Forum Discussion

mikeschu42's avatar
mikeschu42
Explorer
May 23, 2016

New PopUp

My wife and I have been back and forth trying to figure out what kind of camper to get over the last 2 years. Started looking at pop-ups, then went through just about every option all the way up to a 38' fifth wheeler. Finally made the decision to start small with a Rockwood 1940LTD pop-up that we are picking up on Friday. We're super excited to pickup our new camper and get out in the woods.

Any recommendations on essential things to do to/with a brand new pop-up camper? We've been tent camping for many years, but have no experience with campers (yet!)
  • You really just need stuff to cook and eat with. Some bathing stuff and some entertainment stuff. Specifics are up to you. Most people are amazed at how much they pack initially versus how much they use. I know I carry a lot of stuff "in case" I need it.

    Congratz and have tons of fun!
  • I would start by putting all of your tent camping items in the pop-up camper. You may even find taking along your original tent to be of help also. You'll want to get your Basics like dishes plates cookware. You will also want to get your clothing items personal hygiene items together also.

    One thing they don't teach you when you get a pop-up is how to set up the awning. We were fortunate the first time we went camping with our pop up that and it good neighbor camper came running over to us and gave us a tip. He told us to set the awning out first before cranking it up because reaching to the top of the awning when it's already raised is really difficult to do. So from the very first time we went out we started doing it that way so set the awning out first and then crank up the top. You'll save yourself a lot of aggravation.

    Most important have a lot of fun and enjoy
  • First camper of any sort? If so,

    Tongue battery if the deal didn't include it. Group27 deep cycle for beginners.
    Potable water hose.
    Chocks and wood blocks for leveling side to side.(leave fancier stuff for later)
    Small carpenter's level. Place on floor inside door. Side-side first, then front to back.
    30 to 15 AC adapter to power and charge at home (but not the AC)
    5 gallon pail for grey water (also handy for holding blocks and chocks on road)
    Dollar store stuff for permanent fitout: utensils, plates, cups, dishpans, dishrack, clothes line, etc.
  • Welcome. Hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
    We love the connection to the outdoors you get with the PUP
    An awning and good sturdy folding table are things you will really appreciate. The screen house is a PITA to put up but if you stay in one place for more than a few days or if you are in a place with LOTS of mosquitoes it is then worth the effort. It is a great help in the rain as it keeps a larger area dry.
    As you camp you will make a list a list of things you wish you had on board. Don't rush out to buy everything suggested as every camper has different tolerances. Less is best. A lot will depend on whether you are a wilderness camper or RV park camper and how long you are out.
    One thing for sure you will have plenty of good advice from this forum. They are GREAT.
  • Congratulations. Upon picking up the new pop up ask as many questions as you can. Take notes. Buy a water hose pressure regulator with a hose. Go home and begin a written list of what you want in the trailer. Go camping, make memories, learn as you go. We use bunk exterior covers just to keep them cleaner and lasting longer. Also if you camp in the rain you MUST set up at home until totally dry. Enjoy