Must Haves for RV Life with Kids

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Jessica Baker

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Jessica is currently living and traveling fulltime in her 5th wheel RV with her husband, two kids, and four cats.

Full-time RVing is a dream come true for many travel and camping enthusiasts. The chance to travel and explore our beautiful country, camp every day, and living life on your terms is something to strive for. But, is this dream even possible if you are not a retiree or young digital nomad?

What if you have kids in tow? It 100% is possible! Just like raising kids in a traditional house, RVing with kids can be challenging at times. Luckily there are others that have come before us to figure out the best ways to do RV life with kids.

One of the best ways to make this lifestyle work is to make sure your RV’s interior has space for everyone. Explore options for renovating or upgrading your RV’s interior at Camping World Design Centers today!

Must Haves For RV Life with Kids

But without further adieu, here are our must-have items for RV life with kids.

Bunkroom with a Door

bunkroom-rv-life-with-kids
Image by CampingWorld.com

A bunkroom with a closing door versus a room with a dividing curtain or bunks in the living area gives kids and parents the privacy they need. Kids have a separate place they can call their own, and parents are able to stay up after kids go to sleep without keeping everyone awake.

Parents can even get up before their little sleepy heads and enjoy a hot cup of coffee. There are dozens of RV options with bunkrooms that have a door so when you’re buying an RV, you should have no trouble finding the perfect one for a family adventure!

Blackout Curtains

rv blackout curtains
Image by Unsplash.com

Continuing on the theme of giving your kids a good night’s sleep, blackout curtains will keep them snoozing well into the morning. Blackout curtains are also great for younger kids that go to bed before the sun is down or need to nap during the day. Adequate sleep keeps everyone happy campers!

Sound Machine

Again, helping kids get the sleep they need is so important. Also, giving parents personal time once the kids are in bed is just as important! A sound machine helps keeps kids sleeping when in a small space. Sound machines keep out the noise of other people inside the rig as well as sounds, such as noisy neighbors, outside of the rig.

Outdoor Toys

One of the greatest parts about living the full-time RV lifestyle is the amount of time you and your family will spend outdoors. Having outdoor toys will keep the kids entertained and out of the camper.

Being outside allows the kids to take in the fresh air and get some energy out so everyone is ready to relax once it’s time to come inside. Balls, bats, bikes, and trucks for getting dirty are all great examples of outdoor toys!

Inside Toys

board game
Image by CampingWorld.com

Rainy and chilly days when you’re a full-timer can put a damper on some of the fun of your road trip. If you’re working remotely too, having toys and games to keep everyone entertained and from going stir crazy is a must. Books and legos are great for individual play while board games such as National Parks Monopoly are fun for the entire family.

Travel Toys

travel day toys
Image by CampingWorld.com

Traveling in an RV means a lot of time on the road. Entertaining kids in the truck or motorhome is necessary for keeping the “are we there yet” comments to a minimum.

While putting a tablet in front of them or turning on a DVD is one way to go, providing toys and games will keep screentime to a minimum on travel days. Coloring books, Mad Libs, or small toys for toddlers are all great options.

State Sticker Map

rv state sticker map
Image by CampingWorld.com

While this last item won’t keep anyone sleeping longer or playing, it will make RV life a little more meaningful and fun. A state sticker map helps the kiddos keep track of the cool places you visit as well as teaches them about states and the layout of America. Your kids will be proud of the places they’ve been when displayed for all to see!


Full time RV living can be such a wonderful experience for families. It provides quality time together, an educational experience, and an all-around wonderful way of life. Don’t be scared to get out there and travel the open road with your little ones. Just don’t forget the must-have items to keep everyone happy and healthy!

Do you have any questions or suggestions for living in an RV with kids? Leave a comment below!

Must have items for RV life with kids

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