Camping & RVing Starter Checklist

1. Gather your supplies

• A tent or an RV/camper for shelter
• A way to sleep off the ground (cot, air mattress, or RV bed)
• A campsite reservation and basic camp kitchen gear
• Weather-appropriate clothing and good lighting

2. Your first project

3. Your first month, step by step

• Week 1: Pick one easy goal: a single night at a nearby campground. Reserve a site with restrooms close by.
• Week 2: Borrow or buy basic gear and practice setting up your tent (or a rented camper) in the backyard or driveway.
• Week 3: Plan simple meals and pack a checklist. Do a short test trip and note what you forgot or want to change.
• Week 4: Take your first real overnight. Arrive before dark, settle in, and enjoy the evening. You're officially a camper.

4. Mistakes to avoid

• Overpacking and hauling more gear than you can comfortably carry or store.
• Arriving without a reservation and finding the campground full.
• Not testing your tent or RV at home before the trip.
• Ignoring the weather forecast and getting caught cold, wet, or unprepared.
• Arriving after dark, which makes setup stressful and unsafe.
• Skipping a sleep system and trying to sleep right on the hard ground.