Some of my Favorite Things
I have limited in room in my RV, so the stuff I bring along needs to really earn its storage space. While I may shed items of clothing, books or other gear along the way, I can confidently say, these few items are ones that come along with me on all of my RV journeys.
- Luci Lux. I originally bought this solar light to be part of my earthquake emergency kit, but it has quickly become one of the most-used items in my van. This little blow-up solar light sits in my window charging all day and when it gets dark, I blow it up and it gives off enough light to light up my whole van for hours of reading or writing. It’s great for off-grid as it saves me from using battery power.
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2. Folding Food Storage Containers. When I cook in my RV, I like to make enough food for leftovers. These collapsable BPA-free food storage containers are perfect for packing food into my small fridge and they fold up small when not in use. My only complaint: I wish they nested inside one another.
3. Revere Ware mini Kettle. I love hot drinks, whether it’s my coffee in the morning or herbal tea on a chilly afternoon. On my first long adventure, I only had my quart sauce pan to heat water, not thinking I would need more than that. But everyday when I went to heat up water, I remembered having a small kettle that I used on tent camping trips when I was younger. As soon as I got home, I searched and found this cute baby on Ebay. I use it everyday.
4. Hydro Flask Mug. Speaking of coffee, I love getting up in the morning, putting the water on to boil, feeding Olive and preparing my pour over coffee. This is the mug that is perfect for that purpose. My little plastic pour over cone fits perfectly and the lid keeps my coffee nice and warm, even on frosty days.
5. Moleskin Journal. The first thing I do after I make my coffee is crawl back under the covers and write a bit in my journal. Lined Moleskin journals are my go-to. I like to switch out colors each time I fill one. I’ve used many different types and brands of notebooks and journals over the years and Moleskin continues to be my favorite. I prefer the hardcover and lined editions.
6. WizGear Magnetic Mount. When I’m driving, I like to have my phone at my fingertips for navigation, listening to podcasts and music or talking to family and friends. It got this WizGear phone holder on Prime Day a few years ago and it’s worked perfectly. I like that the hold is sturdy, yet easy to remove with one hand. It has a low profile, the magnet fits right inside my phone case and the base is securely attached to my dashboard.
7. Dog Seatbelt. My best friend and sidekick Olive likes to sit on the passenger seat when we’re traveling. I’ve built a platform on the seat to give her a more stable, roomy place to lounge while I’m driving. I want her to be comfortable, but I also want her to be safe. This simple dog seatbelt hooks right into her harness. I can relax knowing that if I need to brake suddenly, she won’t be propelled through the windshield.
8. Atlas. Google maps is great, but there’s something to be said for a good old-fashioned paper atlas for really planning where to go. I love this large print spiral bound version. It lays flat and has enough detail, combined with my camping apps to find the best places to visit and overnight.
9. Hydro Flask Wine Glasses. Yes, I do occasionally drink wine at the end of the day and again, it’s Hydro Flask who make my favorite wine glasses. I love these so much I bring them inside when it’s not camping season.
10. Brompton Folding Bike. My final most favorite thing to have with me on the road is my folding Brompton bike. Although it was quite a splurge, bicycling is super important to me and one of my favorite things. It’s my main form of exercise and also is great for running errands or simply checking out the town or campground I’m in. Because of Squeaky’s unique back door entry, a traditional bike rack would not work and I didn’t feel comfortable with a bike on the front. This Brompton is a high quality bike that folds up small enough to fit in my bathroom right next to the toilet. I love it.
