When it comes to packing and storing your clothing, RV closet space comes with unique challenges and considerations. Those start with space and weight limitations. In addition, if you’ll be living in your RV for months or years, you’ll need to pack for different seasons and weather conditions. You’ll want to be prepared when it’s steamy hot, mild, chilly, and downright cold.
There’s only so much storage available in an RV. And in addition to clothing, you will need to pack food, gear, and other essentials. You’ll also want to ensure your clothing and other gear are distributed evenly (by weight) to avoid overloading any single axle.
A minimalist wardrobe that focuses on essentials (with maybe just a piece or two that’s more luxurious) fits into RV living well. For instance, a capsule wardrobe is specifically put together so every piece is versatile enough to fit into several different outfits. In general, you’ll want to choose timeless items, focusing on quality over quantity. That said, while you may be limited to the amount of clothing that fits into your RV closet, that doesn’t mean you have to give up your personal style and wear only basics.
Key Characteristics of a Capsule Wardrobe for Your RV Closet
Most capsule wardrobes include a limited number of essential items, often between 30 and 50. However, this doesn’t include underwear or sleepwear. It also may not include workout or special occasion outfits. Pick clothing that coordinates well with a cohesive color palette and style, so you’ll have multiple outfits to choose from, even with a smaller RV closet.
If you aren’t living in your RV year-round, you may be able to have separate wardrobes for each season. If you are a full-time RVer, aim for pieces you can wear year-round. Either way, you’ll need different outfits that will work for changing weather conditions.
Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe for Your RV Closet
The biggest benefit of a capsule wardrobe for your RV closet is that it saves space. Other benefits include:
- Simplified decision making—which reduces the time and stress of choosing what to wear each day.
- Greater sustainability—as there’s less consumption and waste for a smaller wardrobe.
- Money savings—you won’t need to buy as much clothing, especially if you choose high-quality items that can be worn season after season and year after year.
- Style clarity—you’ll wear the clothing you truly love, as that’s all that’s found in your RV closet.
Creating Your Full-Time RV Packing List
If you haven’t begun pairing down your wardrobe to fit into your RV, now is the time to start. Again, you’ll want to focus on quality, durable, versatile, and comfortable pieces that can be layered and adapted to the climates and activities you’ll be exposed to. Here’s a quick checklist of essential items for your full-time RV packing list that provide warmth, practicality, and occasional outings:
- 4 to 6 long and short-sleeved T-shirts—choose either neutral or coordinated colors that work well with the rest of your wardrobe.
- 3 to 4 tank tops are a useful base layer when the weather cools or as a standalone top when it gets warmer.
- 3 to 6 sweatshirts, hoodies, or sweaters (depending on your personal style and temperature), which can be added over a T-shirt or tank on cooler evenings or as a mid-layer for cold days
- 2 to 3 pairs of jeans, as they’re so versatile and can be worn multiple times between washes
- 2 to 3 pairs of leggings or joggers, so you have some clothing that’s comfortable and easy to move in
- 2 to 4 pairs of shorts, depending on the anticipated climate and the types of outdoor activities you enjoy
- 1 to 2 pairs of hiking or cargo pants if you enjoy getting outdoors.
- 1 pair of sneakers for everyday wear and walks.
- 1 pair of waterproof boots for rainy or snowy weather and more rugged outdoor activities.
- 1 pair of sandals for warm weather and for showering if you’ll be rinsing off outdoors or making use of campground facilities.
These are just starting numbers. You will want to adjust based on your lifestyle, location, and space limitations.
In addition, you’ll need specialty clothing in your RV closet, such as:
- A waterproof jacket that’s lightweight and easy to pack
- An insulated jacket for colder weather
- A vest as an extra layer to keep you warm
- Hats, including a sun hat for sunny days and a warm beanie for when the temperatures drop
- Gloves and scarves for added warmth and style
- Swimwear for beach days, campgrounds with pools, or hot tubs
- Thermal underwear for a warm base layer
- A special occasion outfit that can be dressed up or down for social engagements.
As you put your full-time RV packing list together, consider items that serve more than one purpose—such as a dress that can be worn as a coverup or a shirt that pairs well with jeans, shorts, and leggings. What’s most important when it comes to an all-season RV closet is choosing clothing that can be layered to adapt to any changing weather or climate.
You also want to choose clothing that feels comfortable and that makes you feel confident. Choosing clothing that’s easy to launder and able to stand up to numerous washes is also a good idea, as you’ll wear each item more often than you might with a roomier closet.
Even with a minimalist wardrobe in your RV closet, you can look and feel confident and comfortable throughout the changing seasons.
