The Ultimate Boondocking Essentials List for RV Travelers

Gear & Tips for Remote Adventures

🌄 Ready to Ditch the Crowds and Camp Free?

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the sounds of nature with no neighbors in sight and nothing but wide-open space around you, boondocking might be your kind of adventure.

Also known as dry camping, wild camping, or dispersed camping, boondocking is the art of RVing off the grid—without hookups, without fees, and without the noise of crowded campgrounds. But with that freedom comes the need for self-sufficiency.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-have gear, smart tips, and planning tools you need to boondock safely and comfortably. Whether you’re prepping for your first off-grid night or planning a long-term escape, this checklist has you covered.

Power Essentials for Off-Grid Living

Boondocking changes the way you think about power. Without hookups, you rely on your own energy sources — making it essential to plan your solar, battery, and generator setup.

Try This: Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Starter Kit
This beginner-friendly kit includes two 100W solar panels and a 30A charge controller — perfect for powering lights, fans, and small appliances during extended off-grid stays. Easily expandable for more power as your needs grow.

Try This: Westinghouse 2200 Peak Watt Portable Inverter Generator
A compact, fuel-efficient generator that’s surprisingly quiet. Ideal backup power for higher-draw appliances like microwaves or coffee makers, helping keep your boondocking peaceful.

Try This: Victron Energy BMV-712 Smart Battery Monitor
Bluetooth-enabled for real-time battery charge updates on your phone. Avoid surprises and better manage your energy use.

💡 Pro Tip: Use energy-efficient LED bulbs and unplug devices when not in use to stretch your battery life.

Water Storage & Filtration: Stay Hydrated & Safe

Water is a precious commodity when you’re off-grid. Safe storage and reliable filtration are key.

Try This: API Kirk Containers 5 Gallon Samson Stackers (6-Pack, 30 Gallons total)
Durable, BPA-free containers with spigots for easy water dispensing — essential for extended trips where refilling options are limited.

Try This: Waterdrop 40-Cup Large Water Filter Dispenser
Filters out chlorine, PFOA/PFOS, and other contaminants, making your drinking water clean and fresh — a smart choice for any boondocker.

Try This: Camco Tastepure RV Inline Water Filter
Attach this inline filter to your hose to ensure clean water flows into your rig — protecting your health and your plumbing.

💡 Pro Tip: Always carry extra water filters and store water in BPA-free containers away from direct sunlight.

Cooking & Food Storage: Boondocking Made Delicious

You don’t need a full kitchen to make great meals on the road — just the right gear.

Try This: Coleman Triton 2-Burner Propane Stove
Portable, powerful, and equipped with wind guards — this stove lets you cook meals anywhere with ease.

Try This: GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Base Camper Cookset (8-Piece)
Lightweight and durable cookware that covers all the basics, from pots to utensils.

Try This: BougeRV 12 Volt Portable Refrigerator (23 Quart)
Keep your food fresh with this compressor cooler/freezer that runs off your RV power system — a game changer for longer trips.

💡 Pro Tip: Plan simple, low-cook meals to save propane and reduce cleanup time.

Everything You Need for a Self-Sufficient RV Adventure

Sleeping & Navigation: Rest Well and Know Where You Are

A restful night and safe navigation make boondocking truly enjoyable.

Try This: Coleman Brazos 20/30°F Sleeping Bag
Warm and machine washable, this sleeping bag is designed for cool weather camping with no-snag zippers.

Try This: Garmin 7-Inch RV 795 GPS Navigator
Designed for RVers, this GPS includes route planning that accounts for RV size and restrictions.

💡 Pro Tip: Always carry a paper map backup alongside your GPS for safe navigation off-grid.

Toileting & Hygiene Solutions for Remote Camping

When there’s no bathroom nearby, staying clean and odor-free requires smart gear.

Try This: Camco Portable Toilet Bucket with Seat and Lid
Compact, easy to clean, and equipped with liners and a carry handle — perfect for quick and hygienic bathroom breaks.

Try This: Walex Porta-Pak Holding Tank Deodorizer Pods (10-Pack)
Pods that break down waste and paper while neutralizing odors, keeping your black tank fresh between dump visits.

Try This: Pop Up Pod Privacy Tent
A versatile shelter that works as a shower tent, portable toilet stall, or changing room — fast setup and compact packing.

💡 Pro Tip: Use biodegradable toilet paper and deodorize your portable toilet regularly to keep odors at bay.

Safety & Recovery: Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Off-road adventures sometimes require extra help — these tools keep you ready.

Try This: X-BULL Recovery Traction Tracks
Heavy-duty traction mats designed to help you get unstuck from sand, mud, or snow — compact and reusable.

Try This: NOCO Boost GB40 Jump Starter
Portable lithium battery jump starter and power bank for emergency vehicle boosts — essential for peace of mind.

💡 Pro Tip: Practice using recovery gear before you need it, and keep your jump starter fully charged.

Boondocking Etiquette & Leave No Trace Tips

Boondocking thrives on trust and respect for nature. Please help keep it alive by following these guidelines:

• Pack out everything—including trash, gray water, and food waste.
• Don’t camp too close to other boondockers unless invited.
• Avoid staying longer than 14 days unless posted otherwise.
• Don’t dig trenches or build fires where prohibited.
• Keep noise down, generators limited, and lights low at night.

🌎 Reminder: If we don’t protect these places, they won’t stay open for long.

✅ Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Safe, and Savor the Solitude

Boondocking is about more than just saving money—it’s about reconnecting with nature, simplifying your setup, and finding peace away from the crowds. You don’t need to go full off-grid right away. Start with one or two nights near town, test your systems, and build confidence with each trip.

👉 Ready to try boondocking for yourself? Don’t miss our guide to free RV campsites across the U.S.

📝 Want a printable version?
Download our free Boondocking Essentials Checklist to prep smarter, pack lighter, and enjoy peace of mind off-grid.
👉 Click here to download your free checklist

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