Road Trip Packing List: Items You Didn’t Know You Needed
Planning a road trip and worried about forgetting stuff?
No worries, you’re not alone!
In this blog post, I’ll go over a road trip packing list that includes items you might not have considered and also dish out helpful road trip tips along the way.
Also, be sure to snag your FREE printable road trip checklist at the end!
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Road trips are a real adventure, and I absolutely love them.
The best part is that you can pretty much pack whatever you want! – Sort of.
I’ve been lucky to go on several week-long road trips across the U.S. and even through cool countries like Ireland, Scotland, and Iceland. Those trips have taught me a lot about what to pack and what to leave behind. I’ve picked up some handy tricks and tips that I’m eager to share with you.
So, let’s get started with the ultimate road trip packing list guide to make your road trip awesome!
Table of Contents:
Top Ten Items You Should Never Leave Home Without:
Road Trip Car Essentials:
Road Trip Essentials for Your Comfort
Entertainment for Road-tripping:
Road Trip Clothing & Personal Toiletry Items:
Road Trip Food and Eating Accessories:
Miscellaneous Road Trip Items:
Road Trip Apps You Must Have:
Technology Road Trip Essentials:
Winter Road Trip Essentials:
Best Luggage for Road-tripping:
What Not to Take on a Road Trip:
Frequently Asked Questions – Packing for a Road Trip:
Final Thoughts
Looking for help planning your road trip? Look no further! Dive into my step-by-step guide on how to plan the ultimate road trip for an epic road-tripping adventure. Don’t miss out!
The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List:
Top Ten Road Trip Essentials You Should Never Leave Home Without:
1. Driver’s License and Identification:
Don’t forget your driver’s license – it’s kinda important! And it’s a good idea to have a backup ID, like a passport or a state ID, just to be extra sure. You’ll need these IDs for various reasons, like showing who you are at traffic stops or other times when you need to prove your identity.
2. Vehicle Registration and Insurance:
Make sure you’ve got your car’s up-to-date registration and insurance papers. You might need to show these documents if you get pulled over by the cops, get in an accident, or when dealing with rental car places. Go prepared!
3. Cash & Coins:
Keep your wallet stocked with some cash. Even though we mostly use digital payments, having cash can be a game-saver. It’s handy in case you stumble upon spots that don’t take cards or when you’re in a hurry and need money fast. And don’t forget coins for tolls and parking garages – they come in pretty handy!
4. Cell Phone and Charger:
Your phone isn’t just for talking; it’s your navigator, your hotel finder, and your lifeline in emergencies. So, make sure it’s all juiced up before you hit the road. And don’t forget a car charger to keep it powered throughout your trip – that way, you’re always connected and ready for whatever comes your way!
5. First Aid Kit:
Accidents can happen, and a first aid kit can make all the difference in such situations.
This kit should contain these items:
- Adhesive Bandages (Various Sizes): To cover and protect small cuts and blisters.
- Sterile Gauze Pads and Adhesive Tape: For larger wounds and better wound protection.
- Antiseptic Wipes: To clean wounds and prevent infection.
- Scissors: Handy for cutting tape, gauze, or clothing in emergencies.
- Ace Bandage: Provides support for sprains and strains.
- Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen): To manage pain or reduce fever.
- Antihistamines: Helpful for allergic reactions or insect bites.
- Thermometer: To monitor body temperature.
- CPR Face Shield or Mask: For performing CPR safely.
- Disposable Gloves: To protect both the first aider and the injured person from contamination.
- Tweezers: Useful for removing splinters, ticks, or small debris from wounds.
- Burn Cream: To treat minor burns and sunburns.
- Emergency Blanket: Provides warmth and protection from the elements.
- Instant Cold Packs: To reduce swelling or relieve pain in case of injuries.
- Hydrocortisone Cream: Effective for treating itching and skin irritation.
- Hand Sanitizer: For personal hygiene and cleanliness.
- Personal Medications: If anyone in your group requires prescription medications, ensure an adequate supply is available.
Don’t forget to give your first aid kit a once-over now and then to make sure nothing’s expired. After each road trip, refill any items you’ve used up. It’s smart to also brush up on basic first-aid know-how, just in case you ever need to use the kit in an emergency. Safety first road tripper!
6. Spare Tire and Toolkit:
A flat tire can happen anywhere, so a spare tire is a must. Additionally, carry a toolkit that includes a jack, lug wrench, and any special tools needed for your vehicle to assist with changing a tire.
7. Emergency Roadside Kit:
It’s a road trip essential for safety and handling minor roadside issues.
This Kit should contain these items:
- Spare Tire: A spare tire allows you to replace a damaged one so you can continue your journey without the need for a tow truck.
- Jumper Cables: Jumper cables enable you to jump-start your vehicle in case your car’s battery is dead, which is a common issue during road trips. They’re a quick fix to get you back on the road.
- Car Oil: Carry a quart of car oil with you! It can help top off your engine’s oil level in case it’s running low. Maintaining proper oil levels is imperative for the engine’s health.
- Gallon of Water: Water serves multiple purposes, from refilling the radiator to staying hydrated while waiting for assistance. It’s a versatile resource to have on hand!
- Fix a Flat: A can of Fix a Flat temporarily seals and inflates punctured tires, allowing you to drive to a nearby service station for proper repairs. It’s a quick solution for minor tire issues.
- Duct Tape: Duct tape is incredibly versatile and can temporarily fix various problems, from securing loose parts to patching up small leaks.
- Car Jack: A car jack is essential for safely lifting your vehicle to change a tire or inspect the undercarriage. It provides stability and security during roadside repairs.
- Basic Tool Kit: A basic tool kit includes items like pliers, screwdrivers, and adjustable wrenches. It allows you to make simple repairs or adjustments on your vehicle if needed.
8. Maps and GPS Navigation:
Maps and GPS navigation are your lifelines on the road. While smartphones have made GPS accessible with Google Maps, having paper maps as a backup is wise, especially in areas with poor cell service.
Pro Tip:
Download offline maps on your navigation app, especially for areas with poor or no cell service. This ensures you have access to maps and directions even when you’re off the grid for a successful road trip.
9. Travel Insurance:
Getting travel insurance is a clever move for your road trip. It acts like a safety net, helping you out when unexpected things mess up your plans. It covers stuff like canceling your trip, medical emergencies, accidents, or losing your stuff. With travel insurance, you can relax, knowing you’re financially safe if something goes wrong, so you can focus on your adventure instead of fretting about what might happen.
10. Vehicle Keys and Spare Set:
Your car keys are a road trip essential, don’t ya think? But do you have a backup set? Having an extra car key can rescue you from a lockout jam. It’s smart to stash that spare set in a different place from your main keys, and it’s even better if someone you’re traveling with keeps them just in case. Double the keys, double the peace of mind!
FYI: There was this one time when I accidentally locked my keys in the trunk while grabbing something, and I had to sit around for three whole hours waiting for the Roadside Assistance guy to rescue me and unlock the car. This happened during a road trip in California. More recently, my husband and I were on a road trip exploring Kauai. After a sunset hike, we returned to the empty parking lot, and we were convinced we’d left our keys in the car. The situation was a bit tense because it was dark up there on that mountain. Thankfully, we dodged a disaster when we found the key buried in our backpack. But it was a close call! The moral of the story is always have a spare key with someone else!
Pro Tip:
Double-check your car insurance policy before the trip to confirm the extent of your coverage. This ensures you’re prepared for unexpected situations on the road.
Road Trip Car Essentials:
Car Owner’s Manual: Your car manual contains valuable information about your vehicle, including maintenance schedules, troubleshooting tips, and specifications. It’s a handy reference in case you encounter car-related issues during your trip.
Vehicle Maintenance Records: Carrying records of recent vehicle maintenance and repairs is essential. It helps you keep track of the car’s health and provides valuable information for roadside assistance if needed.
Roadside Assistance Membership Info: I highly recommend you join a roadside assistance program like AAA. Keep this information in handy in your glove box in case you break down or have an emergency. It’ll speed things up when you need to receive support from your roadside assistance service, making a stressful situation easier.
Car Sunshade: A car sunshade is like your car’s sunblock. It shields your vehicle from scorching heat and intense sunlight. This keeps the inside cooler and stops the sun from baking your dashboard, seats, and other parts. It’s a real game-changer on sunny days!
Car Phone Mount: A phone mount keeps your phone within easy reach while driving, allowing you to use navigation apps, make hands-free calls, and stay connected without distraction or fumbling for your phone.
Windshield Wiper Fluid: Good visibility is crucial for safe driving. Windshield wiper fluid helps keep your windshield clean and clear, especially when you encounter bugs, dust, or rain on the road.
Tire Pressure Gauge: Keeping the right tire pressure is a big deal for safety and saving fuel. With a tire pressure gauge, you can check and tweak your tire pressure, which cuts the chance of tire blowouts and makes your gas last longer. It’s a win-win for your road trip!
Flashlight: A flashlight is a must-have for nighttime car troubles or when you need to see things in the dark. It lights up the way so you can check the engine, swap a tire, or find your way in unfamiliar places. It’s like having a little pocket sun for your road trip!
Pro Tip:
Emergency Contact List: Create a list of emergency contacts that includes family members and medical professionals. This list is invaluable in case of health or safety emergencies on the road.
Road Trip Essentials for Your Comfort
Pillows and Blankets: These are long road trip essentials! Long drives can be comfy with the right road trip supplies. They help you and your pals rest, nap, or snooze in the car or at those rest areas.
Slippers or Flipflops: These are ideal for quick stops, allowing you to easily slip on and off your shoes when you need to stretch your legs or take a break. I actually pack both slippers and flip flops on all my road trips.
Travel-sized Hand Sanitizer: Hand sanitizer is a hygiene essential, especially when you may not have access to soap and water. It helps keep your hands clean and germ-free during the journey.
Travel Umbrella: A compact travel umbrella is handy for unexpected rain or strong sun. It keeps you dry and provides shade when needed.
Travel-sized Laundry Bag: A laundry bag keeps dirty or used clothing separate from clean items, helping you stay organized and maintain cleanliness during your trip.
Tissues: Tissues are versatile and can serve multiple purposes, from wiping surfaces in the car to personal hygiene or handling spills.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm with SPF: These items protect your skin and lips from sunburn and dryness, especially during open-top or sunroof driving.
Insect Repellent: Insect repellent is vital if you’re traveling to areas with bugs or in the great outdoors. It keeps insects at bay, preventing bites and discomfort.
Travel-sized Laundry Detergent: For longer road trips, having laundry detergent allows you to do quick washes and keep your clothing fresh. It’s especially handy if you’re camping or staying in accommodations with laundry facilities.
Pro Tip:
Plan regular rest breaks to stay alert and prevent driver fatigue. These breaks offer an opportunity to stretch, refresh, and recharge, making the journey safer and more comfortable.
Entertainment for Road-tripping:
Streaming Service: With a streaming service, you can access a wide variety of movies and TV shows, ensuring you have entertainment options during downtime or rest stops.
Audiobooks or Podcasts: Download audiobooks or your favorite road trip podcast! These are ideal for keeping your mind engaged and entertained while driving. They offer an excellent alternative to music and can be educational or highly enjoyable.
Road Trip Games: When you’re taking a break or just parked, road trip games are the perfect way to have fun and connect with your travel buddies. It’s all about making memories and having a good time!
Travel Journal and Pen: A travel journal allows you to document your journey, capturing memories, interesting sights, and personal reflections. It’s a creative and sentimental keepsake of your road trip.
Binoculars: They let you zoom in on wildlife, landmarks, and stunning views from afar, making your adventure even more visually exciting.
E-reader or Books: For avid readers, e-readers or physical books are a fantastic way to pass the time, especially during long stretches of driving or leisurely breaks.
Personalized Road Trip Playlist: Make your own road trip playlist that’s all about your music style. It sets the vibe and makes the trip even more fun.
Pro Tip:
Customize your road trip playlist with everyone’s favorite songs. The right music can create memories and set the mood for your adventure.
Road Trip Clothing & Personal Toiletry Items:
Weather-appropriate Clothing: Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack clothes accordingly. Include items such as:
- T-shirts or tops
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Sweaters or hoodies
- Lightweight and heavy jackets
- Pants or jeans
- Shorts or skirts (for warm weather)
- Rain jacket or poncho (if rain is expected)
- Swimsuit (even if you don’t plan to swim, it might come in handy)
- Scarf, gloves, and a beanie (for cooler weather)
Underwear and Socks: Pack enough underwear and socks for the duration of your trip, plus a few extras.
Comfortable Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes, sneakers, or hiking boots, depending on your activities. Also, consider flip flops or sandals for easy rest-stop changes.
Sleepwear: Don’t forget pajamas or comfortable sleepwear.
Active Wear: If you plan to engage in physical activities like hiking or sports, pack suitable activewear.
Accessories:
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Sunglasses
- Belt
Watch
Swimwear: Even if you’re not going to the beach, a swimsuit is handy for impromptu water stops or visiting pools.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Dental Floss Sticks
Mouthwash
Shampoo and Conditioner
Hair Brush & Hair Ties
Feminine Products
Baby Wipes: Baby wipes are versatile for quick clean-ups, especially if access to restrooms is limited during stops.
Toilet Paper: Always have a roll of toilet paper on hand in case rest stop facilities are out of supplies.
Soap or Body Wash
Razor and Shaving Cream
Deodorant
Gum
Tide to Go Pen: This handy pen helps remove stains from clothing, ensuring you look presentable throughout your journey.
Towels: Towels are incredibly versatile. You can use them for drying off after a swim, showering, or getting caught in the rain. They also work as makeshift picnic blankets or for sitting on at outdoor events.
Pro Tip:
Plan your outfits by choosing clothing items that can be mixed and matched. This minimizes the number of clothes you need to pack and ensures you’re prepared for various weather conditions.
Road Trip Food and Eating Accessories:
Non-perishable Snacks: Non-perishable road trip snacks are convenient for quick munching between meals and can serve as emergency food if you’re in a remote area with limited dining options.
Here are my favorite road trip snacks:
- Trail Mix
- Jerky
- Granola Bars
- Cheese and Crackers
- Popcorn
- Pretzels
- Dried Fruit
- Nuts
- Rice Cakes
- Chocolate
- Energy Bars
- Cheerios
- Gummy Bears or Licorice
- Bottled Water
- Coffee or Tea
- Sandwiches or Wraps
- Chips
- Single-Serve Nut Butter Packets
Eating Utensils: Utensils like forks, knives, and spoons.
Knife: A knife is useful for cutting fruits, vegetables, and other food items, especially when preparing meals during your trip.
Cutting Board: A small cutting board provides a clean and stable surface for cutting.
Reusable Food Containers: These are ideal for storing leftovers, packing sandwiches, or organizing snacks. They’re eco-friendly and help reduce waste.
Cooler Packs or Ice Packs: These help maintain a cold temperature in your cooler, keeping items like dairy products, meats, and drinks chilled.
Can Opener: A can opener is great for opening your canned goods or packaged food items that require it.
Portable Stove or Grill (if needed): If you plan to cook your own meals on the road, a portable stove or grill is needed.
Propane tank for stove: Ensure you have the necessary fuel source for your portable stove or grill.
Cookware: Pots and pans are vital if you’re going to cook meals during your trip.
Cooking Utensils (if needed): Spatulas, tongs, and cooking utensils are necessary for stirring, flipping, and serving your meals.
Plates & Bowls: These are essential, particularly if you’re eating at campsites or picnicking.
Paper Towels: Paper towels are multi-use for cleaning, wiping hands, and picking up spills or messes.
Trash bags: Trash bags help keep your vehicle clean and allow you to toss out the trash at rest stops or campsites.
Reusable Grocery Shopping Bag: This can be used for carrying groceries, snacks, or food items, reducing the need for single-use plastic bags.
Pot Holder: A pot holder or oven mitt is necessary when handling hot cookware or dishes.
Dish Cloth: A dishcloth helps with cleaning and washing dishes and cookware.
Aluminum Foil: Aluminum foil is great for cooking or grilling, wrapping food items, and protecting cookware from food residue.
Pro Tip:
Plan healthier snack options like granola bars, nuts, and fruit to limit fast food stops during your road trip. This also saves time, and you save money.
Miscellaneous Road Trip Items:
Plug-in Road Trip Cooler: This cooler plugs into your vehicle’s power outlet (usually in the trunk) and keeps drinks and perishable items chilled during the drive, saving you from frequent stops at convenience stores.
Ziplock Bags: Ziplock bags are great for storing snacks, organizing small items, and protecting important documents or electronics from moisture.
Car Trash Can & Liners: Having a designated trash can in your vehicle with disposable liners keeps the interior clean and makes it easy to manage waste.
Zip Ties and Velcro Straps: These items are handy for securing gear, organizing cables, and making quick repairs to equipment or luggage.
Carabiners: Carabiners are useful for attaching items to your backpack, belt loops, or securing gear in your vehicle if you are on a rough road adventure.
Pocket Knife: A pocket knife serves multiple purposes, from cutting items to handling small repairs or outdoor tasks.
Multi-Purpose Tool: A multi-purpose tool, like a Swiss Army knife, provides various tools in one, making it useful for a range of situations.
Lighter: A lighter is valuable for starting fires (e.g., for campfires or emergency situations), lighting candles, or even just for convenience.
Cable Organizer Bag: This bag helps keep charging cables, cords, and electronic accessories organized and prevents tangles.
Reflective Safety Vest and Warning Triangles: These safety items are crucial for roadside emergencies, ensuring you’re visible and safe during vehicle breakdowns or roadside stops.
Car Organizer: throw a car organizer in to keep your essentials neatly arranged on the road.
Pro Tip:
In case of unexpected expenses or emergencies, it’s wise to have a small stash of cash hidden in your luggage or vehicle. This provides a financial safety net on the road.
Road Trip Apps You Must Have:
Google Maps or Waze: These navigation apps provide real-time directions, traffic updates, and alternate routes, ensuring you reach your destinations efficiently.
Roadtrippers: Roadtrippers helps plan your road trip by highlighting points of interest, attractions, and dining options along your route, making it easy to explore on the way.
GasBuddy: GasBuddy helps you find the nearest and most affordable gas stations, saving you money on fuel during your trip.
Hotel Booking Apps: Apps like Booking.com or Hotels.com allow you to book accommodations on the go, providing flexibility and convenience as you travel.
Weather Apps: Weather apps provide up-to-date forecasts and alerts, ensuring you’re prepared for any weather conditions along your route.
Spotify or Apple Music: These music streaming apps let you create personalized road trip playlists to keep you entertained and energized while driving.
Airbnb: Airbnb offers alternative lodging options, allowing you to find unique and cost-effective places to stay during your road trip.
National Park Service Apps: These apps provide essential information about national parks, including maps, trail details, and visitor centers, enhancing your park experience.
Freecampsites.net: This app helps you locate free or low-cost campsites, ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those looking for a more adventurous lodging option.
recreation.gov: If you plan to visit federal recreation sites, this app allows you to make reservations for campsites, cabins, and other amenities, ensuring you secure your spot.
Yelp: Yelp offers reviews and ratings for restaurants, shops, and local businesses, helping you make informed decisions about dining and services.
Tripit: Tripit is a handy travel organizer app that helps you keep track of your itinerary, reservations, and travel plans, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Pro Tip:
Familiarize yourself with your chosen navigation app before your trip. Understand its features and settings to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Technology Road Trip Essentials:
Cell Phone and Charger: Just make sure it’s all charged up and good to go!
Portable Power Bank: Recharge your devices on the go.
Vehicle Charger Adapter: This allows you to charge your devices while driving, ensuring your phone and other electronics remain powered.
Headphones or Earbuds: Headphones allow you to listen to your music or podcast privately if your road trip buddy is taking a nap or doesn’t want to listen to the same thing you want to.
Laptop or Tablet (if needed): If you require a laptop or tablet for work or entertainment, ensure it’s charged and packed with necessary accessories.
Universal Travel Adapter: A travel adapter is essential if you’re traveling internationally, as it ensures your devices can be used in various outlets worldwide.
Camera: To capture your road trip memories.
GoPro: A GoPro is ideal for action shots, underwater footage, and capturing adventurous moments.
Extra Camera Batteries: Extra camera batteries ensure you won’t miss any photo opportunities.
Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot Device (if needed): A mobile Wi-Fi hotspot provides internet connectivity in areas with limited or no cell service.
Extra Memory Cards or External Hard Drive: Additional storage makes sure you have enough space for photos, videos, and files. There is nothing worse than no storage space in the middle of a trip! I’ve been there.
Cables and Chargers for Electronic Devices: Pack the necessary cables and chargers for all your devices, including phones, cameras, and laptops.
Aux Cord: An auxiliary cord allows you to connect your devices to the vehicle’s sound system if you don’t have Bluetooth in your car.
Micro Fiber Cloth: This cloth is useful for cleaning screens, camera lenses, and other devices.
Pro Tip:
Charge your devices and power banks the night before your trip. This makes sure they are ready for use during your trip.
Winter Road Trip Essentials:
Snow Chains or Winter Tires: Snow chains or winter tires provide better traction on snow and icy roads.
Ice Scraper and Snow Brush: These are must-haves in the winter! So you don’t have to wait for the defrosters to clear your windows or drive with your head out the window.
Antifreeze and De-icer: Antifreeze helps prevent your vehicle’s engine from freezing, and de-icer assists in melting ice on locks, door handles, and keyholes.
Snow Shovel or Snow Removal Tools: A snow shovel or removal tool allows you to clear snow around your vehicle, making it easier to move and preventing it from becoming stuck.
Hand and Foot Warmers: Help keep you warm and prevent frostbite in bad situations.
Extra Windshield Wiper Blades: Winter weather can be tough on windshield wiper blades. Having extra blades ensures you can replace them if they become damaged or less effective due to ice and snow.
Pro Tip:
Check the weather forecast for your route and destination. This information allows you to pack appropriately, bringing clothing and gear suitable for the expected conditions.
Read More Packing Lists:
The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List
Fall Travel Outfit Ideas: What to Pack for Changing Weather
Best Luggage for Road-tripping:
Selecting the right luggage is important for a road trip as it affects your comfort and organization throughout the journey.
Here are some of my favorite luggage for different types of road trips:
2. Soft-Sided Suitcases: Soft-sided suitcases are lightweight and flexible. They can easily fit into the trunk of your car and are ideal for those who prefer traditional luggage.
Roof Boxes or Cargo Carriers: For longer road trips with lots of gear or a larger group, roof boxes or cargo carriers can be attached to the roof of your vehicle. These are perfect for freeing up interior space while keeping your belongings safe and secure.
Collapsible Storage Bins: To keep your vehicle tidy and organized, consider collapsible storage bins. They can hold a variety of items and easily stack or fold away when not in use.
Hanging Toiletry Bag: Pick a hanging toiletry bag for your road trip! It’ll make getting ready on the go a whole lot simpler!
When you’re picking your bags for your road trip, think about how long you’ll be traveling, how many folks are with you, what you’re gonna do, and how much room there is in your ride. It’s important that your bags can do different things, take a beating, and be simple to use. The right bags will help you stay neat and get to your stuff easily while you’re on the move.
Pro Tip:
Utilize packing cubes to keep your clothing organized within your luggage. Not only do they help prevent wrinkles, but they also make it easier to access specific items without disrupting your entire suitcase.
What Not to Take on a Road Trip:
While packing for a road trip, it’s just as important to know what not to take along to keep your journey streamlined and stress-free.
Here are some items you can consider leaving behind:
Unnecessary Gadgets:
Tech is awesome for your road trip, but don’t go gadget-crazy. Ditch the stuff you won’t really use, and think about how your smartphone can do a bunch of things – like guiding you, playing music, and taking photos. Keep it simple!
Excess Clothing:
Overpacking clothes can lead to clutter in your vehicle. Instead, pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
Too Many Shoes:
Limit the number of shoes you bring. In most cases, a comfortable pair for walking or hiking and a casual pair for everyday wear should suffice.
Unnecessary Kitchen Gadgets:
While a small camp stove or portable grill can be handy, leave behind large or specialty kitchen gadgets. You can usually find suitable alternatives on the road.
Excessive Toiletries:
Most hotels and accommodations provide basic toiletries. You can save space by carrying only essential personal care items. Purchase additional products as needed during your trip.
Too Much Food:
Avoid overloading your vehicle with perishable foods. You can purchase fresh groceries along your route as needed. Focus on non-perishable snacks for convenience.
Oversized or Bulky Luggage:
Large and cumbersome luggage can be a hassle to handle. Opt for compact and manageable bags that fit easily in your vehicle.
Multiple Hair Styling Tools:
Limit your hair styling tools to one or two essentials. Most accommodations have hairdryers, and you can embrace a more relaxed style during your road trip. Road trip hair, don’t care!
Full-size Toiletry Bottles:
Transfer your toiletries to travel-sized containers to save space and weight. Full-size bottles are bulkier and can lead to over-packing.
Pro Trip:
To keep your stuff safe on your road trip, follow a few simple rules. Lock your car and hide valuable things, especially in the trunk or on the roof. When you park, choose places that are well-lit and busy – it’s safer. You can use things like a steering wheel lock or a car alarm to scare off thieves. Don’t leave important papers in your glove box. If you have valuable things, either lock them up in your room or keep them close. Hide your maps and gadgets so nobody can see them. You can use zip ties or carabiners to keep your gear safe. And always trust your gut – if something doesn’t feel right, be cautious. For extra peace of mind, think about travel insurance that covers theft and damage. These steps will help you have a carefree road trip.
Frequently Asked Questions – Packing for a Road Trip:
How should I plan my road trip packing list?
Start by considering the destination, the expected weather, the duration of your trip, and the activities you have in mind. Make a list of essential items, and then prioritize based on your needs. Also, print off my road trip checklist down below to help you get started!
What should I wear on a road trip?
Dress comfortably and consider layers, especially for changing weather. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket. If you plan on hiking or outdoor activities, pack suitable gear.
How can I avoid overpacking for a road trip?
First, create a road trip packing list and stick to it! Focus on versatility and packing multi-purpose items. Plan your outfits, and remember you can do laundry during longer trips. Avoid bringing duplicates or items you rarely use.
Should I bring my own food or buy it along the way?
It’s a good idea to have some non-perishable snacks on hand, but you can purchase fresh food along your route. Eating local cuisine is one of the joys of road trips.
What kind of luggage should I choose for a road trip?
The best luggage depends on your needs. Duffel bags, soft-sided suitcases, backpacks, and storage containers are popular choices. For larger groups or longer trips, consider roof boxes or cargo carriers.
How can I ensure the safety of my belongings during a road trip?
Use lockable luggage and keep valuables out of sight in your vehicle. When staying in accommodations, use safes when available. Keep important documents and a copy of your itinerary separate from your luggage.
What should I do if I forget something important?
Don’t worry too much if you forget an item; most road trip essentials can be replaced on the road. Make a list of items you may need to purchase and consider stopping at a local store.
What apps should I have on my phone for a road trip?
Must-have apps include navigation apps like Google Maps, road trip planning apps like Roadtrippers, weather apps, hotel booking apps, and entertainment apps like Spotify. Consider language translation apps if traveling internationally.
How can I prepare for a winter road trip?
For winter road trips, pack warm clothing, blankets, and winter essentials like snow chains, ice scrapers, and antifreeze. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition, and check the weather forecast regularly.
How can I stay organized during a road trip?
Use packing organizers, storage containers, and packing cubes to keep your belongings tidy. Regularly declutter your vehicle, and have designated places for road trip necessities.
Pro Tip:
Research quirky roadside attractions along your route. These fun and unexpected stops can add excitement and unique experiences to your trip.
You are all packed for your road trip!
Final Thoughts
Ready for your road trip? Remember, packing isn’t just about stuff – it’s about the awesome adventures coming your way. Road trips are all about finding new places and having a blast.
With a good road trip packing list, you’ll be ready for anything. Whether you’re cruising through the countryside, driving cross-country, or exploring new lands, your packed gear will have your back.
But the real magic happens on the journey. Your road trip is like a blank canvas waiting to be filled with adventures. The people you meet, the places you discover, and the surprises you stumble upon – that’s what makes your trip special.
As you hit the road, soak in the thrill of not knowing what’s next. Whether you’re solo or with pals, road trips are all about making memories and strengthening bonds.
So, let’s do this! Your road trip is just about to kick off. Load up your car, set your GPS, and let the adventure unfold.
Wherever you go, savor every moment. Snap photos, enjoy the scenery and cherish the memories. Have a safe and epic trip!
Happy Trails!