Get Packing with our Vanlife Checklist.
Plus, Key items you probably need to restock.
We made this guide as a resource to help you pack for your next upcoming adventure. In this guide, you’ll find a ton of items you’ll need while on the road and at camp. Obviously, every trip is different, so tweak this list as necessary to fit your individual needs.
We’ve included suggested products in nearly every category to help when it comes time to make those purchases.
Bookmark this page for easy referencing in the future!
If there is a product I’m missing, send me a message! My contact info is at the bottom of this page.
Common Consumable Items to Resupply
- Bug Spray
- Sunscreen
- Hand Sanitizer
- Matches
- Dish Soap
- Toilet Paper
- Wet Wipes
- Batteries
- Paper Towels
- Lint Roller (if pets are joining)
- Trash Bags | Small or Large
Out at Camp
- Citronella Candle
- LED Lighting
- Paracord
- Bear Barrel
- Bear Spray
- Firewood (if there isn’t a burn ban)
- Axe
- Camp Chairs
- Table
- Utility Knife
Bonus:
- Roller Cam for Paracord
Items to Keep in the Van Full-Time
- Headlamp
- Multi-Tool
- Cash (for campsite envelope drops)
- Duct Tape
- Quick Dry Towel
- Pens
- Documentation (License, Registration, Insurance)
Food & Beverage
- Breakfast Meals (x the number of days)
- Lunch Meals (x the number of days)
- Dinner Meals (x the number of days)
- Treats
- Packable Snacks
- Coffee
- Spices
- Water
- Drinks
- Beer, Wine, Spirits (when you’re done driving for the day)
Clothing
- Socks
- Underwear
- Pants/Shorts
- Shirts
- Shoes
- Sandals
- Hats
- Light Jacket / Hoodie (Temps can drop at night)
- Sunglasses
- Reading Glasses
Cold Weather:
- Beanie
- Jacket
- Rain Jacket
- Gloves
- Insulated Pants
- Long Underwear
- Warm Socks
Toiletries
- Deodorant
- Travel Toothpaste
- Lip Balm
- Contact Lenses / Solution
- Feminine Hygiene
- Medications
Emergency Items
- First Aid Kit
- Fire Extinguisher
- Emergency Blanket
- Jumper Cabels
- Tire Repair
- Medications
- Life Straw
- Extra Fuel
- Extra Water
Items to Bring If They’re Not Equipped In Your Van
- Camp Stove
- Cooler
- Power Bank
- Water Jug
- Portable Speaker
- Sleeping Bag
- Sleeping Pad
- Portable Shower
Pets
- Bowls
- Bed
- Leash
- Food
- Toys
- Dog Bags
- Treats
Nice to Have
- Notebook
- Cards
- Books
- Hammock
- Musical Instruments
- Board Games
Bug Spray
Ensure your comfort and protection from insects with effective bug spray. It's an essential item to keep in your van, especially during summer travels or in wooded areas.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with high-quality sunscreen. A must-have for any outdoor adventure, sunscreen helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Hand Sanitizer
Maintain hygiene on the go with hand sanitizer. It's a convenient solution for cleaning your hands when water and soap aren't readily available.
Matches
Always have matches on hand for lighting campfires, stoves, or candles. They're a reliable backup if other ignition sources fail.
Dish Soap
Keep your van's kitchenware clean with biodegradable dish soap. It's gentle on the environment and effective in cutting through grease and grime.
Toilet paper
Stock up on toilet paper for those off-grid adventures. Compact, eco-friendly options are best suited for vanlife. Be sure that it's compatible with your toilet.
Wet Wipes
Wet wipes are versatile for quick clean-ups and maintaining personal hygiene. They're especially handy when water is scarce.
Batteries
Don't get caught without power. Bring extra batteries for flashlights, headlamps, and other electronic devices.
Travel Toothpaste
Opt for travel-sized tubes or toothpaste tablets that are easy to pack and use. They help keep your teeth clean and fresh, ensuring good oral health during your adventures.
Lip Balm
Lip balm is crucial for protecting your lips from the elements, especially in varying climates. Choose a balm with SPF for added protection from the sun.
Paper Towel
Paper towels are an essential item for any vanlife journey. They're versatile for cleaning up spills, drying dishes, or handling quick clean-ups.
Trash Bags
Depending on the size of your trash can you may want to opt for the smaller size
Get out there and use the items on this vanlife checklist!
There’s no better way to find out what you actually need than to get out there and test it for yourself!
P.S.
I’ve had my fair share of experience using all these products (bug spray is my summer cologne) but I’m not an expert in the field of bug spray, or biodegradable soaps, sunscreens, travel toothpaste, etc. so if there is a better product I should be recommending, send me a message! I’d like this guide to be as useful to the reader as possible.
I should also note that I’m biased toward the products of businesses who have been a vendor at our expos in the past.
P.P.S.
These are just suggestions to products that will work for your needs. Individual needs may vary. We’re not responsible for any unfortunate circumstances that are a result of the products listed in this guide.
