As summer draws to a close, you might be wondering if it’s really possible to pull off a spontaneous, last minute camping trip getaway in your new or used RV. After all, school is starting back up and autumn commitments for the kids may make it harder to travel! Here are 5 RV tips for a last minute camping trip and how to enjoy it hassle-free.
Capitalize on the Weather
Obviously when you plan a vacation several weeks or months out, you don’t have the advantage of a reliable forecast. But if you take a look at your favorite weather app and see that this weekend is shaping up to be gorgeous, take advantage of it! Plus, it helps narrow the packing list since there are fewer changes you might have to prepare for.
Stay Close By
Last minute camping trips will be best enjoyed if you don’t spend the majority of the time driving to and from your destination! Make use of a state park or campground that’s within a 2 hour drive, tops, so you can actually have the time to relax once you’re there and enjoy the spontaneous time away.
Stick with Simple Meals
One of the best favors you can give yourself on a last minute camping trip is an easy meal plan. Stick with simple items like grab and go oatmeal cups for breakfast and simple sandwiches at lunchtime. You can’t go wrong with the classic hamburger and hot dog dinner fix! Throw in a few boxes of non-perishable packaged snacks like granola or protein bars and hit the road!
Keep Camping Stuff Packed and Ready
One of the easiest and best ways to enjoy a last minute camping trip is to have your camping gear stashed separately from other outdoor items so it’s easy to load and go. For example, our family organizes our camping gear into small to medium sized plastic totes with lids so we’re not hunting down this, that, or the other. When they’re already in bins, you can keep them in your RV’s exterior pass-through storage!
Some of the boxes we keep “ready-to-camp” include the following:
- The “breeze” box: hammocks and kites
- First aid kit
- “Leave no trace” box: garbage bags, paper goods, and toilet paper
- Bug & sun box: sunscreen, bug repellant, citronella candles
- Linens: bath towels, wash cloths, dishwashing cloths, bedding sheets, etc. that are only used for camping trips
- Essentials: flashlights, extra batteries, matches, camp tools
If it’s feasible, you might want to keep a designated set of camp cookware, dishes, utensils, and other kitchen essentials to keep in your new or used RV. If you can keep it in your RV, all the better – that way you’re not running around trying to leave and forget something like a frying pan, can opener, or coffee maker!
Keep Your RV Road-Ready
Besides having your camping essentials staying packed and ready for a road trip, your RV needs to stay in road-ready condition, too! Schedule your routine RV maintenance with us so you don’t have to worry about roadside breakdowns or costly repairs. Make sure your RV is ready to travel whenever you are. Contact us today!
