One of the keys to a great RV trip is maintaining a sense of order and calm—especially in the morning when the day is just getting started. Whether you're staying in your RV for a weekend getaway or you're enjoying an extended road trip, a reliable morning routine helps everyone feel more grounded, organized, and ready for the day ahead.
In this episode of the RV Newbie Tool Kit video series from Go RVing, host Matt Light walks new RVers through his family’s simple morning routine, offering beginner-friendly advice that’s easy to implement in any rig. From minimizing clutter to reclaiming shared space, this episode reminds viewers that a little bit of structure goes a long way in the small footprint of an RV.
1. Tidy Up Bedding and Sleep Gear Immediately
Start the day off right by cleaning up your sleeping space as soon as you wake up. RVs are small, and clutter accumulates quickly. Leaving blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags out all day will make your rig feel cramped and chaotic.
- Designate storage: Use labeled storage bins or cubbies under dinettes, inside closets, or overhead cabinets to stash each person’s bedding and pajamas.
- Use space-saving gear: Consider packable sleeping bags and collapsible pillows that are easier to store.
- Make it a group effort: Assign everyone in your family or travel group the task of putting away their own sleeping gear. This small habit can make a big difference in daily comfort.
2. Convert Sleep Space Back into Living Space
If your RV includes convertible sleeping areas like fold-down dinettes or sofa beds, reclaiming those spaces early in the day is essential for overall functionality. Matt recommends transforming these spaces back into daytime mode first thing each morning.
- Reclaim the dinette: If your dining table converts into a bed, return it to table mode so your group has a designated spot for breakfast, games, or planning your day’s itinerary.
- Open up the living area: Fold away Murphy beds or jackknife sofas to give everyone room to move and breathe.
- Create a flow: Establish a routine for who tackles each task—one person folds up bedding while another resets the dinette, for example.
3. Establish a Trash and Recycling System
Clutter isn’t just limited to pillows and blankets—trash can quickly pile up too, especially with morning coffee cups, cereal boxes, and snack wrappers. Make sure to have a dedicated space for trash.
- Use a small lidded bin: RVs don’t have room for a full-size kitchen garbage can, so opt for a compact model with a secure lid to contain odors and prevent spills.
- Line with reusable or compostable bags: Lightweight, eco-friendly liners are perfect for short trips or weekend getaways.
- Plan for disposal: Know where the campground’s dumpsters or recycling stations are, and make a habit of taking out the trash each morning before heading out on your adventures.
4. Create a Breakfast Prep Station
After your space is clean and your bed is put away, it’s time to enjoy breakfast. Your dinette is already set up and ready to go—but your routine can go even further with a few breakfast-focused systems.
- Prep dry goods ahead of time: Use labeled baskets or bins to keep cereal, oats, granola bars, and coffee supplies accessible.
- Utilize your outdoor kitchen: If your RV has one, consider cooking outside to free up indoor space.
- Batch prep hot breakfasts: Make a big batch of pancakes or egg muffins that can be quickly reheated throughout the week. Some RVers also enjoy overnight oats or premade yogurt parfaits.
- Clean as you go: After breakfast, make it part of your routine to wipe down the table and stow any dishes. A tidy kitchen in the morning means a more enjoyable day on the road or the trail.
5. Plan a Morning Departure Routine
If you're leaving your site that day—whether you're heading home or continuing your trip—it’s important to include pack-up tasks in your morning routine. Some steps to consider:
- Secure loose items: Put away any outside chairs, rugs, or portable grills.
- Check tire pressure and fluid levels: A quick morning check can save you from major headaches down the road.
- Disconnect power and water carefully: Make sure hoses are drained and cords are stored properly.
- Double-check your storage bays: Make sure all exterior compartments are latched and locked, and nothing is left behind.
6. Customize to Your Family’s Needs
While Matt provides a great framework for the basics of a campground morning routine, each RV family will adapt these routines based on their space and travel style.
- Traveling with kids? Assign age-appropriate responsibilities, like folding blankets or emptying the trash.
- Bringing pets? Build in time for a morning walk or bathroom break.
- Work from the road? Designate quiet morning hours for remote work before heading out for adventures.
7. Practice at Home
One of the best pieces of advice shared in earlier episodes of the Newbie Tool Kit is to practice RV routines in your driveway or at a local campground. Morning routines are no exception. Try a weekend mock trip and test what works best for your group—then refine your plan for longer travels.
Keep the Momentum Going
With a streamlined morning routine, your day at the campground starts on the right foot. From making breakfast to prepping for a hike or heading to your next destination, a few smart habits can turn chaos into comfort in no time.
For more expert tips on how to get started with RV travel, visit Go RVing’s Beginner’s Guide to RV Electrical and Propane Systems, or learn about Understanding RV Water and Sewer Systems.
And don’t forget to catch more episodes of Newbie Tool Kit with Matt Light on Go RVing’s YouTube playlist. You’ll find easy-to-follow, expert-created tutorials for every step of your RV journey.
