There’s no greater time for an adventure than the present.
When the wanderlust strikes and all you can think about is watching your city fade in the rearview mirror and exploring new dazzling sights, it’s best to be prepared – so that surprises don’t ruin your fun.
It’s easy to forget a couple (or a dozen) things when you’re rushing.
To avoid this here are all the essentials you’ll need for a road trip.
Make sure to bookmark this page so you can easily refer to it later.
Snacks
Bringing some simple snacks is essential for any road trip, you never know when you get a quick craving in the middle of a spontaneous hike.
You can pack anything from sandwiches, raw vegetables and dip, fresh fruits, dried fruits like dates or grapes, Trail Mix, etc.
Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration is a must so. Bring your favorite water bottle to fill along the way. Our favorite is this one.
Sunglasses
Sure, they look cool. But sunglasses are necessary too. And bring more than one pair. You never know when they may get lost or broken.
Sanitizer
Pack hand sanitizing gel, napkins, and antibacterial wet wipes.
Lip Ointment
I hate dry lips. A little lip balm goes a long way to feel comfortable when you’re out and about exploring.
Utensils
An ecologically friendly set of utensils is a practical item for your road trip essentials bag. Nothing wrong with getting a random craving for yogurt or other cooked food on the road.
Toiletry Bag
To store toothbrushes and toothpaste, dental floss, cotton swabs, deodorant, nail clippers, tweezers, soap, shaving supplies, hairbrushes, contact lenses and feminine products.
Blankets And Pillows
If there’s space in the car, why not add some blankets and pillows for extra comfort? Best to be prepared for a magical night staring up at the sky with your bestie or partner. Or if you packing for a cabin getaway.
Towels
Towels are always a good idea. For practicality, you can skip the extra large towels and opt for a small or medium one, just ensure they are high-absorbing.
Thermos
Grabbing a coffee or tea on the go, or just want to store some water without the plastic waste? Pack your favorite thermos. We love this one.
Garmin InReach
The Garmin InReach device is a must for safety measures, especially on hikes. It has satellite functions that offer backcountry SOS and non-emergency communications. It also has navigation, messaging, and weather functions.
Medications
Some people might skip this, but all road trip and hiking veterans recommend packing some meds just in case.
This can be painkillers in case some bad migraines or cramps hit you mid-road trip, but it also applies to allergy meds.
Headlamp
Maybe your group of friends decides to do an evening photoshoot just 12 feet away from the car, on the side of a forest, and the night sets in by the time you finish.
Or the car breaks down when you least expect it, and you have to hitchhike or walk to the nearest gas station.
Stay on top of such surprises by bringing a headlamp or flashlight along.
Cash
You should always bring cash on road trips. Just in case.
Documents
Your ID, driver’s license, vehicle registration, car insurance. Don’t forget a car manual and an extra car key.
First Aid Kit
This should include things like rubbing alcohol, cotton pads, gauze, scissors, bandaids.
Jumper Cables
Nobody expects their car’s battery to suddenly die, but it’s best to have a kit ready. This includes jumper cables – portable or standard.
Duct Tape
Duct tape can come in handy in many situations. Keep a few rolls in your car just in case.
Spare Tire And Car Jack
Always keep a spare tire and car jack in your trunk to avoid worrying about flat tires.
The Inflator
Now and then your car’s tires might end up deflated. Fix it up with an inflator you store in the trunk.
Music Or Audiobooks
Whether you’re a Spotify or Audible fan, this task is usually delegated to the passenger. Connect your account, pop in your favorite playlist, audio book or a fun podcast, and you’re ready to hit the road.
Chargers And Portable Batteries
If you often forget to charge your phone like me, make sure you always have a charger in your car and portable batteries. That way you never have to worry about a dead phone mid-trip.
Headphones
Maybe your group is chatting loudly and you want five minutes of shut-eye after an 8-hour hike, or you just want a different genre of music. Bring some trusty headphones along, and that way everybody’s happy.
Travel Apps
Don’t underestimate the efficiency of travel apps like Google Maps, Waze, Maps.me, AllTrails or Roadtrippers.
Road Trip Essentials For Toddlers
Bringing a toddler on a road trip mean you need to be prepared.
Pouches for snack time are convenient and create a minimal mess. Other items include a small fold-up stroller, silicone Push Pop Toy, or this LCD writing tablet.
You can also get a fold-up chair, as well as silicone bibs and bib shirts, which are perfect for snack and meal time during rest stops.
If you’re going with a kid always bring window shades.
Road Trip Essentials For Summer
Going for a road trip in the summer? Carrying a small cooler in the car is a great way to keep any drinks or foods fresh.
Road Trip Essentials For Dogs
If you’re bringing your pet along, don’t forget to pack treats, waste bags, and a bowl for water.
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