What to Pack for a Successful RV Trip to Santa Cruz Redwoods
Planning an RV getaway to the California coast? The towering redwoods, cool ocean breezes, and endless opportunities for adventure make Santa Cruz a top destination for RVers. But before you hit the road, you’ll need a reliable RV packing list for Santa Cruz to ensure your trip is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, we welcome campers from all over who want to experience the beauty of the redwoods while staying close to the beaches, hiking trails, and local attractions that make the area so unique. To help you get ready, we’ve put together a packing guide so you don’t forget the essentials.
Essential RV Gear You Can’t Leave Behind
Every successful RV trip starts with the right gear. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these basics will keep your trip running smoothly.
Must-Have RV Setup Items
- Freshwater and sewer hoses
- Surge protectors and power adapters
- Leveling blocks and wheel chocks
- Tool kit, duct tape, and spare fuses
- Flashlights, lanterns, and extra batteries
These essentials make setting up your RV and troubleshooting minor issues a breeze, so you can spend less time worrying and more time exploring.
Kitchen and Cooking Supplies for Your Stay
Great meals are part of every camping trip, especially with so many fresh, local ingredients available in Santa Cruz.
Stock Up Before You Arrive
- Portable grill or camping stove
- Reusable dishes and utensils
- Cooler with ice packs for beach days
- Non-perishable snacks and easy-to-make meals
- Dish soap, scrubbers, and extra towels
Many guests at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort enjoy outdoor cooking under the trees, so packing a few extras can make mealtime memorable.
Comfort Items to Make Your Trip Feel Like Home
Camping doesn’t have to mean roughing it. A few creature comforts can make your RV feel like a true retreat.
Creature Comfort Checklist
- Camping chairs and outdoor mats
- Cozy bedding and extra blankets for cool nights
- Portable heaters or fans (weather-dependent)
- Board games, cards, or books for evenings by the fire
- Sunscreen, bug spray, and personal toiletries
These items can help you relax and enjoy every moment of your Santa Cruz adventure.
Safety and Outdoor Essentials
Staying prepared means packing for both fun and the unexpected.
Stay Safe While Exploring the Redwoods
- First aid kit and medications
- Roadside emergency tools (jumper cables, tire repair kit)
- Fire extinguisher and emergency contact list
- Maps or a GPS device (cell service can be spotty)
- Weather-appropriate clothing and rain gear
These essentials will keep you safe while you enjoy the area’s stunning forests and trails.
Don’t Forget the Santa Cruz-Specific Gear
Santa Cruz is unique—it combines redwood forests with nearby beaches, so packing for both environments is key.
Make the Most of Your RV Adventure
- Hiking boots for exploring forest trails
- Beach towels, swimwear, and picnic supplies
- Bikes or skateboards for the coastal paths
- Camera or binoculars for wildlife spotting
For more advice on what to bring and how to prepare, check out our guide to the RV packing list for Santa Cruz for first-time RVers.
Start Your Santa Cruz Adventure at Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort
Packing the right gear is the first step to a stress-free vacation. At Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort, we provide the perfect home base for your adventure, with spacious RV sites, convenient amenities, and a location nestled between the redwoods and the coast.
Book your stay today and make the most of your Santa Cruz getaway—knowing you’ve got everything you need packed and ready.