV oven. Consider getting a few versatile pieces that can serve multiple purposes. This might mean baking cookies in smaller batches, but the space savings in your storage areas will be worth the adjustment.
6. Don’t Risk Original Documents
When you’re living on the road, keeping your important documents safe becomes more challenging than in a traditional home. Rather than carrying original documents like birth certificates, social security cards, and marriage licenses in your RV, scan them and store the digital copies on a password-protected USB drive that you keep in your emergency evacuation bag.
Store the originals in a secure location like a safe deposit box or with a trusted family member. This approach not only protects your vital documents from potential RV accidents or natural disasters but also gives you easy access to digital copies whenever needed.
7. Your Home Vacuum Doesn’t Belong Here
A standard household vacuum cleaner is simply too bulky for RV living. Not only does it take up too much storage space, but it’s also often more powerful than what you need for the smaller living area of an RV.
Instead, opt for a compact vacuum designed for smaller spaces. Look for models that are lightweight and easy to store but still effective enough to keep your RV clean. Many RVers find that stick vacuums or handheld models work perfectly for their needs while taking up minimal storage space.
8. Stop Stockpiling Common Items
One common mistake new RVers make is packing multiple versions of items that are easily available on the road. Things like basic tools, cleaning supplies, or common household items don’t need to be stored in bulk.
Most items can be purchased at any hardware store, grocery store, or camping supply shop along your route. Save your storage space for things that are truly essential or difficult to find. Remember, you can always buy what you need when you need it.
9. Too Many Mixing Bowls? Think Again
When setting up your RV kitchen, it’s tempting to bring along your complete set of mixing bowls from home. However, you really only need one or two good mixing bowls for most cooking tasks.
If you find yourself occasionally needing an extra bowl, you can always use your Instant Pot insert or another piece of cookware as a temporary mixing bowl. This approach saves cabinet space while still ensuring you have what you need to prepare meals. Focus on bowls that nest well together and can serve multiple purposes.
