Last Updated on July 18, 2025 by Jeremy

Family summer camping trips in an RV let everyone meet up for adventure, relaxation, and a healthy dose of fresh air. I know from plenty of personal experience that a few well-chosen accessories can really change how comfortable and enjoyable your time on the road feels, especially with kids and a packed itinerary.

Without a little planning, simple things like meal prep, storage, or bedtime routines can turn chaotic fast. When I pack the right accessories, mornings run smoother, evenings are more restful, and I’m able to spend more time actually enjoying the outdoors with my family.

Here’s my list of top 10 family friendly RV accessories that have helped me make summer camping comfortable, safe, and fun for everyone. If you’re getting ready for your next getaway, check out these tips to level up your camping game.

1. Collapsible Outdoor Table and Chairs

Eating together outdoors is one of my favorite parts of camping, but campground picnic tables are often uncomfortable, or just not there when you need them. A collapsible outdoor table and a set of portable chairs make every meal possible, from an early morning pancake breakfast to a late night card game. Look for versions that are lightweight, fold down small, and are easy for both adults and kids to move around. I find models with cupholders and washable surfaces work best for messy eaters and unpredictable weather.

Why I Recommend It:

• Turns any site into a dining area or activity hub
• Easy to set up and store
• Gives everyone a seat, so there’s no fighting over benches

2. Rechargeable LED Lanterns and String Lights

Nobody likes tripping over tent stakes or hunting for something in the dark. I always pack a few rechargeable LED lanterns and some waterproof string lights. Hang them around the awning or inside the RV for soft, reliable lighting that keeps things cozy and safe. Rechargeable models save money and reduce the need for extra batteries. Lanterns with dimming options work especially well for bedtime stories or late night bathroom trips.

• Provides safe, adjustable lighting for play or relaxing
• Kids love the fun, magical glow
• No flames or hot bulbs to worry about

3. Portable Camping Kitchen Kit

Cooking outside is a summer tradition, but keeping everything organized used to be tough for me. A good camping kitchen kit usually includes a portable stove, utensils, collapsible sink, and basic food storage. I use a kit with color-coded gear to speed up prep and cleanup, making it easier for kids to help out. Some sets also come with a folding table or spice rack, which is helpful for group meals or longer stays.

• Makes familystyle cooking possible outside the RV
• Keeps supplies organized and easy to carry
• Encourages everyone to pitch in at mealtime

I’ve found that picking lightweight, durable sets with pieces that nest or fold helps save space, which is always tight in an RV. A labeled kit also means kids get a chance to help prepare or put away without a huge mess.

4. RV Organization Bins and Hangers

With a family, space fills up fast. I rely on bins and hanging storage organizers to keep clothes, snacks, shoes, and toys where I can find them. Stackable bins with handles fit nicely under beds or in cabinets. Hanging organizers for the bathroom or kitchen use doors and walls to free up floor space. This helps me avoid clutter and teaches kids to put their things away.

My Favorite Features:

• Transparent bins make it easy to find things
• Over the door hooks are great for towels and jackets
• Helps create routines that work even in a small space

If you’re dealing with muddy shoes or dripping swimsuits, waterproof bins keep everything contained. Colorcoded storage means everyone knows which bin is theirs—which totally cuts down on sibling squabbles over gear!

5. Family Friendly Outdoor Rug

An outdoor rug makes a huge difference at the campground. It helps keep dirt and sand outside, provides a soft area for young kids to play, and doubles as a lounge spot for everyone. Look for a large, weatherproof rug that folds up for transport. Designs with bright colors make your site more cheerful and easier to spot for little kids running around.

• Keeps the inside of your RV cleaner
• Makes barefoot play comfortable and safe
• Creates a welcoming, homey feel outside your RV

A good outdoor rug also gives a defined place to drop shoes, bags, or toys—keeping you from tracking outdoor mess inside the RV every time someone runs in for a snack or bathroom break.

6. Portable Hammock or Hanging Chair

Hanging out in a hammock is a simple pleasure that quickly becomes a family favorite. Kids love swinging or reading in the shade, and I use it for afternoon naps or a quiet coffee break. Choose a freestanding version for campgrounds without suitable trees, or pick up a lightweight hanging chair that packs small. When shopping, focus on sturdy designs with weight limits that kids or adults won’t exceed.

• Makes downtime relaxing for all ages
• Easy to set up, take down, and move
• Encourages everyone to unwind outside

You’ll be surprised how often a hammock turns into the go-to spot for both relaxing and spontaneous giggles. Depending on your campground, consider something with a bugnet for evening use.

7. RV Awning Shade Screen

Sun can be relentless on summer afternoons. Adding a shade screen to your RV awning really helps. It blocks harsh sunlight, keeps temperatures cooler, and boosts privacy for your outdoor space. I use a screen that attaches with hooks or Velcro and packs away neatly when not in use. This gives everyone a cool, shaded area for meals, games, or just relaxing together.

• Protects from direct sun and light rain
• Gives more usable outdoor space around your RV
• Improves privacy at busy campgrounds

8. Stackable Food Storage and Snack Containers

Hungry kids can really test your organization. I keep a collection of stackable food storage containers for everything from fruit salads to crackers. Having grabandgo snacks accessible means fewer complaints and more time enjoying activities. Containers that click together or nest save space and reduce spills, which cuts down on messes and arguments.

• Keeps snacks organized and fresh
• Helps with healthy eating and portion control
• Easy for kids to help themselves between meals

Labeling containers with each child’s name—or using different colors—makes it easy for everyone to grab their own snack with no fuss. If you meal prep at home, prepacking snack boxes is a gamechanger for busy days.

9. Games and Activities for All Ages

Rainy afternoons or lazy evenings need the right activities. I always pack a set of travel games, playing cards, and a few simple outdoor toys like frisbees, balls, or a ring toss. Board games that don’t have a million pieces work well for crowded or windy campsites. I sometimes create a separate “rainy day” bag so the kids can help pick what they want to do next.

• Brings everyone together without screens
• Options for both indoor and outdoor fun
• Cuts down on boredom and sibling squabbles

If you want to make things extra fun, put together a scavenger hunt or nature bingo with prizes for little kids. It’s surprising how a simple deck of cards will save the day when unexpected rain hits or the kids start getting squirmy after dinner.

10. First Aid Kit with Family Essentials

Small scrapes and bug bites are pretty common. I update my RV first aid kit before every trip with kidfriendly medications, sunscreen, aloe for burns, allergy medicine, and extra bandages in fun prints. A premade kit is a good starting point, but adding your own family’s essentials ensures you won’t be caught off guard. I keep mine in a spot that’s easy for adults to access but out of reach for little ones.

• Peace of mind for parents and grandparents
• Speeds up response to minor mishaps
• Helps everyone feel more secure and ready for adventure

Final Thoughts

Finding the right family friendly RV accessories for summer trips makes a real difference in comfort, organization, and fun. By packing smart, I’ve managed to create a camping experience where everyone has what they need and little surprises don’t get in the way of having a good time. The best accessories for your family will depend on your style, priorities, and favorite destinations, so it helps to try a few and learn what works best for you. If you’re planning your next adventure, these tried-and-true picks can help turn simple weekends away into memorable family traditions. No matter how you camp, a bit of extra effort in the accessory department pays off with fewer hassles and more smiles around the campfire. And if you stumble upon a new gadget or trick along the way, don’t be shy about sharing or trying it out—sometimes, those little discoveries make all the difference.

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