Get your day venture packing list just right by imagining what could go wrong
PACKING IS AN ART FORM.
We feel comfortable saying so because artists—so we hear— suffer for their work. And any camper who’s tailored their perfect packing list probably has a horror story to tell about learning a lesson the hard way. Overpacking? Newbie mistake. Underpacking? It happens. But ultimately, we all want to stuff our sacks just right. (Let’s call that achievement goldilocks.) Now, getting that nice goldilocks packing job done looks different for everyone, but one of the nice things about RVing is that you don’t have to carry everything on your back (unless you want to). If you plan on
sleeping in your queen-sized bed or your rooftop camper, you don’t have to hump a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping roll. Oftentimes, as you head out from your RV campsite, you’re headed off on a hike or day adventure. But even then, there are some emergency essentials you don’t want to leave camp without. (And no, we’re not going to say extra food and extra water— because you know that, right?) That way, no matter what happens out there, you’re goldilocks.
ALWAYS PREPARED IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA Adventure Medical Kits Mountain
Series Backpacker
This harkens back to that old military principle of planning for the worst. An injury is about the worst thing that can happen on a hike. What we love about The Backpacker is that it’s organized and labeled by injury. Which means you can act fast. $47 on REI.com
A ‘LIL NONLETHAL PROTECTION Byrna EP Launcher
Being alone in the great outdoors is awesome, but at times it can be threatening. Sometimes you just don’t wanna be empty-handed. Packing a Byrna EP launcher gives you a nonlethal option (New York and California compliant) if you need it. $300 on Byrna.com
YOUR NEVER-LOST DEVICE Garmin GPSMAP 66s
Look, we know you don’t get lost. (Us either.) Your navigation skills are legendary. Your terrain association is flawless. You read the stars in daylight. But even so, having a handheld GPS is a huge resource, and the Garmin GPSMAP 66s is one of the best. $413 on Amazon.com
Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Socks IF YOU BRING EXTRA ANYTHING, BRING THIS
Always, always, always have extra socks on standby. Keeping your feet dry is one of the most important things you can do— and Spring loves to dampen our soles. These Darn Tough socks are lightweight, breathe naturally, and vent moisture. $24 on REI.com
SOL Emergency Bivvy WORST-CASE SCENARIOS
You might have picked up on the theme of readiness here. But in the event you can’t make it back to your RV, the SOL emergency bivvy will shelter you through the night. It’s small and easy-to-pack, so you’ll barely notice it—unless you need it. $19 on REI.com
Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket ‘CAUSE IT’S GONNA RAIN
Having a waterproof jacket on hand is almost never a bad idea. Especially in Spring and all of its April showers The Arc’teryx Beta LT is one of the pricier ones (less expensive brands will do just fine), but we love its comfort, versatility, and breathability. $450 on REI.com
