Off-grid camping is our favorite way to experience the great outdoors while having more space and privacy than at a campground, but it can be challenging your first time. This blog and included checklist gives you a guide of everything you’ll need for your first off-grid camping adventure based on our 2+ years of living on the road off grid. We want to help make sure that you have the essential tools for off-grid camping so you can love it just as much as we do!
What are the different types of off-grid camping?
The most common types of off-grid camping are boondocking on public lands, primitive camping, and dry camping. Although they overlap, they do have some specific differences that are important to keep in mind.
Boondocking on public lands
Boondocking on public lands is camping on government-owned land without hookups (water, sewer, and/or electricity). You can boondock on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land, USFS (US Forest Service) land, state trust lands, and National Grasslands.
Pros:
- You can camp for free or very cheap
- There are often fewer people around so you have more peace and quiet
- You get to experience nature more fully
- You’ll see more wildlife
- Always pet-friendly
Cons:
- You have to be more self-sufficient since there are no hookups
- You may have to drive farther to find a spot since they are often more remote
- Road and weather conditions may prevent you from going to your intended spot
How to do it:
- Check the regulations of the area you want to camp in before you go to make sure boondocking is allowed
- Come prepared with enough water and food
- Use apps to find ideal spots
Primitive camping
Primitive camping can be in campgrounds, RV parks, or on public lands. This type of camping doesn’t have hookups and very few amenities; this usually means no electricity, no running water, and no flush toilets. Primitive campers must be self-sufficient and prepared to rough it.
Where to do it: Some campgrounds and RV parks offer hookup sites and primitive sites – other campgrounds are primitive camping only. National and state parks often offer primitive camping as a more remote & budget-friendly option. Many of these parks have designated primitive camping areas where you can pitch your tent and enjoy the great outdoors.
Dry camping
Dry camping is when you camp without any hookups for water, electricity, or sewer. This means you will be relying on your own resources, like solar power or generators, for power and bringing your own water to last the duration of your stay. Dry camping is a general term that encompasses boondocking, primitive camping, and dispersed camping. You’ll often find dry camping at music festivals as well!
How to do it: When dry camping, it’s important to be prepared and have a plan. Make sure you know how long you can go without water and plan accordingly. Bring enough food and supplies for the entire trip, as well as a backup in case of emergencies. Be sure to pack extra batteries for flashlights and other electronics. And finally, be respectful of your fellow campers by not making too much noise or leaving behind a mess.
What are the benefits of off-grid camping?
- You can get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
- You can save money on camping fees by camping off-grid.
- You can have a more authentic camping experience by being closer to nature and wildlife.
- Off-grid camping can be a great way to teach children about environmental stewardship by using Leave No Trace principles.
- You can reduce your impact on the environment by using fewer resources when you camp off-grid.
What are the challenges of off-grid camping?
Lack of access to amenities
Off-grid camping can be a challenge for campers used to having easy access to amenities like running water and electricity. This type of camping requires campers to be completely self-sufficient, bringing in their own water and power sources. You often have to pack out your own trash as well.
Difficult to find a suitable location
One of the challenges of off-grid camping is finding a suitable location. You’ll want to find a spot that’s far enough away from civilization that you won’t be bothered by noise or light pollution but not so remote that you can’t reach your destination. You’ll also need to be aware of local weather conditions, road conditions, and wildlife.
What to look for in a location:
When looking for a suitable location for off-grid camping, you should look for an area that is remote yet accessible in your vehicle. Looking up reviews to see that similar vehicles have successfully reached your intended off-grid spot helps a lot – consider 4 wheel drive, height of your rig, weight limitations of bridges, and proximity to gas stations. We prefer finding places that are close to water or trees, this usually indicates beautiful scenery and wildlife.
How to find a location:
There are several ways to find suitable locations for off-grid camping. You can ask friends or family who camp frequently if they know of any good spots, search online forums or websites dedicated to camping, or use apps geared towards off-grid camping (this is our go-to for finding new spots).
Need to be prepared for all weather conditions
In order to stay comfortable while camping off the grid, it’s important to be prepared for all weather conditions. This means bringing the proper clothing and gear for hot, cold, wet, and windy weather. Download The Weather Channel app and Weather Bug to get detailed data on weather conditions before you head out. If you see the weather will be bad, choose a different location. You really are at the mercy of elements when off-grid camping.
What are the different off-grid camping shelter options?
Tent
There are four main types of tents: three-season, four-season, ultralight, and family camping.
Three-season tents are designed for use in spring, summer, and fall. They’re usually made with mesh panels to promote airflow and keep the inside of the tent cooler in warm weather. Four-season tents are built for use in all seasons, including winter. They typically have solid walls to block out the cold and keep the inside of the tent warmer. Ultralight tents are designed for backpackers who want to minimize their pack weight. They’re usually smaller in size and have fewer features than other types of tents. Family camping tents are larger in size to accommodate more people and usually have more features like multiple rooms or awnings.
The most important feature to consider when choosing a tent is its capacity, which is the maximum number of people that can sleep inside it comfortably. Other features to consider include floor space (how much room you have to move around inside), peak height (how tall you can stand up inside), door type (zipper or Velcro), vestibule (a covered area outside the door where you can store gear), windows (for ventilation), flysheet (a waterproof cover that goes over the top of the tent), and floor (a waterproof bottom layer that goes under the tent).
We actually carry two tents with us in addition to our RV: a rooftop tent (CVT Mt. Hood from Spirit of 1876) on our adventure Subaru and a 2-person three-season tent. Our clamshell rooftop tent is AMAZING because it stays off the ground and has a full-size mattress, keeping it water tight and super cozy. That being said, a rooftop tent is not ideal for people with mobility limitations. Having both these options allow us to host guests while living on the road full time!
Pros:
Tents are a great option for camping because they provide shelter from the elements and can be used in a variety of environments while taking up minimal space. They’re also relatively easy to set up and take down.
Cons:
Tents can be expensive when buying high-quality (our rooftop tent starts at $4,000), and they’re not always the most comfortable option for camping in bad weather conditions. And of course… some tents are truly a pain to set up. My sister witnessed Mike and I putting together the most complicated tent when we were first dating and she still brings up how painful it was to watch 9 years later.
Van & Skoolies
Skoolies are school buses that have been converted into livable spaces like an RV. They are usually cheaper and more spacious than traditional RVs, and they can be a great option for off-grid camping. However, skoolies can be difficult to drive and maneuver, and they may not have all the amenities of a traditional RV.
Pros:
- Custom built for your needs
- More spacious than traditional RVs
- Can be a great option for off-grid camping
Cons:
- Difficult to drive and maneuver
- Expensive on gas
- Can’t reach super remote spaces in large Skoolies
Vans are easier to drive and can access off-grid spots easily but they offer less space. We often find van lifers urban camp just as much as, if not more, than off-grid camp because they can stealth camp (meaning people can’t tell if someone is inside). That being said, vans are a great, space-efficient way to off-grid camp if you have the resources available.
Pros:
- Easy to navigate and drive
- Custom built to your needs
- Can do low-cost build out for off-grid camping
Cons:
- Custom builds can be very expensive
- Not all vans are built for off-grid (limited water tanks, 2 wheel drive, low profile, etc.)
- Limited space
Cost: Vans can range from anywhere from a $1,500 (would need renovation) to $250k+ for a custom build out.
RV
An RV is a vehicle that contains everything you need to live comfortably, typically with space for sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities. Bigger RVs also have under carriage storage space for fun activities and comfort items. RVs can be either self-contained (with their own water and sewage tanks) or connected to hookups at a campsite. Some are built specifically for off-grid camping while others are designed for hookup sites and may require alterations for off-grid camping.
Pros:
- RVs are pre-built requiring limited alterations for off-grid camping
- RVs are a true home on wheels, making it easier to cook, sleep, and travel
- You can camp anywhere – RV parks, urban camping, and off-grid camping
- They are also relatively comfortable and convenient; some are bigger than our first apartment
- They can be used as temporary or permanent residences – so if you’re downsizing or looking for an alternative to traditional housing, an RV might be a good option.
Cons:
- Owning an RV can be expensive, both in terms of the initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs.
- RVs tend to be gas hogs
- Some RVs will require alterations for off-grid camping (battery bank, solar, generator, water tanks, etc.)
- RVs can also be difficult to drive and park, especially in urban areas.
- RVs require a fair amount of storage space when not in use.
Cost: RVs can range in price from around $5,000 for a small used campervan to $500,000 or more for a luxury motorhome.
What are the different off grid camping water source options?
Some off-grid camping destinations offer free potable water fill ups at the start (like the primitive camping near Yosemite), but most don’t. You can get water from spigots at local gas stations, truck stops, or dump sites (make sure it’s potable at dump stations).
You can also use filtration systems like LifeStaw or GoSun to use water from natural resources like rivers, lakes, streams, and ponds. Depending on the location of your campsite, you may also have access to groundwater or rainwater.
Water treatment:
It is important to treat all water sources before drinking or using them for cooking. If you are using natural water, you can make it potable by boiling the water for at least one minute, using a water filter, or using iodine tablets. Even when we fill our RV fresh tanks with potable water, we still use a filter on our hose and a Pur water filter before drinking it. Fresh water tanks aren’t necessarily clean.
Water storage: When camping off the grid, make a plan for storing water. You can have external water tanks, built in fresh water tanks, and purified water from the grocery store. You should always pack extra purifying extra water to have on hand in case of an emergency.
What are the different off-grid camping food options?
You can eat anything you want when off-grid camping if you have the right equipment! Check out RV Cooking Made Easy for some great off-grid recipes. Choosing recipes that overlap with ingredients and having shelf-stable food options help a lot when camping off-grid.
Some good examples of shelf-stable ingredients include:
Canned goods: Canned goods are a great option for off-grid camping because they do not require refrigeration and have a long shelf life. Just be sure to pack a can opener (we forgot one our first time)!
Dried fruits and vegetables: Dried fruits and vegetables are another great option for off-grid camping. They are lightweight, easy to store, and do not require refrigeration. Just be sure to pack enough water to rehydrate them before eating.
Jerky: Jerky is a great high-protein, low-fat food that does not require refrigeration. It is perfect for snacks or quick meals on the go. Just be sure to check the ingredients list to make sure it does not contain any preservatives or additives that you may be allergic to (I’m allergic to xanthan gum, which is common in preserved food items but not common in jerky).
Shelf-stable fruits and vegetables: apples, bananas, tomatoes, bell peppers, squash, citrus, cabbage, melons, root vegetables, onions, garlic, potatoes, and other fruits/veggies that don’t require refrigeration are great ways to have fresh, hydrating foods without the need for a fridge.
Dairy: dairy items make foods taste so delicious but usually require refrigeration. Powdered milk is a great ingredient to have on hand when off-grid camping if you love dairy. Some plant-based milks are also shelf-stable before opening (my favorite is Elmhurst).
Farm fresh eggs: eggs that are NOT washed are shelf stable. Nearly every country besides the US does not wash their eggs, making them shelf stable and easy to store. You can find some unwashed eggs from local farms in the US, which are actually more common to find on your way to off-grid camping locations.
Oats: there’s a reason you see so many van lifers and RVers eating oatmeal. It’s one of the easiest and most delicious breakfasts you can eat when off grid. Add in sliced apples, cinnamon, and honey to your oats for a sweet and healthy morning treat.
Overall, we eat amazingly well when off-grid camping with anything from simple eggs and toast to steak dinners and pasta.
What are the different off-grid camping power options?
Solar Power
Solar power is the conversion of sunlight into electricity. Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells, which absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. This DC electricity can then be converted into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the type of electricity used in your home. You will need an inverter and house battery to use solar power when off-grid.
Pros:
Solar power is a renewable energy source, which means that it will never run out. It is also very environmentally friendly, as it does not produce any greenhouse gases or other pollutants. Additionally, solar power can be used to generate electricity even in remote areas where there is no access to the grid.
Cons:
The main disadvantage of solar power is that it only works when the sun is shining. If you’re in a cloudy area or an area surrounded by tall trees, you may not have access to solar power. This is also a more expensive add-on up front since you’ll need the panels, an inverter, and a compatible house battery.
Generator
A generator is a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. The most common type of generator used in off-grid camping is a gasoline-powered generator. These generators work by using an engine to turn an alternator, which produces electricity. Some generators are built into your rig (like ours), while some are external.
Pros:
- Can be used to power many different types of devices
- Relatively easy to use and maintain
- Can be used in remote locations where there is no access to the grid
Cons:
- Requires fuel, which can be expensive and difficult to transport in large quantities
- Noisy, which can be disruptive to both you and your surroundings
- Produces emissions, which can impact the environment negatively
- Can be very dangerous if you not properly installed or placed too close to your rig
- If you use a generator, you should also have a CO monitor – people have died from inhaling CO emissions from their generator
Most off-grid campers don’t use generators unless absolutely necessary. People off-gird camp for peace and quiet. These generators smell horrible and are loud. We recommend opting for solar or a portable power bank instead of relying on your generator. However, using your generator when you need A/C or for a couple hours per day is accepted by off-grid campers. Some people actually prefer boondocking because they can run their generator as long as they want with no noise limitations (compared to RV parks and campgrounds that often require them to be shut off by 10pm).
Portable power bank
A portable power bank is a device that stores energy and can be used to charge electronic devices. Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries, which are the same type of batteries used in cell phones and laptops.
Pros:
- Portable power banks are convenient because they can be taken with you wherever you go.
- They can be used to charge multiple devices at once, which is helpful in today’s digital world.
- Power banks can be recharged, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power.
- Some power banks come with built-in solar panels, so they can be recharged using sunlight (although this feature adds to the cost of the power bank).
- Portable power banks are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of generators and solar panels.
Cons:
- Portable power banks can be heavy and bulky, making them difficult to carry around with you everywhere you go.
- They require regular charging in order to maintain their capacity, so if you don’t use them often, they may not hold a charge as long as expected.
- The capacity of portable power banks can vary, so it’s important to choose one that has enough capacity to meet your needs.
- Some power banks can be difficult to use, especially if you’re not familiar with the charging process.
- Not all portable power banks are created equal, so it’s important to do your research before purchasing one.
Cost: The cost of a portable power bank depends on the capacity and features of the device. Most power banks cost between $100 and $2,000. Popular brands include Jackery and Bluetti.
The best off-grid camping essentials & outdoor gear
Outdoor recreation & fun
There are a few essential items that everyone should bring on their outdoor adventures, regardless of what they’re doing. These include sunscreen, insect repellent, water (and a way to purify it), food, shelter/clothing, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight.
Fun items to bring off-grid camping:
- frisbee
- hammock
- TRX workout system
- Jazzminton
- swimsuits
- propane tank
- propane tank adapter hose
- collapsible trash can
- outdoor mat
- folding chairs
- folding camp table
- solar lights
- books or e-books
- travel-size board games
- deck of cards
- outdoor games
- ice chest
- propane fire pit
- drawstring bag
- fanny pack
- hydration pack
- bicycles or scooters
- shammy
- soccer ball
- folding canopy
- tent
- windbreaker
- e-bike (we have the Aventon Sinch and love it!)
Kitchen essentials
Your kitchen essentials will depend on the type of shelter and resources you’re bringing off-grid camping. Here are our must-have items:
- utensils (1 set per person)
- plates & bowls (1 per person)
- coozie (long neck & can)
- spatula
- tongs
- long lighter (for fires and gas stoves)
- cooking spoon
- chef’s knife
- reusable water bottles
- salt
- pepper
- all-purpose seasoning
- nutritional yeast flakes
- beeswax wraps
- propane grill
- griddle add on for grill
- cleaning tools for grill
- pot with lid
- nonstick pan
- reusable food storage containers
- heavy duty tin foil
- water purifier (ex. Brita or Pur)
- silicone ice tray
- trash bags (1 size fits all)
- ice for your ice chest
- reusable ice packs (help cool your fridge)
- coconut oil, avocado oil, or canola oil spray
- dish soap
- camping egg container
Personal hygiene
- face masks (for dust, dirty jobs, and )
- hand sanitizer
- shampoo*
- conditioner*
- body soap*
- face wash*
- deodorant (we prefer Lume for max odor control)
- lotion
- washcloths
- shower caddy
- bath towels
- baby wipes
- medication
- sunscreen (mineral sunscreen offers the most protection)
- q-tips
- toilet paper
- hair brush
- hair ties
- everyday toiletries
- first aid kit
*follow Leave No Trace principles and use biodegradable products if you don’t have a gray tank
Check out our blog on conserving water and staying clean while off-grid camping for some more personal hygiene tips!
Sleeping supplies
Sleeping bag: A sleeping bag is another essential piece of gear for camping. It will keep you warm at night and provide a comfortable place to sleep. We have these even in our RV and love the sleeping bags that convert to a comforter.
Pillow: A pillow is not essential, but it can make sleeping more comfortable. You can either bring a regular pillow from home or purchase a special camping pillow if you’re limited on space.
Sleeping mat: A sleeping mat is not essential, but it can make sleeping more comfortable. It will also insulate you from the cold ground when car or tent camping.
Here are some other essential sleep supplies we love:
- sheets
- blankets
- eye mask
- ear plugs
- warm socks
- beanie
- battery-operated fan
Personal safety
- A map and compass
- A headlamp or flashlight
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Fire starter
- Matches
- Knife
- Whistle
- Axe
- Required permits
- Identification (passport or driver’s license)
- LP detector
- CO detector
- Air horn
- Bear spray
- Solar motion-activated spotlight
How to stay safe: Be aware of your surroundings at all times and know what to do if you encounter wildlife. Make sure you have a plan in place in case of an emergency. Bring a first aid kit and know how to use it. Be careful with fire, and have at least 5 gallons of water to extinguish a wood-burning fire.
Pets
There are a few things to consider before bringing your pet camping with you. First, you’ll want to make sure that your pet is up to date on all of their vaccinations. You should also be aware of how your pet reacts to wildlife and other people to prepare for pet safety. Bring plenty of water and food (bring extra just in case). And, make sure your pet is microchipped!
What gear to bring for your pet:
When bringing your pet camping, it’s important to bring the proper gear. This includes a leash, collar, ID tags, food and water bowls, and plenty of food and water. You should also bring a first aid kit for your pet in case of any emergencies. Remember, you’re in nature while off-grid camping so you may experience rattle snakes, bee stings, bear encounters, and birds of prey (a big concern for small dogs).
Practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out your pet’s waste! Their poop often has food or seeds in it that isn’t good for local wildlife.
Cleaning supplies
Camping off-grid can get messy, especially in dusty or muddy conditions. Here is what we bring with us to handle the mess:
- all purpose cleaner
- disinfectant spray
- microfiber cloths
- windex
- baking soda
- rags & hand towels
- hand broom
- dustpan
- scrubbing brush (our favorite is the Scrub Daddy)
- hand vacuum
Electronic equipment & supplies
Charge all your electronic equipment before going off-grid camping, and always bring a spare battery pack just in case. If you’re going to disconnect, make sure to still bring a phone for safety!
- portable solar panels
- inverter
- portable battery pack
- charging cords
- charging blocks
- Bluetooth speaker
- computer
- tablet
- noise cancelling headphones
- head lamps
- camping lantern
- flashlights (plural!)
- batteries for flashlights
- generator
FAQ
How do you find the best off grid camping locations?
The first step is to do your research. This includes finding out what type of camping you want to do, what kind of terrain you’ll be dealing with, and what kind of weather conditions you can expect. We pick our locations based primarily on weather and secondly on location.
We use iOverlander to find 90% of our off-grid camping destinations. You can check out our other favorite apps for boondocking (and how to use them) on our boondocking apps YouTube.
Is off grid camping free?
Most off-grid camping is free but not all. Boondocking on public lands is either free or requires a low-cost permit. Make sure to check with the ranger station ahead of time to see what permits you need. When it comes to primitive and dispersed camping, there are plenty of campgrounds that are fee-based with this option.
What else should I know about off grid camping if it’s my first time?
It isn’t as scary as you may think! We feel safer off-grid camping than we do in a typical RV park. It’s affordable, fun, and full of nature. There is a learning curve, but it’s SO worth it once you see and feel the benefits of these beautiful locations. Check out this Arizona Boondocking YouTube to see what off-grid camping really looks like:
How do you have a campfire off grid?
Check fire restrictions before starting a campfire off grid. Keep in mind that no fire zones are based on the government entity overseeing that land. For example, local county guidelines could allow fires but the USFS has a fire ban within that county. Illegal campfires can result in large fines, jail time, or… worst-case scenario… a massive wildfire that kills people and destroys homes.
If you are allowed to have a campfire, we recommend bringing wood with you to ensure it’s dry. Local gas stations often carry firewood if you’re in an area that allows campfires. Search for kindling during the day and bring a fire starter. An easy DIY fire starter is lint from a dryer shoved into an empty toilet paper roll with some petroleum jelly.
You are also required by law in most off-grid camping spots to have at least 5 gallons of water to douse your fire. When dousing a fire, add water and stir the fire until it is cool to the touch. If it is still hot to your touch, that means there are embers that could potentially be carried by the wind and start a fire.
Some off-grid camping areas require you use a designated fire pit while others allow you to make your own. Checking with a ranger is always the easiest way to know if you’re in the clear!
Where can I find discounts on off-grid camping supplies?
Off-grid camping supplies often go on sale and clearance late fall, after the typical camping season. You should also sign up for mailing lists or text lists for your favorite outdoor retailers (ours is Matador) to be the first to hear about sales. If you don’t want to wait or give out your info, we also offer exclusive discount codes on our Discounts & Favorites page!
Where can I find a checklist for essentials for off grid camping for an RV?
This printable checklist will help you make sure you have everything you need for your next off-grid camping adventure! You may not need everything on the list, but it’ll get you started!
Planning a trip to an off-grid location can be daunting. We hope this guide helped prepare for your outing by covering the basics of gear and supplies you’ll need. For more tips on off-grid camping and boondocking, check out our YouTube or download our free boondocking guide. Most importantly, pack your bags—you’re headed out into the great outdoors!
