Travel-Tested Essentials to Bring on a Road Trip (2024)

Travel-Tested Essentials to Bring on a Road Trip

If you want to arrange an awesome road trip you have ever had, you should create a list of essentials to bring with you to get the best out of it.

If you are tired and lack inspiration, it is worth taking a car and going on a road trip. If you live in a picturesque place or know some great spots where to go, you shouldn’t stay home. Wonderful weather outside the window is already a good reason to change the scenery and start a road trip. In fact, nowadays, you can go to another country or discover the beauties in your region. Don’t limit yourself, and always leave the room for some changes. Just make sure to find a great travel buddy and bring the travel-tested essentials to get the best out of your road trip.

1. Maps

You might not have expected to see this point on the list if your car is equipped with the GPS. However, you should always keep your eyes open and have a backup plan. What will you do if your GPS dies halfway for some reason? And even if you have planned the route, you may need to make a detour to avoid a traffic jam or pop in a picturesque place along the path to the key destination. It is better to grab a traditional paper map as well or print a custom map at a specialized website like Google Maps. You can also install a special app that can work without the Internet if you have downloaded the necessary maps beforehand. In general, nowadays, travel applications are a must-have of any journey. They help find wonderful places to stay in, have breakfast, and enjoy stunning landscapes.

2. Playlist

How do you imagine a perfect road trip? The chances are high that a perfect picture will not be complete without a worthy playlist. Music works wonders in creating a special atmosphere and bringing positive vibes, so you will enjoy your travel to the fullest. Many people are used to turning on the radio, so they don’t bother themselves with completing road playlists. However, if you drive to some rural areas, the radio signal may disappear, leaving you in silence. So, it is worth spending an hour to tailor a playlist that will match different moods to get the best out of your trip. You can choose your favorite compositions or look for ready-made playlists on the Internet. The chances are high that you will find something to your liking.

3. Snacks and drinks

Hunger and thirst can catch you on the road and spoil the mood dramatically, so you should take care of replenishing your food stocks beforehand. Give preference to some healthy snacks such as fruits, crackers, nuts, and stuff. If you have a small travel-fridge that can help keep your food alive for a long time, you can grab some sandwiches and more hearty dishes. However, it is better to stay away from fast food. If you know that you will drive by some picturesque places, you can make a stop there for a day. And if you don’t like to sleep in a car, you can take an Adventure Kings roof top tent and a picnic bucket to enjoy such a chance. Why do you limit yourself with strict rules while you can use any opportunity provided? Besides, one shouldn’t forget about water bottles. Sweet drinks will make you thirsty even more, so it is better to choose only pure water.

4. Toiletries and other essentials

Your car should be equipped with easily reached toiletries such as paper towels, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, etc. if you have to make a stop somewhere on the way. Besides, you should necessarily take care of medicines if you need some. However, anyway, it will not be superfluous to grab antacids and medicines for motion sickness, especially if it is your first long road trip. If you plan your trip in spring or summer, you will hardly do without sunglasses. And of course, the first aid kit is a must on any road trip. Just make sure it includes special creams for insect bites and bandages.

5. Comfy clothes and pillows

To enjoy the road trip, you should feel comfortable. It is one of the keys to any successful and pleasant traveling. Thus, it is worth putting on comfy clothes and shoes that don’t limit your movements. Talking about shoes, you should be able to take them on and off in a few seconds. Maybe you should think about grabbing some big warm socks to create the comfiest conditions possible. You can just take a jacket to put it over your t-shirt when you need to appear in a public place. Besides, don’t forget about a small pillow and a blanket if you plan a long road trip.

6. Camera

A road trip is an adventure and new experience that will bring many happy moments you would like to capture. So, make sure to grab a camera or charge your phone well to catch all the beautiful moments, whether it is about an incredible sunset on a beach, animals you come across, or your hilarious family pastime. It is worth taking a charged power bank to keep “life” in your phone. If you are interested in taking cool shots, make sure to check the specialized websites to get a portion of inspiration and find out where and how you can take your pics best.

Travel-Tested Essentials to Bring on a Road Trip (2024)

FAQs

Travel-Tested Essentials to Bring on a Road Trip? ›

You'll also need to take those items that'll help you enjoy a comfortable and fun ride, such as your sunglasses, blankets (to keep you warm this winter), pillows, eating utensils and travel mugs, reusable water bottles, car window shade, reusable bags, breath mints, and sling bags.

What should I pack for a road trip? ›

You'll also need to take those items that'll help you enjoy a comfortable and fun ride, such as your sunglasses, blankets (to keep you warm this winter), pillows, eating utensils and travel mugs, reusable water bottles, car window shade, reusable bags, breath mints, and sling bags.

What is the most important thing you should consider before you take a road trip? ›

Arguably the most important part of your pre-road trip preparations should be making sure your vehicle is up for the journey. Take your car to a mechanic so they can ensure that your vehicle and all its parts are safe to drive long distances and will get you there in one piece.

What is the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method? ›

Its version of the 5-4-3-2-1 method includes "five tops, four bottoms, three accessories, two shoes (a practical pair and a nice pair), and one swimsuit," though like the Times this formula allows the wiggle room to swap out accessories based on your destination and type of travel.

What is a packing list? ›

A packing list itemizes the contents of each package (box, pallets, etc). It includes weights, measurements and detailed lists of the goods in each package. The packing list should be included in carton or package, and can be attached to the outside of a package with a copy inside.

How do I make my road trip bearable? ›

Having entertainment is key to not only making the experience enjoyable but bearable, Choudhary says. There are plenty of ways to do this — putting together a playlist, coming up with a list of travel games, downloading podcasts, packing road trip games and so on.

How do I pack for a 5 day road trip? ›

For a 5 day vacation, you will want to bring 2-3 pairs of shorts or pants, 3-4 tops, a light jacket (or a heavy jacket, depending on where you are traveling), and 1 formal outfit if you are planning on attending a nice restaurant or event. If you are going to the beach, pack 2-3 swimsuits/trunks.

What is the one thing you should always do before driving? ›

Inspect the Vehicle

This has a couple of advantages. First off, if you do notice a problem, you can try to find any evidence that your car has been tampered with to give the police. Second, you can prevent dangerous highway conditions by checking the lights and tires.

What fluids do you check in a car? ›

The six fluids you should check are Engine oil, Coolant (Antifreeze), Power steering fluid, Brake fluid, Transmission fluid (in an automatic transmission vehicle, not a manual), and Windshield washer fluid. Check these regularly to ensure proper vehicle function and longevity!

Should I get my tires checked before a road trip? ›

It's a good idea to inspect your tires before a road trip to ensure your tires are ready for the mileage you're about to put on them. Your vehicle feels “off” while driving.

Why is a travel checklist important? ›

A travel checklist is an essential tool for any traveler, whether you are a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer. It helps you stay organized and ensures that you do not forget anything important before hitting the road.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Delena Feil

Last Updated:

Views: 6735

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (65 voted)

Reviews: 80% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Delena Feil

Birthday: 1998-08-29

Address: 747 Lubowitz Run, Sidmouth, HI 90646-5543

Phone: +99513241752844

Job: Design Supervisor

Hobby: Digital arts, Lacemaking, Air sports, Running, Scouting, Shooting, Puzzles

Introduction: My name is Delena Feil, I am a clean, splendid, calm, fancy, jolly, bright, faithful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.