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Tips and tricks about packing your RV.
What we've learned we could do without.
We'll add things as we think of them.
| Non-essential Items |
Why they are aren't needed |
| Extra Tools |
I know guys - it's hard not to pack the entire shop
into the motor home. I have way more than I need. For example, I have not used
the scroll saw once. I have three tool boxes. One is the plumbing, electrical,
and sheet metal box, one is the hand tool box, and the one I use most is the canvas
bag style tool tote that contains pliers, screwdrivers, knives, and a few misc.
items. I have 1/2", 3/8" and 1/4" socket sets, open and box end
wrenches - us and metric - plus way too much other stuff. Things I had to buy
on the road include a set of hex wrenches (for reinstalling the TV antenna handle).
I do not regret bringing the battery powered drill. After a week of driving, you
need to go around and tighten doors and drawers, etc. Wood glue and wooden matches
are good if a screw loosens and you need to repair it. |
| Too many books |
Books take up room, and they are heavy. We easily have
a couple hundred pounds of paper in the motor home. Many RV parks have book exchanges
for pleasure reading. Bring your favorite few cookbooks and use the internet or
library or bookstore to look up recipes, places of interest for travel, etc. We've
dumped almost all of the manuals that came with computer software and try and
get by with just the help screens if needed. The internet is great for this help
as well. |
| Too many dishes |
We love to entertain and cook, so naturally, we went overboard
with dishes and serving pieces. On top of the quantity, we have Fiesta Ware -
serviceable but heavy stuff. Our oval serving platter and covered serving dish
may soon lose their motor home space. We kept only enough dishes for service for
four. Any more people, and it's paper plate time. |
| Cooking Utensils |
Mary Jane wants me to point out the we have not made one single
angelfood cake since we hit the road. Now there's a large pan that does not stack
well. It's now in the basement of the motor home. I have also had to fight to
keep my red KitchenAid stand mixer on the counter. It won't fit in any kitchen
cupboard and with little counter space it is in peril. |
| Goodbye Sam's Club |
Although it is generally cheaper to buy staples in vast quantities, you had better get used to buying in smaller lots. We've found that there is just not enough room to buy the 24-roll pack of Toilet Tissue, or the 8-roll pack of paper towels. Rely on coupons where you can (see our deals page for coupons you can print and use). Wherever you are, buy the Sunday paper for local coupons and specials. |
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