Boondocking is one of our favorite ways to travel. There’s something incredible about waking up surrounded by nature with no crowded campground and no hookups.
But camping off-grid does require a little prep!
After spending time traveling this way, we’ve learned that having the right gear makes all the difference between a stressful trip and a comfortable one.
These are 10 must-have items for RV boondocking that help make off-grid camping much easier.
1. Portable Generator
A generator is one of the most important pieces of equipment when you're boondocking.
Solar power is amazing, but there are times when you need more power…especially if you want to run things like an air conditioner or charge multiple devices.
We recommend the Champion 4500-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Quiet Technology because it runs on both gas and propane and is much quieter than traditional generators.
It’s a great backup power solution when solar alone isn’t enough.
2. Portable Power & Solar Options
When you're boondocking, having a way to generate power without hookups is key to a smooth adventure. Solar is one of the easiest and quietest ways to keep things running while camping off-grid.
One option is a Portable Solar Generator with a 300W Power Station and Foldable 60W Solar Panel. This type of setup is great for charging smaller electronics like phones, cameras, laptops, and other smart devices around camp. It’s compact, easy to use, and the included solar panel allows you to recharge the battery during the day using sunlight.
If you plan to boondock more often, another great option is installing solar that connects directly to your RV’s battery system. This allows you to recharge your RV batteries during the day so you can run lights, water pumps, fans, and other essentials without needing hookups.
The Renogy 200 Watt 12V Monocrystalline RV Solar Panel Kit with Adventurer 30A LCD PWM Charge Controller is a popular option for RV owners. It comes with the solar panels, charge controller, and mounting hardware needed to set up a reliable solar system on your RV.
3. RV Leveling Blocks
When you're camping off-grid, campsites are NEVER perfectly level.
RV leveling blocks allow you to stabilize your RV and adjust the height so you can sleep comfortably and keep appliances working properly.
We use the Camco Fasten RV Leveling Blocks (10 Pack) because they stack easily and are simple to store in the RV.
Trust me…leveling your RV properly makes a huge difference in comfort.
4. Extra Water Storage
Water is one of the biggest limitations when boondocking. Having extra water storage can extend your stay!
The Reliance Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Water Container is a simple and reliable way to carry extra water for your campsite.
We try to live as low-toxic as possible, but sometimes plastic containers are simply practical when traveling. You can always filter your water through the Berkey filter system once you’re back at camp.
5. Portable Waste Tank
This is the part of RV life no one really talks about… but as Cousin Eddie would say, “💩 is full!” If you're staying in one location for several days, a portable waste tank can save you from having to move your RV just to empty your tanks.
The Camco Rhino 36-Gallon RV Portable Waste Holding Tote Tank allows you to transport grey or black water to a dump station while leaving your RV set up.
For longer stays, this can be a huge convenience.
6. RV Outdoor Awning Mat
An outdoor mat might seem like a small thing, but it makes a big difference when you're living outside your RV…especially when traveling with kids and a dog. And if you're boondocking, you're much more likely to be parked on dirt.
The Camco Durable Reversible RV Camper Awning Mat (7' x 15') creates a comfortable space right outside the camper where the kids can sit, play, or snack without getting covered in sand or dirt.
It also helps keep sand, mud, and debris from getting tracked inside the camper, which is huge when little feet (and paws) are constantly going in and out.
It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and perfect for campsites, beaches, or anywhere you're setting up your outdoor RV space.
7. Water Filtration System
We love our Berkey! DO NOT TRUST WATER from just anywhere! Quality can vary greatly depending on where you're camping.
A good water filtration system helps remove contaminants and keeps your body happy!
We use the Berkey Travel Water Filter System when camping off-grid and when we are hooked up.
8. Camp Games for Off-Grid Evenings
One of the best parts of boondocking is slowing down and spending more time together. When the sun goes down or you're relaxing at camp, having a few simple games can make the evening even more fun.
Our kids absolutely love Throw Throw Burrito. It’s a hilarious mix of a card game and dodgeball where players collect matching cards until suddenly it’s time for a burrito battle. The soft foam burritos make it safe, chaotic, and incredibly fun around the campsite. My kids love whipping these things at each other.
👉 Check Throw Throw Burrito on Amazon
Another classic we always pack is UNO, our favorite version is UNO NO MERCY! This game truly has no mercy!
9. Rechargeable Lanterns or Headlamps
Headlamps scream adventure!! The kids have these things on every night!
Headlamps are a great safety feature when kids are running around the campground after dark, and the kids loved having their own little light for nighttime adventures.
Rechargeable lanterns make it easier to cook outside, walk around camp at night, or explore after sunset without draining your RV battery.
The solar Camping Lantern 6000mAh 2 Pack, USB Rechargeable Camping Light & Power Supply a popular option that provides bright, long-lasting light.
10. Comfortable Camp Chairs + Sunglasses
Oh how I love this chair after a long day of hiking!
This chair is big and comfy! What I loved about it is my kids could squeeze in and sit with me!
The Guide Gear Club Camping Chair, Oversized is a great option because it’s comfortable! Added the sunglasses on here because driving into that sunset without them is a problem! So don’t forget your sunglasses!
Final Thoughts
Boondocking is addicting! Once you start, you won’t want to stop! With the right gear, you can comfortably camp off-grid and enjoy nature without relying on crowded campgrounds.
Having a combination of solar power, water storage, and a few simple camping essentials can make your off-grid trips incredible!
If you're just getting started with RV boondocking, these items are a great place to begin.
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