Off-Grid Camping Checklist: Everything You Need to Pack

The difference between a great off-grid trip and a miserable one usually comes down to what you packed before you left. When you are boondocking, there is no campground store, no hookups, and often no cell service to call for help. Everything you need has to be with you when you arrive.

We have refined this checklist over many off-grid trips. I print a fresh copy before every boondocking trip and check items off as they go into the RV. It has prevented more than a few "Oh no, we forgot..." moments.

Water (Your Most Critical Resource)

• Full fresh water tank before departure
• At least 5 extra gallons in portable jugs
• Water filter for the drinking faucet
• Collapsible water container for refills if you find a source
• Portable water key (for filling at public campground spigots on the way)

Power

• Fully charged house batteries (check voltage before leaving)
• Solar panels and charge controller (if equipped)
• Portable solar panel as backup
• Generator with at least 5 gallons of fuel (check if generator use is allowed at your destination)
• Portable power station for charging devices
• LED lanterns and flashlights with fresh batteries
• USB cables and chargers for all devices

Food and Kitchen

• Pre-planned meals for the entire trip plus one extra day
• Non-perishable snacks (trail mix, granola bars, crackers)
• Coffee or tea (do not forget this one)
• Camp stove with extra propane canisters
• Cooler with ice if your fridge needs supplementing
• Reusable plates, cups, and utensils (minimize disposables to reduce trash)
• Biodegradable dish soap and a wash basin
• Trash bags (pack out everything)

Safety and Navigation

• Offline maps downloaded on phone (Google Maps or Gaia GPS)
• Paper map of the area as backup
• First aid kit with any personal medications
• Bear spray (if in bear country)
• Fire extinguisher (check that it is charged)
• Emergency roadside kit: jumper cables, tire repair, flares
• Multi-tool or basic tool kit
• Whistle for emergency signaling
• Two-way radios if camping with others

Sanitation

• Portable waste bags or WAG bags (for areas without toilet facilities)
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer
• Trowel for cat holes (if backcountry rules require it)
• Composting toilet supplies (if equipped)
• Gray water containment plan (some areas prohibit dumping gray water on the ground)
• Biodegradable soap for all washing

Comfort and Campsite

• Leveling blocks for uneven ground
• Outdoor mat or rug for the campsite area
• Camp chairs and a small table
• Shade canopy or awning
• Bug spray and citronella candles
• Extra blankets (desert nights get surprisingly cold)
• Books, games, or entertainment that does not need power
• Dog supplies if traveling with pets: food, water bowl, leash, waste bags

Before You Leave Home

• Check tire pressure including spare
• Test all lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, trailer lights)
• Verify propane tanks are full
• Fill fresh water tank and test pump
• Empty black and gray tanks before departure
• Share your location plan with someone at home
• Check fire restrictions for your destination area