Going on an adventure soon? Check out these essential things to pack for a road trip, and get ready to have the time of your life!
Road trips are probably my favorite kind of adventure… The freedom, the spontaneity, the mishaps—there are so many reasons that make these trips so fun! But also so many things that can turn your dream vacation into a real nightmare if you’re not prepared!
But don’t worry… I’ve got you covered! With my list of essential things to pack for a road trip, you’ll never forget anything again!
So keep reading, and take notes! Here comes my ultimate packing list for your next adventure.
This blog post is all about the 17 essential things to pack for a road trip!
WHY ROAD TRIPS ARE GREAT?
There’s no doubt about why road trips are great… The flexibility, the spontaneity, and the ability to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations create an adventurous feeling that has made road trips increase in popularity over the years.
Think about it—what better way is there to take a break from your routine than hopping in your car or van and just driving through the country? I can’t think of any, really… And if you already have a car, it’s one of the easiest ways to travel.
Whether you’re embarking on a road trip with friends or a road trip with family, the memories you’ll make and the experiences you’ll have are going to be truly unique! I promise, your road trip memories will be one of a kind.
However, all the reasons why road trips are great can also be the reasons they can turn into a real nightmare… That’s why you need to prepare properly and take a moment to think before turning on the engine and hitting the road!
From road trip preparation tips to road trip essentials and my ultimate road trip checklist, this article will provide you with all the answers to your questions.
So keep reading and discover the most important things to pack for a road trip… Along with a few tips to help you get ready and make the most of your next adventure!
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ROAD TRIP CHECKLIST TO HELP YOU PACK!
Before I share my best tips for making the most of your road trip with friends—or family—take a look at this checklist to discover all the essential things to pack for a road trip.
As the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry… So, take notes and create your very own road trip checklist to pack like a pro!
ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS
Without a doubt, the most important things to pack for a road trip—often easily forgotten—are identification documents for the vehicle and navigation tools. These are the first essentials you need to ensure a smooth start.
- Road Trip Documents: Make sure you have your driver’s license, car insurance, vehicle registration, and any roadside assistance information.
Remember, these documents can vary depending on the country you’re driving in. Some countries may not require car insurance, while others might need you to have a specific type of driver’s license. So make sure you check these requirements before setting off on your adventure.
- Navigation Tools: Whether your car has a built-in GPS or you’re planning to use your phone, it’s wise to include paper maps in your road trip essentials. Technology can fail, and sometimes the old-fashioned way is the only way! If you’re using your phone for navigation, don’t forget to pack a charger cable or a power bank to avoid any issue…
BEING COMFY ON THE ROAD
If your road trip itinerary includes long drives or overnight stretches, it’s essential to add some comfortable road trip essentials to your “what to bring on a road trip” list. Believe me… A few additional items will make your drives far more enjoyable!
- Comfortable Clothing and Layers: It may seem obvious, but one of the most important road trip comfort items to consider is comfortable clothing and layers.
If you’re only taking short drives, you might not notice, but imagine this… You have an 8-hour drive through the Swiss Alps in winter. If you’re unable to layer your clothes comfortably, that scenic drive could quickly turn into a nightmare. So be smart when packing and carefully consider what to bring on a road trip, especially when it comes to clothing.
- Pillows and Blankets: While you could use your camping gear, like sleeping bags, they can be bulky and uncomfortable for long drives. Instead, pack a light blanket to keep you cozy and a couple of pillows for quick naps before reaching your next destination. These small additions can make a huge difference in your comfort during those extended stretches on the road.
FIRST AID FOR ROAD TRIPS
No matter what kind of trip you’re planning, a first aid kit is a must-have. You never know what might happen… And if you find yourself in a remote area, you might not have access to a pharmacy to get what you need.
- First Aid for Road Trips: While I’m not suggesting you bring an entire pharmacy with you, there are a few essential things to pack for a road trip that can be incredibly useful when it comes to your health.
My first aid kit always includes bandages, sanitizer, antiseptics, pain relievers, and tissues. Nothing fancy—just the essentials! These basics can make a big difference if you run into a minor emergency while on the road.
ROAD TRIP SNACKS
I don’t know about you, but being hungry—or thirsty—can make me grumpy and irritable. That’s why bringing along some road trip snacks is always a good idea!
- Road Trip Snacks: The only rule for road trip snacks is to ensure they are non-perishable… Especially if you’re planning long drives. Granola bars, nuts, biscuits, crackers—pack what you love and what will make you happy to munch on while on the road. It’s also a good idea to include some healthy road trip snacks… This way you can still feel your best when you arrive at your destination.
- Drinks: If you’re a coffee lover, I highly recommend packing a thermos of coffee before hitting the road. Not only will it keep you happy… But it can also help if you’re feeling tired and need a little pick-me-up.
As for water, try to use reusable water bottles. They’re more environmentally friendly, and in the long run, you’ll save a lot of money!
ROAD TRIP FUN
After all, going on an adventure is all about having fun… So don’t forget to bring some road trip entertainment or road trip gadgets to make the drive—and the slower moments—even more enjoyable!
Lucky you, there are tons of ways to entertain yourself when you’re not busy exploring your destination. Here’s what you should consider:
- While Driving: Don’t forget that the driver deserves some fun too during those long stretches of road! Keep them entertained with music, podcasts, audiobooks, or even speaking games. Nowadays, there are specialized apps with speaking games so you never run out of ideas.
- Board Games: Sitting in the backseat with friends or family and feeling a little bored, or looking for a way to connect before bedtime? Board games are a must for road trip fun! Worried about space? No problem—many of your favorite games come in travel-size versions.
- Outdoor Games: If you’re camping during your road trip, outdoor games are the best way to add even more fun to your adventure. Whether you bring a ball, rackets, or a set of Mölkky, you’re going to have a great time with your loved ones!
REPAIR KIT
One of the most important things to pack for a road trip that could really get you into trouble if you forget… A road trip emergency kit!
You don’t need to go overboard, but there are a few essential items you should always have with you. Especially if you’re traveling outside big cities or in more secluded areas. There, finding a garage or car shop might be difficult. Depending on where you are, you might not come across one for hundreds of miles. So, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Here’s what your road trip emergency kit should contain at all times:
- Road Trip Emergency Kit Essentials: Make sure you pack jumper cables, tire repair tools, a flashlight with extra batteries, a spare tire with the necessary tools to change it, a warning triangle, and yellow safety vests for everyone in the car. As I mentioned, nothing fancy—just a few road trip essentials that could save the day if something goes wrong!
ROAD TRIP HYGIENE ESSENTIALS
It goes without saying that no matter what kind of trip you’re planning, personal care and hygiene items are a must.
However, road trip hygiene essentials might differ from what you’d pack for an all-inclusive vacation. Since you’ll have limited space in the car and probably less comfort, it’s important to pack smart.
- Toiletry Bag: So, what should you bring on a road trip when it comes to hygiene products? In my opinion, you just need the basics: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant, and face cream. That’s it! You don’t want to overpack with unnecessary items, especially if you’re going camping on your road trip. Keeping it simple will save space and keep you organized.
- Quick-Dry Towel: This might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s actually quite essential. Think about it… If you’re packing and unpacking every day because you’re on the move a lot during your road trip, your towel might not have time to dry before you hit the road again. And believe me, not only will it get everything wet in your suitcase, but the smell of a wet towel and clothes is going to be unbearable after just a few days! And nobody wants to smell bad…
WEATHER-RELATED ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS
It might seem logical, but hear me out…
When you’re heading to an all-inclusive vacation or on a city break for a few days, the chances of drastic weather changes are pretty low. However, when you’re going on a road trip—and especially if you’re planning to cover a lot of ground—the weather can vary dramatically depending on the altitude, region, and season. That’s why it’s crucial to pack destination-specific road trip items for every stop on your journey.
Now, you might wonder, what to pack for different climates on a road trip? Let’s take a look!
- Sun Protective Items: Start with the basics! Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats are essential. Once again, don’t overpack—the inside of a car or van has limited space, so bring just what you need to stay protected from the sun.
- Road Trip Gear for Wet Weather: Just like the quick-dry towel mentioned earlier, if your road trip includes areas where the weather tends to be wet—or if you’re driving through such regions—you’ll want to pack quick-drying clothes. Don’t worry; you don’t have to spend a fortune on high-tech gear. Nowadays, there are affordable options that will get the job done!
- Bonus Tip: One of the things to pack for a road trip EVERY SINGLE TIME? A telescopic umbrella! Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or anywhere in between, a compact umbrella is a game changer. It doesn’t take up much space and can save you from getting soaked in a sudden downpour.
CAMPING ESSENTIALS FOR ROAD TRIPS
If your road trip includes camping, there are a few things you must pack to ensure you have the best experience possible! Here comes the list!
- Camping Essentials for Road Trips: You probably guessed it—the first things to pack for a road trip when it comes to camping are… drumroll… a tent, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping pad! You might think you don’t need a sleeping pad and a sleeping bag if you’re heading to warm destinations, but believe me, you do!
The sleeping pad will help you rest on a more even surface, providing much-needed comfort. And even in warm destinations, nights can get chilly—especially when you’re sleeping on the ground—so bring your sleeping bag with you to stay warm and cozy.
Also, don’t forget your cooking gear! A camping stove, heat-resistant cookware, and utensils are essential. You don’t need anything fancy—you probably won’t be cooking gourmet meals—but you’ll want everything necessary to eat like a civilized human!
ROAD TRIP TIPS TO HELP YOU PLAN THE BEST ADVENTURE!
- Plan your road trip itinerary beforehand but stay flexible.
- Have a plan B for each of your destinations, stops, or activities in case of a change of plans.
- Don’t overload your itinerary. Avoid long stretches of driving, or you won’t have time to enjoy the places you’re visiting.
- Take your vehicle for a check-up before leaving for your road trip.
- Learn how to change a tire and fix small issues that might occur with your vehicle. You never know what can happen during your road trip.
- Be aware of safety recommendations for driving. Don’t drive for too long, at night, or when you’re too tired.
- Learn about driving rules and signs if you’re driving in a foreign country.
- Check any restrictions or safety recommendations for your destination.
- If you’re traveling with friends or family, try to share the driving load as much as possible. It’s the best way to avoid exhaustion and unnecessary risks.
- If you bought new equipment for your road trip, test it before leaving, such as tents, batteries, power banks, camping gas, etc.
- When traveling to a foreign country, learn basic phrases in the local language.
- Tell someone back home about your itinerary and keep them updated on how you’re doing.
- Bring various means of payment in case one of them doesn’t work at some point.
- Bring a smaller backpack for your daytime excursions.
- Plan your expenses, taking into account gas, tolls, possible vehicle issues, etc.
- If you’re not planning on camping during your road trip, book accommodations, especially if you’re visiting popular areas.
- Bring a travel diary to document your road trip.
- Don’t forget to bring a camera to take pictures.
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