Travel Trailer Camping with Bikes: Expert Packing Tips

Travel Trailer Camping with Family

Preparing for a family camping trip with your travel trailer and bikes can be exciting – and a bit daunting. The key to a smooth adventure is planning ahead with a thorough travel trailer checklist.

A checklist ensures you pack all the essentials for sleeping, cooking, clothing, safety, and biking with your kids, so nothing important gets left behind. Fear not! With a bit of preparation (and a great checklist), you’ll be well-equipped to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Let’s dive into expert packing tips to make your next camping getaway fun, safe, and stress-free for the whole family.

Click here to download our printable checklist here!

Family with Kids Camping in Travel Trailer

Build Your Family Travel Trailer Checklist First

A checklist keeps packing organized and ensures nothing important is forgotten. Involving kids in the process builds responsibility and excitement.

Key checklist categories:

Sleeping Gear: Rest easy by packing the basics for a good night’s sleep.
▢ Pillows for each family member
▢ Sleeping bags or sheets and blankets
▢ Stuffed animals or comfort items for kids
▢ Nightlights or clip-on reading lights

Cooking Gear: Be ready to cook meals and clean up with essential kitchen items.
▢ Portable grill or stove
▢ Bottled Water
▢ Fuel or propane
▢ Cookware (pots, pans, etc.)
▢ Cooking utensils
▢ Plates, cups, and silverware
▢ Cooler with ice packs
▢ Dish soap and sponge
▢ Trash bags (Check out our blog on sustainable camping for more trash packing ideas.)

Kids eating While travel Trailer camping

Clothing & Toiletries: Pack for changing weather and personal hygiene needs.
▢ Weather-appropriate clothing (jackets, rain gear, etc.)
▢ Extra socks and underwear
▢ Sturdy shoes or boots
▢ Soap, shampoo, and toothbrushes
▢ Sunscreen and insect repellent
▢ Towels and washcloths

Safety Gear: Stay safe and prepared for unexpected situations.
▢ Medications (optional)
▢ First aid kit
▢ Flashlights or headlamps with extra batteries
▢ Fire extinguisher
▢ Multitool or pocket knife
▢ Emergency contact list and medical info

Kid-specific items: Keep little ones entertained and comfortable.
▢ Favorite snacks
▢ Travel games or small toys
▢ Comfort items (blankets, plush toys)
▢ Rainy-day kit (books, tablet with downloads, don't forget the power cords!)

Travel Trailer for Family Camping & biking trip

Miscellaneous Essentials: Don’t forget the small but important items that keep everything running smoothly.
▢ Phone charging cords and power banks
▢ Wall plugs or car adapters
▢ Camp chairs
▢ Folding table
▢ Ziplock bags or storage containers
▢ Duct tape or gear repair tape
▢ Matches or a lighter
▢ Notebook and pens
▢ Campground reservation details or printed maps
▢ Extra batteries
▢ Bug spray
▢ Hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipes
▢ Reusable shopping bags
▢ Laundry bag or collapsible hamper
▢ Safety Chains (for winter camping)

(Optional) Pet Gear: Bringing your furry friend along? Make sure they’re as comfortable and prepared as you are.
▢ Food and water bowls
▢ Pet food and treats
▢ Leash and harness
▢ Waste bags
▢ Pet bed or blanket
▢ Crate or travel carrier
▢ Vaccination records or ID tags
▢ Towel for muddy paws
▢ Collapsible water bowl for hikes
▢ Toys or chews for downtime

Kid Biking on trail while Camping

Pack Smart for Biking Adventures with Kids

Biking is often the highlight of a family camping trip, so take some time to pack smart for your two-wheeled adventures. You want your kids to be safe, comfortable, and prepared on the trails. Here’s how to make sure nothing bike-related gets left behind:

Helmets & Gloves: Basic protection and comfort go a long way when biking with kids.
▢ Helmets for each rider
▢ Protective gloves

Hydration: Stay hydrated on and off the trail.
▢ Water bottles or hydration packs
▢ Snacks for long rides
▢ Individual gear bags for each child
▢ Labels or markers to avoid mix-ups

Bike Tool Kit & Spares: Be prepared for quick repairs and adjustments.
▢ Tire pressure gauge and pump
▢ Patch kit
▢ Spare tubes
▢ Tire levers
▢ Bike multitool

Bike Locks: Keep bikes secure at the campsite and during travel.
▢ Sturdy bike locks & cables

Kid Biking through puddle while camping

By packing smart for family bike outings, you’ll set yourselves up for safe and enjoyable rides. With the right gear at the ready, you can focus on making memories – not making emergency trips to the store.

Click here to download our checklist here!


Travel Trailer Checklist Essential: Bike Rack Setup

One often-overlooked item on a travel trailer checklist is how you’ll transport the family One essential but often-overlooked item on a travel trailer checklist is how you’ll transport your bikes. Standard bike racks may not handle the bouncing and sway of a trailer, which can lead to damage or safety issues. An RV-rated rack protects your bikes and trailer and gives peace of mind while towing. Let’s Go Aero offers travel trailer-specific racks that mount to either your trailer’s A-frame or your tow vehicle, making transport safer and more convenient.

Jack-IT PRO Bike Carrier for Travel Trailers
A-Frame Bike Carrier for Travel Trailers
Travel Trailer A-Frame Bike Carrier

A-Frame Mounts for Standard Bikes: Jack-IT PRO A-Frame Carrier

The Jack-IT PRO Expandable 2-Bike A-Frame Mount transforms unused trailer tongue space into secure front-end bike storage. It mounts above your trailer’s jack and propane tanks, keeping bikes visible while towing and freeing up rear access. Engineered for RV use, it’s tough enough for e-bikes and expandable to carry more bikes or gear with add-ons—making it a great solution for growing families.

Key Features:

  • Mounts to trailer A-frame without blocking doors or propane access
  • Expandable design supports up to 4 bikes or optional cargo accessories
  • RV-rated construction handles rough roads and e-bike weight
  • TwinSpin™ rotating arms for easy loading and compact storage
  • Pin locks included for added security

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Check out this review of our original Jack-IT Bike Rack from an adventure like you!


Full Nelson Bike Carrier for Travel Trailer Bike Transport


Full Nelson Truck Bed Carrier for Travel Trailers
Truck Bed Mount Bike Carrier for Travel Trailers

Truck Mounts for Standard Bikes: Full Nelson Truck Bed Bike Rack

The Full Nelson Expandable Truck Bed Bike Carrier offers a smart way to transport bikes without sacrificing your truck bed’s storage space. It mounts tool-free across your pickup bed and holds bikes upright above the bed walls, leaving room below for coolers, firewood, and other camping essentials. With expansion kits available, it can carry up to six bikes—perfect for growing families or group adventures. This setup is especially handy if your trailer lacks a rear hitch or you’d rather not add weight to it.

Key Features:

  • Holds up to six bikes with optional add-on kits
  • Tool-free installation clamps to truck bed rails—no drilling required
  • Bikes ride above the bed, preserving cargo space underneath
  • Works with tonneau covers using an available adapter
  • Locking system secures both the rack and your bikes for added safety


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Want more truck mount options for bikes? Check out our full article: 5 Best Ways to Transport a Bike with a Truck.


A-Frame E-bike Carrier for Travel Trailers
Heavy-Duty A-Frame Carrier for E-Bikes
E-Bike Carrier for Travel Trailer A-Frames

A-Frame Mounts for E-Bikes: Jack-E Heavy-Duty A-Frame eBike Carrier

The Jack-E is a rugged A-frame-mounted bike rack built specifically to carry two heavy e-bikes right on the front of your travel trailer. It installs above your trailer’s jack and propane tanks, keeping your e-bikes visible while towing and leaving rear cargo areas free. With a 150 lb capacity (75 lbs per bike) and optional Lifter™ Winch Assist for easy lifting, the Jack-E is ideal for campers who need a strong, convenient bike transport solution.

Key Features:

  • Mounts to trailer A-frame without interfering with propane tank access
  • Carries two e-bikes up to 75 lbs each (150 lbs total capacity)
  • Optional Lifter™ Winch Assist makes lifting heavy bikes easy
  • Durable steel construction built for the rigors of RV travel
  • Compact design preserves rear trailer access and visibility while towing
  • Includes locking hardware to keep bikes secure on the road

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Heavy Duty ebike Carrier for Travel Trailer Hitches
Heavy-Duty E-Bike Carrier with Ramp
Heavy Duty E-bike carrier with assist Ramp

Hitch Mounts for Any bike: V-Lectric VFR eBike Carrier

The V-Lectric VFR is a heavy-duty hitch-mounted bike rack engineered for carrying two large e-bikes with confidence and convenience. With an impressive 160 lb total capacity (80 lbs per bike), this rack is built for today’s heavier e-bikes. The slide-out design provides easy rear vehicle access, while its tilt-up feature allows compact storage when not in use—making it a great fit for SUVs, trucks, and RVs.

Key Features:

  • Carries two e-bikes up to 80 lbs each (160 lbs total capacity)
  • Slide-out platform allows access to rear cargo or tailgates
  • Tilt-up design folds the rack vertically when not in use
  • Fits 2-inch hitches; RV-approved for rear travel trailer bumpers and motorhomes
  • Wide tire trays support fat tires up to 4.5 inches
  • Includes Silent Hitch Pin® for enhanced stability and quiet towing


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For even more information on bike racks and carriers rated for travel trailers check out our full blog: Bike Racks for Travel Trailers: What Works and What Doesn't


Family Camping with RV Travel Trailer

Travel Trailer Packing Hacks

Now that we’ve covered the big stuff – gear and bikes – let’s talk about packing hacks to make your travel trailer life easier. Space in a trailer is limited, and an organized camp is a happy camp. These tips will help you optimize storage, keep things accessible, and generally level-up your packing game:

  • Use Bins and Labels: Group items in clear, labeled bins by category like kitchen gear, food storage containers or kids’ toys. This keeps loose items together and packing organized and makes it easy to find what you need fast.
  • Pack Heavy Items Low and Forward: Place heavy items near the front of the trailer and low to the floor to improve balance and reduce sway. Secure with tie-downs or non-slip mats to prevent shifting.
  • Keep Daily Essentials Accessible: Store frequently used items near doors or in a “First Night” bag in your vehicle. This saves time and avoids unpacking everything right away.
  • Make Use of Vertical Space: Hang organizers, hooks, and nets to store jackets, toiletries, and lightweight gear. This keeps surfaces clear and makes essentials easy to grab.
  • Take Advantage of Collapsible Gear: Choose foldable or nesting gear like water jugs, stools, and laundry baskets. These save space and pack down small when not in use.
  • Post a Departure Checklist: Keep a visible list in the trailer to double-check latches, gear, and essentials before leaving. Involve the whole family for quicker, stress-free departures.

By employing these packing hacks, you’ll make the most of your travel trailer’s space and keep your trip running smoothly. An organized camper also means less time spent searching for stuff and more time enjoying the great outdoors with your family.

kid Biking at travel Trailer camp ground

Choose Bike-Friendly Campgrounds Before You Go

Sometimes the difference between an okay camping trip and an unforgettable one comes down to where you stay. Since biking is a big goal of your trip, it pays to do a bit of homework upfront and choose campgrounds that are bike-friendly for the whole family. What should you look for? Here are a few tips:

  • Trails and Terrain: Choose campgrounds with on-site or nearby bike trails suitable for kids. Look for paved paths, gentle gravel, or green-rated trails, and consider flat Rails-to-Trails routes for worry-free rides.
  • Campground Roads: Campgrounds with low-speed paved loops are ideal for kids to ride safely. Avoid spots with steep hills or heavy traffic, and check reviews for bike-friendliness.
  • Rules and Safety: Check for helmet requirements, curfews, and no-bike zones before you go. Campground websites or a quick call can help you plan ahead.
  • Extra Amenities: Some campgrounds offer bike parks, rentals, or organized kid rides. Even a playground paired with bike-friendly paths keeps kids active and entertained.
  • Surrounding Area: Research if nearby parks or recreation areas have family-friendly trails. Destinations known for biking—like Fruita or Moab—can be worth it if trails are beginner-friendly.

Choosing a bike-friendly campground means you’ll spend less time driving to find a trail and more time actually riding. It also sets the stage for a safer experience for your kids. When they can cruise straight from the campsite without dangerous roads, their independence and confidence will soar. And isn’t that what we want – happy, tired-at-bedtime kids who’ve had a full day of outdoor fun? Prioritize those pedal-friendly locations and you’ll be setting your family up for an awesome trip.

Family travel Trailer at Campground

Simplify Your Trip with the Right Travel Trailer Checklist

Packing smart with a detailed travel trailer checklist makes every family trip easier, safer, and more enjoyable. A well-thought-out plan ensures you’re prepared for changing weather, unexpected bike repairs, and all the little things that can add stress when you’re away from home. By organizing gear ahead of time and making sure everything has its place, you’ll spend less time unpacking and more time enjoying the outdoors with your family. Make packing easier and download the printable version here.

Let’s Go Aero’s RV-ready bike racks and transport solutions take the hassle out of bringing bikes along, with secure, space-saving designs built for trailers, trucks, and family adventures. Whether you need front-of-trailer storage or a high-capacity truck bed setup, our racks are designed to keep your bikes safe and your travels smooth. Explore our full lineup of bike racks and travel gear to get your trailer—and your family—road trip ready.

Happy trails and happy camping!

Want more camping checklist? Check out our Checklist for Car Camping with Kids

author

About the Author

Amanda Kennedy

Camping Enthusiast & Product Tester

Amanda Kennedy is an avid camper and captivating storyteller. Whether exploring new trails or writing about them, Amanda brings adventure and inspiration to every aspect of life.