Are You an RV Overpacker? (Because I Definitely Am) — And How to Avoid It

Confession time: I am a certified overpacker.
I know it. I own it. And I am actively trying not to be that person anymore.

If you RV, camp, or travel with your family, you already know how easy it is to bring all the things “just in case.” Before you know it, every cabinet is full, storage bays are packed, and you’re digging through piles just to find one simple item.

The good news? Life on the road can feel lighter, more organized, and way less stressful with a little planning. Here’s how to avoid RV overpacking without giving up comfort.

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Clothes: Where RV Overpacking Usually Starts

✔ Check the Weather (Really Check It)

This sounds obvious, but it’s huge. Look at the forecast a few days before your trip and pack based on reality — not worst-case scenarios you made up in your head.

✔ Embrace Layers

Layers might feel counterintuitive, like you’re adding more clothes, but they actually give you flexibility. A base layer, hoodie, and lightweight jacket can cover a wide range of temperatures without packing bulky outfits.

✔ Pack for Activities, Not “What Ifs”

Think through what you’ll actually be doing:

• Biking
• Hiking
• Swimming

Pack clothes for those activities — but avoid multiple backup outfits unless they’re truly needed.

✔ Plan to Do Laundry (Yes, Even on Vacation)

If we’re gone more than 3–4 nights, laundry is part of the plan. Because of that, I only pack about 3–4 outfits and wash as we go.

• Delicate detergent stays in the camper for underwear, socks, and swimsuits
• Regular laundry soap and dryer sheets stay onboard for campground laundry

I know people say, “I don’t want to do laundry on vacation.”
Honestly? It’s not a big deal to me. I just bake it into the trip — and it saves a ton of space.

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Food: Think Practical, Not Pinterest

✔ Buy What You’ll Actually Use

I start by buying snacks and meals we know we’ll need first and pack those away. This helps prevent overbuying and wasted food.

✔ Check the Weather (Again)

Don’t plan elaborate grilling or outdoor meals if the forecast shows cold, rain, or storms. Be realistic when meal planning for your RV trip.

✔ Always Have Backup Meals

I keep a few easy backup meals on hand:

• Something frozen
• Soup
• Sandwiches
• Breakfast-for-dinner options

These simple meals add flexibility without overpacking your fridge or pantry.

✔ Plan for Leftovers

Leftovers mean fewer meals to cook and less food to pack overall — a win-win when trying to stay organized in an RV kitchen.

✔ Eating Out Counts

If you plan to eat out, actually plan for it. Don’t pack full meals and restaurant meals “just in case.”

✔ Grocery Runs Are Okay

If you’re traveling more than 3–4 days and you’re not somewhere remote, plan a grocery stop. Your food will be fresher, and you can adjust as plans change.

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Gear: The Biggest RV Overpacking Trap of All

✔ Keep the Basics On Board

We always keep our essential RV gear in the camper:

• Outdoor kitchen basics
• Camping chairs
• Water hoses
• Essential tools and supplies

These stay onboard because we use them regularly.

✔ Add Seasonal Gear Only When Needed

Seasonal items come along only when the weather requires it:

• Heated hoses in winter
• Cold-weather accessories

Our outdoor shower? Not happening in winter — so it stays home.

✔ Be Honest About How You’ll Use It

If you’re not planning to cook outdoors, don’t lug around bags of charcoal “just in case.” Pack with intention.

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The Bottom Line: Less Stuff, Better RV Trips

Overpacking usually comes from wanting to be prepared — and that’s not a bad thing. But carrying less:

• Makes setup and breakdown easier
• Keeps your RV organized
• Reduces stress on travel days

You don’t need everything. You just need what works for this trip.

And if a recovering overpacker like me can do it — so can you.