Dry camping checklist

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Before you leave

Confirm camping permission, access conditions, stay limits, and any required reservations or permits.Check the forecast and current fire restrictions; choose a backup campsite.Download your route, relevant maps, and emergency contact information.Check tire pressures, vehicle limits, and loaded weight according to your equipment manuals.Share your planned route and return time with someone you trust.

Power & equipment

Charge your battery bank and record its starting state of charge.Identify your refrigerator type and how it will run without shore power.Estimate daily electrical use, including overnight loads and inverter losses.Check charging equipment and carry the correct cables and adapters.Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms; check your fire extinguisher.

Water & waste

Fill with potable water within your vehicle’s load limits and carry a separate reserve.Check fresh, gray, and black tank levels; plan an approved dump stop.Pack drinking-water hoses and containers separately from waste-handling equipment.Pack toilet supplies, trash bags, and the equipment your waste system needs.Budget drinking, cooking, washing, showers, and toilet water for the whole trip.

Food & personal gear

Pack food you can prepare with your off-grid setup and keep it at safe temperatures.Bring clothing, bedding, and rain protection suited to the conditions.Carry first-aid supplies, personal medications, and a reliable light.Pack what children and pets need, including their food, water, and supplies.

At camp & before leaving

Inspect the site and exit route before committing your rig; use an appropriate existing surface.Set up, stabilize, and secure the RV according to its manual.Record battery and tank levels and set a clear time or resource limit for leaving.Observe local generator rules; operate portable generators outdoors, away from openings.Secure gear, inspect the site, and remove all trash before departure.

DryCamping.com · https://drycamping.com/dry-camping-checklist/

Make it yours

This is a general planning list. Add your RV’s specific setup and departure steps, equipment instructions, accessibility needs, and any requirements for your destination.

Sources & further reading

Sources checked September 24, 2026. Confirm local rules and your equipment specifications before your trip.