Before buying a new tent trailer, make sure you have the right type of vehicle. A car, van or SUV with a trailer hitch and a gross vehicle towing rating higher than the weight of the trailer is essential. Be sure to install hook-ups for the lights so you can operate the brake lights and turn signals on your trailer from inside your vehicle. Also check to make sure your towing vehicle is in good mechanical condition.
If you plan to hook your tent trailer up to the campground's utilities, you'll need several items to do so. A length of hose will supply water to your trailer's sink, while a heavy-duty extension cord will provide power for the lights and accessories. You'll need to bring your own propane if you wish to use the gas for a stove or generator.
To make your tent trailer more comfortable, bring along a fresh supply of linens. This should include bedsheets, pillows, pillow cases, blankets, hand towels, bath towels, place mats, napkins, tablecloths and washcloths. Having a few multipurpose towels and rags in the trailer is also a good idea for unexpected spills or cleaning needs.
If your tent trailer has an electric refrigerator, you can bring many items that otherwise might not be practical in a campsite. These include eggs, milk, butter and fresh meat or fish for grilling. Whether or not you have a refrigerator, stock your trailer with nutritious dry goods like granola, fresh fruit, crackers, cookies and canned vegetables.
Most tent trailers include space for storing clothes. Make sure every camper has ample clothes, along with plenty of clean underwear and a second pair of shoes or hiking boots. Along with clothes, pack items for spending time outdoors including insect repellent, suntan lotion, sunglasses and hats. Be sure to account for the climate and bring warm clothes to wear at night, when temperatures can drop even in the summer.
Camping with a tent trailer doesn't remove the need for a few basic camp supplies. If your trailer doesn't have a built-in stove, bring along a propane or charcoal grill, or a metal grate for grilling over an open fire. You may also want to bring your own firewood if you're camping in an area where it is illegal to harvest wood or where firewood supplies are not commercially available at a camp store.
In addition, bring necessary camp supplies like soap and toothbrushes, toothpaste, a first aid kit, plates and utensils, a can opener, a pocket knife or multi-use camping tool and a cell phone or radio for staying in touch with the rest of the world.
Camping is all about enjoying the outdoors and having fun, so don't forget recreation items. Bring whatever you and your camping group enjoy, such as fishing poles, board games, art supplies, sporting equipment or larger items like bicycles, kayaks and canoes.
