By Cheri Sicard
A simple outdoor setup can add a lot of comfort to RV life. In the video at the end of this post, Jared Gillis from All About RVs shares a list of 15 items that boost outdoor use, keep things tidy, and make time outside easier to enjoy. Most pack small, set up fast, and handle tough use without fuss.
Here’s Jared’s outdoor RV gear list:
#1 Coleman aluminum table: This compact aluminum table stores in a bag about the size of a camp chair. It sets up quickly, stays stable under real weight, and makes a clean, metal surface for cooking, which beats campground picnic tables.
#2 Comfort chair: A good chair changes everything. This pick packs to about half the size of a standard folding chair and stays comfortable for long sits.
#3 Outdoor mat from etrailer: A large outdoor mat keeps dirt outside and the RV interior cleaner. It shines on gravel, sand, and dirt, and helps bridge the gap between boondocking and concrete pad comfort. Avoid using it on grass.
#4 Collapsible trash can: A pop-up trash can is easy to store, fast to deploy, and simple to stake down so it does not blow away. Handy for tidy campsites.
#5 Portable fire pit: This packable fire pit stores about like a camp chair. It is lighter than smokeless models and lets everyone see the flames. Perfect at sites without a ring.
#6 Rechargeable bug repellent device: This small unit creates roughly a 20-foot bug-reduced zone. It recharges by USB and uses inserts that last up to about 40 hours each.
#7 Cedar oil bug spray: A cedar wood scent spray offers a more natural approach. It has been used often with good results around camp.
#8 Compact hammock: A hammock takes almost no room, and tree-friendly straps protect bark. It lives in the truck so it is always ready. It even works for light backpacking with a rainfly and sleeping bag.
#9 Rechargeable string lights: USB string lights add a warm touch without blasting the neighbors. They have run more than 6 hours on a charge, hang on the RV or in a tree, and reel up cleanly.
#10 Outdoor cooking gear: Cooking outside is a must. A griddle handles breakfasts and smash burgers, while a pellet smoker covers low and slow favorites. Explore a tabletop griddle and a Pit Boss pellet smoker.
#11 Onboard propane hookup: A simple hose kit ties a griddle or BBQ to the RV’s onboard propane. It saves swaps and keeps cooking smooth.
#12 Refillable small propane bottles: Refill 1-pound bottles from a 20-, 30-, or 40-pound tank using proper fittings, or carry a compact 5-pound tank. Transport bottles designed for refilling, not disposables. Helpful links: refillable propane bottle, refill system, refillable 5-lb. propane tank.
#13 Picnic tablecloth: Cover campground tables. Some folks set sewer hoses on them, so a cover adds a clean layer for food prep and meals.
#14 Extra shade structure: Add a pop-up or side shade to stretch the living area and cut heat. A portable awning like MoonShade™ sets up fast and packs small.
#15 Portable power station: A power station lets campers place power where it is needed. Charge tools, lights, and small appliances anywhere. See options here.
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RVDT2764
We’ve been fulltiming for the last 16 years (250K+ miles), first in a 34 ft 5th wheel, & the last 3 years in a triple slide truck camper. We only have & use 2 of those items, #2 & #11.
Thank you for noting the video and summarizing its main points, Cheri! This seems like a lot of stuff. Jared and his family must travel very differently from DW and I. We have few of these and the balance seem unnecessary. Still, glad to be informed of his opinion, which is usually a well-informed one. Have a great week and safe travels!