
Guide
The Ultimate EV Camping Trip Checklist
50-point pre-trip plan. Everything you need to check before hitting the road for an unforgettable EV camping adventure.
Published: June 7, 2026 | Reading time: 10 minutes
Before You Leave Home
You've booked the campsite. You've charged your EV. You've downloaded ABRP and PlugShare. But before you hit the road, there's a lot to prepare. This checklist covers everything.
Vehicle & Battery Check
- Battery health report: Check your EV's infotainment for battery status. Is degradation normal for your age/km?
- Tire pressure: Properly inflated tires improve range by 5–10%. Check pressure when tires are cold.
- Wipers and washer fluid: Road dirt degrades range. Clean windows = better efficiency.
- Air filter: Clean air filter improves efficiency slightly but matters on long trips.
- 12V battery health: Low 12V battery can strand you even with full high-voltage battery.
- Brake fluid and coolant: Top up if needed. Long trips stress both systems.
Trip Planning
- ABRP route planned: Enter your exact EV model. Test charge stops assuming 10% worse-case efficiency.
- Backup route downloaded: Plan a secondary route in case charging fails at a primary stop.
- Charge stops booked: Don't rely on finding chargers. Many require apps or payment methods not available on the day.
- Accommodation confirmed: Call ahead. Confirm EV parking and V2L capability if needed.
- Weather forecast checked: Extreme heat or cold significantly impacts range. Plan accordingly.
- Road conditions verified: Heavy traffic, roadworks, or closures change your route and charge requirements.
Charging Apps & Credentials
- ABRP installed and tested
- PlugShare installed with offline maps downloaded
- Chargefox account confirmed and payment method valid
- Tesla app updated (non-Tesla drivers)
- NRMA app configured if visiting parks
- All apps tested at home — know how to navigate and pay before you're roadside.
Packing for EV Camping
Power & Charging: V2L adapter, power board with switches, 5m extension cord (outdoor-rated), additional phone chargers.
Camping Essentials: Tent, sleeping bag, mat, cooking equipment, water containers, waste bags, first aid kit.
EV Spares: Spare fuses, coolant top-up, extra washer fluid, phone chargers for every device, power bank for emergencies.