There’s something inherently exciting about driving down the open road—the independence to experience at your own leisure, the surprise detours, the vistas, and the memory-making moments that only a road trip can provide. But before you embark on your next road trip, preparation makes all the difference. Having an adequately packed vehicle can be the difference between a hassle-free ride and one marred with glitches.
Here’s an exhaustive list of road trip necessities to help your next adventure be comfortable, safe, and memorable.
- Navigation and Planning Tools
Even in the smartphone era, having good navigation is essential. Google Maps and Waze are great, but always have a physical map or road atlas handy in case you find yourself without signal or a dead phone battery.
Necessities:
Smartphone with GPS navigation apps
Portable GPS unit (optional but convenient)
Road atlas or state maps
Printed itinerary or route plan
Contact list of hotels and emergency services
- Car Essentials and Safety Kit
Your car is your best friend on a road trip, so treat it right. Before you hit the road, make sure it’s been serviced—check the oil, tires, brakes, battery, and fluids. Then, load your trunk with emergency supplies.
Essentials:
Spare tire, jack, and tire iron
Jumper cables or jump starter
Tire repair kit or sealant
Car manual and registration documents
Flashlight with spare batteries
First-aid kit
Emergency blanket and poncho
Reflective triangles or road flares
- Comfort and Convenience Items
Long road trips can be tiresome, so comfort is essential. Driving through mountains or deserts, with the right equipment can make the journey immensely more pleasant.
Essentials:
Travel pillow and blanket
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Reusable water bottles
Travel mugs for coffee or tea
Wet wipes, tissues, and hand sanitizer
Trash bags or small bin
Small towel or microfiber cloth
Car phone holder and charger
Power bank for backup charging
- Fun on the Go
Road trips provide extended periods of time to pass, particularly in rural areas. A good playlist, audiobook, or podcast can be a savior. Vary the entertainment to keep things exciting.
Must-haves:
Music playlist (downloaded for offline consumption)
Podcasts or audiobooks
Portable speaker (if picnics are planned)
Card games or trivia apps for passengers
Notebook or journal to record your experience
Camera or mobile phone with decent storage for photos
- Snacks and Snack Supplies
Possibly the best part of a road trip? Snacks! Stock up on a variety of healthy and guilty pleasures so you’re never left peckish. Also, have a small cooler if you will be storing perishable foods.
The Basics:
Granola bars, trail mix, chips, and dried fruit
Fresh fruit such as apples, bananas, or grapes
Sandwiches or wraps for convenient meals
Bottled water, juice boxes, or soda
Ice packs and cooler
Reusable cutlery and napkins
- Personal Items and Attire
The weather can be unpredictable, particularly when traveling across various terrain types. Pack smart but light, and keep a few important items within arm’s reach at all times.
Essentials:
Change of clothes (layering essentials)
Good shoes and flip-flops
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
Bug spray and sunscreen
Hats and rain jackets
Backpack for day excursions and hikes
- Apps That Make Road Tripping Easier
Technology can be a road trip savior. Check out some helpful apps you may want to download prior to departure:
GasBuddy: See who’s offering the lowest gas prices in your area
Roadtrippers: Map your route and find attractions
iOverlander: Locate free camps and off-the-beaten-path stops
Spotify / Audible: For music and audiobooks
Google Maps Offline: Map your route offline
- Destination-Specific Items
Depending on where you’re going, there might be additional items you’ll want to take along. If, for instance, you’re camping, you’ll want equipment such as tents and sleeping bags. Beach vacation? Don’t leave without towels and sun umbrellas. Winter road trip? Take chains and snow brushes along.
Adapt your packing list to your destination, weather, and road trip type—urban, country, national parks, coastlines, or mountains.
Last-Minute Reminders Before You Hit the Road
Sleep well before embarking on your journey—fatigue is a primary reason for road accidents.
Let your friends or family know your route when traveling through isolated terrain.
Every 2-3 hours, make a break to stretch and relax—your body will appreciate it.
Be adaptable—some of life’s best memories are created when things do not go according to plan.
Conclusion
Road trips are as much about the trip as the trip is about the destination. With proper preparation and packing, your trip will be filled with enjoyment and not frustration. So fill up your vehicle, round up your preferred traveling companions, and set off with confidence.
And remember—the best sights usually occur after the longest drives.
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Happy road tripping!
