RV checklist for your Canadian adventure: Complete guide

Summer in Canada brings a rush of wanderlust, and for many families, that means hitting the open road in an RV. In fact, RV travel has surged in popularity over the years.

According to the latest data from the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) of Canada, as of 2022, about 2.1 million Canadian households (14 %) own an RV, contributing to 7.7 million RV trips and over $10 billion in spending annually. Meanwhile, the RV sector supports approximately 104,200 jobs and adds $12 billion in value to the Canadian economy.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, our ultimate RV checklist will help you pack smart and plan your next Canadian adventure safely.

Pre-trip planning tips

Planning your trailer or RV vacation is the first and, arguably, most important step in making your journey smooth and memorable. Here are some tips to help you start planning your next RV adventure:

Plan out your route

Start by choosing a destination or region, then map out your route and estimate travel times using apps and websites like:

• Google Maps

• iOverlander

• Parks Canada

• Provincial tourism guides or sites

Make sure to look for and write down any scenic stops you want to make, as well as dump stations, fuel stations, and overnight parking. Go RVing Canada is also a great hub for route inspiration, offering curated trip guides that showcase the best of Canada’s landscapes. The site can also connect you with reputable RV rental and sales businesses across the country.

Make sure you book your sites well in advance

If you're travelling during peak summer months, you'll want to book your campsites well in advance, especially in high-demand areas like Banff, Jasper, or Algonquin Park. Parks Canada’s Reservation Service opens in early spring, and spots can sometimes fill up within minutes. You can also look for private campgrounds on platforms like Campendium, Hipcamp, or RVezy.

Consider the weather

When planning out your trip, it's important to factor in the weather. Canada’s climate can vary dramatically by region and elevation. For instance, British Columbia tends to be milder but wet, while the Prairies are hot and dry in summer. And, in case you didn't know, the Rockies can still see snow well into June!

So, make sure you check local forecasts on reputable sites like Environment Canada as well as park alerts regularly, and always carry extra gear for unexpected weather conditions.

Check for provincial travel advisories

It’s also wise to check provincial travel advisories and road conditions before you head out. For instance, if you're planning a trip to British Columbia, their DriveBC and EmergencyInfoBC monitor road closures from wildfires, flooding, or avalanches.

In early summer 2025, Prairie provinces like Manitoba and Saskatchewan declared wildfires as provincial emergencies, which led to park closures and evacuation orders. These advisories can impact travel routes, campground availability, and air quality, so it's important to stay connected to official provincial sites for updates right up to departure day.

Your RV essentials packing checklist for your next trip

Embarking on an RV trip means bringing the comforts of home on wheels. Here’s a helpful, organized packing list of essentials to help you prepare for anything the road throws your way:

What do you need to know legally before RVing in Canada?

Before hitting the road, it’s important for RV owners to know the legal rules that apply to RV travel across Canada. Getting familiar with Canada’s RV regulations can help you avoid surprises and stay safe on the road. Before your RV trip in Canada, note:

Driver’s licence and insurance requirements

In most provinces, a standard Class 5/G licence is sufficient to drive or tow an RV, unless it has air brakes or exceeds the set weight limit.

For example, according to the Government of Ontario, a G‑class licence covers RVs towed by motor vehicles as long as they do not exceed 11,000 kg combined; heavier setups may require a Class D licence. Whereas the Government of Alberta states that a regular Class 5 licence is sufficient to drive most RVs, provided the vehicle is not equipped with air brakes.

In addition, insurance is mandatory for RVs in all provinces. Travel trailers aren’t legally required to be insured, but travel trailer-specific insurance policies offer essential liability protection.

Towing limit and size regulations

Towing limits vary by province. Again, class 5 licences generally permit towing up to 4,500 kg (or 11,000 kg combined in Ontario). As for sizing, according to MotorTrend, a single trailer in Canada can be up to:

• 2.6 metres wide

• 12.5 metres long

• Between 4 and 4.5 metres tall (depending on the province or territory)

However, longer combinations may be permitted in some provinces, like the Yukon (16.15 metres).

Overnight parking laws

When it comes to parking or camping outside of designated sites, Canada has strict rules. According to Go RVing Canada:

• National and provincial park day‑use/rest areas prohibit overnight parking

• Most municipalities ban overnight RV parking on city streets (always check local bylaws)

• Overnight parking on private property without explicit permission is trespassing

However, some big box stores like Walmart allow overnight parking, but permissions vary by location. Always ask the manager before settling in for the night.

What to expect at Canadian campgrounds

Canada has a wide range of gorgeous campgrounds, each one offering something different from the last. In fact, according to Statistics Canada, as of December 2023, there were 2,920 RV parks and campgrounds across Canada. Here are a few of the different types of campgrounds available, as well as what you can expect from each:

Campground types

• Many Provincial/Territorial Parks offer both frontcountry (RV-friendly with gravel pads and facilities) and backcountry (hike-in, primitive) camp sites

• Parks Canada sites range from serviced frontcountry to rugged backcountry and unique shelters (e.g., oTENTik, yurts)

• Private (commercial) campgrounds typically offer resorts with full hook-ups, playgrounds, Wi‑Fi, and pools

• Boondocking (dispersed camping) on Crown land is free in Ontario (up to 21 days), but since it's basic and remote, this means there are no hookups available

According to Parks Canada, many of their frontcountry RV sites have electric (15‑50 amp), water, and sewer hookups; some even include Wi‑Fi and showers.

Campsite quiet hours and etiquette

Quiet hours are usually between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. in national and provincial parks. For private or commercial campgrounds, they may have their own set hours. When camping, it's also important to keep basic etiquette in mind, such as:

• Minimize your footprint

• Use the provided firewood

• Store food properly to avoid attracting wild animals

• Respect all wildlife and other campers

Tips for a safe and smooth RV trip in Canada

Safety is essential to enjoying your RV adventure. Before you head out, do a full walkaround to check tire pressure, brake lights, and propane tank connections. A minor issue at home can become a major one on the road. Also, double-check your RV’s power usage limits, as running too many appliances at once can trip breakers or overload your system.

Use your convex mirrors to reduce blind spots and always plan wider turns, especially in tight parking lots or gas stations. If you'll be driving on gravel roads or mountain routes, keep your speed low, shift to a lower gear when descending, and try to avoid sudden braking.

Remember, since cell service can be spotty in remote areas, it's a good idea to download offline maps or bring printed copies of your route. And of course, monitor weather and construction reports to avoid delays and hazards. Lastly, make sure your RV insurance is up to date. If it's not, reach out to your insurance broker before you leave!

Learn more with BrokerLink

Your RV is more than just a vehicle. It’s your home on the road! That’s why it’s important to make sure it’s properly protected. Whether you own or rent, a BrokerLink insurance expert can help you find the right coverage for your next adventure.

Get a quote today for RV or trailer insurance from BrokerLink. You can reach us by phone, email, or in person at any one of our locations throughout Canada. No matter how you choose to get in touch, a BrokerLink insurance advisor will be happy to assist you. We also encourage you to take advantage of our free online quote tool that can provide you with a competitive quote in minutes.

RV Checklist FAQs

Is there a licence I need to operate an RV?

Generally, all you need to drive an RV is a standard driver's licence. That said, check out the regulations in your province to make sure you have the proper requirements.

Where can I keep my RV when it's not in use during the offseason?

If there is enough room, you can park your RV at home. Furthermore, a few dealerships provide storage services, and there are establishments around Canada that are specifically designed to house RVs.

What are three tips for winterizing an RV?

Winterize your water system. Frozen pipes could crack and damage them. Next, remove any batteries and store them in a warm, dry place. Avoid storing batteries on a concrete floor, as it can drain your battery. Additionally, coat the exterior of the RV with a quality wax or protectant. Lastly, when in doubt, check your user manual for further details on how to winterize your RV.

Should I buy an RV or a trailer?

Should I buy an RV or a trailer? is a common question many camping and outdoor enthusiasts often wonder when they're about to buy their first RV trailer. In truth, the choice between the two really depends on your needs, budget, preferences, and more. When choosing the ideal solution for your lifestyle, you should also take into account things like storage space, affordability, simplicity of driving, and the frequency of your vacation plans.

What types of homes are covered under mobile home insurance?

Mobile home insurance provides coverage to mobile homes, modular homes, mini homes, tiny homes, and double-wide homes. However, this may vary between insurance companies, which is why you should ask your insurance broker before purchasing a plan.

Do I need solar panels when going on an RV camping trip?

While not usually required, rooftop solar panels for RV camping can be a helpful feature. By producing power, they enable self-sufficiency by removing the need for hookups or generators and allowing you to run appliances, charge electronics, and maintain fully charged batteries. Solar panels might be an affordable and green camping alternative if you want to camp off the grid often or for extended periods of time. They might not be necessary, though, for shorter excursions or if you plan to stay mostly at campgrounds with electricity hookups.

Does my car insurance extend to my RV or trailer?

Generally speaking, your auto insurance does not automatically cover your trailer or RV. Insurance for RVs and trailers usually needs to be purchased separately, although sometimes coverage will extend from your homeowner's policy. However, you must speak with your insurance company about your particular circumstances, as each provider may have different coverage available.

Is mobile home insurance mandatory in Canada?

Even if it's not required in Canada, mobile home insurance is nevertheless necessary. The only way to safeguard yourself against the financial dangers of property damage, liability claims, and other issues if you are the owner of an RV is to get this kind of insurance. Insurance for mobile homes can also shield you from additional risks, including flooding, higher living costs, equipment failure, and more. Ultimately, it's better to be safe rather than sorry.

What does dry camping mean?

Boondocking, another name for dry camping, is the practice of setting up camp somewhere without the standard amenities of a campground, such as power, water, or sewage hookups. To sustain themselves, campers depend on their separate supplies, which include batteries, generators, and freshwater tanks. It usually entails camping in isolated or off-grid locations. Dry camping is a more self-sufficient and simple kind of camping where participants have to manage their electricity and water usage as well as how they dispose of their waste.

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.