There’s plenty of essentials to pack in your RV before heading off on your next adventure. Food, water, extra socks—all vital things to pack.
But the one essential thing you may not think about, because ‘knock on wood’ you’ll never need it, is a roadside emergency kit.
And that’s more than just a basic first aid kit from the drug store because there’s a lot of stuff that goes into a proper RV kit that you might not even think about until you actually need it.
For The RV Itself
If your rig breaks down on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere, you’re going to want certain items that will (hopefully) get you back on the road. Think of this as the first aid kit for your RV.
1. Spare Tire
Your rig should have a spare tire stashed away on the underside. Prior to leaving on your trip, make sure the spare is in good condition.
2. Tire Repair Kit/Portable Air Compressor
If you’ve run over a nail and just have a slow leak, a tire repair kit can solve the problem in the short term. The air compressor can at least get your tire pressure up to the right level to drive on that tire.
3. Jumper Cables/Battery Charger
If you’ve got a set for your regular vehicle, you should also have a set for your RV. Sometimes the battery just needs a little boost and having cables or a quick-charger can at least get you to a repair shop.
4. Hazard Triangles/Flares
The last thing you need when your rig is out of commission is another vehicle coming down the road and rear ending you because they didn’t see you until it’s too late. Putting triangles or flares out will warn other drivers to give you a wide berth.
5. Spare Fuel Canisters
Make sure you’ve got at least one spare jerry can in case you need to get more fuel, or you’re about to hit a stretch of highway without a gas station for hours.
The Right Tools
Having the right tools for the job is important, especially if you’re in an emergency situation. Here’s some tools for the kit.
6. Tool Kit
Get a decent tool kit with all the necessary items and leave it in the RV. Don’t take tools from the RV kit, because you might forget to put it back and won’t have it when you need it.
Also, make sure you’ve got electrical tape and duct tape there as well.
7. Tow Straps
If you wind up stuck in a ditch, tow straps can help someone else pull you out, or if there’s a sturdy tree nearby, pull yourself out.
8. Hand Axe
You never know when you’ll need to gather some wood. Have a small axe for gathering branches and other small pieces.
9. Portable Generator
You might find yourself without power if your RV battery dies, so make sure you’ve got a portable generator so you’re not stuck in the dark. Also make sure it’s working before you leave.
For The People
There’s also the humans and animals on board the RV to take into consideration, and you want to make sure you’ve got enough supplies to last at least 72 hours.
10. Non-Perishable Food and Water
Make sure you’ve got some food that doesn’t require much more than boiling water to make. Ramen noodles, granola bars, and other items will get you through in the short term. You also want to make sure to have a few litres of clean drinking water on hand.
As a further precaution, get water purification tablets or a LifeStraw water filter in case you need to consume water from the wilderness.
11. Batteries
Whether it’s double As or a portable charger for your phone, make sure you’ve got batteries for your necessary electronics.
12. First Aid Kit
Spend the money and get a first aid kit that includes bandages, tensor wraps, disinfectant wipes, scissors, acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Keep a small compass, matches, and a lighter there as well.
13. Matches
Sometimes, the simplest things get overlooked, but it’s always handy to have matches. If you’re going somewhere wet and rainy, consider getting waterproof matches. You could also make your own waterproof matches by dipping the matchheads in hot candle wax.
14. Firestarter
When the matches won’t work, you’ll be grateful you brought this.
15. Fire Extinguisher
It’s not only important to be able to start a fire, but to also put it out as well. A fire extinguisher is especially important if you do a lot of cooking in your RV.
16. Flashlights
Don’t get caught in the dark. You can have a battery-powered flashlight, but since batteries tend to die, look at getting a hand crank flashlight that just needs you to power it.
17. Compass
A compass can be a lifesaver if you ever get lost and your phone’s battery is dead or you’re out of service range. Another precaution is bringing a paper map just in case, but just make sure it’s protected and kept dry.
The Bottom Line
The folks at Vernon Recreational Products can help you find the right rig for your needs, and can help you put together an emergency roadside kit for your peace of mind. Call 1-833-293-3402 to find out how we can help.
