One of the biggest benefits of having an RV is that you have an extended camping season. While many tent campers take a break from sleeping outside during the cooler months, RVers have their rigs to keep them cozy. Of course, what you bring for a summer sojourn won’t necessarily work for an autumnal escape. You may need to add a few items to your camping packing list. But don’t worry: there’s no need to reinvent the wheel and spend thousands of dollars. Even something as simple as swapping out your bamboo cooling sheets for a brushed cotton set can be a total game-changer. Whether your home on wheels is a toy-hauler or a teardrop, here are eight RV essentials for fall camping.
Taking a Fall RV Trip? Here’s the RV Gear You Need for Fall
1. RV Skirt
More function than fashion, RV skirts can be a must for fall camping if you want to stay warmer while using less energy and protect your precious plumbing from freezing temperatures. They’re also great for creating an outdoor storage space for gear you don’t want to leave exposed to the elements. While you can find RV skirts at dealerships, or even make them at home if you’re the handy type, you can also easily order them online. This EZ-SNAP RV Skirting Kit on Amazon attaches via a “no-drill” system and fits most types of RVs.
2. Portable Space Heater
If you don’t want to burn through a bunch of propane, consider maintaining a comfortable temperature with an electric space heater. Not only are they cheaper to use (especially if your campground includes electricity), but since they’re portable, you can move them to wherever you are in your RV. Just make sure to keep them away from anything that could catch fire, and remember to unplug when you leave. According to fulltime RVers and bloggers, Mortons on the Move, the best safe space heaters for RVs include the De’Longhi Mica Panel Heater, the Dr. Infrared Heater and the Ontel Handy Heater.
3. Espresso Machine
Most campgrounds, if not all of them, don’t have a Starbucks on site. So, if you want to get your pumpkin spice latte fix, you’ll have to DIY. Fortunately, it’s easy to make your own in just 45 seconds with this sleek EspressoWorks All-In-One Barista Bundle Set. It comes with everything you need to make any concoction a barista can make and is easy to clean. If you’re working with less counter space, downgrade to something more simple like this SOWTECH model which despite its ultra-compact size, also includes a milk frother. Finally, don’t forget the pumpkin spice syrup!
4. Insulated Cups
Of course, what good is hot coffee if you drink it in a cup that can’t hold heat well? This fall, treat yourself to YETI’s brand new 8-ounce Rambler insulated cups. Not only are they stackable to save on storage space, but they also fit under most espresso machines. Of course, if your beverage of choice is apple cider or you want a cup that holds more than eight ounces, the OG Rambler is a great choice. And because it comes with a MagSlider Lid, it’s perfect for the kids and their hot cocoa. Still not convinced you need to spend more than $10 on a cup? Take it from Rosalind Cuthbertson, founder of The Frequent Traveller, an avid RVer and a huge YETI fan: “During an expedition to Vermont’s autumnal wonderlands, our tumblers were the unsung heroes, keeping our drinks scalding from dawn till dusk and offering a thermal refuge against the cool wind.”
5. Instant Pot
Cutherbertson is also a fan of hearty comfort foods when she’s RVing and the temperature drops. And she’s not alone. Many RVers told KOA that when it comes to fall, they love a homemade stew or soup. While you can definitely make these single-pot meals with traditional pots, why not make it easy on yourself and use an Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker. Not only does this best-seller (it has nearly 138,000 five-star reviews on Amazon) function as a crockpot, but it also replaces six other appliances. You can even make yogurt in it!
6. Telescope
Fall marks the beginning of stargazing season, when the skies are darker and the air is cleaner making celestial beings much easier to spot. This sport is especially good for campers, since most people camp away from light pollution. You can always rely on your naked eye to see iconic constellations like Casseopia and Aquarius. But if you want to embrace your inner astronomer and get a much closer look (to determine if the moon is really made of cheese), consider getting a travel telescope. This best-selling Celestron portable travel refractor telescope is both affordable and beginner-friendly. (And remember, if you’re camping this October during the annual solar eclipse, it’s not safe to look at the sun through any lens unless you have a special solar filter).
7. Skylight Cover
Skylights are nice for feeling like you’re sleeping directly under the stars. However, if you’re worried about keeping your camper warm and/or want to lower your energy costs, it’s best to cover them during the cooler months. These SIKADEER RV Vent Insulators fit into most RV skylights and are easy to install and remove. Cleaning them is also a breeze. And the best part? You can also use them in the summer to block out light and keep your RV cool and dark.
8. LED String Lights
Even if you’re not ready to decorate for Christmas before Thanksgiving, it’s helpful to have outdoor lights for your RV as the days get shorter. Most RVs have built-in exterior lighting, but LED string lights can add to the ambience and, yes, double as holiday decor if you find yourself still camping in December. For an energy-efficient option, try these MPOWERD Solar String Lights which can be powered by the sun during the day or via USB. If you’ll be camping over Halloween, these popular Dazzle Bright Halloween LED Lights will help you get in the spirit. Just don’t be surprised if you get some trick-or-treaters!
Katie Jackson is a writer and media specialist based in Montana’s Big Sky Country. Living and working everywhere from New York to Nicaragua, Katie is no stranger to adventure. When she’s not traveling the world (or writing about it!) she’s busy chasing after a Leonberger named Zeus. Follow Katie’s travels on Instagram @katietalkstravel.
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