21 Pop-Up Camper Must Haves for the Perfect Trip

If you’re just getting started camping in our pop up tent trailer, we’ve rounded up a list of essential items you’ll need.

pop up camper in a scenic campsite

Remember your first camping trip when you forgot that one crucial item that would have made everything easier? We’ve all been there. Pop-up camping combines the adventure of tent camping with the comforts of RV life, but getting your essentials right can make or break your experience.

From wheel chocks to portable fans, the right gear transforms your pop-up from a simple shelter into a cozy home away from home. Whether you’re a seasoned camper upgrading to a pop-up or a complete novice, this comprehensive essentials list for pop up camping covers everything you need for a comfortable and stress-free camping adventure.

Wheel Chocks

wheel chocks on tires

When camping with a pop-up camper, wheel chocks like these ones are essential for keeping your unit stable and safe. Place them snugly against the tires to prevent any unwanted movement, especially on sloped surfaces. Most campers opt for heavy-duty plastic or rubber chocks – they’re lightweight yet strong enough for most pop-ups.

Leveling Blocks

Getting your pop-up camper perfectly level isn’t just about comfort – it’s key for your appliances to work right. Most campers rely on sturdy leveling blocks placed under the wheels. For single-axle pop-ups, a BAL leveler makes quick work of adjustments. Don’t forget a small level or stick-on levels to check your setup once parked.

Surge Protector

An electrical surge protector is a must-have item for any pop-up camper. Hook it up between the campground’s power source and your camper to shield your electrical system from damaging spikes. Good ones come with indicator lights to show proper grounding and reverse polarity issues that could harm your appliances. It’s smart to pack testing tools to check outlet function before connecting.

Portable Toilet

Image Credits: Deposit Photos

A portable toilet makes life much easier when camping in a pop-up, especially for nighttime bathroom trips. Get one with a separate waste tank for simple emptying, and consider dual-flush models to manage water better. Keep tanks clean by using special camper toilet paper and tank treatments – they break down waste while controlling smells. Just remember to pack nitrile gloves for emptying tasks.

To keep things cleaner, you can use your portable toilet for #1 only, and then walk to the campground bathrooms when #2 calls.

Camco Premium Portable Travel Toilet

The Camco Portable Toilet is the perfect addition to your camping essentials list. Its compact design includes a 5.3-gallon detachable holding tank, a 2.5-gallon flush tank, and a reliable bellow-type flush for efficient cleaning.

Outdoor Shower

Sea to Summit solar shower

A portable outdoor shower like this one from Sea to Summit brings welcome comfort to your adventures. Many campers choose solar shower bags that heat up naturally during the day, while others opt for propane-powered units with adjustable temperature controls. Set up a privacy tent and non-slip mat for safe footing. Remember to use biodegradable soap and point drainage away from your campsite.

Camp Stove or Outdoor Grill

bright orange camp stove in a campsite

A good two-burner propane stove makes camping essentials for beginners simple and fun. Many campers pack a Coleman stove with backup fuel canisters for reliable meal prep. Cast iron cookware works great on these stoves – bring a skillet and Dutch oven for versatile cooking options. When using propane appliances, always cook in well-ventilated areas and check connections before lighting.

Outdoor Table & Chairs

cooking outside a campervan

A folding table like this roll-top table from REI paired with comfortable camping chairs makes your camping checklists more relaxing at your pop-up site. Look for aluminum tables that pack flat – they’re light enough to move but strong enough for family dinners. Weather-resistant chairs with cup holders and armrests offer comfort after long days outdoors. Keep furniture clean and dry between trips to prevent rust and mildew.

Turkish Towels

turkish towel draped over a camp chair

Turkish towels save precious space in your pop-up and dry fast between uses. We like these WAY better than microfiber as they are more absorbant, and feel better on the skin. Keep them fresh by hanging them outside your camper during the day, and store them in mesh bags to prevent musty smells. Pack old towels too – they’re perfect for wiping down wet canvas before closing up your pop-up.

Turkish Towels

I never knew a towel could be so perfect until I tried Turkish towels, recommended by my friend Melody of Saving to Sail. Many sailors use these incredibly soft towels, which are also lightweight, portable and quick-drying.

I use to think microfiber was the best type of travel towel, but now I’m completely sold on Turkish towels.

While they are more expensive than traditional towels, they are worth it! We even use them in our campervan.

Outdoor Mat or Blanket

nemo patio blanket is great for outside a campervan

A weather-resistant outdoor mat keeps dirt and sand from tracking debrit into your camper. Many campers prefer reversible plastic mats that rinse clean with a quick spray, but we love this Nemo Patio Blanket from REI. Keep one by your camper door and another under your sitting area – they protect your feet while adding a homey touch to your site. Roll them up at night to prevent moisture buildup underneath.

Portable Speakers

woman with portable speaker outside
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos

A compact Bluetooth speaker adds ambiance to your camping setup. Look for water-resistant models with at least 12 hours of battery life – they hold up well to outdoor conditions. Keep volume levels moderate since sound carries across campsites. Many campers store their speakers inside at night to protect from moisture. Some choose smaller units that clip to chair backs or awning poles.

Coffee Maker

A portable coffee maker keeps mornings pleasant when in your pop up camper. French presses work well since they need no electricity – just hot water and ground coffee. Pour-over setups with paper filters make clean-up simple, while stovetop percolators give that classic camping coffee taste. Pack a manual grinder to keep beans fresh, and store everything in airtight containers away from moisture.

Water Purifier

Thirsty man drinking water MSN
Image Credit: kalinovsky/DepositPhotos.

A reliable water purifier ranks high on our list for pop up camper accessories. Most campers pick gravity-fed systems that handle 2-4 liters at once – just fill and let gravity do the work. Pump filters work well for smaller amounts, offering quick access to clean water. Keep spare filters handy and backflush regularly to maintain flow rates. Store your purifier in a dry bag between trips to prevent mold growth.

Indoor Organization Solutions

Small plastic bins with labels work perfectly for storing your kitchen items and toiletries in your pop-up. They slide neatly under benches and keep things from shifting during travel. Mesh hanging organizers attach to bunk ends, giving you quick access to flashlights and personal items at night. Command hooks placed strategically let you hang towels and light jackets without damaging walls.

Pop-Up Canopy or Awning

A good pop-up canopy or awning gives you a dry, shady spot outside your camper. Set it up first thing – you’ll want that extra coverage for unpacking and settling in. Most campers tie down all four corners with heavy-duty stakes and guy lines, adding extra weight on the legs during windy weather. Look for models with straight legs and a water-resistant top that won’t pool rain.

Sleeping Bags and Bedding

woman in a car with a sleeping bag
Sleeping bags inside the car

Good sleeping bags like these from REI make or break your camping trip. Pick temperature ratings about 10 degrees lower than expected nighttime lows for wiggle room. Most campers pair bags with soft mattress pads to offset firm pop-up bunks. Zip-together bags work great for couples, while kids often prefer their own individual bags. Store bags loose in mesh sacks between trips to keep the insulation fluffy.

Lighting Solutions

class b camper with string lights
Photo by Manuel Meurisse via Unsplash

Good lighting makes nighttime camping safer and more enjoyable. Most pack LED lanterns or LUCI string lights for their bright output and long battery life. Rechargeable headlamps free up hands for tasks, while battery-powered string lights add a cozy glow to awnings. Keep spare batteries in waterproof containers, and position lights away from tent canvas to prevent fire risks.

First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit belongs in every pop-up camping setup. Pack bandages, gauze, medical tape, and antiseptic wipes as your base. Add burn gel and antibiotic ointment for common mishaps. Most experienced campers include pain relievers, allergy meds, and basic wound care items. Update supplies before each trip, checking expiration dates and restocking used items. Keep your kit in a waterproof container near the camper entrance for quick access.

Portable Fan or Heater

Photo Credit: Deposit Photos

A small portable fan helps manage hot afternoons in your pop-up, while a compact space heater tackles chilly mornings as long as you have a power hookup. Battery-powered fans work great for bunks – they run quietly and clip easily to tent poles. For heating, pick ceramic models with tip-over protection and keep them well away from canvas walls. Run these only when you’re awake and watching them.

Cooking Utensils and Dishware

cooking utensils
Photo y Shelby Cohron via Unsplash

A solid set of camp kitchen tools keeps meal prep simple in your pop-up. Most pack a basic kit with spatulas, wooden spoons, and tongs made from stainless steel. Plastic cutting boards wipe clean easily, while nesting bowls save precious storage space. Many stick to unbreakable plates and cups – melamine works great since it won’t shatter if dropped. Keep everything in a dedicated bin.

Cooler

green van life cooler next to a red van

A good cooler keeps food fresh during your adventures. Hard-sided rotomolded coolers hold ice for 5-7 days, perfect for longer trips. Pack with frozen water bottles at the bottom, then add cold items in layers. Many campers bring two – one for drinks that gets opened often, another for food that stays closed most of the time. Pro tip: pre-chill your cooler with ice the night before loading it up.

Multi-Tool or Basic Tool Kit

A reliable multi-tool with pliers, screwdrivers, and a knife makes quick fixes easy in your pop-up camper. Store your items in a compact, waterproof case that fits near the door – wrenches, socket set, and extra fuses come in handy for common repairs. Many campers attach a magnetic strip inside a cabinet to keep frequently used tools within reach.

Final Thoughts on Pop-Up Camping Essentials

Successful pop-up camping isn’t just about having the right gear – it’s about creating a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable outdoor experience. These essential items form the foundation of countless memorable camping adventures, allowing you to focus on making memories rather than dealing with preventable challenges.

Remember, you don’t need to acquire everything at once. Start with the basics for safety and comfort, then build your camping kit over time as you discover what works best for your camping style. The joy of pop-up camping lies in finding that perfect balance between outdoor adventure and home-like comfort.

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