One advantage of roaming with a travel trailer is the money you can save by eating "in." Instead of relying on roadside restaurants, you can prepare your meals in the trailer, using a basic battery of cooking utensils and tools. Find items that can serve double-duty to reduce your need for too much kitchen clutter. For example, a large cup with a handle can serve as a ladle, a mug for coffee, a cup for water or cool beverages and even as a bowl for soup or cereal. If you really want to cut down to the basics, try using sporks or chopsticks for eating your meals.
Using a travel trailer may require that you bring along some gear that would be unnecessary for other kinds of travel. Since a travel trailer serves as a living space, you'll need some tools to keep the space clean. However, you don't need to devote as much room to cleaning supplies as you would in your home. Instead of a full-sized broom, vacuum or mop, save space by using a hand-held vacuum, a small sweeper and dustpan and a heavy-duty sponge. Because the travel trailer is small, it shouldn't be too difficult to keep it clean using these smaller supplies.
Even though a travel trailer seems relatively roomy, compared with living out of a suitcase, reducing your wardrobe will give you extra room for unexpected purchases and general comfort in the trailer. Think like a backpacker and reduce your duds to the essentials. As a rule of thumb, make a list of all the things you think you'll need, and then halve it. Use high-tech, fast-drying fabrics, such as washable silk, micro-fiber or premium nylon. If you select wrinkle-free fabrics, you can cut out the need for an iron. Alternatively, use a wrinkle-release spray, which is still smaller to pack than a full iron and ironing board.
In a travel trailer, you won't have an expansive vanity or bathroom cabinet. Instead of packing full bottles of shampoo, after-shave and other necessities, bring smaller travel-sized bottles of the toiletries you regularly use. Before setting off, measure out how long it takes you to go through a travel-sized bottle of each product. Depending on the length of your trip, take just the appropriate amount of each.
