If the world ever decides to go full apocalypse mode (or, you know, just another epic storm or maybe even a zombie invasion), our genius plan is simple: pack up the RV, drive deep into the wilderness, and confidently announce that we’ll just “live off the land.”
Truthfully, we’d probably last about three days before running out of snacks, desperately searching for Wi-Fi, and seriously reconsidering our life choices. But recent stories have made us pause—like some RV friends who got trapped for seven whole days because of storm Helene. Their RV was safe, cozy even, but the only road down the mountain completely washed out. Hiking miles downhill in treacherous conditions was their only way out. Wisely, they decided to wait it out until conditions improved, but that meant they needed to be prepared.
That got us thinking: what exactly would we need if we found ourselves stuck? Whether we’re exploring Michigan’s upper peninsula with zero cell reception, boondocking on some remote BLM land out west, or just imagining life during an unexpected apocalypse (zombies optional), here’s what we’d want on board.
1. GMRS Radios
“GMRS radios—what the heck are those?” Glad you asked. Think of them as walkie-talkies on steroids. Unlike your typical two-way radios, GMRS radios have greater range and clearer signal quality, which makes them invaluable when you’re out of cell phone range or separated from your group. If one person is off exploring or checking road conditions, radios ensure you can easily reconnect without shouting into the void. And, while you do need a license to operate one, it’s pretty easy to obtain. Oh, and they also let you listen to NOAA reports.
2. Water Filtration System
Clean drinking water is not optional. Sure, our RV has water tanks, but what if we run out or get stuck longer than planned? A portable water filter like a LifeStraw or a gravity-fed system can turn questionable creek or lake water into safe, drinkable water. Seriously, pond water doesn’t exactly sound appetizing, but filtered pond water beats dehydration every time.
3. Propane Heater
It’s amazing how quickly cozy can turn into freezing when you lose your power or propane runs low. A portable propane heater can make all the difference—especially if you’re stuck somewhere chilly, like the Upper Peninsula during an unexpected cold snap. Hypothermia? Definitely not on our bucket list.
We love our Mr. Buddy heater. And we always keep our propane full, carry an extra, and even have some smaller 1lb tanks.
Other fun fact: we keep handwarmers on hand. If we ran out of gas, we can throw a few in sleeping bags and they really do work well to keep you warm!
4. Non-perishable Food
Non-perishable snacks are absolutely key, not just because running out of food is bad, but because running out of food turns us into hangry, irrational monsters. Stocking up on canned goods, granola bars, trail mix, and freeze-dried meals means keeping our sanity intact and bellies happy. Also, if you have a pet, don’t forget their food, too!
5. Solar Generator
A solar panel is a great power backup to have. We can keep essential electronics running, from charging radios and phones to even charging our laptop battery backups. Plus, it’s silent, renewable, and doesn’t require hauling around gallons of gas.
6. First Aid Kit
Let’s be honest, we aren’t exactly Bear Grylls over here. Minor cuts, scrapes, sprains, or (but not a zombie bite), can all be handled with a well-stocked first aid kit. At a minimum, it should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, scissors, tweezers, and any personal medications.
7. Emergency Blankets
These lightweight, reflective blankets might seem flimsy, but they’re lifesavers. They reflect your body heat to keep you warm and can even double as makeshift shelters if things get really rough. Compact enough to stash anywhere, they’re a must-have. Pair them with a handwarmer, and they will help keep you toasty.
8. Multi-tool
Think of this as your MacGyver tool. Fixing loose screws, opening cans, slicing rope, minor RV repairs, or even some minor self-defense against rogue squirrels—multi-tools do it all. Having one means being prepared for dozens of tiny disasters you didn’t even see coming.
9. Portable Toilet or Biodegradable Bags
This is the least glamorous survival gear of all, but trust us, you’d rather have it and not need it than find yourself trying to figure out the bathroom situation during a real emergency. Whether it’s a compact portable toilet or biodegradable waste bags, planning for basic necessities is non-negotiable. (Plus, we use them for our dog, anyway.)
10. Headlamps and Extra Batteries
If you’ve ever tried juggling a flashlight and tasks like cooking or navigating rocky terrain in pitch darkness, you know how essential headlamps are. Hands-free lighting makes everything easier—especially nighttime adventures. Bring plenty of extra batteries, because nothing is worse than losing your only light source at the worst possible moment.
11. Physical Maps
Old-school paper maps sound quaint, but trust us, they’re critical when your GPS and phone lose signal. There’s something comforting (and practical) about spreading out a map and actually seeing where you are, especially if you need to find alternate routes or safely hike out from a remote area.
But let’s back up a little. Before all hell breaks loose (weather, aliens, zombies—pick your disaster), here are five things we’d absolutely do to prepare:
5 Things We’d Do to Prepare:
- Fill Gas and Propane Tanks: Running out of fuel halfway through a disaster is a special kind of misery. Fully topped-off tanks mean warmth, cooking power, and the ability to drive to safety.
- Fill Water Tanks Completely: Even if you have filtration methods, starting off with full water tanks is the simplest way to avoid panic about your next drink or meal.
- Check Weather and Disaster Reports: Always know what’s coming. Don’t be that person who ends up saying, “We had no idea a hurricane was on the way!” (Or zombies. Check for zombies, too.)
- Stock Up on Extra Food and Water: Bring more than you think you’ll need. It’s always better to lug around extra cans of chili than to wish you’d packed more once you’re hungry and stranded.
- Tell Someone Your Plans: Seriously, don’t skip this step. If the worst happens, someone knowing your location and itinerary could be your lifeline.
Realistically, the odds of facing a zombie apocalypse or alien invasion (fingers crossed) are pretty slim. But storms, getting trapped, or facing RV breakdowns in the middle of nowhere? Those happen more often than you’d think. Being prepared isn’t paranoid; it’s practical, responsible, and can turn a potentially dangerous situation into just another crazy story to tell around the campfire.
And, if we have to abort and abandon our RV? Well, most of these essentials live permanently in our trusty bug-out bag—always ready to grab and go in case of emergency. But more on that in another post.
Your turn—what’s your must-have survival gear in your RV?
I have some affiliate links on this post, so I can make (literally) a few pennies of this post to offset my hosting fees. All opinions are genuine and the products I endorse are actually products we use while living full-time in our R-Pod 192.
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