Pets and Family Tips for RV Adventurers

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Keep Pets Comfortable and Safe

Pets are an important part of the family, so it’s essential to create a space for them that’s safe, comfortable, and fun.

Pet Comfort and Safety Tips:

• Designate a Pet Area: Set up a space with a pet bed, toys, and water bowl so your pet has a familiar place to relax.
• Keep Pets Cool or Warm: Use fans or portable heaters, and add blankets or cooling mats as needed. Pets are sensitive to temperature, so check that they’re comfortable, especially in extreme weather.
• Use a Leash or Harness: Always leash pets when outside to prevent them from wandering off, and consider a harness for stronger control if hiking.
• Pack a Pet First Aid Kit: Include essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any necessary medications.
• Bring Pet Identification: Make sure your pet’s ID tags are up to date with your contact information, and consider a GPS collar for extra security.

Tip: If leaving pets in the RV, monitor temperature carefully, as it can change quickly inside. Portable pet monitors can help alert you to temperature changes via smartphone.

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Organize Family Spaces

An organized space keeps everyone happy and helps maintain harmony in a shared, small environment.

Family Organization Tips:

• Create Individual Storage Areas: Give each family member a dedicated area to store personal belongings, such as cubbies, bins, or baskets.
• Set Up a Shoe Storage Area: Use a shoe bin or organizer near the door to keep the floor clean and prevent tripping hazards.
• Hang Hooks for Coats and Bags: Use adhesive hooks on walls for easy storage of coats, hats, bags, and other frequently used items.
• Use a Laundry Bag or Basket: Set up a laundry station to keep dirty clothes contained and out of the way.
• Pack Games and Books in a Bin: Store board games, card games, books, and other activities in a designated bin for easy access during downtime.

Tip: Label storage bins for each family member so everyone knows where their items are, making clean-up easier.

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Plan Family-Friendly Activities

Keep everyone entertained and engaged by planning activities that suit each family member’s interests and energy levels.

Activity Ideas for RV Families:

• Explore Nearby Attractions: Look for local attractions like museums, nature parks, or historic sites that offer educational and fun experiences.
• Plan Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, biking, or kayaking as a family. Most parks and campgrounds offer trails suitable for various skill levels.
• Set Up a Campfire Night: Bring s’mores ingredients, tell stories, and enjoy the ambiance of a cozy fire (check fire regulations beforehand).
• Bring Craft Supplies: Keep a small stash of art supplies for quiet activities like coloring, painting, or journaling.
• Have a Family Game Night: Bring card games, board games, or trivia games that everyone can enjoy together.

Tip: Create a family travel journal or scrapbook where everyone can contribute drawings, photos, or notes about each stop on the journey.

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Maintain Routines for Pets and Kids

Keeping consistent routines for meals, walks, naps, and playtime helps pets and kids feel secure and comfortable in a new environment.

Routine Tips for Pets and Kids:

• Stick to Regular Mealtimes: Pets and kids thrive on routine, so try to serve meals at the same time each day.
• Schedule Regular Walks or Exercise Time: Plan daily outdoor time for pets to explore and for kids to burn off energy.
• Plan for Quiet Time or Naps: Designate quiet times in the afternoon for naps or downtime to prevent overstimulation.
• Bring Familiar Items from Home: Favorite toys, blankets, or stuffed animals provide comfort and familiarity, especially in new locations.
• Establish a Bedtime Routine: Stick to a bedtime routine that includes calming activities like reading, brushing teeth, and dimming lights to ease into sleep.

Tip: Set aside some “me time” as well. Routines are helpful for adults too, so take time to unwind and recharge.

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Pet-Friendly Gear for RVs

Having the right gear for pets keeps them comfortable and makes RV life easier for you.

Must-Have Pet Gear:

• Portable Pet Fence or Playpen: Set up a small fenced area outside the RV for a safe, contained space where pets can relax.
• Collapsible Food and Water Bowls: These bowls save space and are easy to pack for outdoor adventures.
• Pet Travel Crate or Carrier: A crate provides a secure place for pets during travel and a safe space when left alone.
• Pet Waste Bags and Litter Supplies: Keep a stash of waste bags for dogs, and consider a compact litter box for cats with easy disposal bags.
• Pet Ramp or Steps: Help pets get in and out of the RV more easily, especially older dogs or larger breeds.

Tip: Bring a pet-friendly first aid kit with items like bandages, tweezers, and any required medications for emergencies.

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Safety Tips for Kids in RVs

RVs come with unique safety considerations, especially when traveling with young children.

Child Safety Tips:

• Use Seat Belts During Travel: Make sure all passengers are secured with seat belts while the RV is in motion.
• Childproof Cabinets and Doors: Use cabinet locks and door latches to prevent kids from accessing unsafe areas or supplies.
• Teach Kids RV Rules: Establish basic rules, like staying seated during travel, staying away from sharp objects, and never opening the RV door without permission.
• Use Nonslip Rugs: Place nonslip rugs or mats on the floor to prevent slips and falls.
• Secure Heavy Items: Keep heavy items in lower storage spaces to avoid injuries in case of sudden stops.

Tip: Show kids the emergency exits and make sure they know what to do in case of fire or other emergencies.

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Kid-Friendly Organization and Storage

Keeping kids' belongings organized makes the RV feel more spacious and helps kids feel more at home.

Organization Tips for Kids:

• Use Bins for Toys and Books: Small bins or bags help contain toys and books, keeping the RV clutter-free.
• Set Up a Designated Play Area: Use the dinette or a corner space for a play area that can easily be cleaned up or stowed away.
• Hang a Wall Organizer: Use a wall organizer with pockets for small items like crayons, notebooks, and handheld games.
• Bring a Tablet or Portable DVD Player: For rainy days or long drives, tablets loaded with movies, educational games, or audiobooks can keep kids entertained.
• Add Nightlights: Small, battery-operated nightlights make kids feel safe at night without disturbing others.

Tip: Give kids responsibility for their own area, encouraging them to keep it organized and tidy.

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Plan Pet and Kid-Friendly Activities on Travel Days

Long travel days can be tiring for kids and pets, so plan breaks and fun activities to keep them happy.

Travel Day Tips:

• Take Frequent Breaks: Stop every 2-3 hours to allow kids to stretch, pets to relieve themselves, and everyone to enjoy fresh air.
• Bring Travel-Friendly Toys: Pack quiet, portable activities like coloring books, puzzles, or audiobooks to keep kids entertained in transit.
• Pack Pet Treats and Chew Toys: Chew toys or treats help keep pets entertained and calm during long drives.
• Play Road Trip Games: Engage the whole family in games like “I Spy,” license plate bingo, or 20 questions to pass the time.
• Schedule a Fun Stop Along the Way: Plan a stop at a park, trail, or interesting attraction to break up the travel time.

Tip: Prepare snacks and water for both kids and pets to prevent meltdowns and keep everyone hydrated.

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Capture and Share Memories Together

Making memories is one of the best parts of family RVing, so take time to document and enjoy them.

Memory-Making Tips:

• Start a Family Travel Journal: Write about each stop, including favorite moments, activities, and funny stories. Kids can contribute with drawings and notes.
• Create a Digital Scrapbook: Use a photo app to save and organize your travel photos, and share highlights with friends and family.
• Bring a Polaroid Camera for Instant Photos: Kids love instant photos, and you can hang them up in the RV as you go.
• Collect Souvenirs Along the Way: Grab small, meaningful souvenirs like postcards or local trinkets as mementos.
• Have a Family Movie Night Recap: Every week or so, review photos or videos taken and share memories while enjoying snacks or s’mores.

Tip: Encourage kids to keep their own journals or scrapbooks, giving them a sense of ownership over the trip.

PETS AND FAMILY TIPS

Key Takeaway: Make RVing a Fun Adventure for the Whole Family

With the right setup and thoughtful planning, RVing with family and pets can be an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone. By creating comfortable spaces, sticking to routines, and planning fun activities, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the unique challenges and rewards of family RV life.

RV Expeditioners Pro Tip: Start planning your next RV adventure with these tips in mind. By making thoughtful choices and prioritizing comfort and safety, you’ll ensure a trip filled with fun, connection, and unforgettable memories.