Packing in a small space
A camper van has far less storage than most RVs, so every item has to earn its spot. A few habits help:
- Assign a home to everything. If an item has no place, it will end up loose and rattle or slide while you drive.
- Favor multi-use gear. A collapsible bucket, a pot that doubles as a bowl, and quick-dry towels do more than one job.
- Pack heavy items low and centered, and secure them so they do not shift. Check your van’s payload rating, since water, gear, and passengers add up.
- Use soft bags that compress rather than rigid suitcases.
If you are packing a larger rig, see our general RV camping checklist.
Documents and navigation
- Driver’s license and, if traveling internationally, passport
- Vehicle registration and proof of insurance
- Rental agreement if applicable
- Roadside assistance details and emergency contacts
- Health insurance information and any needed medication
- Offline maps and campsite apps downloaded before you lose service
- Some cash or cards, plus coins if campground showers are coin-operated
Vehicle and safety
- First-aid kit
- Fire extinguisher and a working carbon monoxide alarm if you use a heater or cooking fuel inside
- Spare tire, jack, and tire pressure gauge
- Jumper cables or a jump starter
- Basic tools, duct tape, zip ties, and a flashlight or headlamp
- Reflective triangles
- Extra water for emergencies
Kitchen and water
- A stove (camp or built-in) and fuel suited to how and where you cook
- One pot, one pan, a spatula, a knife, and a cutting board
- Plates or bowls, mugs, and cutlery for everyone
- Water bottles and a collapsible jug
- Dish soap, a sponge, and a wash bin
- Trash bags and a lidded container
- Cooler or fridge, and shelf-stable food
Our food list for RV camping has ideas that work in a compact kitchen too.
Sleeping
- Bedding that fits your mattress or platform
- A sleeping bag or blankets rated for the nights you expect
- Window covers or shades for privacy and temperature control
- A small fan or heater only if it is designed for use in a vehicle, following the manufacturer’s instructions
- Earplugs and an eye mask
Bathroom and hygiene
Many vans do not have a toilet. Some conversions include a cassette or portable toilet, and others rely on campground, gas station, or public restrooms. If you carry a portable toilet, bring appropriate liners or chemicals and know where you can empty it legally. Bring:
- Toilet paper and wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer and a small trowel only if local rules allow digging
- Toiletries and quick-dry towels
- A solar shower or similar if you plan to wash outdoors, where permitted
Clothing
Layers work better than bulky items. Pack a few base layers, a warm mid layer, and a rain shell. Choose clothes that dry quickly and can be worn more than once. Bring one pair of comfortable camp shoes and one pair for hiking.
Power and tech
- Phone chargers and a power bank
- A 12V adapter for the vehicle outlet
- Headlamp or lantern with rechargeable batteries
- Portable power station or solar panel, if your van is not already wired
- Extension cord if you plan to use shore power
Short trips versus long trips
Weekend trip: Focus on bedding, food for each meal, a small first-aid kit, basic tools, and two outfits. You can skip heavy duplicates.
Longer trips: Add a larger tool kit, spare parts such as fuses and bulbs, laundry supplies, extra water capacity, seasonal clothing, and a system for restocking food. Plan laundry stops rather than packing for every day.
Frequently asked questions
What should I pack for a campervan trip?
Documents, a first-aid kit, bedding, kitchen basics, water, layered clothing, safety gear, and navigation. Add more for longer stays.
Is there a toilet in a camper van?
Some have one, many do not. It depends on the conversion or rental. Check before you book, and ask where the waste goes if there is a toilet.
What is the 10 year rule for campers?
Some campgrounds and RV parks will only accept rigs under about ten years old or those that pass an appearance inspection. Policies vary, so ask the park. Rules for vans are often handled the same way.
What to use for camper van walls?
That is a build question rather than a packing one. Common materials include plywood paneling, but choices depend on insulation, weight, and moisture. See our camper conversion plans and soundproofing and insulation guide for a build-specific discussion.
New to the whole idea? Our RV camping for beginners guide covers how to plan a first trip.