Essential Supplies for Your Motorhome Adventure

Before you set off on a motorhome trip it always makes sense to make sure you’re properly equipped with essential supplies. This means planning and packing everything you need so that you and your passengers enjoy a smooth and trouble-free trip.

What do I need for my new motorhome?

Whether you're planning a weekend away or an extended holiday in the motorhome you just bought from Wandahome, or are thinking of buying, here’s our guide to the must-have items so you can make the most of your motorhome adventure.

Safety essentials

Safety is always crucial in life and should therefore always come first on any of your motorhome trips. To make sure that you’re well-prepared for the unexpected, it’s important to carry safety equipment.

• First aid kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is absolutely essential for handling minor injuries which may be sustained. The kit should include items such as plasters (including waterproof), bandages and adhesive tape, small scissors, antiseptic (bottled or wipes), pain relief, cold and flu relief, tweezers and an aluminium blanket (for body heat in emergency situations).
• Fire extinguisher: Cooking meals or snacks inside or just outside your motorhome carries a fire risk. Having a fire extinguisher onboard is crucial – and you should ensure it is very easily accessible. A fire blanket is also important.
• Warning triangle: In the event of a breakdown or accident, a warning triangle you can position for other road users to see will help keep you visible and safe. Similarly, taking a high-visibility vest for yourself as the driver plus one for each passenger is a smart move.
• Carbon monoxide / smoke detectors: If your motorhome has gas-powered appliances, installing detectors for carbon monoxide and smoke are critical to alert you to any leaks or dangers.

Comfort essentials

One of the great joys of spending your time motorhoming is that all the comforts of home are right there with you on the road. There are essentials you should take to make sure your break or holiday goes smoothly.

• Levelling blocks: When you park up your motorhome you might find it’s on slightly uneven ground. Levelling blocks are an essential tool to help you avoid a wonky sleeping arrangement, lop-sided appliances or things sliding down the table or worktops.
• Water hose: Filling your fresh water tank is a regular task, especially if you are on an extended break or have several passengers using the facilities, so carrying a quality water hose (with various tap adapters) will help you hook up to different types of water supply when necessary.
• Electric hook-up cable: Many campsites offer electric hook-up points, so it’s good sense to carry a cable suitable for your motorhome's connection, enabling you to access an onsite power supply.
• Portable heater / fan: Depending on which season it is when you’re away on your trip, a small electric heater to take the edge off those cooler nights, or a fan to cool things down in summer, will ensure things stay comfortable in your motorhome.
• Blankets: Seasoned motorhome travellers will already know that temperatures can drop at night, even in the warmer months and especially in more remote areas. Carrying a supply of extra blankets (or sleeping bags) ensures snug and restful sleep.

Cooking essentials

Cooking in a motorhome can be one of the most rewarding aspects of the trip, allowing you to bond as a travelling party by enjoying delicious homemade meals wherever you are. To cook safely and efficiently, you’ll need to make sure these essential pieces of kit are onboard.

• Portable BBQ: When the weather is decent, cooking outside can really enhance your motorhome experience. A portable BBQ (or outdoor stove) are essentials.
• Cookware / utensils: It’s essential to take lightweight pots and pans that are stackable and don’t take up too much storage space in the cupboards of your motorhome kitchen. A good set of multi-purpose utensils (spatula, ladle and tongs are also essential).

Tech essentials

In common with almost everything in the modern world, motorhomes have gone digital, to some degree. Modern adventures often involve technology - to stay connected, entertained, on course or powered up. These are the essential items and accessories to help you keep everything running smoothly.

• Power bank: A portable power bank is an essential for your trips. If, for example, you leave the motorhome for the day and ‘go out’ hiking or even just exploring the nearest town, it’s a good idea to make sure your mobile phone has some charge so you can stay connected. Slipping a charged-up power bank into your bag or pocket is a great idea as a back-up, in case your phone’s battery dies while you’re out and about.
• Cables: Don’t forget to take the charging cables (and adapter plug) you need to keep your mobile phone and other devices (tablet, laptop) fully charged!
• Sat nav: While motorhomes often come equipped with sat nav, having a back-up system (A GPS or maps app on your phone), is useful so that you can find campsites and petrol stations, as well as enjoy the most scenic routes.

Outdoor essentials

A huge part of the appeal of motorhome travel is the chance to travel through fantastic scenery and embrace the great outdoors when you stop and park up. With the right gear, you can create an outdoor living space that extends the comfort of your motorhome.

• Camping chairs: Lightweight, foldable camping chairs are a staple for motorhome trips, and are available online and in all outdoors stores. Taking a portable table, too, will allow you to set up a useful outdoor area to relax wherever you park.
• Awning: An awning or canopy will provide shade from the sun on bright days and protection from the rain on wet days, effectively expanding your motorhome’s living area. Many modern motorhomes come with an integrated awning, but for those travelling in one that doesn’t, there are portable versions available.
• Lighting: As evenings ‘by the campfire’ are so desirable, packing portable lanterns or string lights means you can create a cosy atmosphere – and be able to see your way around the campsite.

Maintenance essentials

Even the best-prepared travellers might encounter a few bumps along the way on their motorhome trips. Having the right essential tools on hand can make all the difference between a good trip and a difficult one.

• Tool kit: A small tool kit (which includes essentials such as screwdrivers, pliers, hammer, spanners and duct tape) will help you deal with minor repairs on the go.
• Tyre repair kit: Tyre issues can happen anywhere and at any time - so having a repair kit (including a portable air compressor) ensures that you’ll be able to deal with low tyre pressure (or punctures) without having to call for help.
• Spares: Electrical issues can crop up unexpectedly. Carrying spare fuses and light bulbs for your lighting and systems will ensure things keep running smoothly.

Being well-prepared is the key to a successful motorhome adventure, whether you’re planning a short weekend escape or a longer road trip. By ensuring you have the essential supplies for safety, comfort, cooking, power, and waste management, you'll be ready for whatever the road throws at you. With the right equipment, you can focus on enjoying the freedom and flexibility of motorhome life, knowing that you're in a great vehicle from Wandahome and well-equipped for the journey ahead.