RV Lifestyle

6 RV Travel Tips to Prep for the Long Weekend (Camping, Packing & Safety Guide)

Family Enjoying Camping with Truck Camper on a Long Weekend in Canada

A long weekend is the perfect time to chase adventure—but whether you’re heading to a familiar campground or discovering somewhere new, preparation makes all the difference.

Before you hit the road, check out these six must-know RV tips to help you pack smart, avoid common headaches, and make the most of every minute outdoors.

1. Trick for Finding the Perfect Campsite (Even Last-Minute)

Campground fully booked? It happens. Try these smart alternatives:

Harvest Hosts – Stay overnight at wineries, farms, and other scenic small businesses. It's a unique and affordable way to camp off-grid while supporting local.

Recreation Sites & Crown Land – Many lesser-known camping spots across Canada offer beautiful views with fewer crowds.

Boondocking – Go completely off-grid (just be sure to pack water, power backups, and follow Leave No Trace principles).

Just like campgrounds, RV rentals can book up fast on long weekends, so secure your unit early to avoid missing out.

2. Prep-and-Go Meals: More Fun, Less Cleanup

Whether you’re flying in or picking up your RV locally, simple meal prep means less time cooking—and more time enjoying Canada’s great outdoors.

A little prep means more time for hiking, campfires, and soaking up your long weekend adventure.

Other quick prep ideas:
Other quick prep ideas:
  • Pack grab-and-go snacks like trail mix, fruit, and sandwich fixings for hikes and travel days.
  • Foil-pack meals with marinated meat and veggies.
  • At the campsite, wraps, burritos, and foil-pack meals are quick to make, cook easily over the fire, and don’t leave a mess.
  • For breakfast, freeze your favourite smoothie blend in muffin tins—just thaw and sip. Pre-cooked pasta or chili is another easy reheat-and-eat option.

3. Maximize Fridge Space & Pack Like a Pro

 RV fridges may be compact, but with a little organization, you’ll fit everything you need. Use clear plastic bins to group items—like produce, dairy, sauces—and stack them to save space and prevent spills.

Pro tip: Add a cooler for drinks and snacks to reduce door opening, helping your fridge stay colder longer.

4. Campsite Comfort: Beat Bugs & the Weather

Mosquitoes, flies, and surprise weather can turn a great spot into a miserable one—unless you’re ready.

Citronella tea lights – A compact alternative to larger lanterns.

Bug spray or mosquito wipes are easy to pack or buy locally.

Don’t forget long sleeves, sunscreen, and extra layers—weather can change fast, especially in the mountains.

5. Keep Kids (and Adults) Entertained on the Drive

Long drives can test anyone’s patience, but a little creativity goes a long way.

Here are some ideas:
Here are some ideas:
  • Load up audiobooks or road trip playlists
  • Print scavenger hunts or car bingo cards
  • Pack quiet-time activities like coloring books or card games
  • Bonus: Leave space for spontaneous stops—you never know when you’ll find a roadside ice cream stand or scenic viewpoint worth the detour.

6. Be Ready for the Unexpected

Even with a fully serviced rental RV, it’s smart to pack a few lightweight essentials—just in case. These are things you can likely bring from home or grab at a local dollar store when you arrive.

Small flashlight or headlamp – great for late-night campsite visits or power outages

Power bank – to keep phones and small devices charged off-grid

Reusable water bottle – Always handy at the campsite or on day hikes

Pro tip: If you booked our Convenience Kit, your RV will already include a small flashlight, a basic first aid kit, cookware, bedding, and more—so you're covered for the essentials. Just pack your personal items, and you’re adventure-ready!

Before You Go:

Stop by your local Fraserway RV Parts & Camping Store or visit us online to gear up with must-have camping gear, emergency tools, and space-saving solutions for your long weekend.

Frequently asked questions

What should I pack for an RV rental trip on a long weekend?

Pack light, focusing on personal essentials like clothing, toiletries, bug spray, sunscreen, a power bank, and snacks. If you’ve booked our convenience kit, your rental will include basics like bedding, cookware, a small flashlight, and a first aid kit—so you won’t need to bring those from home.

Do I need to bring camping gear with my RV rental?

If you book our optional Convenience Kit, it includes bedding, towels, kitchen supplies, a camping chair, and even an axe for your campfire—all in one package. We also offer a kitchen-only kit if you prefer to bring your own bedding.

What if I can’t find a campground for the long weekend?

If popular parks are fully booked online, don’t give up—it’s worth giving RV Parks a call directly. You might be surprised what’s available with a quick phone call. Also, consider driving just a bit further out of busy regions to find quieter, more scenic spots. For a truly unique overnight experience, check out Harvest Hosts — a network of wineries, farms, and local attractions that welcome self-contained RVs for a night.