Every RV traveler should carry those items that are necessary in case of emergency. Depending on where your travels take you, these supplies may vary somewhat, but should include items that will enable you to survive without help for a few days, or to repair your RV in the event of a breakdown in a remote area.

The most important advance in obtaining help in the event of emergency is a technology we are quickly taking for granted. The humble cell phone can put you in touch with help at the push of a button. With the decreasing prices and expanding service areas available today, RV travelers should consider a cell phone a necessity rather than a luxury.

Be sure to keep your phone charged at all times, and invest in a car charger that will keep the phone charged while you are on the road. Invest also in an earphone accessory that allows for hands-free phone operation as you are going down the road.

Tools

You should carry tools with you for simple repairs that can get you to an RV service center. A basic set of tools should include:

Bright spotlight

Emergency red flashing light

Car adapter or batteries for the lights

Extra car fuses

Tire pressure gauge

Hammer

Various screwdrivers

Allen wrenches and a crescent wrench

Pliers

Can of tire sealer inflator

Flashlight signal cone

Booster/jumper cables

12-foot tow rope

Battery terminal brush

Emergency rain poncho

Well-stocked first-aid kit

Emergency blanket (fire resistant)

Roll of PVC tape

Emergency water bag

Rain poncho

Assorted cable ties

Siphon pump

SOS banner

You may also want to bring along some ready-to-eat meals, which have a long shelf life. These are similar to the MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) that are a staple of the military in the field. They can supply adequate nutrition for a few days until help can be obtained if you are stranded in a remote area.