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Home » Gear » road trip packing list

Your ESSENTIAL Road Trip Packing List for 2024!

Do you feel that? That energy gathering inside of you? That sensation where you can’t stand still? Sounds like you’re getting excited…

Because it’s road trip season, baby! The open country is calling our names, and we must go because it’s been a rough week at work and things are always better out there in the world.

But knowing what to include in your road trip packing list can be a little daunting. You may have a hard time deciding how many clothes you really need to bring. You might not know what it takes to pack an effective kitchen with you.

Enter our road trip packing list for 2024. We’ve condensed all our experience into this one mega-post to make sure you know what to bring on your next adventure.

If you’ve ever asked yourself “what do I need for a cross country road trip?”, well, we’ve got all the answers below, so let’s crack on!

Form first -aid kits to card games, we’ve listed all of the absolute must-haves that will make your trip a full success.

Let’s get to it!

Why you should prepare for a Road Trip

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By now you should kind of know what you’ll see in this guide. These are the most important things to bring on a long journey – the absolute road trip necessities that you shouldn’t ever leave the house without. What you pack into your bag is just as important as planning your trip ahead and we’ve got you covered with this list of essentials for a cross-country road trip.

These tools will bail you out of a sticky situation and are practically mandatory to start ANY epic road trip. Whether you want to do a road trip through the USA or check out the amazing roads on the coast of Australia , you need to be prepared. Whatever you do, don’t leave without these top 10 road trip essentials on your packing list!

Right then, let’s get things going on our cross-country road trip checklist.

1. First Aid Kit

Even if you don’t plan on doing any extreme wilderness adventures on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations. If you’re wondering what item you should never forget when you’re considering what to bring on a cross-country road trip, well, the first aid kit might just be the most important.

Our team absolutely swears by packing a good quality first aid kit not just for road trips but for any trip. This pack is rugged enough for multiple trips and frequent use, the gear is excellent quality and comes with a kit list that can be checked off when restocking it.

Unless you know the region you’re driving in very well or intend on just asking for directions, a map is an absolutely necessary thing to bring on a road trip. You may settle for just using digital apps, like Google Maps or Maps.me , but having a physical map will always be best even just as a backup in case you lose GPS. When you’re compiling your packing list for a cross-country road trip, a map is pretty essential!

It might seem old school but our team always carries paper maps on them and they’ve been a lifesaver when mobile phone batteries have died or GPS signals have dropped off. We’ve got first-hand experience of how much of a lifesaver they can be. Our main advice here for both digital and paper maps would be to give them a test run beforehand so you know how they work!

3. Aux Cord

One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxiliary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker.

This humble aux cord might seem like a pretty simple bit of kit, but our team wouldn’t leave for a road trip without one. Not only do they keep the vibes rocking whilst on the road, but on a more serious note they can be a lifesaver when it comes to avoiding falling asleep whilst driving.

4. Phone mount

It’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and whatnot, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view. It might seem like something pretty small, but we think it’s one of the most important cross-country road trip essentials.

Like much of this list, these items so far might seem small and insignificant but trust us when we say, as a team we love the functionality and safety that this phone mount adds to our trips. This particular mount is ideal because it fits all different sizes of phone and easily clips and unclips to the vents in your car.

5. Roadside Emergency Kit

Just like you never know what could happen to yourself , one never knows what can happen to their car . A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch; all that and even more. Make sure you bring an emergency kit for your car on your road trip – most include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties. It would also be smart to inform yourself about how to use each vehicle tool so you don’t depend on other people’s help as much.

Our team swears by this roadside emergency kit and it’s saved their arses a good few times on the road! You just never know when you’re dream roadie is going to go from awesome to being stuck in the middle of nowhere! This thing has everything you need in it and it’s all good quality without being too bulky or heavy too.

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6. Driver’s License

Obviously, you shouldn’t even be driving without one. If you happen to be pulled over without a license, you could face a heavy fine. If you’re on an epic road trip abroad, be sure to check and see which countries require an International Driver’s Permit.

7. Roadside Assistance

Unless you plan on including an auto shop’s worth of tools in your road trip packing list, you can’t be prepared for every disaster. If your car suffers catastrophic damage, you’re going to need roadside assistance for towing and repair. A lot of travel insurances offer roadside assistance .

8. Spare Keys

Take it from someone who’s been in this situation – if you lose your keys in the middle of nowhere, you could be screwed royally. You’ll have to get a special locksmith to come out there or even have your car towed.

If it’s a rental, the fees for either of these could be enormous. Consider a spare set a road trip necessity: just in case. And this one might seem obvious, but keep it separate from your main key! If you’re headed to the beach consider getting a lockbox that uses a code to keep your keys safe.

9. Registration or Rental Agreement:

These documents should be in your car at all times, regardless if you’re packing for a last-minute road trip or just going to the grocery store. Make sure they’re there before you leave. It’s also good to have a digital copy with you too.

10. Water bottle

You’re going to be drinking a lot of water on your journey – therefore you’ll need a water bottle. If you’re just buying plastic bottles, not only will you be wasting money, but you will also be creating clutter in your car (plus the environment and shit, man). Invest in a good quality water bottle and fill it periodically. Now go and get your own water bottle – save the environment, save your wallet and stay hydrated.

Our team are massive fans of this Grayl bottle and take it everywhere with them, and we mean that! This bottle will not only see you right on your roadie but it will keep you hydrated on your other travels, at the gym or even sat next to your laptop whilst working!

It’s easy to forget that your actual means of transport needs its own kit when you’re compiling your cross-country road trip packing list. But, it’s just as important!

Your car itself needs to be given just as much attention as yourself or your road trip packing list. To help maintain your vehicle and to fix minor problems, like a flat tire, consider packing these items.

• Spare Tire: One of the most common issues on the road is a flat tire. Most cars, especially rentals, have a spare hidden in the floor of the trunk, just in case such a situation arises. Check to see if you have one and buy one if you don’t.
• Car Jack and Lug Wrench : To change that flat tire, you’re going to need the proper tools. A car jack and lug wrench are all that is required to do this. Be sure to brush up on how to change a tire, yourself.
• Tire Repair Kit : If you’re up to it, you can not only change that flat but fix it as well. It’ll take a couple of extra tools and some resins, but it can be done. When you’re finished, you can rejoice at your own handiness.
• Extra fluids : Running out of fluids like coolant and oil could lead to disaster – trust me, you don’t want your car running with a lack of either. Keep a bottle or two of these tucked away in the trunk. Maybe have some extra windshield wiper fluid as well.
• Gas Can : If for some reason you run out of gas, you’ll need a spare gas can to run and grab more. This is one of the most important things to bring on long rides into the middle of nowhere because you never know where the next gas station may be.
• Sunshade : Nothing sucks more than getting into a car after it’s been baking in the sun. If you sit on a leather seat after it’s been cooking, it can feel like 2nd-degree burns. Keep your car cool with one of these.
• Cable ties : A useful road trip item to have around in case something needs arresting, like a loose bumper (or a rowdy hitchhiker) . Also handy when tying down stuff on the roof or in the bed of a truck.

Things to Bring on a Road Trip in Winter for Car Care

• Chains: Regular tires cannot handle snowy conditions – they do not have enough tread and often spin out on ice or snow. Chains provide traction and can handle snowy conditions. Always have a pair if snow is a possibility. Note that there are different sized chains for different sized wheels.
• Ice Scraper : Speaking of swerving, you need to be able to see to drive. Before starting up your car, use a scraper to clear the ice from the windshield and make sure the defroster is on. If you don’t have a scraper, a credit card can work to (but you may destroy it).
• Shovel : If it dumped snow and your car is buried, you’re going to have to dig it out. A lightweight, portable snow shovel is obviously the best way to go about this. If you’re in a really hairy situation, you can use this winter road trip essential for digging a snow cave as well.

Hygienic Things to Pack on a Road Trip

Unless you want to return home looking like you just came from a weeklong music festival (then again maybe you are actually doing this…) you have to take care of your hygiene while on a road trip. Forget one of these on your road trip packing list and you’ll never miss it so much.

• Toiletries : Gotta keep those teeth and hair healthy, people! Admittedly, I almost always forget to pack these things on a long trip and immediately regret not having them (toothbrush: number one most forgotten travel item). Nothing feels better than having a fresh mouth after a night of camping.
• Deodorant: No one likes your brand of BO, especially when they’re stuck in a car with you. Wear some deodorant for the sake of everyone else.
• Comb/Brush : Hair gets nappy, especially when you’re on a wild road trip and doing all kinds of cool things. Don’t forget to take care of your luscious locks. Otherwise, your hairdresser is going to throw a shit fit when they try to unravel all of those dreadlocks.
• Tote Bag : Unless you wanna deal with a dozen objects haphazardly rolling around in the car, you need to have a bag for them. A tote bag is one of those items that will help you stay organized and improve your life 100% while on a road trip.
• Hand sanitizer : You may have just used a disgusting rest stop bathroom or you may have gotten your hands dirty while camping; either way a bottle of hand sanitizer is extremely convenient road trip item and cheap to buy as well.
• Tissues: Good for blowing your nose, drying your hands, killing bugs in the car, and a whole lot more. These are a family road trip essential to help clean up the kids.

Skin Care on a Road Trip

• Lotion: Car heaters can raise the aridity of the cab over time, which, in turn, causes dry and cracked skin. Have some lotion with you in case your skin begins to dry out and become uncomfortable. You can also use lotion as your lip balm.
• Sunscreen : If you’re planning on being outdoors a lot while on this road trip, you definitely need sunscreen in your road trip packing. On another note, if you’re the type who likes to drive long hours with the window open, you can even get burned and have an increased risk of skin cancer.
• Wet wipes : Ever heard of the wet wipe shower? It’s possible and it’s actually pretty effective. If you’ve been driving non-stop and haven’t had the chance to stay in a proper hotel with a shower, a quick wet-wipe-rinse-off is great for freshening up.

Which Clothing to Bring on a Road Trip

Don’t overlook what you kind of clothing you’re putting in your road trip checklist – you’re about to be limited to whatever you pack. On the other hand, don’t bring your entire closet with you because you need space for the other road trip essentials.

Choose your clothing wisely and make sure to bring these key pieces:

• Sunglasses: Driving into the sun and being blinded by it is never fun or particularly safe. Keep a pair of good glasses in your car at all times and have a second pair for walking around.
• Sandals : Wearing sandals feels SO good after you’ve been driving or hiking all day. Taking my shoes off and letting my toes breathe as I slip them into my sandals is one of the greatest highlights of my day. They’re small and flexible too, which means they aren’t hard to pack.
• Shoes: Obviously, you’re going to have to wear shoes at some point. Since you may be stuck in them for hours at a time, you need to make sure they’re extra comfy . Bring the right pair and don’t just settle for some old pair of Converses.
• Hat : I prefer a good bucket hat because they keep my ears protected and can take quite a beating. Any kind of hat will be fine though – just so long it gets the job done and looks good.
• Kaffiyeh : A kaffiyeh is one of the most useful things to bring on a road trip. They’re warm, easy, tough, and, most importantly, can serve multiple purposes. When I’m not using mine as a scarf, I’m using it as a blanket, a pack, a headscarf, and a whole lot more.

Winter Road Trip Essential Clothing

• Beanie : They’re cheap, effective, small, and sometimes stylish. I’d take one even if I was packing for a summer road trip because they’re just so damn easy and convenient to have.
• Rain jackets : Rain can quickly ruin your day if you aren’t ready for it. While most First Aid or Emergency Kits have an emergency poncho included, you should still pack your rain jacket .
• Warm Coat : Down jackets are very lightweight and can sometimes take up next to no room. They can be a bit expensive though. Fleece jackets are quite good at keeping out the cold but you’ll have to layer up if you intend on road-tripping in the winter or in the mountains. A down poncho is also great for cold nights in the tent or around the campfire.

Maybe you intend on sleeping in only hotels and Airbnb apartments on your cross country road trip. Regardless, I highly recommend packing some camping gear . You’ll get to enjoy the outdoors and save a lot of money in the process.

• Air mattress : I personally can’t sleep without having something padded underneath me. Luckily there are some very comfortable and compact sleeping pads out there that are great for camping. If you have a truck, you can also invest in a BIG inflatable mattress and then stick it in the bed of the truck for ultimate comfort.
• Tent : It always pays to have a tent wherever you go . With a tent, you can sleep just about anywhere and cheaply too! If you have a rugged 4×4 vehicle, you can also pimp it out and put a tent on top of it, much like these rooftop tents.
• Sleeping bag : They’re warm, light, come in all shapes and sizes, and are relatively durable. I take a sleeping bag with me whenever I travel and have even gotten to the point where I use it even when there’s a blanket on hand. Check out our favorite sleeping bags .
• Blanket : A blanket is not only useful for staying warm at night, but for keeping an area relatively clean. If I want to avoid getting dirty, I lay one of these on the ground and then use it as a rug. I also use blankets to conceal valuables from curious, would-be car thieves.
• Pillows : One of the things I miss the most when I’m backpacking in the wilderness is a good travel pillow . So when I’m car camping and have the means to pack such luxuries, I always take advantage of it. Nothing is better than a fluffy bag full of goose-down feathers – the ultimate in road trip gear!
• Headlamp : You can invest in a good flashlight if you like, but headlamps are much more useful. They’re hands-free, which then allows you to cook, set up camp, or whatever in the dark. You can opt for a good flashlight if you want, but, honestly, I could never go back to one.

Road Trip Packing List – Kitchen Edition

Unless you plan on eating out every night with greasy spoons or snacking the entire way, you’re going to have to cook eventually. Why not invest in a proper kitchen for yourself so you can cook your own food? You can get creative with your cooking and even involve (here’s a road trip idea) the kids.

• Camping stove : You can invest in a monster stove if you feel so inclined. Or you could get by just fine with a portable backpacking stove.
• Pots and pans : We’re not saying you have to bring the latest and greatest Teflon with you, but you gotta have something. Packing one of each for your road trip should accommodate most of your cooking needs. If you can manage it, cast iron works really well outdoors and adds a lot of flavors.
• Cutlery : I eat with my hands all of the time but my guests may not be so keen on this method.
• Plates : They don’t have to be anything special – just a couple plates and/or bowls. You can buy some collapsible ones, which are very useful when you’re backpacking too.  
• A good knife : Not only is one of these essential for preparing food but it’s also quite handy for small tasks, like cutting rope, twigs, tape, etc. It’s one of the most useful tools in human history and an equally useful thing to bring with you on a road trip.
• Cooking utensils : You’re going to need a spatula, a set of tongs, and a large spoon. I generally stick to plastic or silicone when cooking – wood tends to get grimy after a while and metal can ruin Teflon.
• Coffee press : One thing that adults tend to do on road trips is wake up early – either because they need to get the car ready or to rouse their kids awake. It’s moments like this, when perhaps you had a bit too much to drink around the fire, that having some fresh coffee really pays.
• Camping mugs : These are good for holding everything from coffee to water to wine to whiskey. Invest in a good titanium one and it will last a while for you.

Keeping Your Car Clean and Tidy

• Collapsible bins : By now, we’ve featured a lot if things to bring on a road trip (there’s more to come). Collapsible bins are one of the best road trip items for keeping all that stuff orderly in your trunk. They’re light, flexible, and an essential piece of road trip gear once you’ve used them.
• Compression sacks : These are great for dirty clothes and for packing objects tightly. If you plan on going wilderness backpacking, these are also useful for keeping stuff neat in your backpack.
• Campsuds : This is easily one of my favorite things to pack on a road trip. Campsuds can be used for everything: dishes, upholstery, your body, hair, whatever. It’s also biodegradable and smells pretty damn good.
• Towel: We don’t just mean any kind of towel – we mean you need to get a microfiber one. They absorb more liquid, dry quicker, and are way more portable than cotton ones. All important features when considering what to bring on a road trip.
• Garbage bin: Whether you actually have a dedicated bin or just use a regular old garbage bag, you gotta have something for the litter. While on a road trip, you’ll have to be much better about cleaning up, unless you want to be swimming in trash.
• Air freshener: Being cooped up with the same dirty equipment and same smelly friend is going to make the air a bit stagnant at times. Do yourselves a favor and spray some Febreeze every once in a while.

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What Food to Bring on a Road Trip

When you’re considering what to pack for a cross-country road trip, you don’t want to overlook fuel, and by that, we mean for yourself, not just for your car!

• Nuts: These are a good source of protein and fat. Peanuts are the classic road trip snack but I’ll splurge and get some cashews every once in a while. Avoid sunflower seeds and other nuts with pods as they just make a mess.
• Dried fruit: Raisins are obviously the most popular dry fruit and are practically married to peanuts. You can get just about any fruit dehydrated these days though, including kiwis, mangos, and strawberries. Avoid fruits with too much sugar and banana chips fried in palm oil.
• Jerky: Jerky is pretty expensive and sometimes coated in salt, but it’s a great source of protein. Avoid “fake” jerky, like Slim Jims, and get the natural stuff. Jerky should only have spices, water, salt, and one or two preservatives – stay away from anything with more.
• Canned goods: These can actually be really healthy and delicious if you buy the right ones. Canned tomatoes, vegetables, fruits, and beans are great examples. Preserved meats work in a pinch (love SPAM) but often contain an unhealthy amount of salt.
• Grains: Rice, flour, wheat, cereals, and muesli all have a long shelf life and are great foods to bring on a road trip. Just be sure you keep them in well-sealed bags because they can be a real mess.
• Candied-coated sweets: No road trip packing list is really complete without some sort of candy. Try to avoid raw chocolates, like bars or truffles, as they’ll melt easily. Stick to candy-coated items like M&Ms or fruit snacks.

Food Storage for a Road Trip Packing List

• Cooler : You may end up buying some fresh meat, some dairy products, or you might just want to keep your beers cold. Either way you need to have a cooler in case of these situations. When it’s not occupied by perishables, you can also use the cooler as a storage unit.
• Tupperware : Use these for packing leftover food or random bits in pieces in your car. They’re better than plastic bags because… well… duh.
• Water Jug : This is actually one of the most important things to bring on your road trip because you should ALWAYS have water with you. Keep this in the back and fill it up regularly. Make sure it’s a big one too because you’ll end up going through more water than you expect.

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Camping Road Trip Packing List

One of the best things to do on a road trip cross country is to spend a few days in the wilderness . I always organize my road trip necessities around this activity and have my own ideas on what to bring.

• Wheel lock: Being away from your car for days at a time increases the chances of someone coming along and jacking the whole shebang. While it may seem like overkill to use these, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Backpack : If you are planning on going on a multi-day backpacking trip, you’re going to need a good hiking backpack. If you’re just making little day hikes, maybe consider a smaller day pack instead.
• Hiking boots : While you may enjoy wearing a pair of sandals in the car or some trainers in the cities, you need hiking boots for the adventurous stuff . Make sure they’re sturdy and broken in before using them.
• Trekking poles : If you have bad knees, trekking poles will make your life so much easier. They can also be used to prop up a tarp-style tent or to poke people in the back seat.
• Hiking Essentials : A lot of these essentials have already been spoken about in this road trip checklist, but make sure you have them for hiking as well.
• Dry bag : If you’re going to participating in some sort of water sport on your road trip, you should consider investing in a dry bag. These are designed to keep gear safe from water, but NOTE that they are not totally waterproof.
• Mosquito spray : Fuck mosquitoes.

Packing for a Digital Nomad Road Trip

Some people may actually live and work in their car as a way of life i.e. digital nomads . These people need to be both mobile and efficient, which demands a special road trip essential list. Make sure you have all of the following items so you can work and then play.

• Laptop : Just because you’re mobile, doesn’t mean you can’t get shit done. Today’s best laptops are extremely powerful and can do just about anything you could ask for. Bring yours with you to work remotely.
• Camera : You should never travel without a camera! It doesn’t matter if it’s a professional DSLR or disposable point-and-shoot – having one is always useful. Try out one of these fancy travel cameras or consider something more fun, like an Instax.
• Camera accessories : If you’re serious about photography, don’t forget the proper camera accessories either.
• Power inverter : Use one of these docks to charge different devices in your car. They plug into the cigarette lighter and behave just like a regular outlet. A great item to pack for a long drive or if your laptop is about to die on the road.
• Portable Battery : These work really well in a pinch or if your power inverter seems to be on the fritz. When you need to leave your car for an extended period of time – like hiking – these are often good for a couple of days.
• Hard drive : I put all of my essential digital files on a hard drive e.g. movies, photos, etc. Considering how small these are, they shouldn’t take up too much space and make for useful road trip accessories.
• Multi-cord : USB, USB 3.0, Thunderbolt; who can keep up with the different types of cords these days. Buy an all-in-one package and save yourself the clutter.  

Keep that precious laptop safe and all your accessories organized with our favorite laptop protector, the Nomatic Tech Case . Water-resistant and durable this case offers plenty of protection from daily travel life.

Packing for a Fun Road Trip

What’s a road trip packing list without some entertainment?! Pack these items for those long, quiet rides and for when you’re ready to have some fun.

• Notebook : Some people like to keep a journal, some like a day planner for itineraries, and others just like somewhere to take notes. The Nomatic Planner has been my favorite with its mix of calendars, organization and journalling pages. Check out our round up of the best travel journals out there for more options! 
• Deck of cards: No matter what I do, I ALWAYS bring a set of cards with me. Even if I’m packing for a last-minute road trip and have time to grab one thing, I’ll take these over spare underwear. With a deck, I can happily play of my favorite road trip games, like cribbage, rummy, and bullshit.
• Kindle : While it’s hard to replace a physical book with actual pages, Kindles are just too convenient. These devices can literally store thousands of books and weigh no more 12 ounces. Because of their small size, these are one of my favorite road trip packing hacks.
• Road trip book : Boredom can be disastrous on a long ride and can really sour the mood. To avoid these situations, be sure to pack one some sort of special road trip game book. These provide lots of entertainment and are one of the best things for long road trips with kids.
• Portable speaker : I almost always grab one of these when packing for a weekend trip to the lake. Then, we’ll have good drinks, good company, and good tunes. If your car doesn’t support your MP3 player either, you can use this speaker instead.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Whatever you do, don’t hit the road without travel insurance. I’ve claimed my travel insurance three times. If I hadn’t had insurance, I would have been fucked.

Check out this post for plenty of intel on staying safe whilst traveling.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Check out these additional road trip packing hacks and take your game to the next level!

• Make sure you get a system in place FIRST. Trying to reorganize the car halfway through a trip is a nightmare and probably going to be a huge ordeal.
• Use every little piece of space that you can. If a cooler is empty, fill it with something. Use those coat hangers in your car (if they still exist). Check underneath the floorboards for additional space as well.
• Use a road trip planning app like ViaMichelin . Not only will it list all nearby gas stations and their current prices, but it will also alert you of upcoming tolls and bridges. The app even provides rough estimates for the cost of whole road trips.
• Check relocation services, like immova or Cruise America , to see if someone needs a car moved near you. If you’re lucky, you can actually get paid to take the car on a cross country road trip.
• If you have a truck, seriously consider turning the bed into your sleeping space. I know several friends who do this and swear it’s the most comfortable way of car camping. Just make sure you have a plan B for rain.
• If you’re car camping, master the wet wipe shower. Trust us, you’ll be devoid a real shower more often than nought.
• Take your car to the shop and have it checked before going anywhere. You don’t want to be halfway through your road trip and have your car break. That could potentially ruin your hard-earned vacation.
• Overnight oats are my favorite road trip breakfast because they’re super easy to make and delicious. If you don’t have milk, a dehydrated mix or some condensed milk will do just fine.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

What are some things to do on a long car ride by yourself?

That’s tough because you have to dedicate most of your attention to the road. Aside from contemplating your navel or singing along to music, try listening to an audiobook or a podcast.

What are some family road trip ideas when kids are involved?

Try and limit your time in the car as kids get antsy very quick. Have lots of activities planned and limit drive times. Distract them with mobile games (or even packable travel games ) or have everyone listen to that audiobook together.

How much will a road trip cost?

Road trip expenses add up very quickly, especially if you spend frivolously. It’s possible to spend less $100/day, but you need to have extremely strict habits. This means doing things like camping out as much as possible, being fuel-efficient, and cooking your own food. Having a smart road trip packing list goes a long way!

Is it legal to sleep in parking lots?

While it’s technically illegal in most states, camping in certain public areas – like parking lots – is not always enforced. Wal-Marts are a well-known secret among transients as overnight parking is usually allowed at these. Be sure to check the local laws when travelling internationally.

How often should I take a break?

Taking a breather is one thing you should always do on long drives. The official Highway Code recommends taking a 15-minute break every two hours and I completely agree. Step out of the car, do some stretching, whatever you like.

• Epic California Road Trip
• Epic New Zealand Road Trip
• Epic Alaska Road Trip
• Epic New England Road Trip

Still have some questions about the things you need for a cross-country road trip? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What are the three most important things you need on a road trip packing list?

While there are many things that should be on your packing list, these are the essentials: – First Aid Kit – Driver’s License – Spare Keys

What should I bring on a long road car trip?

A waterbottle is a no-brainer when going on a long road trip. That way, you won’t need to spend extra money on plastic bottles. And of course, the Aux Cord and a Phone mount can’t be missing either.

What do you need to pack on a roadtrip with kids?

Snacks and entertainment . Make sure to bring your kids favorite toys, books or maybe even an iPad.

Should you get an extra car insurance for a roadtrip?

Most definitely, especially if it’s a longer one. Having an extra travel insurance during your trip can be a real life-safer.

There it is, folks: our comprehensive road trip packing list. We hope it works well for y’all!

Get packing for a road trip and get out there! There are a lot of good roads to drive with a lot of good views. There’s nothing quite like a good road trip!

With this road trip packing list in hand (printable for your viewing pleasure) you’ll be sailing – uhh, driving – smoothly. Nothing to fear! Except for maybe a warped head gasket. That will fuck everything up; they’re as bad as mosquitoes.

Did we miss anything, like any family road trip essentials, in this list? Tending to the rugrats is not my speciality.

Please leave a comment if you feel like we missed anything or want to add to this guide! What are your must-haves for a cross-country road trip? We love to listen.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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That’s a good idea to make sure to bring some roadside assistance contact info. I wouldn’t want to have a crash or a breakdown or something and be stuck in the middle of nowhere. That would be bad if we got stuck with no civilization in a hundred miles. That way you could have a way to get some help to tow your car.

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89 Road Trip Packing List Essentials for Hitting the Road

This post may contain affiliate links.

Long stretches of open highway, a sense of total freedom, good tunes, an epic adventure at your fingertips… the road trip is a classic travel experience for good reason! In this post, you’ll find all the essential items for your road trip packing list to help you plan your trip.

Written in partnership with Toyota

Michael and I have been taking road trips together for nearly a decade—from weekend jaunts to a year-long exploration of North America—so we’ve had thousands of miles to dial in our road trip essentials. 

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If you’re feeling the itch to hit the road, this post is for you! We’re sharing our complete road trip packing list with everything you need for a comfortable, fun, and safe road trip. A little planning and preparation go a long way so that once you start cruising down the highway, all you have to do is let the adventure unfold.

Before you go…

Bring your vehicle to a mechanic for a pre-trip inspection .

If your vehicle has given you, shall we say, “cause for concern” in the past, then it might be worth bringing it to a mechanic for a pre-trip check before embarking on an extended road trip. 

We often bring our vehicles in to our local Les Schwab Tire Center before a big trip to have them check the state of our brake pads. This is offered as a free service and most mechanics will offer something similar. 

Quick Home Maintenance Check: 

• How do the treads on the tires look? 
• Are your tires at the proper pressure? 
• When will you need another oil change?
• Is the windshield wiper fluid topped off?

Clean your car

The cheapest and easiest way to improve the quality of your road trip is to start with a clean car. We’re not kidding, it makes a huge difference! 

Remove all the extra clutter, random receipts, old coffee cups, etc. Vacuum out the interior, Armor-All the plastic surfaces, and clean your windows with vinegar.

It’s easier to try to stay clean and organized if your car starts out that way.

Vehicle essentials

These are the basic items you should keep in your car (regardless of whether or not you’re road-tripping!) 

• License, registration, and insurance cards: Keep these together in an easily accessible place.
• Spare tire + tools: In addition to the tire, you’ll need a jack and a lug wrench. These are usually stored underneath the spare, but it wouldn’t hurt to double-check that they’re still there. Take five minutes to brush up on how to change a spare tire , too! 
• Jumper cables: Forgot to turn off your lights before heading out to explore, and returned to a dead battery? Jumper cables to the rescue! If you’re going to be traveling on lesser-used roads, you might want to consider a jump start battery booster so you don’t have to wait for a friendly traveler to stop to help you.
• Tire pressure gauge: Many cars will have internal pressure monitoring systems, but having a manual tire pressure gauge is still nice so you can quickly and accurately check each tire. 
• 12v tire pump: If you discover a slow leak in a tire, a 12v tire pump can fill the tire back up until you can resolve the problem. 
• Tire patch kit: You can pick up a tire patch kit at any auto store or gas station. If you get a puncture in the middle of your tread (not near the sidewall) you can usually plug the hole yourself using a patch kit. 
• Flashlight or headlamp: If you have car issues after dark, a flashlight or headlamp will help you see what you’re doing as you troubleshoot.
• Windshield sunshade: A sunshade makes a huge difference in keeping the interior of your car cooler while it’s parked.
• AAA membership: Hopefully you won’t have to use it, but the peace of mind that a AAA membership is absolutely invaluable. Unlock your car, jump your battery, or arrange a tow. As people whose campervan stopped running while parked on a desolate forest service road in Wyoming, we really can’t imagine road tripping without it.
• Fix’d device: This is an optional device that can be really helpful in diagnosing potential issues. This plugs into your car’s OBD-II port , and if the check engine light goes on, it will run and diagnose the code for you so you know what you’re dealing with (or know if you have to get to a mechanic pronto ).

In the glove box

• Napkins: Invaluable for soaking up spills, wiping sticky hands, and any number of minor cleaning tasks.
• Extra TP (store in a ziplock bag): Just in case the one bathroom in a 50 mile radius is out of stock!
• Hand sanitizer
• Tissues: A small pack of tissues are nice to have in case allergies kick up or you start having deep conversations with your travel partner.
• Quarters: Spare change will come in handy if you encounter toll roads or bridges, old school parking meters, or need to run a load of laundry at a laundromat.

Organization

One of the keys to a comfortable road trip is to keep your vehicle and gear organized and tidy. You don’t want to have wrappers piling up in your drink holders, or have to dig through all your stuff every time you need to find something. You don’t need everything on this list—just pick and choose what will work best for you and the type of things on your road trip packing list.

• Trash bag/bin: A small trash bag or bin in an accessible location will really help in managing wrappers, fruit peels, receipts, etc. We like to use an empty protein powder container because the lid helps prevent spills and smells.
• Over the seat organizer: A small organizer that clips to the back of the front seats is a great way to keep things like maps, headlamps, snacks, kids’ car games, and charging cables organized. If you have kids, this larger organizer has an iPad sleeve.
• Packing cubes: We love packing cubes to keep our clothes organized. Tops go in one cube, shorts or pants in one, socks and underwear in another, and one for miscellaneous items like swimwear and other accessories. We each have our own color to make things easier to find.
• Duffel bag: Large soft-sided duffel bags like the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel or REI Road Tripper Duffel are perfect for storing your packing cubes and bulky items like jackets. These tend to be more space-efficient in your trunk than suitcases since they don’t have a rigid shape.
• Storage bins/action packers: Action packers are great for storing camping equipment, extra snacks, shoes, and other gear.
• Roof cargo box: Very optional, but we are big fans of storing as much of our gear in a roof cargo box as possible, especially items we won’t use daily. This helps free up room for backseat passengers and helps open up space in the car, making it feel a little less like driving a mobile storage unit.
• Day pack: Whether you plan on hiking or are sticking to urban adventures, a comfortable day pack is essential for carrying extra snacks, water bottles, layers, maps or guide books, etc.
• Laundry bag: Having a separate laundry bag means your clean clothes stay fresh in your duffel, and when you’re ready to do laundry, all you have to do is haul the bag in—no more sorting through all your clothes trying to figure out what is clean and what isn’t.
• Reusable grocery bag: Stash a few of these in your glove box or over-the-seat organizer for stops at the grocery store during your trip.

Navigation and electronics

We’ve lumped these categories into one since so much navigation is done electronically. However, cell service isn’t guaranteed in many rural areas of the US, so paper and offline navigation are still a road trip essential.

• Road atlas or paper maps: In case you find yourself turned around in an area without service, you should always be prepared with paper maps. We like the Benchmark Maps Road Atlases and have one for the states we frequently road trip through. Alternatively, you can pick up paper maps for free at AAA locations if you’re a member!
• Offline maps: Maps.me is an awesome offline map that is perfect for creating routes and turn-by-turn driving directions on the fly, even if you’re completely out of service. Download the area maps ahead of time and you’ll be able to access everything—including gas stations, public restrooms, hospitals, points of interest, etc. Before your trip, you can bookmark all your stops or things you’re interested in and create “Lists” so you can pull them up on the road.
• Hands-free phone mount: One of the best car accessories we have ever purchased is a hands-free phone mount . No more interpretive re-telling of the directions from the passenger to the driver. Just plug in the directions, mount the phone in your field of view, and you’re golden. 
• USB Cords: We like to have dedicated USB cords that we leave in our vehicle. This way, we’re not shuttling them in and out and potentially forgetting to bring them.
• Small inverter: A 12v to 120v inverter can plug directly into a cigarette lighter and charge AC items like laptops and camera battery chargers. We’ve used this one for over six years of road trips!
• GasBuddy : We use this app to find gas stations—it has user-aggregated price data, too, so we can save money by price comparing nearby stations.
• Maps.me : As mentioned above, this is our favorite offline map app for driving directions.
• Alltrails : Our favorite app for finding hiking trails. Sort by length, elevation gain, and difficulty.
• The Dyrt : A great app for finding campgrounds (complete with photos, reviews, and amenities). The PRO version allows you to access everything offline, has public land map layers, and includes a great trip planner tool.
• Seek by iNaturalist : Identify plants, animals, and birds, and tracks by using your camera or uploading a photo—the app will identify it for you!
• Merlin Bird ID : Enter bird features like size, color, and environment to generate a list of potential birds—includes sound recordings and photos for easier identification.
• The Outbound : A great app for finding all kinds of outdoor adventures.
• Nativelands : Identify the native tribes that traditionally lived in the area you’re traveling in.
• Sky Guide : Dynamic constellation, planet, and star identification.
• PlugShare : If you’re driving a plug-in hybrid like the Toyota Prius Prime , or an all-electric vehicle, this app will be invaluable in locating charge stations along your route. 

Entertainment

Let’s face it: long stretches of driving can get monotonous, no matter how dynamic the scenery is. This is where some in-car entertainment becomes important. 

Download everything to your phone ahead of time. It’s not a matter of if you’ll lose service, it’s when…   And it is never at a convenient time. Once everything is downloaded, you’ll be able to access it any time.

We loved the CarPlay integration that the Toyota Prius Prime came with—it made it so easy to navigate between our music and podcasts while on the road!

• Audiobooks: Use Libby to download audiobooks from your public library for free, or use Everand which gives you an unlimited reading subscription for less than $10 a month ( try it for 2 months free! )
• Spotify playlists: There are thousands of playlists to choose from, but we think the best place to start is with the “Soundtrack My Ride” feature which will build a custom playlist for you.
• Podcasts: We love bite-sized podcast episodes because they give us lots of new topics to talk about, in addition to (usually) learning something new. Here are some great road trip podcast recommendations from Conde Nast Traveler and AFAR .

Comfort essentials for road trips

This is a list of little items we consider to be road trip essentials simply because they make the trip a little more comfortable and enjoyable.

• Snacks and drinks cooler: Keep a small cooler or insulated lunch tote within reach filled with any perishable road trip snacks and cold drinks.
• Coffee mug or tumbler: Make an extra cup of coffee in the morning and save it in an insulated coffee mug or tumbler . This will not only save money, but we bet you can make a much tastier cup of coffee than what you’ll find at a gas station!
• Water bottle: A reusable water bottle is absolutely essential for road trips! It’s so important to stay hydrated when traveling, and if you have water easily within reach, you’re more likely to sip throughout the day. Cycling through bottled water generates so much waste (of resources and your money), so pack along a durable, reusable bottle to fill up.
• Reusable utensils + straw: While we’re talking about reusables, we’d like to suggest throwing in a set of reusable utensils and drinking straws so you can ditch the plastic stuff when you grab takeout or stop at a food truck.
• Blankets/pillows: Catnaps in the passenger seat are so much more comfortable and restful if you have a pillow and a blanket. These are also nice to have to lay out on the grass at a rest stop for some shut-eye.
• Quick-dry towel/Turkish towel: Quick dry towels are a summer road trip necessity! Personally, we love jumping in lakes and rivers and a quick-dry towel is a way better option than regular bath towels. They are less likely to get mildewy and they’ll dry out before your next stop! A Turkish towel is similarly a great item and can double as a picnic blanket, sarong, or shawl.
• Sunglasses: Squinting into the sun as you drive is a recipe for fatigue, headaches, and it’s just plain bad for your eyes. A good pair of sunglasses with UV protection is a must-have for road trips. We love Sunski sunglasses , which come with a great warranty.
• First aid kit: Backroad Ramblers has a great post on putting together your own road trip first aid kit .

Toiletries and personal items

These are the self-care items that are on our road trip checklist to keep us feeling good throughout the trip.

• Sunscreen: While car side windows block UVB rays, they still allow UVA rays through —the ones that cause deep skin damage (but not sunburns), so it’s important to wear full-spectrum sunscreen, particularly on the side of your body next to the window. 
• Lip balm: Prevent chapped lips by using lip balm, preferably one that has some SPF to it.
• Bug spray: You may not need it in the car, but bug spray is nice to have if you’ll be outdoors hiking or hanging out. This is a good travel-sized spray , and they have a DEET-free version as well. 
• Prescription medications and OTC Med Kit: In addition to any prescription medications, put together a small over-the-counter med kit that includes painkillers for headaches and achy joints, Benadryl or Allegra for allergies, Imodium in case your lunch doesn’t sit well, etc.
• Car/Motion Sickness remedies: Either OTC or a non-medication option like ginger chews or those pressure point bands.
• Body wash/soap
• Wet wipes: These will come in handy in case you need a quick “bath” on the road (see the below section on showering during a road trip for more ideas).
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Wrinkle release spray: Your clothes are going to sit folded up in your luggage for days at a time, so having a travel-size wrinkle release spray can be super helpful on a road trip.
• Tide stain pen: Stains happen, and since you won’t be able to immediately throw your clothes into the wash, having a Tide stain remover pen can help prevent the stains from really setting in.
• Scrubba: Alright, this is totally optional, but this portable wash bag could be useful particularly if you’re traveling with kids and you want to be able to wash out stains and dirt from clothes without spending your time at the laundromat.

What to wear on a road trip

The clothing section of your road trip packing list is going to be pretty personalized based on where you’re going, the time of year and expected weather, and your personal style.

The key to packing clothing for a road trip is to balance comfort and versatility based on your planned activities, while keeping in mind the kind of weather you are likely to encounter. 

Try to choose clothes that will serve multiple purposes, for instance, a warm jacket you can wear in the evening at your campsite but will still look good enough to walk around town on a brisk day. A good tip for pants is to choose ones that are good for hiking but that you’d also grab dinner in. prAna has a lot of good options for versatile pants .

Consider packing clothing that have helpful features while traveling such as antimicrobial or quick-drying fabrics, or UPF clothing that offer built-in sun protection.

Basic road trip packing list

• Short sleeve tops or tanks: one per day in the summer, or fewer in cooler temperatures
• Long sleeve tops: one or two in the summer, or more in cooler temperatures
• Pants, leggings, and shorts
• Activewear for hikes and outdoor exploring
• Warm jacket or sweater: extras if it’s going to be particularly cold
• Rain jacket
• Windbreaker or lightweight jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hiking shoes , if necessary
• Hat (sun hat/warm beanie)
• Activity-specific items (rashguard, water shoes, etc)

Camping basics

If you’ll be camping, there are a few additional things you’ll need to put on your road trip checklist. These are the bare essentials from our weekend camping checklist —we leave some of the “extras” behind knowing that we’re going to pack up and move frequently.

• Sleeping mats
• Sleeping bags
• Camp chairs
• Folding camp table (optional)
• Camp stove and fuel
• Packable camp cookware set
• Spatula / spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Plates, bowls, and utensils
• Camp coffee maker
• Collapsible dishwashing bucket (optional, depending on campsite selection)
• Sponge and campsuds
• Microfiber towel
• Bin to store kitchen items in

Essential road trip planning tips

Route planning.

One of the allures of road tripping is the freedom that comes with the open road. As soon as you get behind the wheel, you feel like everywhere is within your reach and you’re in a real-life “choose your own adventure” story. And while that feeling of freedom is real, it truly is a good idea to spend some time planning out an itinerary (however loose or detailed) before you leave.

At a minimum, it means that your co-pilot will have to spend less time looking up what to do and where to go on the fly, and at best it means you won’t have that post-trip regret of finding out you drove past the best waterfall in the state and you didn’t even know it.

We like to take a “planned spontaneity” philosophy when it comes to planning a road trip. After deciding on how long our road trip will be and choosing a general area for the trip, we start looking into the attractions and activities that we’d be interested in and start saving them to our Map.me bookmarks. Then, we can pull up the map that has all the points on it and see what our basic driving route might be, eliminating any real outlier stops.

From there, we’ll spend a little more time thinking about how long we want to drive per day and the time needed to explore different locations. This is how we determine where we plan to sleep each night, and book campsites or hotels/Airbnbs. 

We might add coffee shops or restaurants we want to check out, or do a little more research into different points of interest once we have a more solid route planned.

That’s usually it. What we end up with is a rough timeline so we don’t get behind, and a lot of ideas to choose from when we’re on the road depending on how we’re feeling that day.

We like to budget extra time instead of planning down to the minute, because the beauty of road trips is that even when you have a plan, you’re likely to stumble on fun, spur of the moment stops and you’ll want to have time to stop for those spontaneous adventures.

Make a budget

To an extent, a road trip can cost as much or as little as you have a budget for. If you make most of your own meals, get savvy at finding free camping , and choose free or inexpensive activities, you can really keep the costs of a road trip down. Or, you can book nights at Airbnbs, eat at local restaurants, and splurge on activities if it’s in your budget! We personally do a blend of both on most of our trips.

While you’re planning your trip, keep a total budget in mind, and then allocate it into different categories based on your priorities. Eating great food might be more important than where you lay your head at night, or perhaps you want to be able to book a fun adventure tour and are happy cooking at your campsite most nights.

Where to sleep

You have a few options for overnight accommodation on your road trip. You can camp, stay at Airbnbs, hotels, or hostels, or stay with friends or family if they are along your route and up to hosting you.

During busy travel periods or in popular destinations, you’ll probably want to book everything ahead of time. It sounds free and romantic to go where the wind blows and decide where you want to stay on the fly, but we’ve found that it adds unnecessary stress to our trips.

Campgrounds in particular are important to book in advance because they have limited space and in many cases, if it’s full when you get there there may not be a lot of other camping options nearby.

What to eat

Nothing ruins a road trip quite like a hangry passenger—or worse yet, a hangry driver! Failure to make plans for what and where you’re going to eat means you’re already halfway to Crankytown, so be sure to plan ahead and pack ALL THE SNACKS.

You can opt to eat out for all your meals and not have to worry about cooking at all, in which case, you may want to spend some time looking up interesting restaurants or food trucks along your route so you already have some to choose from when you roll into towns. If you’re camping or staying at Airbnbs or hostels with kitchens, you can make your own meals or pack to-go lunches.

Pack a small cooler or insulated tote with things like fresh veggies and hummus, cheese, sandwich supplies, and cold drinks like sparkling water, iced coffee, or kombucha so they are easy to access during the day.

Stash snacks like peanut butter-filled pretzels, nuts and trail mix , dried fruit, jerky , granola bars , and other non-perishable road trip snacks in your center console or in a bag so there’s always something ready when you start to feel hungry.

If you’re planning on making some of your own meals, it’s a good idea to keep things pretty simple so you can spend more time exploring and less time cooking. Here are some of our favorite road trip meals:

• Overnight oats with a bit of maple syrup and chopped fruit and nuts
• Made-ahead breakfast burritos warmed up on the camp stove
• Granola, milk, and fresh fruit
• Yogurt with berries and granola
• “Charcuterie spread” of sliced cheese and salami, crackers or bread, olive packets , dried fruit, and nuts
• Sliced apple, almond butter, and honey sandwiches
• Avocado, tomato, and hummus sandwiches (perfect with some everything bagel seasoning!)
• Chicken or chickpea salad—make at home and store in your cooler. Serve in wraps, sandwiches, or on crackers.
• Chickpea curry with rice or naan—all can be made ahead of time and reheated at the campsite
• Quick stir fry with noodles
• BBQ chicken quesadillas —you could cook and chop the chicken ahead of time for an even faster meal
• Tacos with store-bought salsa and avocado
• Pasta with fresh veggies and chickpeas or chicken sausage
• Here are a bunch more easy camping recipes and one pot meals

How to shower on a road trip

If you’re going to stay in hotels or at Airbnbs every night, you get to skip this section. But if you’re camping during your road trip, here are a few ideas (from most “civilized” to most “dirtbag”) of how to stay clean during your trip:

• Campgrounds you stay at: Check the amenities ahead of time, but many state and national park campgrounds will have shower facilities. Some will be included with your site fee, while others will require you to use quarters or buy shower tokens, so make sure you have some change on hand.
• Gyms/rec centers: If you have a gym membership to a chain with lots of locations, check to see if there are any along your route. The Planet Fitness Black Card Membership is famous among road-trippers because it’s $20 per month and gives you (and a guest) access to all their locations (and there are a TON of them). If you don’t already have a gym membership, many towns have city rec centers or Y’s where you can buy a day pass and take a shower.
• Sun shower: A sunshower is basically a portable water bag with a hose or spout that you can rinse off with. Leave it in the sun for a bit (or add hot water) and it’s an easy, cheap way to enjoy a warm rinse. We have used the Nemo Helio , which has a foot pump to pressurize the water (great if you want to do more than just have a quick rinse), and the Sea to Summit WatercellX , which we use as our extra water storage but also has a shower hose attachment.
• Jump in a lake: But don’t use soap in it! If you’re spending time near lakes or rivers, a swim with a good ole hand scrub is one way to stay feeling clean. Just please don’t use soap in or near any water source. Even biodegradable soaps can pollute waterways since they need microorganisms to break down properly. If you want to use biodegradable soap , lather up and rinse off at least 200 feet away from the water’s edge
• Wet wipes: When all else fails, wipe down with a couple of wet wipes to get the day’s sweat and grime off you before bed.

What are the best road trips in the USA?

Road trips are a quintessential US travel experience and there are SO many amazing routes to explore. Here are some of the best road trip itineraries on our website as well as others that we’ve done or are on our bucket list!

• 7 Wonders of Oregon Road Trip | Fresh Off The Grid
• Wild Wonderful West Virginia Road Trip | Fresh Off The Grid
• Gem Of The West Idaho Road Trip | Fresh Off The Grid
• Ultimate Teton & Yellowstone National Parks Road Trip | Bearfoot Theory
• Olympic National Park Road Trip | Bearfoot Theory
• 10-Day Utah National Parks Road Trip | Bearfoot Theory
• The Best California Road Trips | She Dreams of Alpine
• Northern California Road Trip Itinerary | The Mandagies
• 10-Day American Southwest Road Trips | The Mandagies
• 7-Day Glacier National Park Road Trip | The Mandagies
• Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip | AFAR

Made possible by Toyota

We recently had the opportunity to take a Toyota Prius Prime on an epic Oregon road trip . We loved that it’s a plug-in hybrid, so we could charge at any number of charge stations along the way, but since it still has a fuel-efficient gas engine, we never had to worry about range. And, its large cargo space meant that we had plenty of room to pack all of our road trip essentials! Learn more about the Toyota Prius Prime here .

Megan & Michael are the creators of Fresh Off The Grid, a blog dedicated to helping you fuel your adventures by sharing camp cooking recipes, backpacking meals, and outdoor travel guides. Their recipes and outdoor cooking expertise have been featured in Backpacker Magazine, Outside, REI Co-Op Journal, Food & Wine, and New York Times Cooking.

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One Comment

Outstanding information. Thank you for the great tips!

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Road Trip Packing List

The ultimate packing list including all of the road trip essentials you need to travel by car. We cover it all: men’s and women’s focused items from bags, to clothing and toiletries, to cooking supplies, and more.

The Road Trip Essentials: Gear for An Epic Road Trip

Welcome to the Road Trip Packing List where we’re going to cover everything you need to make your road-tripping adventure worthy of the big screen. While road trips can last anywhere from a weekend to a year or more, we’ve formulated this list to work for trips that span from a week to a month or so. (But you can adapt it to fit your needs.)

Now, it can be tempting to pack a lot of gear for a road trip—you’re not limited by airline restrictions, after all—but we suggest packing the least amount of stuff possible. Beyond ensuring more legroom, we’ve found that packing minimally helps to keep a clear mind. Additionally, you won’t have to go digging through a trunk full of stuff to pull out the few things that you actually use.

On that note, we’ve kept this list as minimal as possible while keeping comfort and convenience in mind. We don’t guarantee that this packing list will prevent misadventures—which are part of the fun, anyway. But we believe this list will help you pack what you need (while staying comfortable) without being burdened down with a bunch of excess gear. That way, you can worry less about rummaging through your stuff and focus more on those classic road trip experiences.

Collectively, our team has driven thousands and thousands of miles. We’ve taken what’s worked and what hasn’t and distilled all the gear you need down into one mega list—with one exception.

We haven’t included a section on vehicle specific items because what you need differs from vehicle to vehicle. Make sure you consider these vehicle-specific essentials before you take off, including tools, battery cables, a spare tire, nice windshield wipers (splurge on these, trust us), windshield washer fluid, etc. Plus, you need to pack your driver’s license, insurance, registration, passport, car manual, and other like items. (And, if you’re going abroad, there may be additional things you need to pack.)

Of course, we know that what works for some isn’t going to work for others (even the Pack Hacker team differs). So, if the items on this list aren’t your thing, don’t worry. We have other packing lists , guides , and reviews to help you find gear that works for you.

We’ve also written up a massive road trip guide to help you navigate all of the other aspects of a road trip (safety, finding accommodations, the best way to pack your car, and more), so check it out if you’re so inclined.

With all of that said, let’s get packing.

Standalone Bags & Organizers

We’ve found that the classic duffle, backpack, and sling bag combo (DBS, for short) is the best for road trips. Duffles are great for hauling the majority of your clothes as they’re typically easy to pack—both in terms of throwing your stuff into one and Tetris-ing in the car. The backpack can act as an overnight bag or daypack while exploring whatever zany attraction you’ve stopped at. And the sling bag is for the essentials and quick stops.

A classic duffle that’s ideal for road trips in its simplicity. It’s easy to dump all of your stuff inside the one compartment—basically a giant, cavernous bucket—so you can spend less time packing and more time enjoying the wind in your hair. Its soft sides will squish into the nooks and crannies leftover in your fully packed car. Plus, you can easily grab the comfortable handles and take the duffle into the laundromat (or the hotel if you’re staying more than overnight). Tom Bihn is also known for the quality of its gear, so while this thing doesn’t have much weather-resistance, it’s highly durable in all other regards.

Versatility is key when it comes to choosing the right backpack for a road trip—and that’s why we’re recommending the Borealis. At 28L, this pack is large enough to hold all of the clothes and toiletries you need for a weekend trip, but small enough to act as a daypack for those longer drives. Plus, its dedicated laptop compartment means it’ll work as a laptop bag if you need to head to the coffee shop to get some work done. It’s also a great bag to take on hikes due to its comfortable harness system and durable, weather-resistant exterior.

A sling bag is a perfect place to stash your wallet, phone, and keys on the road. Not only so you know where all that important stuff is when not directly using them (trust us, there’s nothing worse than losing your keys in a packed car), but so that you can easily throw your sling over your shoulder and go buy a cup of coffee. It’s also nice for day trips and quick hikes. We’re digging the Atom Sling due to its simple, effective organization as well as the soft mesh on the back panel and shoulder strap, which makes it super comfortable to carry. Plus, it’s a great size—large enough to carry the essentials and a water bottle or packable jacket on day trips/hikes.

Clothing & Accessories

Road trips frequently involve a variety of scenarios: sitting down to a fancy dinner with your grandpa, camping at a goat farm, or spending the day at the beach to name a few. (And, of course, lots and lots of driving.) We suggest versatile, durable clothing that can keep up with whatever life on the road throws at you. Comfort is also key. Who likes sitting in a cramped car for eight hours wearing skinny jeans? Nobody, that’s who. Additionally, we prefer clothes that feature antimicrobial properties or anti-odor treatments (for what should be obvious reasons).

• Men's Focused
• Women's Focused

You can wear these boxers multiple days in a row without being gross. That in itself makes us like them for life on the road, but they’re also breathable, soft, and moisture-wicking. Plus, the direction of the fabric on the legs runs vertically, so it stretches with your natural movement. Translation: the stretch on these boxers is fantastic. We’re also digging their clean, sophisticated look (no branding on the waistband...yeah, we know!).

These pants are sleek and polished enough for the city, but versatile enough to work for an eight-hour drive, fast food eating session, or day on the trails. Yes, these pants do it all. We’re huge fans of the crotch gusset, which gives these pants extra flexibility and breathability (two must-haves for long days in the car or hot afternoons exploring).

With a techy, almost sweatpants-y vibe, these pants are ideal for long driving days, traipsing through the forest, or lounging at your Airbnb. We like the technical fabric, which is thin enough that you won’t overheat, but still nice and durable. We’re also digging that the pockets zip all the way up, so you’re less likely to have your phone and/or lucky charm slip out of your pocket and get lost between your seat and the middle console (you know what we’re talking about). The waistband is also very forgiving, meaning you can go ahead and order the french fries and the onion rings.

Shorts that double as swim trunks—sometimes it’s awesome to be living in the 21st century. These shorts are also comfortable, breathable, and stretchy. Plus, they’re available in a variety of subdued and stylish colorways, and won’t break the bank.

This tee boasts all of the magical properties of Merino wool, including odor-resistance, temperature-regulation, and a fast drying time. It also feels nice—lightweight and breathable, but not thin. All of these features, paired with its simple aesthetic, mean that it’s quite versatile—wear it driving, hiking, lounging, or bar-hopping.

With a sporty, outdoorsy vibe, this tee may not be perfect for a five-star restaurant, but it’s great for pretty much everything else. It has built-in UPF sun protection and odor-control that’s comparable to Merino wool (not quite, but close). We like that it’s moisture-wicking and lightweight, so you can turn off the air-conditioning and still keep cool. It’s also quick-drying, so you can use it during any water-activities that may arise on your trip. NOTE: Patagonia is in the process of updating the Capilene line to provide 50+ UPF protection, so availability may be limited.

Made from a blend of Merino wool, the Icebreaker Siren Hipkini Briefs are ideal for life on the go. They’re breathable, quick-drying, comfortable, soft, and more importantly, odor-resistant, so you can go longer between washes (or opt for a quick sink wash instead). Bring two, so you can let each pair breathe between wears.

These pants offer great versatility. They’re comfortable and lightweight enough to wear on driving days, breathable enough to wear on trails, and polished enough to wear to happy hour. We also like that they’re wrinkle-resistant, so you can crumple them up and toss them in your duffle without worrying how they’ll fare. The only downside is that the pockets aren’t as usable as we would like.

All you need to know about the Encircled Dressy Sweatpant is in the name. These sweats are oh-so-soft and stretchy—perfect for long drives—yet dressy enough you can step out of your car without being embarrassed. They’re also relatively thin, so you’re not likely to get overheated, and feature a secret zippered pocket that’s actually hard to spot (unlike other “secret” pockets out there). So we guess it’s not all in the name, after all.

Breathable and short (without looking excessively short), these lululemon shorts are great for hot days exploring the city, hiking up a mountain, or getting your exercise on. We like that they have two pockets—one zippered, one stash—for extra cash or cards. Plus, they’re available in a range of colors, so you can (hopefully) find one that you like.

The odor-resistant, temperature-regulating, and moisture-wicking properties of this Merino wool t-shirt are a must for long days in the car or out exploring—plus it’s nice enough you can get away with wearing it out to dinner. It’s wrinkle-resistant too, so you can pull it out of your duffle, throw it on, and look sharp. Need we say more?

This tank is quick-drying, so you don’t have to sit in discomfort after spilling your water bottle all over yourself when driving over a pothole. Plus, it’s moisture-wicking and has solid odor control. As its name suggests, it’s best for active days on the trails, but all of those aforementioned features mean it's great for driving days too. You can also rock it in the city if you’re going for a sporty look. NOTE: Patagonia is in the process of updating the Capilene line to provide 50+ UPF protection, so availability may be limited.

Perfect for those days when you can’t be bothered to wear separates, this romper is soft, stretchy, and comfortable. It has also been treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) to repel moisture. The small details—like the crisscrossed straps on the back, scalloped hem, and draped waist elevate the romper’s look and make it easy to dress it up. So, you can wear it both on a lazy day at the campground and a night out on the town.

A versatile sports bra that will work for low-impact activities, including hiking, yoga, or a bike tour through the city. You can wear it beneath a tank or on its own. In fact, we think it’s sleek enough that you could get away with wearing it with a jacket and jeans for a night out (of course that depends on your style preferences). It's also double lined for extra support, quick-drying, and has UPF50+ protection.

A headband is a versatile tool to have in your arsenal. It can help out a bad hair day, keep your hair out of your face, and elevate an outfit. We’re digging this one as it can be worn in two ways (more versatility!) and has a soft, silky material. Plus, Breezy Tee uses 100% recycled materials in its packaging, which is a huge plus in our books.

Perfect for stargazing on chilly nights or when sharing a car with someone who loves to blast the air conditioning, this sweater is the epitome of cozy. It’s soft and warm, yet breathable. You’ll likely never want to take it off. And, of course, being from Patagonia, it’s also made from 100% recycled polyester and is Fair Trade Certified™ sewn.

Also, make sure to pack:

• Additional pairs of underwear (x 3)
• Pair of jeans
• Nice shirt for fancy dinners with Grandpa, walking through art museums, etc
• Packing cubes
• Hat (baseball cap style)
• Athletic shoes
• Cheap flip flops for showers
• Socks (x 4)
• Rain jacket
• Cold weather clothing—warm jacket, hat, gloves, and long underwear—if you will be driving to chiller climates or camping

Productivity & Tech

Road trips are a great way to unplug and recharge. But a little technology can go a long way in making your time on the road less of a mis adventure and more of an epic adventure.

And, if you’ll be working on the road, check out our Digital Nomad Packing List for all the tech you need to be able to do your job on the go.

While you can hit the road without a phone mount, we don’t suggest it. Not only is it more convenient to follow GPS directions with your phone mounted, it’s safer to boot. We’re digging this magnetic mount, which is pretty universal and will work with most smartphones, cases, and GPS devices. Plus, the magnet is super clean compared to other mount styles: no adhesive to stick to (and damage) your dash, no bulkiness, and easy to use one-handed.

An excellent tripod to keep your phone steady, so you can take photos or videos of your legendary trip. The flexible legs wrap around a variety of surfaces, allowing you to capture moments you would otherwise miss. Plus, it’s so small, you’ll hardly notice it in your car.

We probably don’t need to convince you that a USB car adapter is a useful tool to have on the road. We like this one since it’s small and has two outlets, so you don’t have to fight over who needs to charge their phone the most…Unless there are more than two of you in the car. In which case, may we suggest rock-paper-scissors?

You need a phone cable to go with the car charger—or plug directly into your head unit. Anker is a brand we’ve had good luck with. Three feet is a great size as you don’t want anything too long—all the extra cable will get annoying. Conversely, too short will also be annoying. We like to pack multiple cables, either for sharing with car mates or to keep one in our tech kit and a couple in the car.

If you’re the type of person who likes to put pen to paper, you’ll likely love this travel journal. It helps you plan your trip—with spots to jot down research, keep track of reservations, and budget. Plus, there’s a travel log to memorialize your epic adventures. There’s enough space inside for twelve (!) dedicated trips.

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A headlamp is essential for camping and hiking—unless you have special night-vision magical powers, of course. But it’s also nice-to-have in other situations (say if you want to stay up reading all night, but your roommate wants lights out). We like that this one has a variety of brightness settings, an option for red light, and a “memory” that lets you turn on your chosen brightness without cycling through all the options. Plus—it’s highly water-resistant (rated Rated IPX4), so you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a storm.

A dedicated alarm clock is a weird and specific thing to pack, we know. But you don’t want to leave your phone on at night—say if you’re camping or sleeping in your car—because it will kill the battery (or drain your battery bank). This is a solid workaround. It’s small, somewhat durable, and totally silent (as in you won’t hear it tick, not that the alarm itself is silent).

There are lots of power inverters on the market, but we’re digging this middle of the road option. It has decent wattage—it will charge most things that need charging (laptop, e-reader, phone)—but isn’t overkill. The two outlets and two USB ports are helpful to have, plus there’s a built-in fuse for safety. It’s also relatively compact, so it won’t take up too much space in your car.

• Headphones (noise canceling is clutch)

Toiletries & Personal Care

As far as we’re concerned, smelling of sweat and sunscreen is a part of the fun of road trips (…right?). But your car mates—and grocery store clerks, baristas, park rangers, and everyone else you come in contact with on your travels will thank you if you freshen up from time to time.

Unlike the Toiletries & Personal Care sections in our other packing lists, not everything we list here will fit into your Dopp kit. In fact, we recommend only keeping the toiletries you’ll need for showers and your morning/evening routines in your Dopp kit. Everything else—think toilet paper roll and coconut oil—can and should be tucked out of the way in one of the plastic bins we mention later on in this packing list. That way, you can get to said items when you need them, but you don’t have to sort through them to get to your toothbrush every morning.

Cologne won’t completely mask your haven’t-taken-a-shower-in-a-week odor, but it will help. Fulton & Roark offers several scents to choose from, so you should be able to find a fragrance that suits you. (Check out the full review for our team’s favorite scents.) And, because it’s solid, you don’t have to worry about spills.

If you haven’t used a menstrual cup before, it may take some time to get used to (we suggest trying it out before your road trip). But, once you get used to it, it’s amazing to have on the road. You can use it for up to 12 consecutive hours, so you don’t have to clean it at questionable rest stops. Plus, the Blossom Cup doesn’t use any harmful rubber or plastics and comes in at a super affordable price point.

Perfect for those days you want to smell extra nice (or when your deodorant needs some help in masking your haven’t-taken-a-shower-in-a-week odor). Lush offers several different fragrances, so you should be able to find a smell that works for you. Plus, it’s solid, so you don’t have to worry about spills.

We like this Dopp kit for a couple of reasons. 1) It hangs up, which is an important feature for showering at gyms or campsites, and 2) It has a highly water-resistant pouch that you can take out of the kit and into the shower without worrying about it taking forever to dry. Note that there is a ton of organization inside of this bag, which may be right up your alley or feel limiting, depending on your travel style.

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You don’t need to abide by airline liquid rules, but we still prefer to put our liquids into small containers to save space. These toiletry bottles have been designed to fit perfectly inside the Gravel Toiletry Bag, but their unique shape means they fit together nicely to save space inside of any Dopp kit. We suggest using them for whatever liquids you plan to take with you on the road. Say conditioner and hair gel.

Sure, you don’t need a fancy soap case, but this thing is super nice to have. It’s not rigid like a hard-sided case—so it’s easier to pack—and it’s also way better than a plastic bag. The technical makeup of the case also allows the soap to dry out while being totally watertight, meaning your Dopp Kit and all your gear stays dry. Yeah, it’s basically magic.

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A microfiber, antimicrobial towel is about the most massively useful thing a road tripper might have (any Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy fans out there? No?). In all seriousness, this microfiber towel is super handy. It’s necessary if you plan to shower at a campsite or gym, but also nice-to-have in case your Airbnb forgets to supply a towel. It’s also great for beach trips or picnics. The antimicrobial properties of the towel mean that smells are kept to a minimum and that you don’t have to wash it as frequently as other towels. Plus, this towel dries really, really quickly. Additionally, it packs down into a small carrying case that won’t take up much space in your car. There are a few different sizes available, so you can grab what you need—we recommend the XL.

You might not know, but coconut oil is a triple threat. It’s a great way to moisturize your skin after spending all day in the sun. Plus, you can use to strengthen and de-frizz your hair, and, finally, you can cook with it. We like that this one is organic with no added chemicals.

While this first aid kit doesn’t have a bunch of trauma stuff, it should take care of most minor ailments (and if you need trauma supplies, you should probably seek medical attention anyway). We like the extra hand-sanitizer and the addition of the anti-itch ointment. It’s also relatively small, so you can easily keep it in your middle console or glove box.

Stains happen on road trips. Like a lot. Whether it’s dropping melted chocolate onto your shorts while making s’mores around the campfire, spilling coffee on your shirt after hitting the road early, or rubbing dirt into your sweater on a picnic. A Tide to Go Pen won’t alleviate every stain out there, but it gets rid of most stains with just a few pats.

• Toothpaste or powder
• Hand sanitizer
• Shampoo bar
• Powder laundry detergent
• Hair creams or pomades
• Nail clippers
• Lip balm (road trips lead to cracked lips…trust)
• Toilet paper
• Gallon plastic bags

Cooking on the road is a great way to stretch your budget and stay healthy, whether you’ll be road-tripping for a weekend or six months. While the idea of cooking over a campfire is romanticized in that whimsical living-off-the-land kind of way, it’s not practical for a road trip that lasts any length of time. But you also don’t want to take the finest chef’s knife and ceramic pot and pan set from your kitchen either.

Finding the best supplies to spin up tasty meals out of your car—without taking up too much room in your trunk—is a difficult dance. Luckily, through lots of trial and error, we’ve come up with a list of what we find useful, but not overkill (of course, tailor it to your preferences).

YETI made a name for itself by taking the cooler world by storm, so, yeah, we’re going to recommend a YETI cooler. It keeps ice really well—we’re talking days in the right conditions—so you don’t have to continually buy ice. We recommend this soft-sided style as it can kind of expand or contract based on how full it is, can be jammed into places, and has a flat top, so you can throw some stuff on top of it. YETI also offers larger sizes if you think you’ll need that extra space.

You can use this lightweight tea kettle for far more than making tea. Boil water for instant oatmeal, coffee, sanitation purposes, etc. The one-liter size of this kettle is large enough you can boil enough water for the aforementioned activities (you can always fill it and boil it twice if need be), but not so large that it will take up precious space in your car. The coated handle is nice to grip.

This stainless steel bowl is great for eating on the road. First of all, it cleans up ridiculously easily. If you’re in a pinch, you can pour a little water into the bottom, clean off any gunk with your finger, rinse, and you're good to go. It’s also lightweight and small, but deep enough that you can fit a good amount of food inside. And, if you need more than one, they stack into each other nicely. Our only caveat is that it can get hot to the touch when you fill it with hot food, so keep that in mind.

Yes, we’re telling you to pack everything and the kitchen sink (ha!). But, seriously, you can’t actually travel with your sink, so this is the next best thing. You can fill it up with soapy water—or just use it to catch your dirty dishwater—to clean up your cooking mess while at a campground, rest stop, or super cheap Airbnb that doesn’t have a kitchen. Just make sure you properly dispose of the water.

If you’ve spent any time in a kitchen then you probably know why a towel is handy when it comes to cooking. The same is true on the road. (Hint: it’s primarily for drying dishes and your hands. You can also use it as an oven mitt to hold your stainless steel bowl when it’s super hot.) This microfiber towel is perfect for travel as it dries quickly, so you can throw it back in the car after a quick pit-stop without having to worry about weird damp towel smells.

It’s super convenient to have a big ole mixing bowl while cooking on the road. You can use it to store chopped up veggies before sautéing them, to hold giant salads, or do other large mixing bowl activities. We like that this one collapses into a small size, so it won’t take up space whenever not in use.

Plastic and paper grocery bags can make your car dirty in the blink of an eye. Plus, they’re not great for the environment. We’re digging this tote since it packs into a tiny size to stay out of your way when not in use. The included carabiner clip is also handy—you can clip it to your keychain, the exterior of your bag, or wherever else to ensure it doesn’t get lost in the black hole that is your trunk. And it works for far more than groceries—take it to the beach, on a picnic, or wherever else you don’t want to lug your day pack.

Cooking on the road can be a hassle, so it’s important to keep leftovers when you can. Stasher Bags are a great way to do that. First of all, they’re better for the environment than disposable plastic bags. But they also work better—you can throw them in the cooler without worrying about melted ice water penetrating the silicone exterior and turning last night’s dinner into water-logged mush. Additionally, you can eat straight out of them. These bags also work well for snacks—you can partition out serving sizes of trail mix, pretzels, or [insert-your-favorite-snack-here]. Stasher sells a variety of sizes and colorways, so you can find one (or several) that works for you.

You may not be able to make intricate, complicated meals with this cook set, but the two pots and pan allow you to cook a good variety of things. They nest inside of each other and tuck into a handy carrying bag, which makes for easy packing. The pots also have a strainer built into the lid, so you can drain pasta (or other things) without having to pack a separate colander.

When it comes to camping stoves, this one from Coleman is luxurious. The two burners allow you to make meals that require cooking multiple things at the same time—think grilling up veggies and cooking rice. It’s also durable, simple to use, and has a range of flame size. Plus, it packs up nicely.

Fuel for your stove—need we say more? Actually, yes, we do have more to say. Make sure you keep an eye out of how much propane you have left, so you don’t roll up to your campsite hangry and tired only to realize you can’t use your stove. Also, be sure to responsibly dispose of empty canisters.

There are several ways to make coffee on the road, but we’re partial to an AeroPress. Sure, it’s not the easiest option out there, but it makes such exceptional coffee that we think the trade-off is worth it. And, yeah, it may not be as easy as a pour over, but it’s also not rocket science.

These plastic bins are a great, affordable option to organize your cooking supplies. You can easily grab them from the backseat of your car and set them on a picnic table whenever you’re ready to fire up the stove. Use one for traditional supplies—think chef’s knife, bowl, spork, lighter, etc. Use the other for bottles—olive oil, soy sauce, etc—and spices that you’ll want handy while cooking (note that if you want to store taller bottles standing up, you won't be able to keep the lid on).

This flat storage bin easily slides into backseats and trunks, so it’s a good place to keep all of your non-perishable food (cans of beans, boxes of pasta, etc). Plus, it’s clear, so you can see what food you have and how much you have left at a glance.

Not only do you need water for drinking, but it’s necessary for cooking and cleaning up too. We like this container because its shape is designed for easy pouring, the spigot makes doing dishes easy (well, easier), and 7L is a great size.

• Titanium spork
• Wooden spatula
• Vegetable peeler
• Lighter and/or box of matches
• Thin, flexible, plastic cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Paper towel roll

Sleeping & Camping

If you’ll be sticking to hotels and Airbnbs then this section doesn’t apply to you. But if you plan to spend some (or all!) of your trip camping and sleeping in your car, then you’re gonna need some stuff to help you get a good night’s sleep.

If you’ll be spending a lot of time in your tent, you’ll probably appreciate the space this tent provides. There’s enough room inside that you can stand up (!)—plus the fly goes all the way down for solid weather protection. That said, it’s going to take up more space in your car than a smaller tent and isn’t going to be great in heavy winds. Based on the length of your trip, how frequently you’ll be camping, and your personality, you can decide if the comfort and hangoutability (not a word, but go with it) of the Grand Hut is worth sacrificing some durability. Or if you would prefer something smaller. And, because REI will likely have REI-branded stuff at most of their locations, you should be able to drop by any REI store and easily get replacement parts or a new tent if your first one fails on you (within the scope of the one-year warranty).

You probably don’t need this technical of a sleeping pad, but it’s one of those things that are nice to have—especially if you’ll be sleeping on it nearly every night. It’s thick (for a sleeping pad) with great insulation to keep the cold from the ground from seeping into your body. Plus, it rolls up into a small size, so it won’t take up too much space in your car.

There’s a variety of highly technical, specialized, expensive sleeping bags on the market. This one is not one of them—but it’s all you (likely) need for basic car camping. It’s rated to 35℉, which is pretty dang cold, especially since most road trips take place in warm weather months (or involve chasing the sun). Plus, it’s not likely to make you too hot. It comes in two sizes (regular and long) and you can pick up a left-handed version if you’re left-handed. We also want to mention that it’s made from 100% recycled fabrics, which is, frankly, awesome.

While you could bring the pillow off of your bed, we suggest packing a specific pillow for camping. Just think of all the dirt and grime that camping involves. We’re digging this pillow since it’s made of soft, comfy, and up-cycled foam—perfect for camping and car naps. Plus, it’s compressible, so it won’t take up much space in your car when not in use. There are a few different sizes to choose from and plenty of colorways.

If you’re sleeping in your car—or even just lounging in it—you’ll want to be able to roll down your windows without inviting mosquitos inside to sleep with you. This netting will get the job done. Simply drape it over your windows and secure it with magnets. You only need one package if you want to cover two windows, but you’ll want two if you have large windows or several you want to cover.

These are the magnets you’ll need if you're draping mosquito netting over your windows. They may look tiny, but they are seriously strong. You may want to wrap these in duct tape before using them because, otherwise, they can rip the paint off of your car. Also, you can create little handles/pull tabs with the duct tape, so you can actually pull off the magnets.

This tarp isn’t durable enough for heavy lifting, but it’s a good all-around tarp to set your tent on to protect it from a wet ground/help extend its life. Additionally, you can tie the tarp over the windows if it’s raining and you need to sleep in your car (so you can keep the windows cracked without worrying about getting wet).

Rope is one of those things that seems to come in handy at random intervals. Say to help you tie your tarp over your windows in the aforementioned it’s-raining-while-you’re-sleeping-in-your-car scenario.

Miscellaneous

Not everything we recommend fits neatly into the above categories. While not as necessary as, say your toothbrush, these miscellaneous items will help you take your road trip to the next level. You know, the kinds of things you’ll be really glad you packed after a few days on the open road.

Road tripping with a reusable water bottle is the way to go (beyond environmentalism, who wants to drink lukewarm or, even, hot water from a plastic disposable bottle that’s been sitting in the car all day?). This bottle has double wall vacuum insulation to keep cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot. The 18oz size is big enough that you should be able to quench your thirst, but it still fits inside most cup holders.

If you’re a coffee drinker you’re going to need a separate bottle for the delicious drink (for obvious reasons). This one seals, so you don’t have to worry about spills in between sips. And, because of its trigger-action lid, you can easily drink your coffee one-handed, which is ideal (and necessary) for driving.

This seven-in-one multi-tool isn’t going to be handy for any big things. In fact, we recommend you bring an actual tool kit for that kind of stuff. But the Shard is perfect for quick jobs like opening bottles or tightening the screw on that wobbly Airbnb chair. Plus, this little fella is small and inconspicuous enough to fit nicely on a keychain.

Part carabiner, part clip, the Heroclip is a handy tool to have around. Use it as a clip to hang things up. Or use it as a carabiner, which has a million different uses, from keeping your keys more secure inside of your bag, to clipping your water bottle to your pack. It’s available in a few different sizes and a variety of colorways and patterns.

This travel wallet is a great place to stash and organize your roadside assistance card, insurance, registration, America the Beautiful pass, passport(s), emergency cash, etc. All of the things you may need occasionally on the road, but don’t want to keep in your everyday wallet. And, because the wallet will mostly stay out of sight, you don’t need anything fancy looking. Plus it has a spot for coins (for showers!).

Between stopping for smoothies, enjoying a creamy milkshake, or slurping down ice water at a restaurant, road trips involve a fair amount of straw action. This stainless steel reusable straw is a great alternative to plastic straws. It folds down to a small, packable size, ends up being more fun to drink out of than disposable straws, and will help mitigate your environmental impact. That’s a win, win, win right there.

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This camping chair is a great middle-ground between a traditional big camping chair, which will take up precious space inside of your car, and something ultralight, which usually involves sacrificing comfort. Use it at a campground or sitting around a fire pit in the backyard of your Airbnb.

This thing is only necessary if you’ll be road tripping to a place without easy access to washers and dryers (or sinks). A simple concept, we’ve been impressed with how effective it is at cleaning clothes (the interior washboard makes all the difference). It does leave your clothes sopping wet, but as long as you keep drying time in mind, that’s not a huge problem.

These plastic bins are a great way to keep your stuff organized—whether that be camping stuff, paper towels, coconut oil, plastic bags, and other things of that nature. The lids clip into place, ensuring that whatever you have inside won’t fall out, plus they’re stackable to make for a nicely organized car.

These convenient little tubs work well for storing those random small items you want to take on the road. Say ibuprofen, vitamins, or jewelry. We like to fill a second one with snacks (think almonds) to take on quick hikes or day trips. Plus, they’re available in different sizes, so you can mix and match.

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• Playing cards
• Yoga mat (if you’re in to that sort of thing)
• DSLR camera
• Combination lock

Ready, Set, Drive.

So there you have it—everything we’ve found that you need for a successful road trip after years of trial and error by members of our team. We hope this list has helped ease any of your pre-road trip stress. Remember, this list is more of a guideline. Please adapt it to your trip and preferences ( our reviews may help you find gear that suits your needs).

And don’t forget to check out our Road Trip Guide for more advice, including tips on how to pack your car. Now, crank up that music, roll down your windows, and hit the road.

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41 Things You Need for Your Next Road Trip

Hit the highway in comfort and style with these travel heroes.

Related To:

Before you hit the open road, make sure you have all the essentials you'll need for a stress-free trip. From comfortable good-to-haves (like pillows and blankets) to safety just-in-cases (like first aid and emergency kits), you'll be glad you traveled prepared. Whether you're hitting the road for a day or two weeks, make sure these easy-to-pack items are in tow.

ESSENTIAL GADGETS

Adjustable Car Cup Holder Expander

Long road trips require large water bottles, but many standard car cup holders aren't large enough to fit larger reusable water bottles from popular brands like YETI, Hydroflask, Stanley and more. This adjustable handy gadget from the brand Swigzy allows you to expand the size of your cup holder and works in almost any cup holder and can fit a variety of styles of bottles and mugs, including those with handles.

Phone Mount

Texting and driving is never an option. And in some states, just holding your phone to talk while driving is against the law. If you want to stream a Spotify playlist or run Google Maps, invest in a phone mount to ensure those hands remain at "10 and two."

Car Power Strip

Going on a long road trip with multiple passengers? You need this 200W power inverter that plugs into the cigarette lighter and has four USB ports and two standard plugs. Plus, it features full-protection with short-circuit, low-voltage, over-charge, over-voltage, over-load and over-temperature protection.

Tablet Headrest Mount

There won’t be a peep from the backseat with this tablet headrest mount. It adjusts to fit any size tablet and is compatible with nearly all headrests. The kids (or adults) in the back won’t be asking “are we there yet?” because they’ll be too absorbed in their movie or game.

Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

This mobile hotspot features super-fast Wi-Fi internet speeds and long-lasting battery life, providing the ultimate internet experience from anywhere right when you need it most.

Flexible Phone Tripod

Roadside photo-ops will be a breeze with this handy mini tripod . This flexible tripod grips to any surface — from a tree to a fence — and has a reliable rubber grip that secures a smartphone.

Portable Phone Charger

You’ll probably bring several gadgets on your road trip, including smartphones, tablets and e-readers. So gather them up, then power them up. There’s nothing worse than getting an hour into an all-day trip and having the iPad in the backseat run out of juice. We suggest bringing one or more portable chargers for the car, and make sure they work with the devices you plan to charge. Despite what’s written on the packaging, not every charger will power up all the devices they claim they can charge.

Emergency Car Kit

Before you plan your road trip itinerary, you should pack your emergency roadside kit. It’s not the fun part of road trip planning, but it’s the most important. A good car kit should include, at the very least, jumper cables, a spare tire, signal flares and a flashlight. Emergency items such as spare socks, a blanket and granola bars are good, too.

Fire Starter

Building a fire just got a lot easier with this handy fire starter that produces sparks in any weather or altitude. It has an ergonomic thumb guard for comfort and an attached emergency whistle, in case you need to call for help.

First Aid Kit

Road trip or not, keeping a first aid kit in the car is always a good idea. This 100-piece kit includes essential wound care supplies, like cleansing wipes, gauze pads, assorted bandages, rolled gauze, antibiotic cream, itch-stopping cream, acetaminophen caplets, an instant cold pack and much more.

You can’t always depend on Google Maps, especially when driving in rural areas. Even popular National Parks and National Forests can have spotty cell service. As a backup, you can download maps to use offline from Google Maps, and tucking an actual map in the backseat pocket isn’t a bad idea either.

Travel Pillow

Never struggle to find a comfortable sleeping position in the car again with the Trtl Travel Pillow. This neck pillow combines hypoallergenic fleece with hidden internal neck support to hold your head and neck in the best position for sleeping, preventing stiff necks and sore shoulders.

Travel Throw

Meet the hardest-working travel throw in the business: Unpacked, it’s a 52-by-75-inch insulated comforter that's lightweight, washable and super cozy.

Travel Hammock

After hours of driving, take a break in this lightweight travel hammock. It’s quick to hang after a long day on the road and packs down into a small pouch for easy storage.

Microfiber Towel

Whether you're washing off at your campsite or at a rest stop, this soft, microfiber towel will dry quickly and can be used over and over during your trip.

Air Freshener

With all due respect to those mysterious rear-view mirror trees, when you plan on spending serious time on the highway, you need a substantial and sustainable air scrubber. The porous activated charcoal in this baby will purify the stale air in your car instead of hitting it with chemicals, and it'll combat the effects of left-behind takeout for up to a year.

Car Window Shades

Block out 97 percent of harmful UV rays on long road trips with window shades that easily attach to your car's windows, keeping backseat riders cool and comfortable the whole trip.

HEALTH + HYGIENE

Car Diffuser

Fill this diffuser with water, add essential oils and plug it in to make your car smell amazing. Featuring automatic shut-off, t he diffuser emits a cool mist that adds moisture to the air, which helps with dry skin, lips, sinuses and coughs.

Nausea-Relief Wristbands

Nip motion sickness in the bud with these acupressure wristbands that provide effective relief from all forms of travel sickness without causing drowsiness or other side effects. There are even Sea-Bands for kids that come in cool patterns and colors.

Foaming Hand Sanitizer

Keep everyone's hands clean with this alcohol-free foaming sanitizer that's safe and gentle enough for babies. We love Babyganics for the whole family because the formula kills 99.9 percent of common bacteria; it's made without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial fragrances and dyes; and it's dermatologist-tested and non-allergenic.

Essential Oil Towelettes

This assortment of towelettes is a league of essential oil superheroes: Defeat gas-station bathroom germs, freshen up after the A/C kicks out in the middle of nowhere, combat carsickness and wind down at the end of a long day with their aid.

Tissue Holder

Spare yourself the stress and strain of blindly reaching into the backseat, and snag this seriously convenient tissue holder. The chic black case clips right onto your passenger-side visor, so you can reach it without taking your hands off the wheel.

Insect Repellent

Whether you're spending a little time outside or a lot of time outside, it's always smart to keep insect repellent nearby. This 100-percent DEET formula offers more than 10 hours of protection against insect-transmitted diseases, including Zika and West Nile viruses.

Sleeping away from the comforts of home can come with some restless nights. Melatonin helps you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and wake up feeling refreshed. And since Natrol is a drug-free sleep aid, you won't wake up feeling groggy.

ORGANIZATION

Car Seat Headrest Hook

Free up seat space and foot room with these handy hooks that attach to the back of headrests. They'll keep purses, lunchboxes, backpacks and more out of the way but still easily accessible.

Car Ceiling Cargo Net Pocket

Out of space? This sleek cargo net adds more packable space to your car's ceiling. Use it to store pillows, blankets, food and more.

Car Trash Bin

Keep your car clean and organized with this hanging trash bin with a 1.85-gallon capacity and leak-proof interior bag.

Packable Daypack

You may not need it, but you'll be happy it's there if you do. This ultra-light packable daypack has a 25-liter capacity, multiple pockets and adjustable, breathable straps for comfortable all-day use. Plus, it can be stuffed into its own zippered pocket for space-saving storage and compact portability.

Laundry Bag

Truth be told, every trip calls for a laundry bag — hunting for clean undies is nobody’s idea of a good time. That said, a pre-sorted discard pile is especially important when you find a laundromat in the middle of nowhere and want to take care of business ASAP. Tuck one of these into your glove compartment and thank us later.

These Genius Items Will Keep Your Car Clean + Organized on Family Road Trips

A clean car? With kids ? Yes, it's possible.

FOOD + DRINK

Saucemoto Dip Clip

Never spill your sauce again! Sometimes, a drive-thru food stop is the highlight of a road trip after hours of driving. Keep your favorite sauce easily accessible and avoid spills with this handy sauce cady. It clips to the car air vent and creates the perfect spot to nest your dipping sauce.

YETI Cooler Bag

A cooler is a road trip must. Instead of a giant cooler out-of-reach in the trunk, keep your drinks in a small cooler bag. YETI’s Hopper Flip 8 is large enough for eight soda cans but small enough to throw around your arm for a pull-off picnic or impromptu hike.

Car Seat Organizer

For a more kid-friendly (and budget) option, this car seat cooler organizer would be the perfect backseat companion. It features an insulated cooler compartment, flat tray table top, two drink holders and side pockets for extra storage. It also features a handy seatbelt strap that holds it in place. The brand recommends using cold packs instead of ice for keeping items cold.

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated on the road with BPA-free Bobble Bottles that filter out impurities on the go, so you can fill up at the campground or rest stop water fountain worry-free. And with so many color options, no one will get their bottle mixed up in the car.

Portable Coffee Press

This portable brewer will brew a delicious cup of coffee, espresso or cold brew right over your mug. The total immersion brewing system means there's less grit than with a French press, and it's super-fast, too.

With double-wall vacuum insulation, the YETI Rambler 20-Ounce Travel Mug keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold. Plus the leak-resistant lid means bumps in the road are no problem for this traveler.

Collapsible Storage Containers

Useful for storing everything from travel-size toiletries to trail mix, these reusable containers work for jet setters or families always on the go. Not only are they eco-friendly and BPA-free, but these collapsible beauties also help save money on snacks. Fill them up before road-tripping to prevent overspending on pre-packaged goodies at convenience stores.

Kitchen Utensil Set

When fast food isn't your speed, this one-and-done kit — which includes a serving fork, a utility knife, scissors, a cutting board, a spatula, a wine opener, tongs, a ladle, a rice paddle, a carabiner and folding stainless-steel utensils — is ready to turn your roadside-farm-stand haul into the greatest picnic of all time.

BioLite CampStove 2

The eco-friendly BioLite Campstove 2 is pure genius. It doesn’t need fuel, and the heat created from burning just a handful of kindling converts into usable electricity that can be used to recharge your gadgets. Cook dinner, charge your phone and feel good about your carbon footprint — what more could you ask for?

15 Must-Have Items for a Family Road Trip With Kids

Keep kids of all ages happy and entertained while on the road with these gadgets, games and more.

ENTERTAINMENT

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Go on and celebrate reaching your destination with an impromptu dance party. This lightweight Bluetooth speaker fills your space with home-stereo-system-quality sound and claims less real estate in your luggage than a rolled-up pair of jeans.

Scrabble To-Go Board Game

Add some friendly competition in the car or at your destination with this compact Scrabble set. The snap-in letter board ensures tiles stay put while moving, and the zippered case makes it easy to fold up and keep everything in place mid-game.

Kindle Paperwhite

Cut down your packing weight by bringing a Kindle instead of a stack of books for lounging by the fire. The latest generation of Paperwhite Kindles are now hot tub-ready, too; they're waterproof, so they'll survive an accidental dunk.

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6 Essential Road Trip Gadgets

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Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

The Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List (+ Free Checklist!)

July 22, 2019 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on July 21, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

I went on my first ever solo road trip from Cape Town to Grahamstown to watch Dylan Moran perform. Before that, I drove with three friends all the way along the Garden Route , up to Durban and then spent five days in the Kruger National Park before driving back down to Cape Town.

Oh, and after both those trips, the wide-open road called my name once more, and I drove from the Mother City up to Johannesburg .

All in all, my little 4-year Etios Cross ( who only had 25,000 km before all this madness ) is now cruising around on 32000 km and counting!

Not sure what to pack for a road trip? I’ve got you covered!

Below, you’re going to find a list of:

• All the things to bring on a road trip (+  eco-friendly options ) • Everything I didn’t know was important ( like where to find your jack ) • What I forgot • And why you need a few bags of rice

Here is my ultimate road trip essentials packing list!

Table of Contents

Road Trip Car Essentials

Road trip essentials for yourself, technology road trip items, road trip accessories, food items to pack for a road trip, mischealleous road trip items, how to pack for a road trip, road trip checklist.

Emergency Car Kit: You never know what might happen while you’re cruising down the open road. Be prepared for any kind of drama with an emergency car kit . It includes a breakdown roadside kit, a high visibility best, jumper cables, rope and much more.

Emergency Puncture Repair Kit: If you’re stranded in the wilderness with a flat tire, you can use an emergency puncture repair kit to get you safely to a car repair shop. It can fix a flat tyre in seconds, BUT it’s only a temporary solution.

Car Fluids: Some of the extra fluids you’ll want to keep in your car are a litre of water (in case it overheats), brake fluid , extra transmission fluid , oil and antifreeze .

Drivers License: Probably one of the most important things on your road trip packing list. South Africa traffic cops love a good roadblock and issuing fines for every little thing. If you’re taking your car across borders, don’t forget your papers!

Car & Travel Insurance: World Nomads Travel Insurance is one of the best insurance options for travellers. It covers extreme sports, protects all your gear and will pay out for any unexpected trips to the hospital. For car insurance, I recommend taking the tire & windshield if you’re renting.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Owner’s Manual:  I won’t lie. The first time I opened my owner’s manual was four years after I bought my car. I had no idea where to find the jack in my car. If you’re renting or still learning new and wonderous things about your vehicle, double to check to make sure the owner’s manual is packed and ready for your trip!

Roadside Assitance: When you’re planning a road trip in a foreign country (and your own!), it’s a good idea to have the phone numbers of roadside assistance.

Portable Garbage Can: After a few stops at Wimpy and Steers, your car will start to look like a moving trash can. Keep your vehicle clean with a portable garbage can . It takes up hardly any space in your car and folds up when not in use.

Read More:  The Perfect Itinerary for an Epic South Africa Road Trip

Sunscreen: Long days on the road mean the side of you closest to window is going to feel the heat from the sun’s rays. Protect yourself with a 30+ SPF sunscreen that’s also vegan and eco-friendly!

Hand Sanitizer: Sometimes those roadside bathrooms are the epitome of “ew”. Grab a small bottle of organic hand sanitizer that can fit in your handbag for those germ emergencies.

Travel Towel: “ A towel, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy says, is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar road tripper can have. ” Never underestimate the importance of packing a travel towel . It’s a road trip essential, and its many uses will surprise you.

Flip Flops: Flip flops will keep your feet cool in the car and far away from the germs in public showers. These Hemp Hemisphere flip flops are made from recycled rubber and the highest quality of hemp, making them an excellent eco-friendly road trip item!

Deodorant: No one likes to be trapped in a car for hours on end with someone who has bad body odour. Salt of the Earth creates vegan deodorants that come in a range of different scents and are made from all-natural ingredients.

Feminine Hygiene: Raise your hand if you’ve ever been unexpectedly victimised by your period. Whether your trip falls over “that time of the month” or not, pack a menstrual cup in case Mother Nature has other plans.

Eco-friendly Wet Wipes: Wet wipes are one of those travel essenntials that have multiple uses. Whether it’s to clean your sticky fingers or give yourself a “bath” because there are no showers around. Instead of grabbing the first brand you see in the store, search for biodegradable wet wipes and reduce your environmental footprint at the same time.

Toiletries: Don’t leave home without your trusty tube of toothpaste, toothbrush, and any other beauty products you might need.

Car Charger with USB Port: A car charger deserves a spot on any road trip packing list. During those long drives, you’re going to use your phone to play music or scroll mindlessly through Instagram. Make sure your device always has juice with a car charger that has at least two USB ports.

Portable Phone Charger: If you’re camping in places with zero electricity, pack a portable phone charger . It’s always a good idea to have a charged phone battery in case anything happens.

Car Mount: Make navigating to your next destination that much easier with a car mount  for your phone or GPS. You won’t need to rely on a passenger to give you directions, and you’ll always be able to see the map.

Offline Spotify Playlist or Podcasts: Some of the best places in the world are where the WiFi signal is weak, and there’s fuck all cellphone service. Before leaving, download your favourite Spotify playlists for offline use and throw in a few podcasts or audiobooks for good measure. Some of my favourite podcasts for road trips are the Lavendaire Lifestyle and The Kimberly Wenya Podcast .

Bluetooth Headphones: If you’re a freelancer like me, you might need to do some work while driving across the country. Or you might really hate the music tastes of the driver. Either way, a pair of noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones are a road trip necessity.

Offline Google Map: During our 5-day road trip across the south of Kruger National Park , I learnt a valuable life lesson – Google Maps doesn’t work everywhere. We had to rely on a good ol’ fashion map book. One of the things you need is an offline map. You never know when the signal might cut, and map books don’t require any batteries.

Booking.com App: Don’t like planning your holidays too far in advance? Download the Booking.com App so you can book your accommodation on the fly. Plus, Booking often has last-minute deals that will help you save a ton of cash!

Car Laptop Charger: A car laptop charger is another long road trip essential for freelancers or digital nomads. During those long 8-hour drives, you might need to write a new blog post or edit a video for a client. With one of the converters that plug into your car, you can work for as you need to or until you get car sick.

Travel Camera + Lenses: Did you even go on an adventure if you didn’t document it? A decent camera and lenses are road trip must-haves! You can use your smartphone (the camera on the latest iPhone is insane!) or shoot with a DSLR. I usually pack my Canon D700 body and shoot with my Sigma Art 18-35mm F1.8 most of the time. If you’re planning a trip through a national park, you should add the Canon 100-400mm F4.5 onto your list of things to pack.

Read More:  10 of the Best Camera Bags for Women Who Love to Travel

Umbrella or Raincoat: You can plan as much as possible around the weather, but a sudden downpour could always take you by surprise. A small travel-sized umbrella is one of those things you’ll always want to have in your car for a road trip. I’d also suggest investing in a raincoat that will easily fit in your day bag.

Polarised Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun’s rays. You’ll need a pair of polarised sunglasses for bright white snow or long sunny days. I’m obsessed with Escape Society’s range at the moment! My favourite pair out of the three that I own are the Gold Vintage Round Lens . It comes with 100% UVA/UVB Protection and a microfibre pouch & cleaning cloth.

Travel Pillow: Travel pillows aren’t just for long haul flights. Pack one if you’re planning on taking a few naps while on the road. If you’re not a fan of the traditional travel pillow, try the latest Trtl Pillow . It takes up half the space and science says it’s better for your neck.

Day Bag: Whether you’re going hiking, camping or anything else, you need a road trip bag. If you’re in the market for a new day bag, I recommend splurging on the Rowdy Rucksack . It’s the perfect road trip backpack with enough space for a 15-inch laptop, all your camera gear and other essentials like your wallet, water bottle and sunscreen. If you’re looking for something smaller, I managed to fit my wallet, camera body and one lens in the Rowdy Sling .

Waterproof Bag Cover: If you’re adventuring with a bag that’s not waterproof, protect your gear with a waterproof bag cover . They hardly take up any space, and it’s always nice to know you have it.

Packable Down Jacket:  When packing for a road trip in spring or autumn, bring along a packable down jacket. I used the white Lady Neva Insulated Jacket from Hi-tec during my Cape to Kruger trip. For colder climates, you’ll want something thicker, especially if snow is involved.

Blankets: Get cosy in the backseat with a warm blanket . You can use it to block the sun while you’re sleeping, to combat the freezing air conditioning or for extra warmth in your tent or hotel.

Snacks: If you want to save money, you need to pack some snacks. Hummus, carrots, fruit and trail mix are some of my go-to healthy road trip snacks. I also have low blood pressure, so I like munching on salty foods as well. If you can, try to stay away from the chocolates and junk food as much as possible.

French Press: As a caffeine addict, I can’t survive without a french press . Plus, I don’t have to drink shitty instant coffee from petrol stations. #winning

Thermal Travel Mug: Once your coffee is brewed, pour it into a thermal travel mug. If possible, try to buy a bamboo reusable coffee mug. It’s eco-friendly, and you can avoid collecting empty cups of coffee throughout your road trip. South Africans can buy a reusable eco-friendly cup from Vida e Cafe , and it gets you an R2 discount each time you bring it in store!

Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important on a road trip, but it’s easy to start a collection of empty plastic bottles. Cut down on the waste you create with a reusable water bottle . When you buy a bottle from Undisposabl, the company donates 25% of the profit to fund large scale plastic removal from our oceans.

Reusable Utensils + Straws: If you’re passionate about keeping your footprint small, a bamboo cutlery set and metal straws are things you want to pack on a road trip. On top of that, most plastic utensils are made with BPA. It’s a chemical that’s terrible for your health.

BPA-Free Tupperware: It’s always a good idea to add Tupperware to your road trip packing list. You can use it as a fast-food container to cut down on plastic waste or to store any leftover food. If you’re in the market for some new Tupperware, try to avoid the plastic containers and buy a more eco-friendly container.

A Bag of Rice: A bag of rice is essential if you’re travelling to humid areas. Keep a few bags of rice next to your electronics to stop the moisture from damaging your devices.

Reusable Shopping Bags: If you’re buying food supplies on the go, keep a couple of reusable shopping bags in the car. It will reduce your plastic consumption each time you stop at the grocery store. Cotton On is currently selling reusable totes and is donating 100% of the profits to education initiatives!

Cash & Credit Card: If you’re travelling to a foreign country, make sure you’ve unblocked your credit card for international use. You’ll need it to pay for purchases, toll gate fees, and to withdraw cash from ATMs.

First Aid Kit: You might stumble over your own feet, walk into a pole or accidentally slide down some rocks. Whatever happens on your next road trip, pack a basic first aid kit to fix up those minor bumps and bruises.

Snow Supplies: Your road trip packing list is going to need some winter essentials if you’re driving through snow. Some of the most important items are an ice scraper , a shovel , rock salt , and tire chains.

Flashlight: A flashlight is an essential item you want in your car at all times. I’ve used mine to light the way for sunrise hiking missions, milky way photography and for setting up my campsite at night.

Mosquito Repellent: If bloodsuckers love you as much as they love me, mosquito repellent is something you’re always going to want to pack. I bought my bottle of Pyramid Trek in Kenya last year, and it’s the most effective repellent I’ve ever owned.

Read More:  How to Photograph the Milky Way (Step by Step!)

When I pack for road trips, I like to work on a three bag policy:

1 Hand Luggage Suitcase: I use this one from Escape Society . It’s big enough for all my toiletries, shoes, hats, external hard drives, chargers and other items I don’t need to access throughout the day.

1 Duffel Bag: I keep all my clothes in my duffel bag from Rowdy . It’s super spacious and has compartments for smaller items.

1 Day Bag: As mentioned earlier, I use the Rowdy Rucksack as a day bag for road trips. I usually keep my laptop, camera gear, wallet and any other items that I use throughout the day.

Packing Cubes: Ever since I started using packing cubes, I’ve levelled up my packing game. You can fit so much more clothes inside your suitcase, and it’s super easy to organise everything so you can see what you have at a glance.

Roof Rack: If you need extra storage, it’s worthwhile investing in a Thule roof rack to free up space inside the car.

There you have it! All the road trip essentials you need to survive on the open road. Don’t forget to grab your free what to pack for a road trip checklist printable of all the things mentioned above:

What are your road trip must-haves? Let me know in the comments if I’ve left off any road trip packing list items you always bring with you!

Want more road trip travel inspiration? Check out my other posts:

• The Perfect Itinerary for an Epic South Africa Road Trip
• The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary
• Visiting Kruger National Park: Everything You Need to Know
• 10+ Spectacular Road Trips in South Africa You Can’t Miss!
• The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit
• An Epic One Week Garden Route Itinerary (Detailed)

Did you find this post useful? Save it for later on Pinterest!

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

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53+ Road Trip Essentials (2023): The Ultimate Packing List

Our first road trip as a family took place about a decade ago in a KIA Sorento.

Lord, have mercy , we put that little cross-over through its paces.

Knowing what I know now, I would have planned better. Heather and I were just kids who, as it turns out, had a kid, and our wanderlust drove us to abandon the every-day in search of … well, whatever was out there.

I learned a lot on that 5,000-mile journey: the importance of rest stops on a long drive (as opposed to being in a hurry to get there); the fact that state and national parks are better places to stay than the finest hotels and resorts, and that the open road is just as exciting as the destination.

The important things come to light with experience. Like, the things you need on a family road trip that make it less of a trek and more of an enjoyable adventure.

After all, this isn’t survival school; it’s a vacation!

So, can I share with you what I’ve learned over 40,000 miles of road-tripping with my family?

15. Emergency Roadside Kit

19. flashlight.

• 21. Road Atlas 

24. Books [or E-books]

26. tire chains, 29. compact foldable chairs, 33. towel [and washcloth].

• 38.  Tablet or Laptop

43. Paper Towels

• 46. Shelf-Stable and Travel-Friendly Ingredients 

51. Packable, Lightweight Jacket

• 55. Hangers 

The Essentials You Can’t Leave Out of Your Road Trip Packing List

While planning your route and  creating a realistic budget  are critical for a successful road trip, so is ensuring that your vehicle is stocked with items, gear, and supplies to be prepared for any number of scenarios, foreseen and unforeseen.

This road trip checklist is your ultimate guide to a successful road trip. Follow along and start packing!

Personal Carry Items

1. license and registration.

“License and registration, please” – the first words you’ll hear in a routine pull-over.

Consider these to be the most essential of road trip necessities. Nothing will ruin an otherwise fun-filled time on the highway faster than being caught without it.

In an emergency, having a dependable supply of cash on hand can be a lifesaver. You may need it if the establishments you head into do not accept credit cards, are experiencing internet service issues, or if you lose your credit card.

Helpful Tip: Don’t keep all of your cash in one place. In case your wallet or purse goes missing, be sure to have a cash stash somewhere else in the car or on your person , safe from prying eyes.

3. Credit/Debit Cards and Wallet

Obvious, yes; however, when your mind is preoccupied with packing everything else, sometimes the obvious gets left out!

These plastics are the go-to method of payment, so don’t leave the house without them. It’s also nice to have a secure place to store them, and in most cases, it comes in the form of a wallet, purse, or concealed money belt .

4. Pocket Knife

A pocket knife or a multitool such as a Swiss Army knife can come in handy more than you would think.

Our Best Camping Knife post features some foldable knives that would make great travel companions!

A daypack is a commonly forgotten item on most beginner’s road trip packing lists. They focus so much on what they need for their day-to-day, they forget to include a daypack for their adventures away from their luggage.

We suggest keeping a separate smaller bag or pack equipped with cash, water, a small flashlight , a small first aid kit , a self-defense item , and other preferred personal items.

Emergency and First Aid

6. proof of car insurance (auto, rental, and travel).

You will need copies of your auto, rental car documents (if you’re using one), and travel insurance (or whichever is appropriate).  Your driver’s license and this go hand-in-hand.

Accidents can happen on the road, so we should always be prepared for the unexpected. Having a copy of your insurance is essential if you get pulled over.

All rental car companies should provide you with all legal documentation; so, when renting, double check your rental paperwork and the rental car’s glove box to ensure they have followed through.

7. Car Manual

In case you have to do some road-side troubleshooting ensure your car’s manual (or the rental’s) is stowed in the glove box.

8. Alternative Forms of I.D.

If the only form of I.D. you take with you is your driver’s license, you’ll be in a pickle if it becomes lost or stolen. Take a passport, CHL, or other form of state or federal issued I.D. and store it somewhere apart from your license.

9. Large First Aid Kit

A family-sized first aid kit stocked with basic meds such as painkillers, gauze, scissors, bandages, and antiseptic is a priority road trip essential.

Familiarize yourself with the contents and restock previously-used items. You could be miles away from the nearest town when you need medical aid, so it’s a good idea to have a first aid kit to rely on during your road trip.

10. Bug Spray

Depending on where you’re headed, a supply of bug spray could be an emergency or comfort item.

Road trips and itchy red welts just don’t mix.

11. Su n screen

Even if you don’t plan on a lot of outdoor time on your trip, sunscreen is among those items you’ll be glad to have if you need it.

For example, a broken-down vehicle in a hot climate can turn into an oven quickly. You and your family will need to wait outside for help to arrive (or, if you’re handy and well equipped) until you get the car up and running again.

12. Duct Tape and [Super] Glue

When things break and you’re miles away from a repair shop, some handy duct tape and glue (or super glue) can hold it together until you get there.

13. Emergency Radio and Power Bank

A well-equipped emergency radio can get you the latest NOAA weather updates, evacuation notices, provide a light source, and store power for your devices.

14. Satellite Phone or Communicator

With a satellite phone or communicator , you’re not limited to areas with cell reception, just as long as you’re covered by a satellite. In the face of natural disasters or when traveling through no-service zones, it’s a handy device to have on your road trip packing list.

An emergency roadside kit should have all the small things your car needs such as an ice scraper, folding shovel, and a tire puncture seal just in case you need to do some quick repairs yourself while on your road trip.

Road Trip Car Essentials

The following items should always be stored in your car whether you are planning a road trip or not.

16. Spare Tire

Sometimes a puncture seal just won’t cut it. In this case, you’ll need a whole new tire; so, make sure your spare is in good condition … and that you know how to change it!

Being equipped and able to change your own tire will potentially save hours of waiting on a roadside rescue, save hundreds of dollars in service fees, and prevent a mere inconvenience from escalating into a situation that threatens your family’s safety.

17. Car Jack

You can’t change a tire without the jack. make sure it’s stowed and locked down.

You can normally find this next to your spare tire in the trunk, under the car, or under your seats depending on which vehicle you have.

Refer to your owner’s manual if you have trouble locating it.

18. Jumper Cables or Jump Starter Box

A dead battery is just as likely as a flat tire. Don’t depend on the average passer-by to have jumper cables on hand.

Or, if you don’t want to wait on a good samaritan to stop to help, equip your car with a jump starter box.

You can keep a flashlight in your emergency roadside kit, but we suggest keeping a big one handy in the glove compartment or under your seat so you won’t have to rummage around in the dark to find it. 

These days, global positioning system apps are standard on our phones; however, if you’re traveling through no-service zones, you may consider one that is satellite-linked.

21. Road Atlas 

GPS systems and Google Maps have and will crash from time to time.

A road atlas will not! Have a backup road atlas ready in case your electronics fail while road tripping.

Entertainment

22. road trip games.

Not essential to your survival but definitely a must for your sanity, don’t forget fun games on the road to combat boredom. 

23. Playlist

Depending on where your travels take you, you may or may not be able to depend on streaming internet radio such as Pandora or Spotify.

If music enhances your family’s road tripping experience, purchase a list of your favorite songs and download them to your device.

Then, you can keep rocking when the internet can’t hang.

Time flies by when you’re engrossed in a good story. Whether taking turns reading out loud from a book or streaming an audiobook, make the trip a little smoother with a good page-turner.

Inclement Weather and Environmental Gear

25. umbrella.

When it rains, it pours. Don’t forget to pack some travel umbrellas to keep your family dry.

Winter road trips to the north are likely to see snowy weather, and tire chains give your tires more traction on slippery surfaces.

Comfort and Convenience

27. sleeping bag, blanket, and pillow.

Who knows where hotel blankets and pillows have been, or maybe you want to be comfortable in the backseat with your own blanket and pillow.

You can’t go without a sleeping bag when you’re camping, so don’t forget to bring all of the one, two, or all of the above!

28. Earplugs

It may not be essential for everyone, but earplugs have their benefits. You can block out the sound of the outside world (or the family snore champion) no matter where you are. 

Compact foldable chairs can be considered essential if you want to be able to pull over anywhere, anytime outside of city limits for a respite from the car.

You’re bound to come across some scenic overlooks or historical sites, so pull over, pass around some snacks, sit back, and enjoy the view!

Personal Hygiene and Cosmetics

30. hand sanitizer.

Washing with soap and water is best, but not always possible. After a stop at any public facility or after a spontaneous hike through the woods, have some sanitizer on hand for the interim.

31. Wet Wipes

From spilled coffee to runny noses, wet wipes will be your best friend through countless mishaps whether you have young children or not.

32. Personal Toiletries

Personal hygiene is important no matter where you are. In your road trip toiletry kit, you should include a brush, toothpaste, toothbrush, hair ties, a small mirror, floss, bodywash, and anything else you need to clean up after a long day.

Who knows how sanitary hotel towels are, so it’s always a good idea to bring your own travel towels .

If camping or swimming is on your itinerary, be sure to have something to sit on when you jump back in the car.

Tech Essentials

34.  car charger with [back-up] battery.

Your phone is necessary for emergencies, so don’t let it run out of juice.

Be sure to include car chargers for your devices.

35.  Power Inverter

Having a power inverter turns your car’s 12-volt DC outlet into a 110-volt AC adapter, making it easier to share the power supply among multiple devices.

36. Wireless Earbuds [or Headphones]

Sometimes, you just need some me-time and on a family road trip, a good set of headphones can provide just that.

Or if you’re granting the kids some backseat screen time, they can enjoy the entertainment without the whole family having to hear it.

37.  Camera

You can use your phone, but special camera lenses can produce high-resolution and authentic pictures that a phone just can’t do.

38.  Tablet or Laptop

You may just need to get some work done on the road or want a bigger screen than your phone, which is why a tablet and laptop are handy to have. 

Food Storage, Prep, and Clean-Up

39.  cooler with ice.

You need food and snacks on this trip, especially if camping is involved. It’s nice to have a cool drink in hand while relaxing by the lake, so keep a good soft-sided car cooler stocked full of ice to keep your favorite beverages and treats cool.

40.  Portable Camp Stove [with Fuel]

It’s nice to have cold food and drinks, but sometimes it’s nice to warm your belly with hot soup and cook your own meals – this is where a portable camp stove comes in. Don’t forget to bring some fuel !

41.  Cooking and Eating Utensils

You don’t want to end up two hours outside of town only to realize you have nothing to eat or cook with. Aside from the portable camp stove, pack a well-equipped mess kit so that eating on the road is as enjoyable as possible.

42.  Dish Soap and Sponge

That mess kit will need to be cleaned up before hitting the road again. Take along a small bottle of dish soap and quick-dry silicone sponges to make things quick and easy.

Paper towels are useful to keep around to soak up any spills, dry your dishes and cups, and wipe stuff down after eating. 

Food and Water

44. water and snacks.

You can buy everything while you’re on the road, but why not come prepared so you can enjoy more time on the road? Have some bottled water for long drives, and some snacks to curb your hunger if you want to avoid stops early in the trip.

45. Road Trip-Friendly Foods

By road trip-friendly foods we mean ones that can last on the road, are relatively healthy, and are easy to eat without making a mess. Here are some examples that you can keep in the cooler, in the car, or cook on the camp stove:

• Your favorite beverages
• Protein bars
• Travel-friendly fruit and veggies (grapes, apples, carrots, celery, etc.)
• Popcorn (pre-fab)
• Canned beans (careful … you might want to crack a window …)
• Corned beef hash
• Canned corn
• Sweet potato stew and more canned food options to reheat over the stove
• Fruits such as grapes and orange and apple slices for the cooler
• Veggies such as carrots and celery for the cooler
• Hard-boiled eggs for the cooler

46. Shelf-Stable and Travel-Friendly Ingredients 

Here is a quick list of travel-friendly ingredients that can elevate your self-cooked meals

• Butter (kept in the cooler filled with ice)
• Packets of salad dressing if kept in the cooler
• Salt and pepper
• Dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, and basil
• Packets of mustard and ketchup

Variety of Clothing

47. shirts, pants, and shorts.

You can’t forget to bring a change of clothes because you may not always have access to a laundromat or laundry service. You certainly cannot wear the same clothes for an entire trip.

Or, maybe you can … and that’s gross.

48. Socks and Shoes

Your socks need changing even more often than clothes, especially on a road trip, so toss a couple of pairs into your luggage. You can rely on a trusted pair of sneakers, but just in case they wear out on a hike, we suggest packing one more.

49. Weather-Appropriate Accessories

Mother Nature is spontaneous, and even if the weather forecast claims to be sunny skies for the week, the dark clouds could still rain on your parade. We suggest being overly prepared with all the weather-appropriate accessories you can think of such as a rain jacket and rain boots.

50. Disposable Underwear

Not that I’ve tried these … I didn’t even know they existed. But, apparently, it’s a thing.

I’ll stick to my usual skivvies and my family is adept at relieving ourselves in the woods or a conveniently-placed shrub.

Still, if you want to go-on-the-go … and sit in it (!?!) …

… I can’t. I just can’t.

Even if you’re not in the midst of winter, it’s still a good idea to bring a packable down jacket . Even in the desert, temperatures can plummet from blazing hot to freezing overnight.

Better to have it and not need it …

Storage and Organization

52. plastic bags [and/or tubs].

Bringing along plastic bags and plastic tubs of multiple sizes can keep you organized.

Aside from your luggage for clothing, you need a way to keep food, and gear, games and other items neat and easy to access and find while on the road.

Not only will it be easier to find what you’re looking for, but it also makes cleanup and packing much easier.

53. Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes help keep smaller personal items from getting mixed together in your luggage. These make packing and unpacking along your various stops efficient and quick.

54. Reusable Shopping Bag or Tote

Avoiding grocery-store plastic bags is always a good idea. Plus, having are usable bag or tote is handy if your family stops at a location popular for small boutique shopping.

55. Hangers 

Lastly, we suggest keeping a few hangers among your belongings. These can come in handy if you’re faced with heavy rain or a thunderstorm. You can hang them on a tree or even in your car using the handles above the windows.

Wrapping up the Road Trip Essentials

There you have it! We know it was a good long read but now you’re fully prepared for your next road trip!

Not all of these items may be essential for you. Personalize our road trip essentials list to fit your family’s needs and what’s appropriate for where your trip will take you.

Safe travels! Now, get out there!

Joshua Davis

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 50+ Road Trip Essentials You Need

There’s just something about packing for a road trip: flights and trains can certainly be exciting, but road trips signal, perhaps more than any other mode of transportation, that an adventure is coming–and it all starts with putting together the perfect road trip packing list and carefully loading the car.

Road trips are one of our favorite forms of travel: we’re traversed more than half of the US states on various road trips, as well as taken road trips in over a dozen countries on three continents.

From the majesty of the American southwest to the villages of Provence and Tuscany to a safari in South Africa to the cenotes of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula , we have never failed to fall in love with a destination when on a road trip.

We’ve put together this complete list of things to bring on a road trip to make sure your adventures on the open road also go off without a hitch–no matter where you’re headed after loading up the car with all your road trip essentials.

Here’s what to pack for a road trip!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Table of Contents

The Most Important Road Trip Essentials

Travel gear that you definitely need on your road trip packing list, other things to bring on a road trip, what to wear on a road trip, planning a trip.

Driver’s License — Obviously, you can’t pack for a road trip without your driver’s license!

International Driving Permit (If Applicable) — Depending on where you’re going on your road trip, you may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in your destination. These are easy to obtain (we always get ours at Triple-A) before leaving on your vacation.

Proof of Insurance (For the Car) — If you’re driving a rental car, this may or may not be covered by either your rental company, your credit card, or your travel insurance–but you’ll definitely want to know exactly what the expectations are before leaving!

Travel Insurance (For You) — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry. We use and recommend Safety Wing for most road trip destinations around the world.

Car Manual — Most rental cars will have a manual in the car by default, but if you’re taking your own car on a road trip, make sure your own is in the glove compartment! It’s possible you’ve never needed to look through it before, but it can be a lifesaver on a road trip, especially if you’re traveling in rural areas.

Rental Contract (If Applicable) — If you’re renting a car for your road trip, be sure to keep your rental contract handy–we generally keep ours in the glove compartment.

Roadside Emergency Kit — If you’re taking your own car on your road trip, hopefully you already have one of these packed and ready to go–but if not, now is the time to buy one! Basic roadside emergency kits are extremely useful, very affordable, and a great way to stay safe on the road.

Emergency Contact Information — Whether this is the phone number for Triple-A, the location emergency assistance number, or the phone number for roadside assistance offered by your rental company, you’ll definitely want to know exactly what to do in the event of a breakdown or an emergency before hitting the road.

Downloaded Maps — Online maps with real-time navigation are an enormous asset to any modern road trip–but they don’t work everywhere! Make sure to download your essential maps before heading off on a road trip.

Paper Maps — Similar to downloaded maps, paper maps can be a huge benefit when on a road trip! If your phone dies or you end up lost somewhere that your downloaded maps don’t cover, you’ll be so glad you threw a small, easy-to-pack road trip map into your car before you left.

Cash — Cash is still king on road trips–roadside restaurants, shops, and stalls around the world are generally quite likely to be cash-only establishments. Be sure to also keep small bills and change on hand to be able to easily cover tolls!

Extra Car Key — As someone who locked her keys in her car an embarrassing number of times as a young driver, I’m a huge proponent of adding an extra car key to your road trip packing list. You never know when you might need it!

Spare Tire — Generally speaking, your spare tire is probably already packed in your car–but it’s good to double-check it’s there and in good working order before setting off on a road trip. We once had a tire blow out on a road trip in Costa Rica, and that would definitely have been a huge interruption to our trip if the spare tire wasn’t there!

Sunglasses — Protect your eyes: comfortable sunglasses are definitely important road trip essentials!

Travel Pillow — We’ve never been on a road trip where the passenger(s) didn’t want to curl up and take a nap at some point!

Blanket — Similar to a travel pillow, a blanket can keep everyone much cozier on a road trip (especially if people disagree about the ideal temperature for the car). As a bonus, it can double as a picnic blanket if need be!

Camera — We absolutely adore our our Sony a7R III , but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works–just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!

Extra USB Cables and/or Phone Charging Cables — Whether it’s to charge your phone, your camera, or even your portable USB charger, odds are that you’ll be glad to have a few extra cables lying around.

Windshield Shade — Growing up with summer temperatures that regularly topped 100 F, these handy things were daily driving essentials–and while it probably wouldn’t be practical to pack one for an international trip, if you’re traveling your own vehicle during the summer, we absolutely consider these handy things road trip essentials.

Reusable Water Bottle(s) — Cut down on plastic waste, save money, and make sure you don’t have to stop for water constantly: a reusable water bottle has lots of benefits on a road trip. We personally love and use these .

Water Jug — In addition to reusable water bottles, throwing a multi-gallon water jug in the back of your car when packing for a road trip can also save money, plastic waster, and time.

Travel Mug — Want to keep coffee, tea, or even soup warm on a road trip? An insulated travel mug can help!

Travel Cooler — We love having a cooler with us on road trips and try to bring one with us whenever we can. We’ve eaten everything from chicken tacos to sandwiches to chili our of ours, and love being able to bring a variety of homecooked and (occasionally) healthy snacks with us on longer trips!

Toilet Paper — We’ve lost count of how many roadside restrooms we’ve found that aren’t stocked with toilet paper–and yes, that includes at home in the United States! Odds are good that at some point, you’ll be immensely glad you added toilet paper to your list of things to pack for a road trip.

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable. Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

Disinfectant Wipes — Whether to clean up spills, prevent illness, or both, adding disinfectant wipes to your list of road trip essentials is definitely a good idea.

Sunscreen — Keep your skin safe from sun exposure both in and out of the car by adding sunscreen to your road trip packing list!

Towel — From rainstorms to impromptu swimming opportunities, there are plenty of chances for a towel to come in handy on a road trip.

First Aid Kit — Even a small first aid kit will greatly improve your ability to handle small injuries and illnesses on the road, especially if you’re headed to rural areas. Be sure to add a first aid kit to your road trip packing list!

Reading Material — As much as I adore having beautiful books lined up on shelves, let’s face it–carrying around heavy, bulky books while packing and unpacking during a road trip is way too much of a hassle.

Hands-Free Phone Mount — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your road trip. Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Trash Bag — Even if you’re making a conscious effort to reduce waste, trash still has a way of piling up in the car during a road trip. Keep things organized from the start by adding a trash bag to your list of what to bring on a road trip!

Napkins/Paper Towels — This might be as simple as checking to make sure the stash of fast-food napkins in your glovebox is sufficiently stocked or it may include buying a roll of paper towels–but either way, make sure you have something to clean up (somewhat inevitable) messes as you pack for a road trip!

Road Trip Playlist — Obviously, any road trip packing list requires a long playlist! Be sure to download some music to play offline–if you end up somewhere without signal, odds are the radio station choices will be very limited too.

I use them regularly, and if things get really bad, take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine as well.

Slip-On Shoes — Tying and retying shoelaces gets annoying  really  fast when on a road trip, especially if you prefer bare feet during long car rides. Make things simple and wear comfortable shoes that are easy to take on and off during your road trip!

Flashlight — A flashlight is one of the most useful road trip safety items out there, and they’re very affordable and easy to pack!

Basic Medication  — Some people prefer to buy medication for basic headaches, fevers, and stomach aches as needed, but who wants to deal with shopping when they’re sick? We’ve never regretted packing our own basic meds.

Snacks — We mentioned bringing a cooler earlier on this road trip packing list–but don’t forget to also stock it with your favorite road trip food !

Umbrella — Option A: Plan on buying an umbrella when it starts pouring down rain. Option B: Plan ahead and buy a (probably much sturdier) umbrella before leaving. Option C: Hope you get lucky with the weather. In our opinion, Option B is definitely the best!

Road Trip Games — Perfect road trip activities for kids … or just adults who want to entertain themselves.

After all, friends’ or couples’ road trip activities should include plenty of games, too!

Laundry Bag — In addition to making it easy to separate your dirty clothes from your clean one, adding a laundry bag to your list of things to bring on a road trip can also make loading and unloading the car much easier if you’re frequently changing hotels–no need to bring dirty clothes up to the room each night if you can just leave them in the trunk of your car!

Winter Safety Gear — A list of road trip essentials for winter weather really requires a whole separate post–but if you’re headed into freezing (or potentially freezing) conditions, don’t forget to pack an ice scraper at the very least. Tire chains may also be necessary, depending on where exactly you’re going.

When it comes to what to wear on a road trip, comfort is king! 

I usually opt for leggings , a comfortable t-shirt, and a light jacket in case I get cold in the car (which is often). In very hot climates I might wear a comfortable dress like this .

Jeremy usually opts for shorts and a t-shirt.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 50+ Road Trip Essentials You Need”

The photos are beautiful, and I would like to have seen a description of where they were taken so I can get more inspiration of where to go. Thank you!

I’m happy to answer any questions about specific photos! 🙂

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Complete Road Trip Packing List: Never Forget Anything Again! + PRINTABLE

Kimberly Miles

This road trip packing list will ensure that you have all of the necessities, from cell phone chargers to bug spray. No matter how many miles you plan to cover, keep everyone happy with the right entertainment, safety gear and snacks. Definitely snacks. You don’t ever want to forget the snacks!

When it comes to  planning a family road trip , preparation is key. In fact, being prepared with all of the right travel gear can make the difference between a delightful and disastrous road trip experience.

Mini-road trips are something that I’d gotten pretty used to with my son since his birth. With one set of grandparents 45 minutes across town, we were in the car quite a bit. However, the real test came when I made a 3+ hour road trip alone with him from Virginia to New Jersey when he was just 2 years old.

I knew that if I wanted to keep the stops (as well as the “are we there yet’s?”) to a minimum, I’d need to be well-packed with all the essentials to make it a smooth ride for both of us. And other than the occasional minor traffic jam, it was just that.

With the help of this complete packing list for a road trip with the kids, you’ll also be well-prepared with all of the road trip essentials you need to have the best road trip ever:

Road Trip Packing List Must-Haves

No matter when or where you go, you won’t want to leave home without these road trip necessities:

• Car registration/Car insurance
• Passport and birth certificate
• Travel insurance
• Cell phone car charger
• Charging cables
• Portable charger
• Bottled water

Wallet : This may seem like a no-brainer, but don’t leave home without making sure your wallet is packed with all that it needs. This means making sure your driver’s license, credit cards, cash and coins (especially for the toll roads) are all in their proper place.

Car registration/Car insurance : Whether you’re driving your own car or road tripping in a rental car, you don’t want to drive off without your car registration and car insurance information handy in the glove compartment or center console.

Passport and birth certificate : If you’re planning on crossing the border at any point of your trip, be sure to pack passports and birth certificates for both you and your kids. I like to use a passport wallet such as the  Valante Premium Family Travel Document Organizer to keep our documents organized and in one place.

Travel insurance : A good insurance plan is a must-have to keep you covered when traveling.  World Nomads  is my preferred travel insurance provider and is also great for road trips while abroad.

Cell phone car charger : The last thing you want when you’re out on the open road is a dead cell phone! Keep your cell phone battery charged and ready with a cell phone car charger like the  AILKIN dual-port car charger .

Charging cables : In addition to having the car charger ready, don’t forget to pack the usual charging cables for all of your devices (phone, tablet, Kindle, etc.)

Portable charger : For recharging your cell phone and other devices on the go, I highly recommend packing a portable charger. The  Anker Powercore is the one I never leave home without.

Medication : When traveling with my allergy-prone son, one of the first things I made sure to pack was his Epi-Pen. It’s also important to have over-the-counter medications packed and handy such as Benadryl, Tylenol and Imodium.

Bottled water : Having bottled water on hand is a must-have in the car during a road trip for quenching thirst as well as for cleaning. Opt for a reusable water bottle or large water jug to cut back on plastic waste as well as space.

First aid kit : A must-have on every packing list for a road trip is a well-stocked first-aid kit. Be prepared for emergencies with a portable kit such as the DAVEMED 2-in-1 Travel First Aid Kit .

Road Trip Emergency Kit

While these road trip essentials likely won’t make or break your trip, they are all good to have in an emergency. Even if there isn’t a true emergency, they’ll definitely make your road trip go much smoother as you make your way to your destination:

• Paper map/Printed directions
• Bathroom kit
• Roadside emergency kit
• Phone mount
• Multitool pocket knife

Paper map/Printed directions : Although GPS devices, cell phones and map apps have made it easy to find our way around when road-tripping, a paper map and/or printed directions are good to have handy for backup. Maps can be downloaded from Google Maps ahead of time for use when you’re offline or have limited cell service.

Bathroom kit : For the times someone has “gotta go” but a rest stop or gas station isn’t within reach, it’s good to have a car “bathroom kit” available. Be ready for those off-road potty emergencies by packing toilet paper, tissue, wet wipes, hand sanitizer and waste bag. The roll of toilet paper also can come in handy at the rest stop that has run out of paper.

Roadside emergency kit : For those unexpected roadside emergencies, you’ll want to be prepared. The  BLIKZONE Roadside Emergency Car Kit has what you need for those breakdowns and flat tires such as jumper cables, tire repair kit, tire pressure gauge and other essential car items to help you get to your next destination safely, or at least until roadside assistance arrives.

Spare tire : While most cars already come equipped with a “donut” to temporarily use in case of a flat tire, having a full-size spare tire available is the safest way to get you back on the road during long road trips. Pack a can of Emergency Fix-a-Flat and a reflective triangle too. And make sure you have the equipment you’ll need to change the tire should the need arise. That includes a working jack with all the parts and a wheel lug if your tires require one.

Multitool pocket knife: Choose the brand that works for you but definitely keep one in the glove box. I like the Leatherman Tool . It has 15 tools that come in handy in all sorts of emergencies, from a sharp knife for cutting a seat belt after an accident to a set of pliers for opening a hard-to-open drink for a thirsty kid, which is its own kind of emergency on a long road trip!

Car manual:  Yes, you can Google it, if you happen to be in an area with cell service. But if you’re not — and don’t these thing always happen when you’re not? — you’ll be grateful to be able to page through the manual looking up “what does that dash light mean?”

Phone mount : There’s nothing more dangerous than having to reach for and look down at your phone for directions or to answer urgent calls while driving. That said, I highly recommend having a phone mount such as the  Humixx Car Phone Holder Mount  to help keep your hands on the wheel and not your phone.

Flashlight : Stay out of the dark by keeping a portable flashlight or headlamp handy in the car. Recommended :  GearLight LED Flashlight Pack .

Trash bags : Whether for trash or for the traveler who may get a little road sick, make sure to pack a few trash bags in the car for collecting waste.

Road Trip Essentials for the Kids

For a fuss-free trip, keep the following items on your road trip checklist for the kids:

• Sunglasses/Sun visor
• Diaper changing pad
• Extra diapers or Pull-Ups
• Portable potty
• Travel pillow and blanket
• Books and toys

Vitamix Blender

The “nothing but fast food” feeling is my least-favorite part of travel. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be that way. My best travel tip: Pack homemade nut butters, juices, baby foods and more. That allows my family to start our day out right and stay energized on the road. I make them all quickly and easily with Vitamix! Explore all of the amazing things Vitamix can make for your next road trip here.

Snacks : Having healthy, portable snacks are a must-have on the packing list for a road trip with kids. Even at 8 years old, my son still loves to munch on cheerios, granola bars and goldfish during our road trips.

Sippy cup : For washing down the snacks, a sippy cup for your child’s favorite drink is a must-have on the packing list.

Sunglasses/Sun visor : One of the things that would make my son fussy during a long car ride was when the sun was shining in his face. Having child-size sunglasses or a sun visor for his side of the car would always help. I recommend the  iZoeL Car Sun Shade , which has bright letters and numbers for entertainment and learning.

Diaper changing pad : For easy and sanitary diaper changes both in the car and at rest stops, a diaper changing pad is necessary. I would always make sure to keep a multi-functional diaper changing pad such as the  TOPGOOSE Large Capacity Baby Diaper Changing Mat  stocked up with fresh baby wipes, diapers and a change of clothes before my son and I hit the road.

Diapers and Pull-Ups: Bring twice as many as you think you’ll need. That’s why cars have trunks.

Portable potty : For potty-training toddlers or younger kids who are out of diapers but can’t quite wait until the next rest stop, a collapsible, portable potty can save the day. Recommended :  Reusable Banana Travel Toilet Potty Training Seat  can save the day.

Travel pillow and blanket : During long drives and mid-trip snoozes, a travel pillow and blanket will help keep the ride as comfortable as possible for the kiddos. Recommended :  ARELUX Travel Blanket and Pillow .

Books and toys : When road-tripping with my son, I always pack a few new toys or books to keep him busy during the ride. I would also load up his Leapfrog tablet  with new games and movies to keep him entertained and quiet. Don’t forget the  headphones !

Road Trip Essentials for Entertainment

When on the road, these essentials will keep everyone entertained and happy for hours:

• Family-friendly music playlist
• Road trip games

Family-friendly music playlist : A road trip isn’t a road trip without some good tunes to listen to on the way! Load up your device with good family-friendly tunes from Amazon Music or Spotify prior to the trip so that you won’t have to rely on the radio or your wifi for music.

Road trip games : I’ll never forget the days when my family would hit the road for our annual beach trip. With hours to burn before reaching our destination, we’d pass the time with fun road trip games such as “I Spy” or “What Am I Counting?” Now I enjoy keeping my son entertained and off the electronics during our road trips with the same games.

Audiobooks : In addition to games and music, loading up devices with a good family-friendly audiobook or podcast is a great way to pass the time and keep everyone entertained.

Road Trip Essentials: Clothing

In addition to your luggage, it’s helpful to have these extras in the car for the journey:

• Change of clothes
• Rain jacket
• Light jacket/Sweatshirt
• Comfortable shoes

Change of clothes : Messes and accidents can happen during trips. That said, it’s always good to have an extra change of clothes and underwear handy in a carry-on bag.

Rain jacket : A lightweight rain jacket is good to have on stand by for rainy road trips.

Light jacket/Sweatshirt : For cooler temps inside and outside of the car, having a light jacket or sweatshirt is helpful

Comfortable shoes : Lightweight, comfortable shoes are a must for staying comfortable during long road trips. For an easy slip-on, slip-off shoe option, flip-flops are good to have.

Winter Road Trip Essentials

• Ice scraper with a brush
• Microfiber towel .
• Can of de-icer
• Tire chains or cables
• Small shovel
• Hand warmers and blanket

Ice scraper and shovel: For winter road trips, you won’t want to leave home without making sure that an ice scraper and snow brush is in the car. I like to keep them in my trunk year round so that I’m never caught off guard by snow or ice. Add an extra so the kids can help clean the car after a snowstorm! Recommended :  Zone Tech Car 3-in-1 Replaceable Heads Snow Brush Kit . Also pack a pair of waterproof gloves to keep your hands warm and dry while you’re removing the snow and ice.

Microfiber towel : These quick-drying towels are perfect for wiping down side mirrors and foggy inside windows.

Can of de-icer:   It melts ice, snow, and frost on contact, which sure beats standing in the freezing cold trying to scrape an inch of ice off the windshield!

Tire chains or cables: You’ll be happy to have them if you will be road tripping through the mountains. A freak snowstorm can be a scary thing, especially if you’re driving a smaller, lighter weight car. Be sure to pack some cash to pay a roadside installer.

Small shovel : You’ll need this to dig out in the event of a big snowstorm. This small foldable shovel can live in your trunk. Toss in a bag of cat litter or sand too. They help give your tires traction to drive out of the snow.

Hand warmers and a blanket:  You’ll want those if you get stuck on the side of the road waiting for help.

Road Trip Essentials: Miscellaneous

Last but not least, you won’t want to leave these items off of your packing list for a road trip:

• AAA membership
• Packing cubes
• Sleeping bag
• Manual Breast Pump
• Bug spray/Insect repellent

AAA Membership : While not completely necessary, an AAA membership definitely comes in handy when you need roadside assistance. Not to mention, AAA membership comes with great perks including hotel discounts!

Packing Cubes : There’s only so much space in your car. However, you can help make packing much easier and organized with a good set of packing cubes in your luggage. Recommended : BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes .

Sleeping bag : If you plan on sleeping in your car during your trip, having sleeping bags are a must. Even if you don’t plan on it, they’re good to have in case of emergency.

Toiletries : Don’t forget hygiene essentials such as your toothbrush, toothpaste and shower products! A good toiletry bag such as the Bagsmart Travel Makeup Organizer  helps keep everything organized so nothing is forgotten at home.

Travel mug : Keep a travel mug handy for your having your favorite hot or cold drinks while on the go.

Manual Breast pump : If you’re breastfeeding your baby, don’t forget to bring along a manual breast pump  and breastmilk bags for when you need to pump on the go. I can tell you from personal experience that it’s much better than lugging around a big electric pump!

Umbrella : Rainy days happen, and can happen at any time during your road trip. Don’t forget to have an umbrella packed in the car just in case!

Towel : Have a towel handy for drying up messes in the car or drying off when that unexpected rainstorm hits.

Bug spray/Insect repellent : Keep bugs out of the car and off of your skin by packing the bug spray.

Sunscreen : Keep sunscreen handy to protect your skin from the blazing sun while on the road.

Batteries : Having extra batteries on hand is never a bad idea for road trips. You may need them for your flashlight or for the kid’s toys!

Are there any travel tips or items on your family packing list that we didn’t include above? Share with us in the comments below!

What to Pack for a Road Trip (+FREE Printable PDF Packing List)

Not sure what to pack for a road trip or just don’t want to forget any road trip must haves? I’ve got you covered with the ultimate road trip packing list with a FREE printable pdf checklist of everything you’ll need. This checklist is perfect for any road trip – whether doing a short day trip or a long cross country road trip.

My road trip essentials list includes everything you need for you and your vehicle as well as fun things to bring on a road trip. For anyone traveling with kids and/or pets, I have also included family and pet road trip essentials to keep them healthy and happy.

The Ultimate Road Trip Checklist

Road trip essential items (that should always be in your car!)

• Driver’s license, registration and insurance information
• Pen and paper
• Cash and coins (for tolls, parking meters or places that don’t accept credit cards)
• Paper map (I always like to bring a paper map just in case as a backup to GPS or my phone dies and I can’t access navigation apps)
• Smartphone (loaded with road trip apps like Google Maps)
• Cell phone car charger
• Extra set of car keys in case you get locked out
• Emergency road side assistance kit – this one by AAA is more affordable or splurge on this one
• Jumper cables, flashlight, duct tape , scissors, pocket knife or seat belt cutting tool if not part of your emergency kit
• Tire chains, ice scraper and snow shovel if traveling somewhere cold in the winter
• Extra gas in a can (just in case you run out of gas!)
• Sunglasses for everyone
• Blankets (for those that get cold from the AC or to keep warm if your car breaks down at night or in the winter)

Food, drink and snacks for your road trip

• Lots of water! (Keep some water both in the trunk and inside the car)
• Insulated water bottle (to keep your drinks cool and to fill up at water fountains)
• Food and snacks – Stock up on non-perishable road trip snacks ( granola bars , fruit, turkey jerky, nuts, dry cereal, popcorn, crackers, trail mix) but you can keep some food in the cooler as well.

Entertainment for road trips

• Travel journal and pen
• Books, audio books or kindle
• Music playlist (here is my free Spotify road trip playlist with the top road trip songs of all time)
• Road trip games ( Mad Libs on the Road , License Plate Game )

Health, safety and personal care essentials

• Face mask or other face covering to cover your nose and mouth when going inside a gas station, grocery store, convenience store or other indoor establishment
• First aid kit (band aids, pain reliever, allergy medicine, anti-nausea medicine, antacid tablets, cotton balls, q-tips)
• Antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen because you can get sun damage from UVA rays (make sure to keep sunscreen in the car so that you can reapply)
• Disposable gloves for filling up at gas stations
• Essential medication and prescriptions
• Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss
• Lip balm, lotion and other toiletries
• Scarf and extra sweater or fleece (to keep warm if the A/C is too chilly)
• Bug spray (I like this one because it is pocket sized)
• Body wipes for when you are not feeling fresh

Other recommended items for your road trip packing list

• Cell phone mount
• Car seat back organizer – This one has an insulated main compartment and this is a good one for kids
• Towels – Can be used as a seat cover, picnic blanket, to cleanup spills or dry off in an unexpected downpour.
• Paper towels
• Toilet paper in case you run into bathrooms without any!
• Plastic and trash bags
• Nail clippers & tweezers
• Reusable shopping bag for when you leave the car to buy snacks or souvenirs
• Day pack (tote or small backpack) – Handy for exploring your destination but also to keep inside the car with your personal items
• Camera – Make sure to keep a camera in the car. Also consider a GoPro for videos or instax camera
• Sun shade to keep your car cool while exploring
• Batteries for any devices you bring and external battery to recharge your electronics (this is one of my travel essential items for any trip!)

Family road trip checklist – if traveling with kids

• Tablet for each kid loaded with movies,books, educational apps and games (my nephew loves this kid friendly tablet )
• Headphones for each kid (my niece loves these headphones )
• Notebooks and colored pencils
• Change of clothes for babies younger children – keep in the car so they are easily accessible in case of spills or illness
• Extra formula/baby food/diapers for infants
• Favorite toys or stuffed animals

Pet road trip essentials – if bringing your pet along

• Leash, collar, tags
• Pet food and bowls
• Vaccination records and medication
• Bed or crate for the hotel room

What is on your roadtrip checklist?

Liked this packing list? Check out some of our other helpful travel essentials guides and packing lists:

• Carry On Bag Essentials List
• Beach Essentials Packing List
• Essential Things to Take to a Hostel
• Best Eco Friendly Travel Products & Accessories to Help You Travel Green
• Practical and Useful Travel Gifts That Every Traveler Needs

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10 Comments

This list is a great resource! I take frequent road trips and I always carry a paper map as well. I learned my lesson on a cross country trip and we ran into several areas where our GPS lost satellite service. Crazy. I know. But now I carry an atlas in my minivan everywhere I go.

Before each trip, I think it is very important for us to plan our safe and comfortable road trip especially preparing car for our trip such as checking basic car features, making sure the tires are in good shape, packing first aid kit, tool-box and emergency numbers.

You’ve got some good tips there. I can pack really fast myself because I travel a lot. I just grab things and put them in my suitcase. I leave my ziplock bag ready so I can just grab that and it has everything in it I need.

I will be going on a road trip this weekend this article is perfect right now. Thank you.

Thanks for sharing so much information. Ideas like these are so useful for a travel freak like me. Looking forward to going for a road trip soon! 🙂

Great list. We’re going on a road trip next month around California so it’s really useful. We need to start making our playlist and downloading a few audiobooks to keep us entertained on the journey.

I should use this as my go-to list for my next road trip. This will help so much and prevent me from leaving my essentials.

Fantastic list! I keep forgetting bin bags lately. Definitely downloading the PDF so I remember everything next time! (Btw you should put your blog name on the PDF!)

Thanks that is a great idea. Will do it next time I revise the list.

Oh these are some really good tips, thanks for putting all together 🙂

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41 road trip essentials: what you need on your next road trip.

Add these items to your road trip packing list to help you travel more comfortably.

Road Trip Essentials

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A road trip is a great way to see the country. Consider stocking up on these accessories before you go.

If you're planning a road trip, you're going to have a lot of work to do before you pack the car and head out of town. You'll need to map out a general itinerary, plan your overnight stops and create a list of must-see sights along the way. And don't forget about all the stuff you need to pack to ensure your family is safe, comfortable and entertained.

While you don't necessarily need a lot of things to make a road trip a success, U.S. News searched far and wide to find the best gadgets and gear that will make your time in the car the highlight of your trip. These are all items you'll want to consider adding to your road trip packing list.

As you pack your bags and get ready for an epic road trip, here are a few last-minute road trip essentials you might want to add to your arsenal, organized by category.

Personal care and hygiene

Entertainment, comfort and convenience.

Keeping a reliable flashlight stored in your car is a good rule of thumb for all drivers heading out on a road trip. In roadside emergencies, the Anker Rechargeable Bolder LC90 LED Flashlight can illuminate a distance of nearly 1,000 feet with a battery life of up to six hours. Its durable design makes it ideal for use in inclement weather, and its five settings include an SOS signal and a strobe light. Meanwhile, the Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp – which features a 400-lumen beam and red LED night vision – is ideal for when you find yourself changing a tire in the middle of the night. Both products earn rave reviews from consumers for their powerful light.

Portable power bank

Goal Zero's Sherpa 100AC power bank is a portable power bank you can use to recharge tablets, phones, cameras and laptops on the go. It features two USB ports, plus four cables are included and it's lightweight at just 2 pounds. Recent customers loved the power bank's versatility, but recommend charging it every two to three days for the best results.

Jumper cables

Jumper cables from AUTOGEN can easily fit in your trunk and could save the day if your battery dies and you're unable to start your car while out on the road. Many travelers also say you can't go wrong with these heavy-duty cables from Energizer. These 25-foot-long cables are perfect for any car type and come with a travel bag for easy storage – they're a must for any road trip packing list.

Portable tire inflator

A portable tire inflator can be a lifesaver if you find your tires have a slow leak during your trip. The AstroAl Air Compressor Tire Inflator is compact, so it won't take up much space among the other gear in your trunk, and it includes an LED flashlight with independent switch control. It is programmed to stop automatically once it hits the preset tire pressure and it comes with a 36-month warranty. Other travelers prefer the ViAir 88P - 00088 Portable Compressor Kit , noting it works well with a wide variety of vehicles. In addition to a 12-foot air hose and 9-foot power cord, the kit comes with alligator clamps that power your air compressor by attaching to your car's battery.

Jump starter

Picture this: You're having the time of your life on your road trip when your car battery dies in the middle of nowhere. Luckily, a high-quality jump starter is all you need to avoid this disastrous scenario. In addition to being water-resistant and compact, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 comes with a built-in flashlight and a USB port for charging devices like smartphones and tablets. The Hulkman Alpha 85 2000A Jump Starter also comes highly recommended by travelers thanks to its easy-to-use design and powerful battery life (a single charge can hold up to 60 jump starts).

Waking up in the morning to an icy windshield isn't a pretty sight. Prestone AS244 Windshield De-Icer instantly melts ice upon contact, so you don't have to worry about waiting for your car to defrost when you're in a rush. As an added bonus, the can comes with a built-in scraper tool for easy ice removal. Recent customers have called this product a lifesaver during harsh winters.

Bringing a trusty multi-tool on your road trip is a simple way to make sure you're prepared no matter what situation you run into. Leatherman products impress consumers time and time again thanks to the company's high-quality and lightweight multi-tool designs. Customer-favorites include the Leatherman Bond and the Leatherman Wave+ , which offers 18 powerful tools like pliers and wire cutters.

Car charger

Frequent car travelers recommend always staying connected with the TECKNET USB Car Charger . Featuring four fast-charging ports, this adaptor can be used to charge smartphones, tablets and more. If you're hitting the road with the whole family in tow, or you simply want to charge more than one device at a time, travelers say this powerful charging adaptor is a must-buy. Pair it with an extra-long charging cable that can easily reach everyone in the back seat.

Dashboard phone mount

Keep your eyes on the road by installing a dashboard phone mount before your journey starts. The iOttie Easy One Touch 5 comes with a telescopic arm, a magnetic cord organizer and a strong-hold suction cup. Plus, its easy one-touch lock-and-release mechanism (a feature that is much appreciated among recent customers) makes taking your phone on and off the holder a breeze. If you don't like the rigidity of traditional dashboard phone mounts, consider choosing a phone mount with a flexible arm instead.

Document holder

Whenever you're hitting the open road, you want to prepare for the worst. In the event that you get into a car accident or are pulled over by the police, having easy access to your car's registration, insurance information and owner's manual is crucial. Recent travelers say that this Samsill car registration holder is great for keeping all your important documents organized.

Roadside emergency kit

To give yourself peace of mind while you're on the road, travelers recommend this STDY car roadside emergency kit from Amazon. Equipped with a tire pressure gauge, a utility knife, safety gloves, cable ties, a tow rope, tire repair tools, a raincoat and more, this compact kit has everything you need when life throws you an unexpected curve ball.

Extra-large body wipes

Extra-large body wipes from Busy Co make it easy to wash up when you can't take a shower. Cloths are suitable for dry, oily and combination skin types, and address a variety of skincare needs, including clarifying, toning, soothing and nourishing. Recent customers appreciated the large size of the wipes and said using them made them feel refreshed while traveling.

Lysol wipes

Disinfecting Lysol wipes are a must-have on your travel packing list. These cleaning wipes kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, so you can feel protected while on the road.

Disposable toilet seat covers

Disposable toilet seat covers from Amazon will help you avoid germs and stay clean when you stop for restroom breaks at gas stations, port-a-potties and campgrounds.

First-aid kit

A comprehensive first-aid kit can't be overlooked when packing up the car for your next road trip. Recent customers say this 298-piece kit from Amazon will get you the most bang for your buck, with bandages, antibiotic ointment, gauze, Band-Aids, pain reliever and much more. Although this will arm you with the basics of what you may need in a medical emergency, it's always a good idea to personalize your kit according to your needs.

Nausea Relief

Long hours in the car might sound daunting to anyone prone to motion sickness. In those cases, having preventative nausea medicine like Dramamine can be a lifesaver. If you prefer a drug-free alternative, Sea-Bands are anti-nausea wristbands that use acupuncture as a natural remedy to reduce motion sickness. Travelers say these bands are highly effective at reducing nausea.

Hand sanitizer

From gas pumps to ATMs, you never know what germs you may encounter on a road trip. Protect yourself against viruses like the cold and flu by adding a travel-size hand sanitizer to your road trip packing list and keeping it in the car during your trip.

If you'll be spending long hours in the car, it's important to remember to wear sunscreen. Sun Bum's SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is broad spectrum, moisturizing and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. And if you'll be heading for the ocean on your trip, make sure you pack a reef-safe sunscreen like this one from Reef Repair to protect marine life and coral reefs from harmful chemicals. Although some customers reported a white cast upon application (due to the zinc oxide), many reviewers thought the trade-off was worth it to maintain healthy ocean environments.

Toiletry bag

This chic Sonia Kashuk Weekender Makeup Bag features two zipper compartments, a center organizer and carrying handles that make it perfect for transport. Customers particularly love that the bag is compact without sacrificing storage space. For durable, leak-proof travel bottles, check out this Getaway Travel Kit from Ban.do . It comes with four pearlescent bottles, two jars, a spatula, a funnel and a zippered pouch for storage. Plus, it includes a fun set of sticker labels so you can organize your toiletries in style.

[Read:  The Top Travel Toiletry Bags .]

Sitting in the car for hours can be painfully boring at times, but there are plenty of ways you can enjoy your time while road tripping. With the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite , you have access to thousands of books at your fingertips. The device boasts up to 10 weeks of battery life, adjustable warm light and a glare-free display, which recent reviewers said made marathon reading sessions a breeze. Meanwhile, kids can enjoy the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids , which offers a special font for children with dyslexia and comes with a two-year warranty.

Carefully curated Spotify playlist

Whether you prefer jamming out to tunes or listening to thought-provoking podcasts, having a Spotify playlist ready to go before you get on the road is a must. Take some time before your trip to curate a playlist or two so you can keep your eyes on the road and your hands off your phone while road tripping.

Audible subscription

Long drives call for catching up on all those books you've been saying you were going to read this year. With an Audible subscription, you can make the most out of traffic jams by enjoying some words by your favorite authors.

Choose a reliable duffel bag like the Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel for your next road trip. This bag is water-resistant, strength-bearing and perfect for when you need your luggage to fit in a small space. It also comes with lockable zippers and can be worn as a backpack or carried as a tote, a top feature according to recent reviewers. And if you're planning on hiking during your trip, travelers say the Daylite Duffel 30 from Osprey can fit everything you need with room to spare. This bag can be worn comfortably all day long and comes with a mesh water bottle pocket and functional harness straps.

[Read: The Top Rolling Duffel Bags .]

This YETI Hopper Soft Sided Backpack Cooler makes it easy to bring drinks anywhere without worrying about leaks. The cooler, which comes with a dryhide shell and a magnetic closure, can hold up to 18 cans (or 26 pounds of ice), and comes highly recommended by travelers thanks to its durable design. It's ideal for road trippers who plan to get out and explore, and need to stay hydrated or keep food fresh.

Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Save some space inside your vehicle by opting for a car roof cargo carrier. With an anti-slip mat and reinforced adjustable straps, the waterproof FIVKLEMNZ 15 Cubic Car Roof Bag Cargo Carrier from Amazon is suitable for any car type. Recent customers say that they had no problem getting it to stay in place even on high-speed roads.

Car organizer

A car seatback organizer lets you arrange road trip essentials on the back of the driver's or passenger's side seat, where they're within reach of small hands. Many buyers said this seatback organizer from Amazon.com took some of the stress out of traveling with kids, thanks to its multipurpose storage compartments, including a place for a tablet and plenty of other spots to store key items for your trip. You can also maximize your space by stashing your essentials in a trunk organizer. This one from Drive Auto comes with multiple storage compartments, waterproof lining and tie-down straps to keep items in place while you're driving.

Car trash can

There's no doubt about it – road trips can generate a lot of trash. Keep your car clean on your next adventure with this Hotor car trash can from Amazon. Complete with an adjustable strap, mesh side panels for storage and a leak-proof interior lining, this useful accessory comes highly recommended by travelers who find themselves frequently on the road.

Reusable bags

Whether you're stopping for snacks at a gas station or running into the grocery store for those last-minute essentials, a reusable bag is an easy way to reduce your plastic consumption. Recent reviewers said these versatile and water-resistant reusable bags can even be used as laundry bags, garbage bags or beach bags in a pinch.

Electric car blankets

Electric car blankets allow you to stay warm on the road no matter the temperature outside. This Stalwart electric car blanket takes up very little space, is surprisingly lightweight and plugs into any vehicle with a 96-inch-long cord. While some travelers noted that this blanket alone won't be enough to keep you warm in extremely cold weather, many say it was a welcome addition nonetheless.

SleepPhones soft headband headphones let you enjoy the open road while listening to music, audiobooks, meditation, white noise or talk radio. These headphones are expertly padded, which reviewers say makes them more comfortable for long-term wear than earbuds. You can buy the classic version or a wireless version at SleepPhones.com.

Travel pillow

Pick up an ergonomic travel pillow from Cabeau if you need extra neck and shoulder support when you ride in the passenger seat. The pillow features supportive memory foam, a front clasp to ensure it stays put and a removable cover that you can wash. Recent customers also loved that the pillow comes with straps that can be attached to any headrest, making sure you don't fall forward while catching some shut-eye. For kids, this Cloudz plush animal neck pillow comes in a variety of colorful animal options, such as a unicorn, a ladybug, a dinosaur and more.

[Read:  The Top Travel Neck Pillows .]

A battery-operated mini fan from SkyGenius can help you stay cool and comfortable. This fan comes with a rechargeable and replaceable battery, and is ideal for the car and for camping. For even more cooling capacity, opt for a fan with dual heads like the XOOL Electric Car Fan from Amazon. Both mini fans earn glowing reviews from travelers thanks to their powerful airflow capabilities.

Shield your eyes from the sun by picking up a good pair of sunglasses before your trip. Choose sunglasses that protect against the sun's UVA and UVB rays, and are polarized to block glare. Travelers love that these Ray-Ban Aviator Classic sunglasses come in a variety of tints and can even be customized to fit your needs. For a more budget-friendly option, check out these SUNGAIT Ultra Lightweight Rectangular Polarized Sunglasses from Amazon, which recent customers say are very comfortable and perfect for road tripping.

Window shade

The sun beating down on your car all day can heat it up quickly. To keep your car cool, travelers recommend the EcoNour Car Windshield Sun Shade , which protects your vehicle from UV rays and helps maintain your car's interior temperature at a comfortable level. Pair it with these car window shades to protect your backseat drivers from UVA and UVB rays while you're on the road. The shades come in two different sizes and transparency levels, and previous buyers say they are very easy to install.

Travel towel

A travel towel is one of the most versatile accessories you can bring on a road trip. Whether you are cleaning up a spill or want to go for an impromptu beach day, having a spare towel on hand is always a good idea. This odor-resistant and quick-drying 4Monster travel towel from Amazon comes in several sizes and includes a compact EVA box, which recent reviewers say makes it perfect for travel.

Reusable water bottles

Skip the plastic bottles and opt for a high-quality reusable water bottle on your next trip. This 40-ounce bottle from Hydro Flask keeps drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for a full day. It also comes with a lid with a built-in straw, which consumers say makes it convenient for driving. For kids, a durable water bottle like this 12-ounce YETI rambler fits the bill – its stainless steel bottle is dishwasher safe and shatter-resistant, a feature that parents love.

Cubcoats are two-in-one stuffed animals that transform into hoodies. Your child's furry friend (think bunnies, sloths and puppies) doubles as a soft, zip-up sweatshirt, and you get to save some space in your suitcase.

Inflatable car booster seat

If you're flying to another destination to pick up a rental car for your road trip, consider bringing inflatable car booster seats along. This BubbleBum backless inflatable booster is suitable for kids 4 to 11, and comes with a seat belt positioning clip for optimal comfort and safety. Recent buyers said it was portable and extremely easy to use.

Kids travel journal

A kids travel journal makes it easy for your child to document their road trip and all the fun things they see and do. This one from Peter Pauper Press includes world maps, puzzles, fun facts and more, and many parents said it made their kids' time in the car fly by.

Activity books

A family road trip means long hours in the car, and bored children are every parent's worst nightmare. Activity books can keep your kids occupied for long periods of time while you catch up on some much-needed quiet time.

Backseat travel tray for kids

If your co-pilot is constantly turning around to pick up toys or pass out snacks, a backseat travel tray is in order. The LUSSO Gear Kids Travel Tray comes with a safety strap that can be secured to any car seat, and includes a dry erase board table, a cup holder, a storage compartment for toys and a no-drop tablet viewing stand. Reviewers loved the tray's whiteboard area and said it was a great way to keep kids entertained on long car rides.

Shop in bulk

Check out Boxed.com for specially curated bulk items that are perfect for road trips and other types of travel. From sunscreen, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to Fruit Roll-Ups and snack-size packs of Pringles, Boxed.com is a convenient site to order bulk hygiene and snack items in one place.

Bring spare cash

Debit cards, credit cards and mobile phone payments may be the way of the world nowadays, but you may still run into a few places on your journey that are cash-only (for example, some national and state park entrance fees must be paid in cash). Be on the safe side by keeping some spare cash on hand in case of emergencies.

Save on gas

It's no secret that sky-high gas prices can put a damper on your vacation. Save some money on fuel by using apps like GasBuddy , which will show you the cheapest gas prices in your area. Go the extra mile by signing up for a gas rewards credit card to get the most bang for your buck.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Travel Backpacks
• The Top Sleeping Bags
• The Top East Coast Road Trips
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• The Best Cheap Travel Insurance Companies

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Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 60+ Essentials (With a Free Checklist)

In this Article

Nothing says family vacation in the US quite like a road trip. They are an affordable way for American families to transport 3.1 children to the beach, the mountains, or Grandma’s house. So it’s no surprise that nearly 70% of all American family vacations are road trips.

But packing for a road trip can be overwhelming, especially when you are packing for kids and pets in addition to yourself. whether you plan to drive from coast to coast or travel just a few hours to visit family, this road trip packing list will help ensure you don’t forget any of the essentials..

When “ The Bigs ” (my three oldest kids) were little, it was easy for the four of us to pile into the car and take off on a two-week-long road trip at least once a year. We called it our “big adventure,” and we tackled one unanimously selected region of the US at a time.

From Mount Rushmore to the American Southwest to the Land of Lincoln to driving the Pacific Coast Highway, it was nothing but us, the big open road, and an unquenchable sense of adventure.

With The Bigs off at college, road trips today are limited to just Louise (currently 14) and me. While the car is a lot emptier (and quieter) than in years past, our road trip essentials checklist remains constant.

Road Trip Packing List

Put packing for your road trip on auto-pilot with this free packing list.

Please check your email for your copy of the ultimate road trip packing list. 

Do You Love to Road Trip?

Share your favorite photo with me by tagging @sagescott.kc on Instagram and using the hashtag #everydaywanderer

To help offset the costs of running EverydayWanderer.com, you’ll find affiliate links lightly sprinkled throughout the site.   If you choose to make a purchase via   one of these links , there’s no additional cost to you, but I’ll earn a teeny tiny commission.   You can read all of the legal blah blah blah (as my little niece says) on the   full disclosure page .

Road Trip Packing List for the Journey

Sage Advice:  If you’re driving a long distance on your road trip, be sure to check out these helpful tips .

Paper Map  – Half the fun of a road trip vacation is all the memories you make along the way. So ensure things go smoothly on the road less traveled even if your digital maps stop working or are out of cell/satellite range. Download your route from Google, pack an atlas , or buy a map for the destinations you’ll be visiting.

Sage Advice:  If you are a AAA member, be sure to take full advantage of the free maps and travel guides that come with your annual membership when packing for a road trip.

Cash and Coins  – While more and more toll roads and parking meters offer a credit card or digital payment option, some places still require old-school cash and coins .  

Notebook and Pen or Pencil  – Whether you want to keep a travel journal or need to exchange insurance information with another driver, toss these pre-Internet communication devices in the glove box so you have them if you need them.P

Trash Bags  – Whether you stash a few plastic grocery store bags or bring a small roll from home, these come in handy for storing everything from wet clothes to, um, trash.

Reusable Shopping Bag  – Great for toting snacks from the car to a picnic table during a pit stop or carting  a few souvenirs to the car.

Flashlight and/or Lantern – Even if your roadside emergency kit contains a flashlight, it’s always a good idea to store at least one more. I keep a  small flashlight  stashed in the glove compartment and at least one  camping lantern-style flashlight in the trunk.

I also pack my BioLite Alpenglow lantern . About the size of a coffee cup, this lightweight portable lantern has been a life saver when the power has gone out in my hotel room. It’s also been a comforting nightlight for my daughter.

Headlamp  – One of my best tips I can share is to pack a few headlamp lights on your road trip. From unloading the car after arriving at your destination after the sun goes down to making s’mores over a campfire, it provides hands free illumination like no flashlight or lantern can.

Sage Advice:   Don’t forget to pack enough AA, AAA, and other batteries needed to power your flashlights and other electronics for the duration of your road trip.

Road Trip Packing List for Your Passengers

Emergency Contact Information – Nothing on this comprehensive list is more important than the passengers who travel with you. I believe that preparing for the worst means that everything will go smoothly. So print out emergency contact information for your parents, siblings, or whoever else you’d want contacted if something horrible were to happen on your journey.

First Aid Kit  – Similar to the roadside emergency kit for your car, this kit is for the people and pets along for the ride. I like  this first aid kit  because it’s fully stocked and in a hard plastic (rather than soft-sided) case. But you can easily make your own first aid kit by filling any container with bandages, pain reliever, burn cream, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, a thermometer, a pair of safety scissors, antacid tablets, and antihistamine. I also keep motion sickness pills in my first aid kit, because my daughter Charlotte tends to throw up at least once every road trip.

Yucky Bucket  – Charlotte, the one who always gets car sick, is now a freshman in college. But we still plan for her to have motion sickness when we travel. (And, yes, we still call it a “yucky bucket” from when she was a toddler.)

Most Essential of Oils  – Because they help clean cuts, heal burns, and keep seasonal allergies at bay, I never travel without  these three essential oils .

Bug Spray and Sunscreen  – Keep your passengers (and their fearless driver) free of bug bites and sunburn during your road trip.

Sunglasses and Hat  – Keep the sun further at bay with these road trip essentials.

Umbrella and Rain Ponchos  – From a spring shower in the  Arizona desert  to a torrential downpour in the Midwest, it’s hard to know what Mother Nature has planned every day of your journey. And without these road trip essentials, it can be a chilly and uncomfortable ride until you can properly dry off.

Blankets and Pillows  – Since I’m always the one behind the wheel, I forget about these road trip necessities. But my kids don’t. I can always count on them to have a full-sized pillow and comfy blanket with them in the car.

Sage Advice:   Get more into each passenger’s suitcase by using  compression packing cubes .

Related Article:    14 Super Easy Ways to Avoid Getting Sick While Traveling

Road trip essentials for four-legged friends.

Spoil your fur baby with treats, toy, and more from

If at least one of your road trip companions is a furry, four-legged friend, then don’t forget to pack:

• A leash, collar, and name tag with your contact information
• Vaccination records, especially proof of a rabies shot
• Pet food and bowls
• Bed or crate
• Seat Belt Harness

Sage Advice:  If you plan on traveling with your dog, be sure to check out this petiquette guide. It details  dog etiquette rules for traveling  with your four-legged best friend to ensure a “pawsitive” experience for all.

Road Trip Packing List for Your Entertainment

Phone Chargers and Car Adapters  – From navigating your journey to capturing photo memories along the way, you need your phone to be fully charged and ready to work hard for you. One of the ways your phone can work hard for you is by leveraging these  road trip planner apps .

External Battery  – What I like most about  this power bank  is that two road trippers can quickly recharge at once.

Road Trip Playlist  – From Katy Perry’s  California Gurls  to Taylor Swift’s  Welcome to New York  and from Blake Shelton ’s  Sunny in Seattle  to Will Smith’s  Miami , the right tunes can help the miles fly by fast.

Tablets Loaded with Movies and Games  – Before you hit the highway, be sure your  Netflix shows and movies are fully downloaded and your digital games are ready for the road. (My current Netflix addiction is  Schitt’s Creek , so…)

Sage Advice:   To help everyone enjoy the movie, music, or game of his or her choice without 100 decibels of distraction circling the driver, be sure to pack a set of headphones for each passenger.

Audio Books  – These digital discoveries are the best thing to happen to road trips since cruise control. No matter who is riding shotgun, there will be a point in your road trip when you need a break from each other. (When I traveled with my teenage daughters, that moment often arrived at the end of our driveway.) Nothing makes endless miles of open road move  faster than an audio book !

When the kids were younger, we loved listening to the adventures of the Cahill family in  The 39 Clues  series together. Now that it’s usually just Louise and me in the car, we both disappear into our own stories via our phones. See, another reason you want to keep your phone charged!

Sage Advice: Here are 20+ of the best audiobooks for family road trips .

Games  – If you want to digitally disconnect, but you’re not up for a rousing chorus of  100 Bottles of Beer on the Wall , then be sure to plan or pack road trip games. If there were an Olympic event for license plate bingo , I’d have a gold medal. At least that’s what I always tell my kids. (And, yes, they usually roll their eyes, just like you’d expect.)

Sage Advice:   Spot the state and color the plate with this  free license plate bingo download .  

For a more traditional game that isn’t too tough to play in a moving vehicle, we love the  Five Second Rule Game . I picked it up for a road trip with my sister and nieces, and it’s harder than you think to come up with three related items in five seconds or less!

Road Trip Packing List for Your Belly

Drinks and Containers  – From a  reusable water bottle  to a travel coffee mug, be sure you are prepared to stay hydrated (and caffeinated) on your journey.

Collapsible Car Cooler  – We keep everything from drinks to snacks to my son’s medication in a collapsible cooler that fits easily around us in the car on road trips.

Food and Snacks  – In the cooler, we pack cut vegetables (like celery and carrot sticks), hard-boiled eggs, and yogurt. Our favorite snacks that don’t have to stay chilled include nuts (like almonds and cashews), apples, bananas, peanut butter (to eat with the celery or fruit), and granola bars.

Related Article: My Favorite (Mostly Healthy) Road Trip Snacks

Sage Advice:   Don’t forget to pack a small paring knife to slice apples, share something with a road trip companion, or open tricky packaging. It’s also a good idea to tuck some paper plates, napkins, and a tablecloth in your vehicle for tailgate and picnic table snack breaks.

Related Article:    8 Ways to Eat Healthy While Traveling

Road trip essentials for winter travel.

While the majority of Americans embark on road trips between Memorial Day and Labor Day when kids are out of school for the summer, there are plenty of road trips tied to Thanksgiving, winter holidays, and the ski slopes. If you’re traveling  during the winter months , be sure to add winter travel necessities to your road trip packing list. Don’t forget tire chains, a small bag of sand or kitty litter, extra blankets, and  warming packs .

Related Article: Winter Road Trip Essentials

What’s on your packing list for road trips.

Do you like to road trip? Is there anything you’d add to this comprehensive list? Share your advice in the comments section below.

Ready to Go? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!

• Find low fares with  airfarewatchdog and Skyscanner
• Book your plane ticket with   Expedia or Kayak
• Or take the scenic route on an epic road trip in a rental car or an RV from Outdoorsy
• From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with Hotels.com or Vrbo  
• Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from eBags
• Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with CityPASS , Tiqets , and Viator
• Don’t leave home without travel insurance from AXA
• Discover the sights, history, and culture of your destination with an interactive scavenger hunt
• Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners. Happy wandering!

Thank you for sharing!

24 thoughts on “Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 60+ Essentials (With a Free Checklist)”

I can tell these are mom tested and approved. 🙂 I love it. I especially love the practical tips, like an extra set of car keys…so important!

Was it the yucky bucket that gave it away? 🙂

Great advice you cover it all. My favorite is your Sage advice! Very clever.

Thanks so much! (I am pretty proud of my “Sage advice” concept!) 🙂

What a great packing list. Sounds like you are definitely the voice of experience here. I love that you included and linked to your own recipe for hand sanitizer. Happy Trails to you and yours!

Thanks! I love that hand sanitizer recipe!

I love the audiobooks part! A definite necessity since you can’t rely on the radio!

Right?!? The miles just fly by with a good audiobook!

Great list and I appreciate that you included road trip essentials for your car on the list. Sometimes people forget that their car should be included on their check list and packing list for their car to ensure a smooth road trip. Keeping things on the list will allow us to handle the situation better on the road. Another thing that I do for my car before a road trip is by bringing it to my trusted car shop to have it checked for possible repair and maintenance. Doing this will lessen the chances of experiencing an unexpected car breakdown while having a road trip. Also, it will give us peace of mind knowing that our vehicle is in good condition. A few days ago, I also found a similar blog post but this is focus on car’s checking before hitting the road. You might want to check it, here’s the link: https://blog.beepbeep.ph/road-trip-essentials/

What a great travel list! A couple of things I would add for the pup’s list…a harness for extra safety when traveling as some dogs may slip their collars. It is also a good idea to hook them into the seat belt on the back of their harness rather than their collar for neck protection. If you are hiking or doing outside activities in hotter weather, you may want to consider paw protection for your pup. We like MuttLuks, but now there are many boots on the market to choose from. (Something to consider for ice and snow also).

These are great additions to the pet list! I wish I’d known about MuttLuks when my old golden, Kavanaugh, climbed A Mountain in Las Cruces with us a few years back. My poor boy got a cactus needle stuck in his paw. Poor thing!

This surely seems like an extensive list! I always have so much problem packing and always end up forgetting one thing or the other. I feel having a list will definitely be helpful.

Checklists work like a charm for this momma! 🙂

Great list! I’d love to do a long road trip in the near future, so I’ll keep these things in mind!

You KNOW I love my road trips, and this is a fantastic list! I also pack a bucket of homemade trail mix with a few individual-sized containers that we can refill. I also put the grocery bag in a plastic container (cereal or pet food) to keep it from getting trampled on and spilling. Now excuse me while I go plan another adventure.

Outstanding additions to the list from the Road Trippin’ Queen! 🙂

I love roadtrips, especially when I am not the one driving, tee-hee 🙂 Great tips, and if you have roadtrip tips for pre-ados, pretty please make a post about it. My two pre-ados are by far the hardest passengers to entertain XD

How old are your kiddos?

I LOVE road trips, every year my husband and I are sure to take at least one! Now that we have a little one on the way, I’m so glad that I read your post! I’m the person who never forgets a single snack, but definitely forgets all of the essentials. I am especially never prepared for snow. So, the idea of the ice scraper is a must. I should probably always just leave it in my car so I never have to think about it! I like the idea of doing a two week trip to one region of the US. The Southwest is high on my list! Thanks for sharing!

Congrats on your little one on the way! I highly recommend a road trip in the Southwest in the spring. Absolutely gorgeous! Maybe you can sneak one in as a “babymoon” before your wee one arrives?

I love roadtrips and have enjoyed a few in the USA, it’s such a GREAT country to self-drive, with wide open roads, not too much traffic once you’re out of the big cities, and the most wonderful vistas and natural landscapes. We’ve also found some amazing places to stay and eaten well too. The first time I visited was with my parents, and the packing was a big deal, for sure, your list is going to be a huge help for first timers. We definitely missed some things out but of course, we could find and buy them from local stores once we landed.

I’m always exited to find a fellow road tripper. Yes, our roads (and vehicles) are way wider (and bigger) than what I experience in Europe. That’s for sure! 🙂

Food is definitely a priority for us! And entertainment gadgets! These are great checklists for people!

I have a soft spot for fellow travelers who make food a top priority! 🙂

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Ultimate Road Trip Packing List w/Printable Checklist

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Knowing what to bring on a road trip is essential for a successful journey. But with so many potential items to bring, what should you include on your road trip packing list?

To help you out, we’ve compiled 75 road trip essentials and created a convenient road trip checklist PDF that you can download below:

Click here for our free printable PDF

Ready to start packing? Here's a breakdown by category of the items you'll likely need and a brief explanation of why they're essential for any road trip list:

Important Road Trip Items

The below items should be top priorities for any road trip:

1) Valid Driver's License

Before you hit the road, double-check that your license is still valid and up-to-date.

2) Vehicle Registration

Along with a valid driver's license, you'll also need to make sure your vehicle registration is up-to-date. Keep it in your glove compartment in case you need to grab it quickly.

3) Car Insurance Information

No road trip packing list is complete without car insurance information! If your provider has an app, download it so you always have a convenient way of accessing your policy details. 

4) Maintenance Checkup

Ensure that all necessary maintenance is up to date before you embark on your road trip. This includes checking the oil level, examining brakes and tires, ensuring the car battery is in good condition, and topping off any other necessary fluids.

5) Extra Car Key

Keep an extra key to your car with you in case you're locked out or lose your primary key.

6) Car Manual

When available, keep the car manual with you in case of any issues. You may be able to troubleshoot some minor issues by referring to it. 

7) Toll Transponder

When wondering what to take on a road trip, chances are a toll transponder doesn't always come to mind! But if your route includes any toll roads, make sure to order the necessary transponders in advance, as this can help you save time and money at the tolls.

Cash is an essential road trip item that can't be overlooked or understated. Even though you may have access to a debit or credit card, it's best to carry between $150 and $250 in cash for any emergencies. 

9) Roadside Assistance Phone Number

If your car breaks down, the last thing you want is to be stranded without a way out. Keep the number for your roadside assistance provider in your wallet or phone, so you know who to call if the need arises. You can also contact triple A at 1-800-400-4222.

Road Trip Essentials

The following items are must-haves for any road trip packing list:

10) First Aid Kit

A first aid kit can help in emergencies or minor accidents, so make sure to include one in your road trip checklist.

11) Spare Tire

It's probably there already but just give it a check before you hit the road.

12) Car Jack

This road trip essential is the jam to your spare tire's peanut butter. Make sure it's nestled in the trunk alongside your spare.

13) Jumper Cables

If you ever run out of juice while on the road, jumper cables are a lifesaver. Keep them in your vehicle at all times and you'll be good to go. 

14) Road Atlas

GPS and navigation apps don't always work, especially when you're in rural or remote areas. If you plan on taking a scenic route, make sure to bring an old-fashioned yet updated road atlas as a backup.

15) Wiper Fluid

You'll be glad for wiper fluid when the elements don't cooperate, including dust, dirt, rain, and bugs! Keep the container in the car and top off as needed.

16) Basic Tool Kit

You don't need to be a mechanic, but having some basic tools with you is always helpful in case you need to repair something (think screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, etc.). 

17) Mechanics Gloves

One of the best road trip essentials is a pair of mechanics gloves. These come in handy when making minor repairs on the road, such as changing a tire or adding wiper fluid.

18) Tire Pressure Gauge

A tire pressure gauge is another essential item to have in your car, as it will help keep your tires in good shape.

19) Ice Scraper

If you're planning on venturing in the wintertime, make sure to bring an ice scraper. You'll thank yourself later when you don't have to use your credit card to scrape off ice from the windshield!

20) Duct Tape

One of our favorite road trip must-haves is duct tape. It has a dozen uses on the road, like fixing minor issues with the car or mending a broken suitcase. 

21) Flashlight

Because let's face it: Your phone's flashlight feature can only do so much!

Snacks are classic road trip necessities that can't be overlooked. Pack some healthy options like nuts, granola bars, and fruit to get you through those long drives.

23) Reusable Water Bottle

Hydration is key, so don't forget to bring your reusable water bottle and fill it up at rest stops or restaurants along the way.

Road Trip Basics

Now for the fun stuff! These road trip basics can keep you comfy and looking cool.

24) Sunglasses

By sunglasses, we mean more than one pair. After all, you never know when they'll get lost or broken! 

25) Sunglass Visor Holder

We highly recommend a visor holder like this one for any road trip packing list. It makes it easy to store your sunglasses and reach them quickly without any fuss.

26) Hand Sanitizer

An essential road trip item, the hand sanitizer is the unofficial soap you wish you had after using a restroom at the gas station where there never seems to be any soap! 

27) Painkillers

You never know when a headache or other minor ache may come along, so make sure to pack some painkillers just in case.

28) Travel Mug

You can never go wrong with a travel mug. Bring yours and fill it up at the local coffee shop during rest stops for an extra pick-me-up.

Wipes can be used to clean surfaces, wipe down hands, and even freshen up on the go.

No judgment here—but mints are a road trip must-have. They'll help freshen your breath after all those snacks, and they make a great pick-me-up during long drives.

31) Umbrella

You'd be surprised at how quickly the weather can change, so don't forget to add an umbrella to your road trip checklist.

No more guzzling down your beverages before they get too hot. Instead, just add some ice to your car cooler and enjoy cold drinks at your leisure.

33) Microfiber Towels

There are so many uses for microfiber towels: wiping up spills, cleaning glasses, drying off your car after a wash, and more. Make sure to add a few to your road trip list and you'll be good to go. 

34) Swiss Army Knife

A Swiss army knife is one of the best multi-purpose tools ever made. It comes with multiple blades, a corkscrew, scissors, and more in case you need it. The best part? It can fit in your pocket!

35) Bug Spray

Mosquitos and other bugs may be out in full force, so don't forget to pack some bug spray.

36) Travel Blanket

A travel blanket is a great item to have in your car for those long road trips. Not only will it keep you warm, but it can also double as a makeshift picnic blanket or pillow.

37) Travel Notebook

If you're a planner or like to take notes while traveling, then make sure to bring a notebook with you. It's a great way to keep track of all the places you've been and jot down a few memories along the way.

38) Pen and pencils

You can never have too many of these. Stash a few in your glove compartment for filling out paperwork or taking notes.

Road Trip Personal Items

These road trip items are essential for your comfort and enjoyment:

A hat is great for keeping the sun out of your eyes and hair away from your face. It's a small item, but it can go a long way in making your road trip more comfortable.

A scarf is a great way to stay warm in the early mornings and at night. Plus, it will keep your neck from getting sunburned.

We all know how chilly it can get on road trips sometimes, especially in the evenings. A hoodie will keep you warm and is also a great way to show off your style.

42) Earplugs

Earplugs are key for sleeping comfortably on the road. Whether you're in a hotel or camping, make sure to check these off your road trip packing list.

43) Sunscreen

No road trip checklist is complete without sunscreen. Make sure to use at least 40 SPF and apply it regularly to protect your skin from sun damage. (Don't forget to dab some on your ears, too!)

44) Toothbrush

Good oral hygiene is important, even on the road. Make sure to bring a toothbrush and some travel-sized toothpaste with you.

45) Lip Balm

Chapped lips are no fun! Stock up on some lip balm and keep your lips from getting dry and cracked. 

46) Lint Roller

Lint rollers are some of the most underrated road trip essentials. They can help keep your clothes looking neat during long drives, and they're especially helpful for pet owners with furry friends in tow.

47) Hair Brush

Keep your locks looking neat and tangle-free while on the road.

48) Hair Ties

Hair ties (or headbands if you prefer) are great for keeping your hair out of your face when needed. They'll also come in handy if you're planning on going for a swim or doing any other outdoor activities.

49) Duffel Bag

Of all the things to bring on a road trip, a duffel bag is one of the most versatile items you can have. It's great for keeping your clothes and essentials organized, gaining quick access to your belongings, and providing extra storage when needed.

50) Laundry Bag

We love a proper laundry bag designed for travel so much that we dedicated a whole blog post to it! Check it out .

51) Packing Cubes

If you're looking for a neat and efficient way to store and access your items, we highly recommend packing cubes.

52) Tide-To-Go Pen

Tide-To-Go pens are essential for removing those pesky food stains that can build up during long road trips. Make sure to have one handy so you can keep your clothes looking their best.

53) Liquid Detergent Packets

Another thing to include on your road trip checklist is liquid detergent packets. They're great for hand-washing clothes if you don't have access to a washing machine or need to do a quick spot clean.

Road Trip Tech

Having the right tech gear can make your road trip much more convenient, enjoyable, and comfortable. Here are some top picks:

54) Camera / GoPro

Invest in a good camera or GoPro to capture all the great places you'll be visiting.

55) USB Cable

USB cables will come in handy when you need to charge your phone or other devices on the go.

56) Powerbank

Powerbanks are essential for charging your devices when you don't have access to a power outlet. Make sure to bring one along with you!

57) Car Charger

Car chargers fit into your car's cigarette lighter and can be used to charge your phone or other devices. We recommend getting one with multiple ports so you can charge several devices at once.

58) Phone Mount

If your vehicle doesn't have a built-in navigation system or Apple CarPlay, then you might want to add a phone mount to your road trip checklist. This will help you keep your phone secure and easily accessible while on the road. 

59) Headphones

Headphones are another road trip essential if you're planning on listening to music or streaming while riding as a passenger. Invest in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones to ensure that you won't be disturbed by any outside noises, and consider a headphone splitter if you're the sharing kind!

60) Power Inverter

If your car doesn't have enough outlets for charging all of your devices, then consider getting a power inverter. These devices convert DC power from your car's battery into AC power, which can then be used to charge or use multiple devices at once.

61) Gas Buddy App

You've already thought about what to bring on a road trip, but have you thought about what you might need to download? The Gas Buddy app is a great way to quickly find the best gas prices in your area.

62) SpotHero App

SpotHero is another must-have app for road trips. It will help you find and book parking spots with ease, so you can reach your destination hassle-free.

63) Podcasts App

A selection of podcasts is key for those long drives. Download one of the many available and explore the amazing content out there.

Road Trip Extras

Need some more suggestions for the ultimate road trip packing list? These extras will take your experience to the next level.

64) Trunk Organizer

Trunk organizers can help maximize the storage space in your car, so you can arrange all of your road trip essentials neatly and avoid clutter.

65) Extra Batteries

Depending on the type of tech gear you're bringing with you, you'll probably need some extra batteries. Check your device to see what type of batteries you need and stock up on some spares.

66) Titanium Toothpick

Titanium toothpicks are the pro traveler's best-kept secret. They're great for anyone who wants to travel more sustainably, reduce their carbon footprint , or simply have them on hand after a crunchy meal.

67) Coin Pouch w/Quarters

A coin pouch with quarters is a classic item to include in your road trip packing list. It comes in handy when you need to do laundry on the road, use a vending machine, or pay a toll.

68) Car Vacuum Cleaner

Car vacuum cleaners are lightweight and easy to set up, so you can quickly clean your vehicle in between destinations.

69) Car Trash Can

A car trash can will help you keep your vehicle tidy and organized. Look for one that's leak-proof, has a built-in lid, and is easy to empty.

70) UV Window Shades

UV window shades can keep your car cool and reduce the glare of direct sunlight, especially during long summer trips. Choose a set that's easy to install and remove, so you can quickly adjust them as needed. 

71) Reusable Shopping Bag

Reusable shopping bags are great for packing snacks on the go, carrying items from the store to the car, and reducing your single-use plastic consumption.

72) Sling Belt or Day Pack

A sling belt or day pack is essential for carrying your valuables while you explore new areas. Get one with several compartments and try complementing it with a carabiner or some other locking mechanism. 

73) Apple AirTag

Apple AirTags are great if you want to keep track of all your items while on the road, including your car! They're small, lightweight, and water-resistant. Plus, they work with the Find My App so you can see their location at any time.

Additional Items for Your Ultimate Road Trip Checklist

We promised you 75 items for the ultimate road trip experience, which leaves just two more:

74) Road Trip Playlist and Adventure Songs

No road trip list is complete without your favorite songs and albums to accompany you throughout the trip. If you need some ideas, check out our "Songs About Adventure" post.

75) Road Trip Trivia

Trivia games are a great way to pass the time while you're on the road. They'll keep you and your passengers entertained, all while learning something new. Check out our curated list of road trip trivia questions and answers for some inspiration.

Ready To Hit the Road?

We hope this road trip packing list helps you plan your next journey, whether it's a weekend adventure in the desert or an epic cross-country odyssey.

Happy travels! 🚗🌍💨

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• May 12, 2020
• Budget Travel Tips

Want the best packing list for road trip essentials? From tech essentials on a road trip to snacks for kids and adults – you’ll know exactly what to pack for a road trip.

Below are 63 items to make a roadtrip better. Since this is a pretty huge post, you can skip to sections with the table of contents above, just click to the section of the post.

So what type of items will you find in this ultimate road trip packing checklist?

What categories of items are in this roadtrip checklist?

Here is a  VERY  shortened list of what types of items you’ll find in this post. Chances are, you’re not going to need every single item listed here, but I guarantee you’ll need some of them.

What to pack for a road trip essentials

• Road trip technology essentials
• Generic items to bring
• Safety road trip items
• Car organization items
• Snak ideas for a roadtrip
• Cold weather gear
• Luxury items for a roadtrip
• Comfort items for a roadtrip
• Entertainment items for a road trip
• Family essential items
• Hygiene road trip items

I specifically left out a clothes packing list when going on a road trip. Why? There are just too many climates and things to consider. This post is already massive, so clothes to take will be coming in a different post.

Make sure to sign up to the Horizon Unknown newsletter to know when that post becomes live.

How is this roadtrip packing list put together?

There are plenty of ways to go on a road trip, and my way of doing a trip will likely be different from others.

That’s why I asked over 30 other travelers to give me their best item to pack in their vehicle before they set out – and I’m glad I did. I’ve done plenty of road tripping, but there are still items below I wouldn’t have thought of.

This list really is the ultimate guide to packing a car for a road trip. I’d love to hear you “must have” item for a road trip – leave a comment at the bottom of this post.

So that’s enough of the introduction, let’s get into it! Here are 63 items you need to pack for your next road trip!

Just to be clear, some links below are affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, well, I earn a small cut – this doesn’t increase the coast for you and is a great way to support this site – I really appreciate it!

These are the must-have road trip items. They are important for every road trip.

I know this initial list is quite basic, but it’s worth noting anyway. We are going into everything you need to cover yourself on a road trip.

It’s worth noting these are handy things to make sure are in any rental cars you hire to do a road trip.

1. Spare tire

If you’re going on a road trip, you need a spare tire. The last thing you want is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with a flat.

2. Car manual

If you need to do basic maintenance, you’ll want the manual to make sure you do it right.

3. Drivers license

I mean, pretty obvious, right? Don’t drive without a license. It’s illegal.

4. Car registration

You should always have this in the car no matter what, fine for no registration can be pretty big.

5. Emergency kit

If your car breaks down, a good emergency kit will be invaluable.

6. Road trip insurance

Whether something goes terribly wrong or something small, these travel insurance stories should make it clear why road trip insurance is important.

Road Trip Tech Essentials

These are the technological items to help make your road trip easier. Sure, you don’t really need a GPS, you could go the old school way of paper maps and just exploring, getting a little lost and finding your way eventually.

Here are a few road trip tech essentials to help make your journey a little easier.

Clara – Petite Capsule

Whether you are traveling with a baby and toddler , as a couple or on your own, an essential item for any road trip is a car GPS. It helps you get to your destination easily, without having to plan and memorise every turn.

What’s great about a car GPS, in particular the Navman Ezy460MT , is that it has free map updates included, so you have all the latest maps at no extra cost.

It also has many handy features for when you are taking a road trip to an unfamiliar or new area. Free live traffic updates help you to make informed decisions about whether you should vary your current route based on traffic congestion and accidents. It takes these incidents into account and calculates your new projected arrival time.

The advanced lane guidance, landmark guidance, spoken directions, and spoken street names are useful features to ensure you stay on route and not miss your turn. Displaying the speed limit on screen is convenient too.

Suggested smart routes based on historical traffic data are nifty to ensure you take the best route for the time of day you are driving during your road trip. Spoken safety alerts, like when you are approaching speed and red light cameras, are beneficial.

A car GPS is more reliable than Google Maps, which may be unavailable due to no mobile signal, or your phone battery dies. It also saves your data. A car GPS is super handy and is a road trip essential.

8. Go Pro Camera

Campbell & Alya from Stingy Nomads

In the last couple of years, our GoPro became our favorite item to pack for a road trip. New models like GoPro HERO7 and GoPro HERO8 are great for taking both videos and photos.

The stabilization of the camera is amazing, you can attach it to your car using a special car mount and take great footage even if you drive off-road, no shaking or blurring.

The GoPro is great for filming in challenging conditions; strong wind, heavy rain, dusty road, underwater etc. If it gets dirty or dusty you can just rinse it in freshwater.

We used our GoPro7 to take videos and photos on our Namibia road trip and it worked great, especially for filming in the desert where sand can be a big problem if it gets inside the camera. With the GoPro we didn’t have this issue.

We took it on a walk over the sand dunes, on safari drives, filmed in heavy rain, driving through the mud and dust and it never failed. The latest GoPro models are water and dust proof even without a housing.

If it’s covered in sand you can just wash it off. GoPro is a great item to create amazing dynamic videos of a road trip.

9. Portable Bluetooth Speaker

James & Anh from Team AJ Travels

A Bluetooth speaker is one of those items that should be on every road trip packing list, but once you have used one you will never go back to traveling without it! 

We use the Bose Soundlink Revolve. It strikes the right balance between quality and size (don’t confuse with the Revolve+ which is way too big). You get thick bass and clear high end sound that is as good as anything I have at home. 

I love it so much that when I am not traveling it follows me around the house from the kitchen, to the study, to the balcony depending on what I am doing. 

To best explain the importance and versatility of this item I will tell you about our road trip around the south coast of Iceland in a campervan. 

During the day the speaker was a far superior option to the campervan speakers where there was no Bluetooth connectivity, and the local radio sounded awful on the van speakers anyway. 

This bluetooth speaker even swaps between phones to source the content we wanted, and would have great quality music and podcasts while on the longer legs of the drive. 

In the evening after setting in at a camping ground the speaker made for some easy background music while we had an outdoor dinner and a few wines, then as it got dark it was easy to swap over to the laptop and watch a movie before bed in the back of the van. 

Even if you are staying in hotels instead of a van, it is always handy to be able to connect to a laptop rather than relying on local TV when settling down for the day. 

So no matter where I go this little speaker is worth its weight in gold! 

10. Digital Camera

Cath –  Travel Around Ireland

One thing we always remember to pack when we’re going on a road trip is our camera. You just never know when you are going to around a corner and go “wow”. And a camera is a must-have for these moments. Our camera of choice is a Canon G7X which has all the capabilities of a DSLR without the heaviness and bulkiness of one.

The Canon G7X is a digital camera which takes great photos and video. It has a 4.2 x zoom lens, can shoot HD video and has WiFi connectivity abilities, meaning you can share great photos directly to your phone ready to upload to Instagram. What makes this better than a phone camera is the fact it can shoot in RAW, the digital version of a film negative, which allows you to process the photo after you get back from your road trip.

And why would you take a digital camera with you, even when you have a phone? This digital camera produces great quality photos and the RAW functionality means you can process them later. Sure, there are phone cameras that produce great pictures too, but I prefer having my photos from a digital camera.

Plus, it’s always good to have a backup if you prefer using your phone and it runs out of power and you forgot to bring your portable power bank!

If you’re wanting to take great pictures, a good camera is an essential road trip item.

11. Dashboard Cam

Vicky – Day Out in England

It’s sad to say but dashboard cams are always a good idea for a road trip these days. Unfortunately, accidents do happen and so having the security and assurance that there will be a record of any wrongdoing is a good plan. I have a cheapo one and used it on a recent trip to the Isle of Wight . Nothing happened, but it’s good to know it was there if it did. 

Dashboard cams start at around £15, and go up into the hundreds. You can get a decent one for around £50 though. 

Simply attach to your dashboard and if for any reason you need footage of what’s happened on your road trip, the dashcam will have recorded it. 

When you’re buying one look for one with a long battery life so you don’t have to spend time and energy charging it. Also, get a wide angle one, and if you spend a bit more you can get one with a parking monitor too. Check the recording quality and that it has an easy to use mount. You’ll need to buy an SD card on top, and it can help to get one with an app too. 

I hope you never need to use the footage, but for an extra piece of mind it could pay to just splash out a bit to get one for your road trip. If you’re in a rental car, don’t forget to pick it up before you leave!

12. Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Mario – Rest and Recuperation

really cannot travel without an Amazon Kindle. My mixed feelings are due to the romanticism of a heavy reader.

Like everyone else, I love having a book in my hands, the feeling of the pages being turned, the distinctive smell of paper released. My two-walls-library is a witness to my love for books. Though, traveling is a whole different thing. You need flexibility and lightness, which are the enemy of a heavy reader. Or at least it was until a few years ago they invented e-books and e-readers. Now all is solved, as I can just carry with me a 200g item that has thousands of books in it.

Ok, no more romanticism. But I do not even have to plan so carefully before leaving for a long trip. I just need to have a couple of books downloaded and then make sure to find a Wi-Fi every now and then to download more.

Ironically, I just binge used my Amazon Kindle Paperwhite during a trip to…the Amazon, or  Amazzonia as we call it! I spent three full days on a boat climbing up the Amazon River from Belem to Alter do Chao, where the only thing to do was sleeping or reading in your hammock, with occasional trips to the top deck to see the wonderful view over the river and the forest.

As I had limited space in my backpack, the Kindle Paperwhite was really important. And, in fact, the first item I prepared when packing!

13. Charging Cables

With all those tech devices for your road tripping adventures, you will need a few charging cables. Make sure you pack your phone charger as well!

You can buy multi connection cables, that have more than one, but a fast charging cable is a great option.

14. Maps.me or Google Maps Offline

With Maps.Me you have to pre-download a location where you’re going and then you can access all the information even when you’re offline.

Google Maps is a pretty good alternative. Read how to make a custom Google Maps Itinerary here.

What to bring on a road trip generic items

Here a list of pretty basic items for a road trip. They are simple things most will take on their road trip, but it’s good to have on a roadtrip checklist, just to be sure they get packed.

15. Foldable Water Bottle

Tiana Bantis – Passport of Memories

One thing I never go on a road trip without is a reusable water bottle. It’s the perfect way to stay hydrated and reduce your plastic consumption.

I discovered the Vapur water bottle 2 years ago, before my 3 month Europe trip and it was a lifesaver. I love how light and portable it is for being on the go.

It rolls up super small with the help of the carabiner when there’s no water inside. Once you need to refill it just flatten the body out and it will fill all the way up and it doesn’t leak! You can buy it in either 750ml or 1L depending on your activities.

I love that the bottle takes up very little space and can easily fit into a backpack, purse or hang with the handy carabiner. I have brought it on many trips and it doesn’t disappoint!

16. Hydroflask Waterbottle

Oksana & Max from – Drink Tea & Travel

We never leave for a trip abroad or a road trip without our handy Hydroflask bottles. We have been using them for years and there is a lot that we love about them.

First and foremost carrying one reduces the use of single-use plastic water bottles and disposable coffee cups. Making it both a handy reusable water bottle and a warm drink mug.

The products have a double vacuum insulated wall which allows cold liquids to stay cold for up to 12 hours or hot for up to 6 hours. We have left our bottles on the beach, in the hot sun and have come back to cold water.

Plus there is no flavor transfer, so you won’t notice a difference in taste if you have been using the bottle for tea and then switch back to water.

We like to support companies with sustainable practices and who support social responsibility so Hydro Flask really hits the mark.

All bottles are 100% recyclable and they only produce their products at meticulously chosen factories that practice social responsibility, fair labor, and strong ethics. While at the same time contributing to charities like Parks For All.

17. Dashboard Phone Mount

Emily – Wander Lush

Having driven in dozens of countries – from a jaunt across Spain to a  full lap around Oman  – there are a few road trip essentials that I can’t live without. My handiest piece of kit is a dashboard mount that I use to hold my mobile phone.

To save money, I always try to avoid hiring a GPS when I travel, and opt to use Google Maps instead. It’s therefore absolutely essential (and in many countries, it’s the law) to have my phone mounted at eye-level for hands-free navigation.

A good phone cradle has a sturdy mount – I prefer the ones that slot into an air-conditioning vent rather than the suction cups that never seem to stick to the windshield properly. An adjustable cradle that will fit any model of phone is also essential.

Running out of juice on the highway is worst-case scenario, and there’s nothing like Google Maps to drain your battery. That’s why I also recommend choosing a mount that has a gap at the bottom so you can plug your phone in and charge while driving (a car adapter is another useful piece of gear for any road trip).

18. Lifestraw Go Water Bottle

Tammy – Travelling Tam

No matter where in the world you are, the Lifestraw Go water bottle is a must-have product to chuck in the car. With a patented built-in micro-filtration system, this bottle kills 99.9% of all bacteria as you drink. That means you can fill it up with any quality of water you find on your travels – be it from a stream, waterfall, lake or even a dodgy looking roadside puddle – it will be safe (and taste good too).

The Lifestraw Go is ideal for emergency situations or simply instead of bringing or buying countless bottles of water. Just think of all the space it could save you. I’ve used it countless times in countries with unsafe tap water too and it has saved me lots of money, especially at those tourist sites that charge you a premium for bottled water.

The handy carabiner attached at the top is super useful, allowing you to clip it onto your day bag or bike whilst you’re off exploring. The taste of fresh water from a waterfall or stream is hard to beat and to be honest, I now prefer it to anything else!

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and practical travel product that could potentially save your life, then the Lifestraw is one of the best products on the market that you should definitely invest in for your next road trip.

19. Day Pack

You’ll want to be able to explore places along the way and a day pack means you can be a lot light while taking the essentials with you.

My favorite bags are Osprey – they have a hue range of day trip backpacks.

20. Flashlight

If you plan to be traveling at night, taking a flashlight (also known as a torch) is a great idea.

It doesn’t need to be expensive, just a small one and know where it is incase you’re looking for it in the dark.

21. Umbrella

An umbrella is one of those items you probably should take on every road trip. You’ll be glad you have one when you need it.

There’s nothing worse changing a tire in the rain!

22. Reuseable Shopping Bag

If you’re spending a while on the road, like my 31-day road trip through northern Canada and Alaska , you’ll probably want to buy groceries.

A re-useable shopping bag is a great item to have and also reduces unnecessary waste.

23. Plastic Bags

In saying that, plastic bags are still very handy on a road trip. Having a couple can definitely help the clean up of rubbish in a car or the organization of the small items as well.

You don’t need many, but I always have a few tucked away for when I need them.

Road Trip Safety Essentials

Every road trip will need some form of safety items, just incase something goes wrong.

Hopefully, you’ll never need to use any of the items below on your trip, but  if  something does happen, you’ll be so glad you have them.

24. Flat Tire Inflator

Sundeep and Bedabrata – Delhi-Fun-Dos

We still shudder by thinking of experience few years back when we had a flat tire in the middle of the jungle and we realized our spare tire was also damaged.

Thankfully it was just a bunch of us friends and we managed somehow. We have learned from that experience and take measures to avoid getting stuck in a situation like that again.

Being travel bloggers , we are always on the move and we don’t start on a road trip without all our gadgets ready to go. Lately, one of the most essential items we keep before starting on a road trip is a car tire inflator.

First of all, it hardly takes any space. It is portable and so compact we never feel it occupied much of our boot.

Secondly, it doesn’t require any battery charging or an external power source. We just plug it in the car cigarette lighter slot and switch on the engine.

Even in the state of the puncture, it helps us inflate the tire sufficiently and drive to the nearest tire repair station or a car workshop. It is a complete life savior.

Whether we use it or not, it is a huge comfort to know we are covered and will not be stranded in the middle of a jungle in a flat tire situation again.

25. First Aid Kit

Christina – Honest Travel Stories

Road trips are so much fun, right? There’s nothing but you and the road, maybe your partner in crime is there as well. Maybe you’re traveling with your whole family. Doesn’t really matter, road trips rule and everyone knows it.

But uh, do you ever think about “what if”? I know I’m always thinking about this. Mostly because I’m a bit anxious, but I digress.

Well, for all the “What if”s in the world, I have made a rule to not leave the house for a trip without a first aid kit.

I know I must sound like your grandma now, but it only takes a night spent near the toilet due to some awful food poisoning to start appreciating a first aid kit. And I assume you won’t be road tripping to spend your time only in your car, so you have a chance of getting hurt.

You can either buy a first aid kit or create your own, if you have specific needs. I usually do a combination of both because I feel I need more types of medicine with me, especially if I travel in areas where I am not accustomed with the food or water. But plain old patches and disinfectants can be all you need in most situations.

When I fell and hurt my knee on my trip to Japan I wish I had my first aid kit with me. Instead, I had it in my luggage at the hotel. Don’t be like me, take it with you everywhere you go! And also, change the contents from time to time.

Some of them have an expiration date, and God knows what may happen to you if you take old pills at one point. This would make you need a second aid kit to save you from the first aid one, and that just doesn’t sound like a fun road trip.

A decent first aid kit should be part of every road trip essentials packing list.

26. Jerry Can

Have you ever run out of gas (petrol)? I have and it’s not fun. Especially when you’re on a long road trip and in the middle of nowhere.

I always make sure to take spare fuel with me, and I’m glad I did on my Dempster Highway story. Hopefully, you won’t ever need this spare jerry can, but the peace of mind is worth the extra item.

Car organization for a road trip

Keeping the care organized during a road trip is so important.

The items listed below will help you keep your road trip vehicle nice and organized.

You’ll be wishing you had a good road trip organization if you break down on a rainy night and not knowing where anything is. Save yourself the trouble with the items below.

27. Packing Cubes

Great for keeping your belongings organized, either in your bag or in the car itself. You can buy packing cubes in a huge variety of sizes, colors and shapes.

28. Travel Trash Can

Ever been on a road trip and all of a sudden the trash has piled up? It’s easy to do and not that pleasant. A travel trash can makes it easy to keep your road trip vehicle clean of garbage.

29. Air Mattress 

Unless you have a large and open car, an air mattress won’t be used to sleep inside the car itself. But if you’re planning on visiting friends or family, making sure you have a nice bed to sleep on and be well-rested will improve your road trip.

Road Trip Snack Ideas

Here are a couple of snack ideas – for both adults and kids.

Being hungry (or hangry) on a road trip is a terrible thing. The good news is that it’s usually easy to avoid.

30. Road trip snacks for adults

Raquel – Meals and Mile Markers

Whenever you’re road tripping, one of the most important things to have handy is a good snack! As someone who loves to eat, I have a few tips on traveling with food. While it may be tempting to buy a pack of individual-sized snack servings, opt for the full-size bag instead.

Not only will this reduce your environmental impact, but it will also prevent the garbage from piling up in the car! The less garbage you have to worry about tossing out, the less stress you’ll have between pit stops.

Another important thing to keep in mind is the sustenance of snack food. While junk food is nice when you need a quick pick-me-up, the granola will fill you up for longer! When eating hearty snacks, you’re more likely to feel satisfied which will prevent “hangry” outbursts whenever you miss a turn or get stuck in traffic.

If you like to start new traditions, a great idea is to make your own snacks before leaving. Find a recipe for breakfast bars, trail mix, or oatmeal cookies that you can prepare ahead of time. If you find the perfect road trip recipe, you can even give it a fun name, such as “Car Trip Cookies” so that you always have a special snack to look forward to whenever you travel!

31. Road trip snack ideas for kids

Neha & Abhishek – Revolving Compass  

As a couple of travel bloggers who have been extensively traveling with our two kids, we do a lot of road trips with our kids.

We must accept, traveling with kids needs a lot of preparation if you want to really enjoy your trip to the maximum. Two major aspects of doing road trips with kids include keeping them entertained and their tummy satisfied.

Since a hungry kid means disaster for your trip and two hungry kids means an explosion in the car!

Also, kids tend to gravitate towards junk food available in the roadside shops and cafes if they are hungry and you are not prepared with the right snacks. Which can prove costly for their health when you do a lot of road trips like we do.

So, let us tell you about some of the healthy kid’s snacks for road trips that we always pack on our journeys:

• Single portions of packed yogurt to replace the cravings for ice creams.
• small bottles of Buttermilk or homemade milkshake in chiller box to replace the store-bought milkshakes.
• Homemade Lemonade to keep the kids hydrated, particularly on road trips in summertime.
• Baby carrots with hummus or dip.
• Separately packed portions of fruits, whole bananas – the superfood for anytime kids are hungry.
• Homemade chips with homemade salsa.
• Granola bars and Multigrain crackers.

With these kinds of snacks, we are able to keep the kids hunger pranks at bay. And also save a lot of time taking lesser pit stops during the road trip.

Cold Weather Gear

This section is for those road tripping in freezing temperatures.

Many places around the world have a cold climate and you should be prepared for the cold weather overnight will bring, especially if you’re from a place that doesn’t get near freezing.

Make sure you dress for the occasion as well. That means, if you’re driving through the Arctic Circle, have warm clothes and extra layers in case you get stuck (or run off the road, as I did in 2017).

32. Ice Scraper

If you’ve spent time in a cold climate, you likely know the joys of a frosted windscreen. You don’t want to drive a car with frost impeding your view as it’s super dangerous. Make sure you have one of these to be ready if you need it.

33. Snow Shovel

A snow shovel is important if you get bogged down in snow and need to dig yourself out. You can also get a regular shovel to help with getting stuck in dirt as well. It doesn’t need to be very big, but it’ll be handy when you need it.

Road Trip Luxury Items

These items below are items you could  probably live without. I say probably as I can’t really function without coffee – that’s why there are two different methods of making coffee on a road trip.

But these items increase the quality of a road trip for some.

34. Travel Coffee Maker 

Amber Hoffman – Food And Drink Destinations For the coffee addict who travels often, having that most important first cup can be a challenge. Where’s the nearest coffee shop? Does the hotel or Airbnb have a coffee maker?

Thankfully, there is a simple and easy way to ensure fresh, hot coffee no matter where you are traveling. There are a variety of options for making coffee on the go, but a simple pour-over is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to travel with a portable coffee maker .

Long before the era of Nespresso capsules, coffee was made using a paper filter, hot water, and coffee. Commonly referred to as the “pour over” method, there has been a resurgence of this method by baristas in coffee shops around the world.

Many coffee experts claim the pour-over method creates stronger and more vibrant coffee flavors and aromas. One thing is certain, this is the perfect coffee making method for traveling, so long as you can boil water.

Available in a variety of materials including ceramic and plastic, the main component of the pour-over is the cone-shaped paper filter holder. Making coffee is easy, simply by placing a paper filter in the holder, adding coffee and slowing pouring hot water over the ground coffee.

All three components are light enough for traveling and can easily be purchased at supermarkets while traveling. There are even all-in-one travel coffee makers that include a built-in filter and an insulated coffee cup.

Regardless of which version you decide to take traveling, the coffee lover will never miss out on having fresh coffee every morning when on the road.

35. Aero Press Coffee Maker

Paul Healy – Anywhere We Roam

There’s nothing better than an awesome road trip. The freedom, the adventure, new landscapes; the wind through our receding hairlines. It’s an experience that can only be enhanced by one thing: a top-quality cup of coffee.

The best way to achieve that is with an AeroPress coffee maker – the perfect companion to groggy mornings, and an essential item to take on a road trip.

The AeroPress is a simple and ingenious coffee maker that uses trapped air to force coffee through a filter under high pressure. Comprising a chamber and plunger, ground coffee and water patiently wait in the chamber ready to be brewed to perfection by the plunger. The result is a road trip-ready coffee that’s smooth and rich.

Optimized for traveling, AeroPress is portable, lightweight and super easy to clean – just give it a quick rinse and you’re good to go. This makes it the ideal way to get a great cup of coffee while you’re on the road.

Since there is minimal waste except for a tiny paper filter and ground coffee, this makes it an eco-friendly way to make coffee. The only thing you need is the ability to boil water and your favorite ground beans.

To kick start a great day, the AeroPress is one of the best things to take on a road trip.

36. 12 Volt Cooler Car Fridge

Jan Robinson – Budget Travel Talk

Car Fridges are handy for picnics, road trips, and camping. My Engel Brand chest fridge was my Dad’s original and is over 30 years old. It just won’t die. There is a retro-looking chest fridge and it looks exactly like the original, but with the added advantage of modern advances. 

There are many brands available and some features to look out for are LED interior light, durable case, tie down points, digital temperature and thermostat, battery monitor, auto-switching between 240 and 12 volt with leads for both, fixed and optionally removable lid hinges, the weight of unit. A 40-liter capacity Engel fridge weighs 24 kg. 

Travel bags for the fridge can be purchased separately. Why would I need a travel bag, you might ask. The answer is travel bags prevent scratches and bumps and have a storage pocket for cords.

My favorite reason is that when disconnected from all power sources, like when free camping or boondocking overnight, the bag helps maintain fridge temperature. Most people leave the fridge in the bag as it is possible to access the fridge whilst it sits snugly in the bag.

While we have a fridge in our caravan (camping trailer) it is convenient to have a smaller fridge in the car whilst traveling between destinations or for trips without the van. When exploring country roads for the day, we love the convenience of lunch and drinks being easily accessible from the back seat. 

A car chest fridge can be used as either a fridge or freezer and is a general all-round useful item to have.

37. Thermal Bag

Sheila –  Dicas de Paris

A thermal bag is something indispensable for my road trips. Road trips are my favorite kind of travel. Every year we take on the wheels at least two times.

Living in Europe gives me this kind of opportunity. Crossing France, from north to south. Going from The Netherlands to Croatia (and back!). Stopping by small vineyards enjoying some unknown wine. What else can one wish for on a road trip?

I try to make my road trip as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Going on a long route, sometimes I want to stop and enjoy the landscape. I like to do my resting pauses in more picturesque and charming places. I prefer to avoid gas stations, with a terrible smell and bad food.

I always have a thermal bag with snacks, fruits, and food according to my dietary needs. I like to avoid excess sugar consumption and food poisoning on the road. The thermal bag gives me the freedom to stop wherever I want. I can eat healthier, and not worry about where can I have my meal next. And if we cannot stop, the food is just there.

A thermal bag is my go-to for any road trip I make. Long or short, I will certainly have it under my seat.

Ruma Dey Baidya – Holiday Story

This happens almost every time that early morning you wake up in a hotel or in a road trip vehicle. You really need a cup of tea or coffee to start a day, but at that time of day, nobody is there to serve you. This is where a kettle can be a lifesaver for you. Especially When you have a small baby with you, it makes travel much more comfortable.

A small electric cup takes up very little space in your vehicle. This mug consumes a less amount of electricity so it’s easy to use wherever you go.  You can use a kettle for a range of different things. Of course, you can use it for boiling water and boiling milk for your kids, but also a small meal like noodles and a boiled egg. PRetty shady when you have limited space to cook in.

I travel with my baby when she was 8 months old. During travel, an electric kettle on a road trip helped prepare food and drink for myself and my young baby.  This kind of electric kettle comes in a range of sizes and capacities.

For even more minimalistic road trip packing, you can buy a handheld electric heating mug to keep your coffee hot.

39. Swiss Army Knife

Not really an essential for road trips, but can be incredibly handy. These multi tools can be used for so many things.

A Swiss Army Knife can be a little pricey, but you often get what you pay for. Even a cheaper version of these multi tools can help in a huge variety of situations.

Road Trip Comfort Items

These are items that help you relax during a road trip. If you’ve been driving long days, you’ll want to sit and relax at times.

Here are some items to help you chill out when road-tripping the globe.

40. Yoga Mat

Meg Atteberry – Fox In The Forest

When it comes to camping out of your car, you’re able to bring a few handy extras. One thing that I never leave home without is a yoga mat. But here’s the catch, I’m no yogini. It turns out that a yoga mat has many uses for camping.

You can stretch, sunbath, or even have a padded spot for your pup to relax. While I’m camping in the desert , I love to use my yoga mat to stretch after a long day of hiking and climbing.

As an avid hiker, it’s important to keep my knees in tip-top shape, and having my yoga mat by my side lets me engage in physical therapy exercises without getting too dirty. It especially comes in handy at a trailhead, where you might want to do some cooldown stretching post-hike.

Another easy thing to do with your yoga mat is to create a little seating area. Simply lay down a folded yoga mat in front of a cooler. You can lean against the cooler and use the yoga mat as a small pad against the ground. The result is a camp-friendly alternative to your normal camping chair.

The great part about using a yoga mat is that it keeps the dirt off of your clothes. This is great for a road trip, where you won’t have access to laundry for weeks on end.

It’s easy to clean, simply wipe down your yoga mat with a little water if it gets covered in dirt. Overall, the versatility of a yoga mat makes it a must-have camping accessory you can’t live without!

41. Hammock

Ciaran and Maria – Maptrekking

Why Hammocks you ask? They can turn a great view into a day of relaxation that you will never forget, and I’ll explain how.

Picture this, the drive has been long so far. The hunger begins to rise and all you want to do is relax for an hour with something to eat. What better way than to gently rock back and forth with food in hand and an unforgettable view.

This is what happened to me on our last trip to Albania. During a hike, I wanted to rest and relax for an hour before continuing. Sitting on a rock with a sandwich didn’t tickle my fancy, especially since a large group of tourists was roaming around taking photos. I just wanted a moment alone.

I walked only meters into the tree line, away from everyone, and saw two perfect trees with a viewpoint in between. I knew I needed to set it up. It’s so easy to assemble. Wrap the harness around the tree on one end and secure with the safety hooks provided.

Then do the same on the other side. Push down on the hammock to make sure pressure won’t make the wraps slide and cautiously sit into it. Enjoy your relaxed lunch with the best seat around.

42. Travel Pillow

Anna – Expert World Travel

I was very excited to see a whole bunch of companies experiment with neck pillows over the last few years.

Some on Kickstarter, some bigger companies, but all with fun and useful ideas to solve the “painful neck while sleeping sitting up” problem. If you have this problem, then you know how horrible it can be! I have always suffered from neck pain when traveling.

I fall asleep for a few hours on a fun road trip, or even on a plane, only to take up with a sharp pain or even a headache. Although I saw and tried a lot of solutions to this problem, none ever really solved it. Until I discovered the Ostrich Travel Pillow .

Specifically, the GO model. They have other wacky and useful designs, but this one really worked for me. This travel pillow solves two really big parts of the problem.

First, it keeps your head far more upright when you drift off to sleep. So much so, that you wake up without neck pain.

Second, it is also super soft and comfortable, so does not stop you from falling asleep in the first place.

Oh, and one other thing I loved about this pillow is that it rolls down to a reasonable size and comes with its own bag. So, it’s easy to bit in your day pack or maybe even a big purse. That way you can take it almost anywhere.

Just not to the office! I have used this pillow on so many different road and plane trips. Sometimes falling asleep for 5-6 hours at a time. That has never happened to me before. And I could never travel without it.

43. Camp Chairs

Allan and Emma – MY RIG Adventures

One of the basic and essential road trip items is the humble Camp Chair.  They’re super easy to fold up and throw in the boot and serve you well, so don’t forget to pack one for each Road Trip member!

Want to pull up on the side of the road for a leg stretch and some lunch?  No need to wait until you find a Rest Area with picnic tables, you can pull up anywhere that’s safe and use your trusty Camp Chairs to relax with a sandwich.

Tired after a long day of driving and exploring?  Pull out the Camp Chairs and arrange them under a beautiful starry night and take a minute to unwind and be thankful for the great day you’ve just had. Met some other cool Road Trippers and want to warm up around the camp fire, sharing travel stories and adventures?

No worries, it’s BYO chairs, so you’re already sorted. And don’t forget easing yourself into a new day on the road with a quiet morning cuppa, looking out across whatever beautiful location you’ve found yourself in.

Sitting on a cold or wet ground just won’t cut it.  Luckily you’ve got a cozy Camp Chair. As you can see, those trusty Camp Chairs will serve multiple purposes, which is a prerequisite for many on their road trip packing list.

They’ll not only be an outdoor living chair, but a lounge and dining room chair as well. They come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, so there’s always a perfect chair to suit the individual.Make sure you bring them on your road trip!

44. Blackout Blinds

This is one I never thought about. Until I road tripped around Iceland for a few weeks. During my visit, the sky never got dark. Not once. It was an eerie, gloomy sky but only once the windows were blocked with clothes could I get a good nights rest.

Fast forward a few years, and my partner and I made custom blackout blinds for our Canada and Alaska road trip . If you have trouble sleeping through light hours, these may be a great benefit for you.

45. Blankets and pillows

Depending on where you plan on sleeping, bringing your own blankets and pillows might be a must. Whether you’re sleeping in the back of your car or at a friends place, it’s good to have the basics of sleeping comfort to help you sleep better.

46. Sunglasses

If you’ve tried driving while constantly squinted, you probably know how fun it is. Not at all. On top of that, it also makes it so you can’t see the road as well, so it can be pretty dangerous.

A good pair of sunglasses will make your drive more enjoyable and safer at the same time.

47. Sunscreen 

If you burn under the sun easy, sunscreen is likely something you shouldn’t overlook. Painfully red skin can really ruin a few days of your road trip and cause you to have less enjoyment out of that.

Plus, sunburn is typically bad for you and your skin. If you’re going swimming, you can get coral friendly sunscreen with oils that don’t damage the fragile ecosystem.

48. Bug Spray

I hate mosquitos. Does anyone like them? I doubt it. Bug spray is an item for almost every road trip.

If you haven’t tried doing something outside while being ravaged by a plague of mozzies (Australian slang), then you’re lucky and you really don’t want to experience it.

49. Quick Dry Towel

The reason a quick-dry towel is here is that I hate traveling with wet towels. A towel is a pretty common item, but a quick dry version is what I suggest taking.

I’ve stayed in many hostels during my travels and there have been so many times my towel didn’t completely dry, making my bag moist for ages. So I always made a point to travel with a microfiber, quick-drying towel.

Road Trip Entertainment Things To Pack

Leisure road trips are all about having fun, right? So you need to pack those items that help you enjoy your road trip how you want to.

People’s definitions of ‘leisure’ will vary greatly. But here are some common entertainment road trip items.

50. Binoculars

Erin – Sol Salute

If you’re going on a road trip through any nature or wildlife-filled destination, like any national park, for example, I highly recommend packing a pair of  high-quality travel binoculars . After investing a good pair of Celestron binoculars for a safari in South Africa we are hooked and never travel without them.

We were able to spot wildlife we otherwise would have missed on game drives in South Africa and when whale watching to spot orcas in the distance in Patagonia. We also put our binoculars to good use on hikes in national parks for bird watching, wildlife and to look ahead on the trail.

Gone are the days of the bulky binocular. Modern lenses and prisms allow for much more compact models without losing quality, but actually, offer a much crisper image with good vision in low light conditions. While binoculars will vary in size depending on the magnification (which effects lens size and weight), many fit in your pocket or the cup holder of your car. 

Two of the best brands of binoculars are Bushnell and Celestron. Both offer excellent glass at a range of prices. Nikon,  unsurprisingly , also makes high-quality  binoculars .

Whether you spent a lot on the best of the best or search for a more budget-friendly pair, you’ll appreciate the benefits of traveling with a pair of binoculars.

51. Nintendo Switch

Mark – Voga Tech

Complete your travel time with Nintendo Switch. Its construction and purpose make it ideal for use when traveling. Long trips and waiting at airports or hotels can be a bit boring, which is why the Nintendo Switches console is ideal fun. Also, if you travel with children, they will be pleased and you can shorten the travel and waiting times with one of the favorite games.

With the Nintendo Switch, make sure you bring along the accessories that come with it. For transporting the Nintendo Switch you need to provide the original suitcase if you do not have one you can use some of the well-protected top pockets on your backpack or suitcase.

When traveling by plane or by car they can be very noisy and the sound coming from Nintendo Switches can disturb your traveling companions. So be sure to bring a   gaming headset for your Nintendo Switch . The Nintendo Switch battery lasts 3-7 hours, so you might want to bring an external battery as well. Since some of the trips take a long time, extra battery life will be of great importance to you, as it will extend the life of your Nintendo Switch console.

In the United States, FAA rules govern what kind and size batteries you can bring on a commercial flight. In July 2017 the TSA updated its screening procedures. All electronics larger than a smartphone need to go into a bin, not stay in your bag. 

52. Killer Playlist

Melissa – Queensland Camping

Once you’ve got all the essentials packed for your road trip, don’t forget to prepare yourself a killer playlist for the ride! Nothing makes a road trip better belting out the lyrics to your favorite songs as you cruise on down the highway.

I recommend that at least a few days to the week before getting out your favorite music streaming platform such as Spotify or download it from Amazon and start making your playlist. Having all your songs on a playlist will mean no fumbling around searching for songs while you’re on the road.

Don’t be selfish either this isn’t all about you. Consult everyone who is coming along on the road trip and find out what their favorite songs and artists are too. Everyone will have a way better time on the road trip if everyone is hearing their favorite songs as well as yours.

Do you need some inspiration for your road trip playlist? According to Spotify some of the classic road trip songs include  Go Your Own Way  by Fleetwood Mac,  American Pie  by Don McLean or  Jack & Diane  from John Mellencamp.

Now go and prepare your own killer playlist and don’t forget that the louder you sing along, the more memorable the road trip will be!

While not a physical item, many road trip checklists list this as a must have!

53. Road Trip Travel Games

Helen – Venture Up North

Sometimes, no matter how amazing the scenery, you just need a little break from driving to sit back and re-charge your batteries. I don’t know about you, but I find there’s no better way to do that than to challenge your fellow roadies to a quick travel game.

My personal favorites are Bananagrams and Uno. Both games are small enough to fit in the glove compartment of your car and pack away nicely into your backpack at the end of the journey. There’s also little chance of losing fiddly game pieces as Bananagrams comes with its own little zip-up banana-shaped bag (very on brand) and Uno…. well Uno is a card game so just make sure you keep all the cards together in a pack and you’ll be golden.

Both games are handy for keeping your brain switched on during your break from driving. Bananagrams, in particular, is a fast-paced game. Players are competing to be named ‘Top Banana’ by being the first one to get rid of their letter tiles (only real words allowed please!). Uno, on the other hand, is great fun if there’s a group of you playing.

Clearly these games aren’t safe to play whilst driving (please don’t try!) but there are plenty of games that are. To keep it lively, have a go at The Human Jukebox (hum that tune!), 21 Questions (you have 21 questions to guess e.g. the country or the famous person) or The Alphabet Category Game (choose a category e.g. fruit and ask everyone in the car to take it in turns to name a fruit beginning with ‘A.’

The first person to struggle to name something loses that round and the game continues with the letter ‘B’). These games are a great way to keep everyone in the car entertained on those long, winding and never-ending roads. Have fun!

Family Road Trip Essentials

Going on a family road trip? It can be a little chaotic at times, no doubt. Below are a few items to make your road tripping family enjoy their adventure more.

54. Backseat Butler

Stephanie – Consistently Curious

If you open your car door and an entire Target snack aisle falls out, it is time to get organized. Chaos in the car sneaks up on you.  It starts with a few harmless wrappers on the floor, a book, or two left on the seat that slowly transforms into a toy tornado and the need for a hazmat suit. I know because I was there. 

Then we discovered the Backseat Butler by J.L.Childress.

Friends, this item needs to be on every baby registry and every car transporting a child . This organizer not only contains the toys, books, and snacks but is has cupholders! If it doesn’t fit in the organizer then it doesn’t come in the car. 

There are even side pockets that are great for crayons and wipes. In addition to an easily accessible front zipper pocket that is easy to reach that is perfect for snacks and go-to items. 

Having an organized car while traveling will make your trip go a whole lot smoother.  This has been one of our road trip staples that we never leave home without. 

55. Pop Up High Chair

Tori – Tori-Leigh

In addition to the typical diaper bag essentials and toys, a pop up high chair is a must for a family road trip. While it’s not on every mom’s radar, it will certainly make any trip with young children easier.

A pop up high chair is an easy, inexpensive, and lightweight way to guarantee young children have a place to sit safely and securely. Perfect for indoor and outdoor use, you’ll be surprised at how useful this simple item actually is.

If we’re camping or staying in a hotel, I can easily feed my baby without sitting him on the floor or my lap. It also comes in handy when stopping at a restaurant that doesn’t have highchairs or pulling over at a rest stop.

Aside from snacking, the chair is ideal for playtime and tinkering. I love that I can let my younger child play, knowing he’s secure in his chair, while I pack or tend to my other kid.

Most pop up highchairs assemble and break down in seconds, making them ideal for road trips with multiple stops. They’re easy to wipe clean on the go, as well.

Built for family travel, a pop up high chair is certainly a game changer for anyone embarking on a  road trip with babies or toddlers.

Hygiene Road Trip Items

Hygenic road trip items are important. You have to stay healthy when adventuring in general and road tripping is no different.

56. Female Urinary Device

Bhushavali – My Travelogue

As a woman, one of the biggest problems while traveling is… peeing! The natural necessity of sitting down to pee is really problematic when traveling to off-beat locations or road-trips where bathrooms aren’t common or clean!

Personally, I’ve used unclean public toilets and peed beneath trees & behind shrubs while trekking or trail walking. It’s uncomfortable but not a deal-breaker.

When I was pregnant and in the first trimester, I was traveling & needed to use a public toilet and it was just so dirty! I used it but I was so freaked out for the next couple of days that I might get an infection. Anyways, the next day I ordered a FUD (Female Urinary Device).

It basically is a funnel-shaped thing made of silicon, which will help a woman to pee like a man! So the whole issue of having the ‘sit-down’ to pee is avoidable.

It is cheap, it’s tiny and foldable (like a menstrual cup) and I have a zippered plastic pouch to store it. Today I just wonder, how did I ever travel before that without a FUD.

57. Hand Sanitizer 

If you’re adventuring away from civilization (where a lot of road trips go), you might find a lack of running water. But there will always be germs and hand sanitizer will be a handy item before eating or just general hygiene.

You can get little easy-to-access bottles on clips that make it so clean hands are never far away.

58. Toilet Roll

I mean, do I really need to go into this one? Don’t get stuck in the middle of nowhere without a spare roll of toilet paper. It’s a pretty good way to ruin your day.

59. Toothbrush and Tooth Paste

Basic hygiene items again. It’s another one that doesn’t really need an explanation, but it’s good to have on your checklist anyway.

60. Body Wipes

If you don’t have access to a shower, things can get pretty smelly pretty fast. A quick wipe down with body wiper/baby wipes will have you feeling refreshed. It’s a bit of strange tip, but always takes me back to my Wild Atlantic Way road trip in Ireland . That’s when I first discovered my love for baby wipe during a long road trip.

61. Deodorant

Whether we like to admit it or not, we all smell. It’s just a fact of being human. Being stuck in close quarters can be a lot easier managed if body odor isn’t wafting around the vehicle at all times.

62. Soap/Body Wash

You might not always have access to running water, a shower or even a bucket to dump over yourself, but when you do get a chance to wash yourself, a basic bar of soap will be a great addition to your road trip bag.

63. A Change of Clothes

While there isn’t a specific clothing list in this post, taking enough clothes to always have a clean set is pretty important. Putting on a clean shirt always feels better than a musty 3-day old, sweaty top.

Conclusion of the ultimate road trip essential packing list

That’s it! You’re pretty well set to take off on your road trip with all those road trip essentials listed above!

Wherever you’re hitting the open road, make sure you pack your essential road trip gear and you’ll have a great time. Exploring a new destination with a vehicle is one of my favorite ways to travel.

You should have a solid list of what to pack for a road trip, from entertainment to safety items, snacks and everything in between!

Did I miss something? Do you have any questions on what to pack for a road trip coming up? Drop me a comment below and I’ll get back to you – I answer every single comment.

I hope this list helped you plan your next road trip – please share this to social media and subscribe to Horizon Unknown’s newsletter to get more great travel tips .

Don’t forget to pick up your free roadtrip checklist PDF!

As always, thanks for reading!

Happy and safe travels,

Ben – Horizon Unknown

Thanks for putting together this collab Ben! The road trip ideas from fellow bloggers are simply amazing. And we are happy to put some of these to use when we do our next road trip 🙂

Hey Neha, thanks for the reply. I’m happy you could contribute and thanks for helping to make it such a great post!

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• TRIP REPORTS

43 Essentials for a Road Trip (with Printable Road Trip Packing List!)

I am a sucker for a good road trip, whether it’s cruising down the ring road in Iceland or exploring the South Island of New Zealand . Although many of the things you pack for a road trip will be the same as what you’d pack for a regular vacation, there are a few road trip essentials you need to include.

It may be tempting to just throw a bunch of gear in the back of your van and hit the road #vanlife-style. In reality, there’s a bit of preparation that goes into planning a road trip. To ensure you don’t forget anything, here is The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List .

The Road Trip Essentials

Note : You can download and print all this in a handy, one-page road trip checklist. >>Click here to download .

Identification

This should be obvious, but I’ve come close to forgetting it a few times. Remember to bring some form of identification. If you’re traveling out of country, you’ll have your Passport on you. Even if you’re traveling within your country and aren’t the driver, still carry some for of ID.

Insurance, Ownership and Owner’s Manual

I know it’s all been hibernating in your glove compartment for who-knows-how-long, but make sure you check you have all the necessary paperwork in case things go amuck. Regardless of where and how long your trip is, always have insurance , registration and your driver’s licence with you.

And make sure you have the owner’s manual handy in case a fuse blows or a tire flattens and you don’t know what do to about it. If you’re driving a rented car, this will be included (but double check before you leave the parking lot).

Car Servicing

Though not an item to pack, I think this deserves a shoutout. Before setting out ensure that your vehicle is in the best shape. Things like air pressure, coolant, engine oil and brakes should be in good order. If your trip is to a remote or inaccessible destination (i.e. Iceland highlands), it is a good idea to carry extra fluid with you.

Also, maybe check what the state of your spare tire is. Remember that time I blew a tire on a mountain road without cell service in the middle of the night? Would have been nice to know where the spare tire was located (and how to change one).

Pro Tip : Get Road Side Assistance Insurance – you never know when you might need it!

Does anyone else remember driving with their parents when they were a kid, Dad behind the wheel and Mom holding a PAPER map of all the roads? How did anyone know what exit to take with all those highway lines? Thank goodness those days are done (the paper maps, not the road-tripping with parents).

I do most of my road trip planning with Google Maps already, and you’re likely planning on navigating with GPS and Google Maps, but before you set off, download your maps so they’re available offline . I haven’t always done this and there were a few places where we lost cell service and our maps wouldn’t load.

In addition, I like bringing a guidebook with a built-in paper map. You know, just in case!

This goes without saying, but ensure you bring your phone on the road trip (with charger!). You’d be surprised how many times I’ve pulled out of the driveway only to have one of my friends (or myself) suddenly realize they left their phone on the kitchen counter. Ironic because I usually have the packing list for the road trip on my phone.

Credit cards, health card, Starbucks card – whatever important plastic you keep on you day to day, include it on your road trip packing list.

Although much of what we buy is done with our phones or Tap, it’s still a good idea to carry a couple hundred dollars in cash just in case something happens. Don’t keep it all together in your wallet; distribute it between different bags so you don’t lose it all.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support is much appreciated! You can learn more by reading my full disclosure .

Dashboard Phone Holder + Charger

This is an essential tool for a road trip! You want a phone holder that mount to the dashboard so you don’t have to look down to check Maps. You’ll also want a phone charger because navigation systems drain your phone battery super quickly. Most new vehicles have a USB port, but older cars don’t have one and you’ll need an adapter.

Camera Equipment

For some people, this will be your iPhone. For others (like me), this includes quite a few items. Here are all the camera gear items you could take, though not all may apply to you:

• Camera + Battery + Charge
• Memory Card
• GoPro / Action Cam + Charger
• Drone + Charger
• Camera Case
• Tripod ( this is the best one I’ve used for traveling light)

Your phone flashlight will kill your battery and is super inconvenient to use for prolonged periods of time. Instead, take a headlamp. This will be helpful for finding things in the car / van / tent at night. It’s also useful if something goes wrong with the car at night.

As soon as you start a road trip, your mobile battery goes in reverse gear. That is why power banks are life savers on the road as you will be away from wall sockets most of the time. >>This is the one I use . It holds about 4-5 full iPhone charges and is a fast charger.

Bluetooth Speakers

Although your car will have speakers, you want access to good music even when you’re not driving. I’ve found speakers to be especially handy after we’ve parked and set up camp when we want to chill and cook dinner. It’s also great around a camp fire.

>>I bring this one . It’s kind of bulky and there are definitely smaller ones, but I love the sound quality and how loud it gets.

I like to bring a pair of little headphones (the ones that come with the iPhone) in addition to noise canceling headphones. The noise canceling headphones are a little bulky, and not recommended if you’re trying to pack light, but I like them for airplanes or if I can’t sleep at night.

Definitely an option item, but if you like reading and don’t want to lug around big books, a Kindle is an excellent choice.

WiFi Hot Spot

A Wifi Hot Spot is great if you need to stay connected, but don’t want blow through all your data (or get crazy roaming charges). I don’t personally include it on my road trip packing lists, since Wifi isn’t a huge priority for me. But if you’re a digital nomad or need to work during vacation, a Wifi Hot Spot could be a saviour.

Audio Splitter

I’ve really grown fond of audio splitters over the last few trips. When you and your road trip buddy are waiting somewhere and you can’t play sound out loud, an audio splitter works wonders.

Clothing, Footwear & Accessories

Waterproof jacket.

Even if you won’t be spending a lot of time outside, a rain coat is an absolute must. Nothing ruins a day trip like getting soaked. If you’ll be doing some hiking or traveling somewhere rainy (i.e. Milford Sound, New Zealand or the Pacific Northwest), go with a good quality rain jacket. >>This is the one I use .

Sweater or Puffy Jacket

When it gets little chilly you’ll want to have a cozy sweater or jacket to put on. For road trips, I like either a fleece sweater ( this one is my favourite ) or a down jacket ( this is the one I use ).

Casual Wear

Ensure you bring lots of comfortable clothing. You’ll want something that is comfortable to drive in and to wear while at stops. I personally like leggings and a soft, cotton T-shirt.

Bathing Suit

You never know when you might spontaneous stumble upon a hot spring or beach! Bring a bathing suit (or two).

Pro Tip : Bring a carabiner and hook it to your damp bathing suit after your swim. Then hang the carabiner from one of the hooks on the ceiling of your car (there’s usually at least one beside the backseat door on the passenger’s side). Your bathing suit will dry as you drive.

Hiking Boots

Unless you will be avoiding all hikes and outdoor activities, bring a pair of hiking boots on your road trip. These will provide way more support and stability than a pair of running shoes. If you don’t have a pair already, read this post on buying beginner hiking boots.

And don’t forget wool socks as well! >>These are the best ones I’ve used .

Hiking Clothing

Similar to the above, you’ll be much more comfortable if you have at least one pair of hiking clothes. A hiking top and hiking pants are best. Otherwise, a quick dry T-shirt and pants work well.

I bring the items in the picture below: one pair of hiking pants, one pair of hiking shorts, a quick-dry long sleeve shirt and a quick-dry T-shirt. If I’ll be doing lots of hiking, I bring multiple shirts and a second pair of hiking pants.

Flip Flips / Slippers / Sandals

Bring at least one pair of shoes that are easy to slide on and off. This will make bathroom breaks speedy and give you something comfortable to put on at the end of a long day. I like to bring sandals personally, because you can also wear them to the beach or around town.

I find sunglasses critical for driving, especially in the morning or late afternoon when then sun is shiny directly into the car.

Toiletries + Personal Care

First aid kit.

Purchase a ready-made or make your own first aid kit ( here’s what’s in mine ). Your road trip first aid kit should include basics like:

• Hand sanitizer and disposable gloves
• Band aids, gauze pads, and adhesive tape
• Pain medication, like Tylenol and/or Advil
• Cold and sinus medication, like DayQuill
• Stomach medication, like Gravol and Imodium
• Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss
• Lip balm / chapstick
• Soap, shampoo and conditioner

In addition to your usual toiletries, there’s a few additional items you’ll want to pack for a road trip.

• Baby wipes : For keeping you clean when you can’t access a shower.
• Hand sanitizer : Not all road trip bathroom stops will have soap / hand sanitizer. It’s also good to use it before eating.
• Toilet paper : Sometimes the facilities at trailheads don’t have toilet paper, so I recommend keeping a roll on you.

Bug Spray and Sunscreen

Ever since that time I got mauled by black flies , I always carry bug spray on me. >>This is the best bug spray I’ve ever used . If you’ll be somewhere that get’s lots of mosquitoes, I also recommend having a bug hat. You don’t want to be relaxing at the end of a long day and getting swarmed by bugs.

You’ll also want to bring sunscreen. I like bringing a generic sunscreen for my body and a high SPF, non-greasy (but expensive) bottle for my face. A sunhat will also be helpful if you’re prone to sunburns.

Water Bottle

I rarely go anywhere without a reusable water bottle anymore. Not only will a reusable water bottle save you from buying water from the store, it’s also good for the planet.

If you’ll be cooking your own meals on this road trip, there are some cooking items to bring. If you’re renting a campervan, there’s often an option to rent cookware along with it.

• Camp stove + fuel
• Small pot, frying pan, cutting board
• Spatula, tongs, large spoon,
• Sponge and dish soap
• Garbage bags

Multi-Tool / Swiss Army Knife

This is seriously one of the most underrated things to bring on a road trip! In addition to a decent knife, multi-tools have a ton of other useful tools. Need scissors? You got ’em. What about tweezers? Yessir. Anyone got a cork screw? You do. >>I use this one .

A thermos is a must have item for me. We’ll make coffee before we start driving and I’ll put some in the thermos. It stays warm for the entire morning and keeps me alert on the road. >>This is my all-time favourite thermos.

Camping Equipment

Whether you bring camping equipment will depend on what your accommodation will be. If you will be staying in hotels / hostels, you won’t need this stuff. If you will be sleeping in a campervan, you probably don’t need it either (they usually provide bedding or you can rent it). But if you will be camping each night, here are some things to bring:

• Tent ( read this for my list of best lightweight tents)
• Sleeping Bag
• Sleeping Pad
• Camping Pillow (this one is my favourite)

This is my set up below: MSR Hubba Hubba 2-person tent, Pro-Lite Therm-a-rest Sleeping Pad, MEC Delphinus Sleeping Bag in a Outdoor Research Compression Sack, and a Compressible Pillow by Therm-a-rest.

Folding Chair

A compact folding chair doesn’t take up much space in the car, but will come in handy at a roadside viewpoint or on a picnic. If you’re camping, a folding chair is super helpful for eating meals and hanging out at night. >>Here is the one I have .

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a cooler is helpful for keeping your produce cool. It also helps to have a cool beverage at the end of a long day.

I love including a blanket on road trip packing lists because they’re so versatile. Use it to keep you warm on a chilly night outside, or spread it on the grass or beach. I sometimes sit with a blanket when I’m napping in the passenger seat.

Quick Dry Towel

A quick dry towel is necessary if you’ll be showing at campsites or swimming in lakes / rivers / ocean. >>I think this one because it dries super quickly .

Miscellaneous Items

Extra water.

I find it helpful to have a few spare gallons of water in the truck. I usually pick these up at the first gas station.

Windscreen Cover

An optional item, a windscreen cover keeps your car from heating up while you’re out. I personally don’t travel with one, but other people swear by them.

If you’re not confined to space, bring a little umbrella. This will be handy for going around town or while filling up gas in the rain. I wouldn’t bring an umbrella on a hike though, so still bring a rain jacket.

Favorite Playlist

Road trips, especially long ones can become mundane sometimes, as such having a source of entertainment is important to keep the spirits up. Download your choice of songs from Spotify so you can hear them offline during the lengthy stints in the car.

Can’t believe I left this to the end of this post as it’s one of my favourite parts of road tripping! Don’t forget to bring lots of yummy snacks. As a driver, I like things that are easy to eat with one hand (like chocolate covered almonds) or things that have easy to navigate packaging (like pringles). For a complete list of snacks (and other things), check out this guide on road tripping foods .

Bags, Luggage and Containers

Now that you know all the things to pack for a road trip, what are you going to pack it all in? That will depend if you are flying to a destination to start a road trip, or if you are leaving from home.

If you won’t be flying, I think a duffel bag is a really handy way of packing all your stuff. They open widely so you can easily find everything. My approach is typically to take our clothes and personal gear in a duffel bag and our kitchen gear in a big plastic container.

Day Backpack

Regardless of how you get to your road trip starting point, you’ll definitely want a day backpack. Anything from 18 – 28 L will work fine.

Packing Cubes

This will help you cut down on space and keep everything organized.

Pro Tip : For super bulky items, like fleece sweaters, down jackets and sleeping bags, use a compression sack instead of a packing cube. Compression sacks have adjustable straps to make them pack smaller. This will save space in your bag.

Mikaela | Voyageur Tripper

Mikaela has been canoeing, hiking and camping for over ten years. She previously worked as a canoeing guide in Canada, and spent a season guiding hiking and kayaking tours in the high Arctic. Mikaela is a Wilderness First Responder and Whitewater Rescue Technician.

MY FAVOURITE GEAR

Fleece Sweater

Down Jacket

Hiking Shirt

Hiking Pants

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Travel-Tested Road Trip Packing List Essentials: Your Complete Guide

You’re planning to hit the road and need a complete road trip packing list with all the travel-tested road trip essentials for a successful trip. Well, you’re in the right place!

We all know the main reason most people love a road trip, flexibility and being in control of the journey. But, the next biggest reason is getting to pack whatever and however much we want.

Vacation without bag fees or having to throw away oversized toiletries. Amen to that!

The good news is I’ve driven across the country multiple times, to all 48 continental states, and across Canada. (This doesn’t include road tripping internationally, either.)

And, along the way, I’ve made more  road trip mistakes  than I can count. But, I’ve also learned A LOT, too, and I’ve put it all together in this mega guide about what to pack for a road trip.

You can fill your car with whatever and however much you want, but if don’t have the road trip supplies you need for a successful trip, things can go south quickly.

Plan to Rent a Car for Your Road Trip?

I always search rental car costs on a site like  Kayak  because it compares prices from multiple sites all at once. It’s quick and I can easily see the best deals for my dates and pick-up location. 

Road Trip Essentials for Your Car

When planning a road trip, there are road trip necessities for both you and your car. Let’s start with the car. After all, it doesn’t matter how comfortable you are if there are car troubles, right?

First and foremost, whether you’re driving your car or a rental, don’t leave without having these road trip car essentials.

• Driver’s License
• Car Registration and Insurance Information
• Extra Car Key…not on the same key ring
• AAA Membership and/or Phone Number(s) for Roadside Assistance
• Spare Tire…with a tire jack and tools to change a flat
• Water Resistant Flashlight …coincidental that car trouble always happens at night, in the rain??

No one wants to break down and certainly many road-trippers have fun, incident-free adventures. But, it still pays to be prepared. Don’t leave home without a  roadside emergency kit .

Even though you may have some of these items at home, like an air compressor or materials to repair a tire, I like having a complete kit. Not only is it convenient, it likely includes things you didn’t think of and is expertly packed to save space.

If you’re driving in remote areas, like  driving in Utah  where there are long stretches without gas stations, you may also want to have these supplies.

• Quart of Oil
• Jug of Coolant or Water
• Wiper Fluid
• Portable Gas Container …great peace of mind when the next gas station isn’t for a long time!

A winter road trip packing list should also include things to keep you safe from snow and ice.

• Ice Scraper…not fun doing this by hand!
• Tire Chains

What to Bring on a Road Trip: Basic Must-Haves

Before getting into a list of must-have road trip items, there are 2 that deserve a special call-out.

First , every successful road trip includes a  paper map like this .

Smartphone apps like Google Maps and Maps.me are great, but when you lose service in remote spots, like in places along an Oregon Coast road trip , and your maps aren’t downloaded, the ability to get step-by-step directions disappears, too. Absolutely use the apps, but have a paper map, too.

Get a map with roads, landmarks, and information for an entire region instead of just 1 area. It’s perfect for those spontaneous whims along the way!

Second , it’s important to bring a  First Aid Kit . Obvious, I know. But, not having what you need for an injury can ruin an entire day of your trip.

Besides these road trip basics and whether your trip is long or short, solo or as a family, you’ll want to also have these things in the car.

• Car Phone Charger …works with your USB cord if your car doesn’t have one already…or even if it does and you just want more USB ports to keep everyone smiling.
• Power Inverter …with AC outlets and USB ports
• Hands-Free Phone Mount …safety + easy-to-see Google Maps for navigation = WIN!
• Portable Charger …when there are more devices in the car than charging ports or you’re on the go outside of the car
• Garbage Bag…or a  car garbage bin  that doesn’t just collect trash but also protects against leaks
• Roll of Toilet Paper…not all rest stops are created equal
• Hand Sanitizer
• Body/Baby Wipes
• Bug Spray…nothing worse than getting bit while out of the car stretching your legs
• Paper Money and Coins…for parking meters, air pump at gas stations, tolls, broken ATMs, laundromats, etc.
• Gas, Dining, and Travel Rewards Credit Card(s)…Whether you earn cash back, miles, or points, make sure the money you spend on this trip is helping you earn for the next one.
• Electronic Toll Pass…if applicable where you’re driving

Let’s switch gears (couldn’t help myself!) away from the car and think about you and the other people on this road trip. These next sections are broken up into road trip necessities lists that cover being comfortable in the car, entertainment, personal items, and food.

Things to Bring on a Road Trip to Keep Everyone Feeling Cozy

Keeping everyone in the car happy and relaxed is so important! Snacks, entertainment, and interesting sights won’t be of much help if you’re not comfortable. So, be sure to stock the car with these things you need for a road trip.

• Extra Layer of Clothing…I always keep one of  these fleeces  handy. They’re perfect for hiking, temperature changes, and when someone blasts the AC.
• Blanket or  Sleeping Bag …versatility (think picnic blanket) and a (possible) rolled-up space-saver
• Travel Pillow…here’s  my favorite.
• UV Window Shades
• Sunglasses …can’t drive without mine. Plus, I love these for their functionality whether I’m heading to the mountains or the beach.
• Travel Cup …coffee to-go, a must!
• Reusable Water Bottle…like  these bestsellers
• Water…in bulk with a spout to avoid spills
• Pain Killer…headache, body ache, etc.
• Hand Lotion
• Towel(s)…sudden rainstorm, someone actually jumps in a lake, etc.
• Mints and/or Gum

Road Trip Essentials List – Entertainment to Keep Everyone Smiling

From iSpy to the License Plate game to high-tech gear and gadgets, take your road trip entertainment as seriously as things to pack for a road trip! It can be an all-out sanity saver, especially for families with kids.

Of course, recording and capturing the journey is half the fun. In addition to a smartphone camera, I always have one of my favorite travel cameras .

When I travel with my nieces and nephews, they love to bring  this instant camera ! If your road trip is packed with action-packed adventure, you may also want to bring along an  action camera  as I do.

Unless you have satellite radio, you can almost bet you’ll lose a clear radio signal at least once on your drive. What’s more, you’re likely to go through stretches where only a couple of stations come through and the chances of them playing all your favorite songs are slim to forget about it.

This means it’s all about playlists!  You’ll want to make sure there’s a variety of music that’ll keep the whole car happy.

Amazon Music  and  Spotify  give you access to millions of songs that can be grouped into playlists and downloaded onto your device so you can listen without an internet connection and/or save data from the road. Plus, both offer free trials, free plans, and even super cheap promotions for premium so you can test them out before your trip.

Similarly, subscribe to some podcasts through your device’s Podcast app. Be sure to download the episodes before you leave home or from wifi so you can listen to them with streaming data. My favorite road trip podcast is Radiolab!

If you’d prefer longer in-depth stories,  Audible  and  Audiobooks.com  have huge libraries, also with free books as part of a free trial. Download books for hours of any time listening!

Don’t want to bother the whole car with whatever you’re listening to?

Bring  headphones  and a  splitter   to share your music, podcast, or audiobook with only those who want it. And, no matter what you’re listening to take it with you on a picnic outside the car with one of  these portable speakers

And, whether you want to read in the car, around the campfire, or in your hotel room, save space in the car with a  Kindle  or download the Kindle App to  any device . You can  purchase a few books   or  try Kindle Unlimited free .

Of course, road trip must-haves aren’t all electronic. Non-electronic options are great for all-important laughs, memories, and bonding, not to mention how relaxing it can be to disconnect for a while!

Consider these group and family activities to make the time on those long stretches of road fly!

• Loaded Questions …for family, friends, and smart pets 
• Scavenger Hunt
• Mad Libs …always a classic!
• Map Games …a bestseller!
• Travel Journals and Coloring

Road Trip Clothing and Personal Item Tips

How to pack for a road trip is not like packing for other trips. To start, you need clothes that’ll be comfortable to wear in the car for a long-distance and clothes for wherever you’re going.

I like to wear my  leggings  and flip-flops in the car, but I have  hiking pants  and  hiking boots  for outdoor adventures.

Second, you may or may not want to store your clothes and personal items in a traditional suitcase. Here are a few road trip packing tips.

• Duffel Bags and  backpacks  hold as much as a suitcase but can be squished into smaller places in the car.
• If you’re planning to make multiple short (1-2 night) stops, pack a  daypack  with just the things you need for an overnight stay. It’ll also come in handy for day hikes or day trips.
• Use  packing cubes  to organize clothes and just grab the cubes you need from the car.
• Similarly, use drawers to pack and then just  pull the drawer  you need instead of lugging all your things from the car.
• For campground, rest stop, and even hotel bathrooms, a  hanging toiletry tote bag  can help keep your items organized and away from less-than-sparkling sinks and toilets.

As for the specifics of what to take on a road trip,  pack clothes with you to match your destination, the activities you want to do, and the weather.  

Heading to the beach? Going to a National Park to hike? Roadtripping in winter or fall and need warmer layers?

Clothes should feel good to wear, have multi-purposes, and be worn a few times. I never pack a shirt if I can only wear it once. Packing wisely also might mean going with a specific color palette. It’ll be easier to mix and match pieces and make different outfits with fewer pieces of clothing.

If you plan to hike, here are some ideas about what to wear on a hike and a few hiking essentials you might want to consider.

And just as your car will need a few important things if you are road-tripping in the winter, you will need to know what to wear on a winter hike to stay safe and warm.

Aside from what to wear on a road trip, your road trip list should include these personal items as well.

• Sunscreen …if you have highly sun-sensitive skin like me , this is my SPF go-to. 
• Mosquito Repellent …this is my go-to bug spray whether I’m road-tripping in Colorado or camping in Africa .
• Scarf…I take one on every trip because they’re so versatile.
• Prescriptions
• Flip Flops…camping out + late night bathroom break = Happy to have slip-on shoes
• Laundry Bag
• Tide To-Go Pen
• Hairbrush and Hair ties
• Hat…baseball, sun, hiking, they all do the job of giving some shade

Road Trip Food List and Eating Accessories

Is driving on an empty stomach agony for you, too? It’s as if every hunger pang is multiplied by 100. Neither is it fun or practical to have to search for food every time someone in the car needs some grub.

If you’re  road tripping in Arizona , for example, you could be searching for a rest stop with snacks for quite some time in the more remote corners of the state!

Have a plan for your road trip food strategy.

• Do you plan to mostly eat out in your destinations and just need snacks for the ride? Then, a  cooler bag  that is easy to carry and stuffs away when not in use makes the most sense.
• Do you need more food storage for meals, camping, or a more budget-friendly road trip? Consider a  larger cooler  you can refill with food and ice at local grocery stores. Or perhaps skip the hassle of ice and go with an  iceless cooler  powered by a charge from your car.
• If you want to be completely self-sufficient, preparing your own meals from the road, this  portable grill  is the perfect set-up along with a few of these road trip ready chairs.

You’ll also need some basic food storage and eating items.

• Zippered Plastic Baggies
• Food Storage Containers …different sizes and stackable
• Toothpicks…great for grabbing small bites of food
• Reusable Shopping Bag…all-purpose, really, but good for groceries

The food to pack for a road trip doesn’t have to be unhealthy snack packs like you’d find in a rest-stop gas station. Here’s a list of road trip snacks that are delicious, satisfying, and (mostly) nutritious.

• Granola Bars
• Pretzels/Popcorn/Chips
• Protein/Energy Bars
• Dried Fruit
• Cheese Sticks
• Fresh Fruit & Veggies…things that don’t need to be cut like grapes, oranges, blueberries, apples, baby carrots, grape tomatoes, etc.
• Drink Packets & Tea Bags…easy to mix with water.
• Canned Tuna…with an easy-open can
• Hard-Boiled Eggs
• Sliced Meat
• Jarred Vegetables….marinated or pickled
• Sliced Bread
• Peanut/Almond/Sunflower Butter
• Juice Boxes

You’ll notice this list doesn’t include bottles of water. It’s cheaper (and not to mention less plastic waste) to buy larger gallons and jugs of water to refill your reusable water bottle.

Miscellaneous Things to Take on a Road Trip

Finally, these last road trip supplies to consider for those unexpected jams, when you need to make the most of your space, and whether or not you’re camping out.

• Duct Tape…seriously can fix almost anything at least temporarily
• Swiss Army Knife …tools for many situations
• Trunk Organizer
• Rooftop Cargo
• Tent …only necessary if you’ll be camping. (I also always bring a  sleeping pad  camping, too.)

If you’re planning to camp and spend a lot of time outdoors, check out this outdoor lovers gear guide and this road trip gift guide for more ideas.

Your road trip list of things to bring is the key to a successful trip. Being prepared means being able to handle any number of situations without them getting in the way of your road trip travel plans.

What’s on your road trip packing checklist?

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38 thoughts on “travel-tested road trip packing list essentials: your complete guide”.

Hi, I work for a magazine called momaha magazine in Omaha. It’s part of The Omaha World-Herald. We would love to mention some of your must haves in an article we are doing on traveling. Would that be OK if we credit you?

Thanks for reading, Marjie. I appreciate you asking and have no problem the mention and credit. 🙂 Thanks so much for asking!

While starting off a road trip it would be much better to select a luxury car which is capable of handling bumps and rigorous roads , moreover renting a car will not only be more affordable but it will also save your time. Here are some road trip essentials that you must consider before going on the journey: Spare tire Driver’s license Car Jack Snacks Phone charger Water Car Registration and insurance information

Thanks for the tips, Sheena. I’ve never rented a luxury vehicle and have had many successful road trips. I do always recommend renting the right type of vehicle for where you’ll be driving. Thanks so much for reading!

These are get tips! Very thorough! I’m taking a smaller road trip, just though most of Florida here and there to the keys. These tips will still help a great deal

Thanks for reading, Sean! A road trip through the Florida Keys sounds fantastic. Enjoy!

Great article with good advice. I love road trips and have traveled the length and breath of South Africa and neighboring countries. I live in Johannesburg, South Africa and more recently take regular trips to the coast (550km away). Our experience over the past 35 years has been that the way we drive and stops changed depending on the children’s ages, the route, destination and type of vehicle we used. Most importantly it is attitude. Since they were young we created excitement by pretending to be lost, especially if it was dusk or dark. Stories of wild animals worked well.

Breakdowns can also be adventures, provided you are prepared. Unfortunately, If I am not prepared I get irritable and aggressive but my wife knows how to deal with me.

Lastly, on our last trip over the Easter weekend, the roads were closed several times along the way due to accidents. What should have been a 5 and half hour trip took us 13 hours. Longest being a 5 hour stop on a National Route that had to be closed at the toll gates for the accidents ahead to be cleared. Glad that we had bought food and drinks before leaving Durban (additional food for the children’s supper and school lunch the next day).

Main Roads in SA are well maintained, most routes are serviced with garages and food outlets. Very scenic options. But try to stay off the roads at night as a safety measure. [PERSONAL INFORMATION EDITED OUT]

Thanks for reading, Mohamed, and for the tips on road tripping in South Africa.

I’m going on a road trip from Bozeman, MT, to Portland, OR (via Seattle) with my sister in June and was glad to find your article. It’s good to have all that information in one place. Thanks!

Thanks for reading! 🙂 Hope you have a great road trip. I love that part of the country.

Where is that hilly road? We want to try it out for ourselves!!

Thanks for reading, Aurora. It’s Highway 212 in Lithonia. 🙂

This is great, thank you! Off to the South of France on Thursday in my little mini convertible 🙂

Amazing!! Enjoy and thanks for reading, Jenna. 🙂

WARNING about the portable coolers that charge through your car charger: I’m a medical courier & have been stuck on the road with a dead battery many times & I’ve burned through several new batteries in a short period of time because of such coolers that will charge like your phone, through the car. Using that equipment was incredibly straining to the car’s battery even while driving. And if you happen to forget & leave the cooler plugged in to the charger overnight, then it’s guaranteed you’re gonna need a jump the next morning,

Thanks for reading and sharing, GP. Definitely have to unplug the cooler when the car is not running because it will drain the battery otherwise.

Audio books are free through your local library, there is an app for that. Wanted to print this out, to use it. But at 30 pages, nevermind. Oh well. Thanks for the nice read though!

Thanks for reading, Julie. Yes, you can get Audiobooks through many local libraries. Thanks for the reminder!

Thank you so much for the tips Jackie! I am going to be heading to the beach soon and the road trip will be about 8-9 hours. I am excited! We will be there over my younger brothers birthday. He loves the beach. Usually we go mini golfing but it’s closed right now.

Keep doing what your doing, Cameryn

Enjoy your road trip, Cameryn! Thanks for reading. 🙂

Great tips! I’ll be heading down the Pacific coast highway then up route 66 at this point or up to Bryce Canyon.

Thanks for reading, John. I’ve done those drives and both are amazing! Enjoy!

My family and I are going on a long road trip, and since we all know that car breakdown is inevitable, we’re thinking of looking for a roadside assistance service; so we may contact someone just in case of an emergency. I’m glad you shared these tips; we’ll make sure to bring the car manual, an extra key, and a spare tire as well. We’d also keep in mind to equipped our vehicle with a quart of oil and a potable gas container.

Thanks for reading, Rachel. Sounds like you’ll be prepared! Hope you have a great road trip. 🙂

Wow! Great list! There were several items I needed to add to my road trip list, including a first aid kit. Thanks so much!

Thanks so much for reading, Mairsie. Glad the list was helpful!

Thank you for this it really helped me with my road trip!!

Thanks for reading, Morgan. Glad to hear it!

Loved the Article – was able to make a comprehensive list of items needed for next weeks trip.

One thing that should be stressed. Before taking ANY road trip with your personal vehicle (not all of us can afford rental rates even with a AAA discount.

Ensure that your vehicle has had a through inspection and have them check the tires top off any fluids and catch any needed repairs. It will cut down on the chances of you having to be towed due to travel damage.

I did that and found out there was a recall notice on my vehicle and was able to get it fixed in time Also make sure your tags are current! Police/hwy patrol really do not like a car that isnt current

Thanks for reading, Tiffany. I’m glad to hear the list was helpful and so appreciate the tips! I’m sure they will be helpful to others who read. Have a great road trip!

A simple must-have item if your road trip has you staying in hotels at night: an extension cord. Hotel outlets never seem to be close enough to a chair to allow me to charge my tablet and work on it at the same time. One inexpensive extension cord has become priceless to me.

Thank you for reading, Sandyb. I couldn’t agree more! I have a portable power strip with 2 outlets on each side. The cord folds in on itself and snaps into place making it super compact. Thanks for the reminder about putting this in the article!

I never see anyone suggest that you bring a second set of car keys? My wife and I do this with each one having their own set fro the car we are traveling in when together. Just have someone charge you to get the door open because your keys are on the car seat.

Thanks for reading, Robert. My husband and I do the same. However, it’s definitely worth an ask, especially if renting a car from a smaller car rental company. Happy Road-Tripping!

#1) I wouldn’t recommend open toed footwear ( ie flip-flops) around campsites as they lend themselves to toe injuries due to stubbing on stones, curbs, or pieces of wood. Something like clogs (Crocs) or slip on boating shoes

#2). You should learn how to take care of your vehicle yourself rather than having someone else do it for you. There won’t always be someone around to check your vehicle when it is needed the most. Checking tire air pressure, coolant levels, oil levels is not difficult or mysterious. You should be doing this at home also. Your owners manual can show how to do it.

Thanks for reading and sharing your tips, Lynn! 🙂

Getting ready for a road trip from Montana to New Jersey and back in 2 days and thought I must be forgetting some things. I am a very well-seasoned traveler, but it is always easy to forget little things. You have done a superior job on this article. Thank you, I found a few things I was over-looking. I recently retired and bought a 5th wheel trailer. It seems there are still things I forget to add at the last minute.

Thanks for reading, Beth. Glad the article was helpful and hope you enjoy your road trip!!

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Road trip essentials and packing list – 40+ must-haves for an epic road trip

Posted on February 22, 2021 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on October 22, 2021

Dreaming of freedom, endless landscapes, and adventures? A road trip gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want, and to stay there as long as you want. That’s what I love about road trips, especially right now that we need to social distance. I’ve put together this road trip packing list to help you plan your trip, listing all the road trip essentials and must-haves you shouldn’t forget to pack.

If you are still looking for inspiration for your next road trip, check out this epic list I’ve put together of the best USA road trips.

You probably won’t need everything listed below and should adapt this list whether you’re planning a long road trip or a quick weekend road trip, whether you’re traveling with kids or not, and if you’re starting from home or flying then renting a car.

If you are planning a road trip abroad, make sure you get travel insurance and check if the country you’re traveling to accepts your driver’s license or if you need an international one.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Tech gadget and entertainment – Road trip packing list

With hours spent in the car, you’ll need to figure out things to do so you don’t get bored, especially if you travel with kids. Here are a couple of road trip essentials you definitely should pack:

• First things first, make sure to pack a battery pack to charge all your electronic devices, it is a life savior and you won’t have to worry about your phone or tablet dying on you;
• Smartphone, tablets, and chargers ;
• If traveling with kids, MP3 player, something to watch movies on, maybe a game console too, whatever keeps them busy. For a screen-free alternative, you can try out to download a couple of audiobooks before the trip. You can sign up for Audible , you get a 30-day free trial, and you get access to thousands of audiobooks and podcasts. (and don’t forget the chargers for each device);
• Your favorite playlist, make sure you have music to listen to, and don’t rely on 4G as you might not get it everywhere;
• Games, games, games … There are plenty of road trip games you can play while in the car, for families as well as for adults. It will help kill time, have fun, and start conversations – make sure you also plan a couple of road trip activities to keep kids busy .
• GPS or an off-line map , I use Maps.Me, I found it to be easier to download maps on there than on Google Maps, but both usually work well, just make sure to download the map beforehand;
• Camera and a GoPro , you’ll want to take photos of all of your adventures so make sure to pack a good camera (I highly recommend the Sony RX100 VII , it’s the one I use, and you won’t find a better compact camera for this price and level of quality). Having a GoPro can be a good idea too, it makes amazing videos, and they are waterproof, so you can take tons of shots you couldn’t with a regular camera. Don’t forget to pack extra batteries and memory cards . You could also pack a tripod and wireless remote control for your camera.
• Headphones – if you are traveling with kids, as a group, or don’t listen to the same type of music as the people on the trip, bring headphones, if you really want peace and quiet, consider getting noise-canceling ones. I have the Sony WH-1000XM4 , and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.

Car essentials to make your road trip more comfortable

• Foldable Car Wastebasket – if you’re like me and you like things to stay clean and organized, you’ll need a trash can in the car, especially if you are going to eat snacks and meals inside the car.
• Backseat Organizer with Tablet Holder – if you are traveling with kids, you’ll definitely want one of these to keep all their things organized and within reach.
• Cooler – it’s always nice to enjoy a fresh drink or to be able to pack things such as fruits, yogurts, or sandwiches knowing they’ll stay fresh the whole ride. If you already have a regular cooler make sure to bring it with you or you could get the Wagan 12V Cooler/Warmer especially for car use. It fits well on the back seat or on the floor, and when plugged in it will keep everything fresh, or warm (there are two temperature settings to choose from).
• Car Headrest Pillow and Car Seat – when you are going to be in the car for hours the first thing you want is to feel comfortable, don’t hesitate to take a pillow or buy one made for cars , and if your car seats are not extra comfy get something to help you with that, like this one , made of memory foam that can also be used on a regular chair. You can also pack a couple of blankets, especially for a winter road trip.
• Portable Car Vacuum and Car Air Purifier – for the cleaning freak, make sure to pack these two items to keep your car clean and smelling fresh at all times, they are good things to have on long road trips or when traveling with kids.
• If you are planning to spend a night or two in your car, check out the air mattresses for cars , they’ll fit most models and will turn your back seats into a comfy bed.

Road trip essentials you should always have in your car

Make sure to pack the items listed below, and most of all keep them within reach, you’ll probably need them during the ride and there’s nothing worse than having to stop and go through luggage to find what you need. You’ll also be prepared when you make stops along the way and have already everything ready for the excursions.

• Car emergency kit and a Swiss knife – make sure you have all the safety and emergency essentials for your car if not, you can get a bundle that comes with everything you’ll need. Having a swiss knife is always a good idea and can be a life savior. You can also pack a “survival” kit , especially if you’re often outdoors or are going on a camping trip.
• Emergency blankets – it’s always a good idea to pack emergency blankets, even if you don’t need them, you can use them for picnics, to put on the ground, or just to keep warm if you’re on a winter road trip.
• Binoculars – if you are planning to explore the wilderness, binoculars will help you see better and spot wildlife.
• Paper maps and travel guides – paper maps allow you to fin secondary roads and less traveled paths so you can go on a true adventure. Make sure to also pack the travel guide for the destination you’re visiting so you don’t miss anything and find some inspiration.
• First-aid kit – you never know when you might need it, so make sure to pack at least bandaids, a disinfectant spray, and some sort of pain reliever.
• Tissues and wet wipes – tissues will always come in handy in a car, road trip or not. Wet wipes will keep you clean and fresh when you don’t have access to a sink. Wet wipes are not eco-friendly so I tend to avoid them, for the car you could get a wet wipe dispenser and reusable wipes , and make your own wet wipes with micellar water (the containers will keep the wipes moist).
• Raincoats – be prepared for bad weather, more practical than umbrellas, raincoats are a road-trip must-have.
• Pair of trekking shoes + flip flops – always have those easily accessible so you can change shoes if needed without having to go through all of your stuff.
• Hat, swimwear, and fast-drying towels
• Sunscreen and mosquito repellent – you’ll always need sunscreen , no matter the time of the year, it’s a good idea to keep it within reach so you can reapply it during the day. If you are traveling during spring/summer and are planning an outdoorsy road trip, mosquito repellent is a must, I always choose one with citronella , I found it to work better than the ones with DEET, and it’s a more eco-friendly and healthy option.
• Sunglasses – even if you are not driving, sunglasses are a road trip essential, it’s always a good idea to have a pair in the car, even in winter.
• Snacks – choose carefully the type of snack you’re going to take, for example, avoid anything with chocolate or things that might be hard to eat without making a mess. I always pack dried fruits and nuts, it’s healthy, won’t turn bad, and is mess-free.
• Water – if you don’t already have one, get a refillable water bottle , it takes less space and is more eco-friendly. If you are visiting a country where the tap water is not refillable, you could get a LifeStraw bottle , that will filter out chemicals and bacterias so that any water is safe to drink.

Best bags for road trips

You can pretty much use anything you already have as long as it fits into your trunk. Try to not over-pack and bring only what you’ll really need (read my tips for lightweight packing ).

• Duffel bags – your best option, especially if you know your trunk is going to be full, it makes fitting everything inside the car much easier than with a hard-shell suitcase. They also tend to be smaller so it makes it easier to pack light. You can get duffel bags with wheels so it’s easier to carry them around (but they’ll take more space in the trunk and be less flexible).
• Day pack and rain cover – if you are planning to trek during your road trip, make sure to pack a comfortable day pack either one that already comes with a rain cover, or you can buy a universal one . For trekking, I recommend the Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack . If you are visiting cities you can bring a nicer backpack or handbag if it’s comfortable for you.

What should I bring on a long road car trip?

For a long road car trip, you need to pack things that will help you be comfortable (blankets, travel pillows, memory foam car seats…). Wear clothes you feel good in and pack a sweater just in case. Don’t forget to pack healthy snacks and plenty of water, having a cooler can be a good option for long road car trips.

What should I pack for a road trip by myself?

For a road trip for yourself make sure to bring things to keep you entertained (playlist, podcast, audiobooks…), snacks and a water bottle you can easily open while driving in case you get angry and thirsty during the ride. Don’t forget to pack an emergency kit as well as first-aid essentials. Make sure you also have a GPS or off-line maps, and a car charger for all your electronics.

What are fun things to take on a road trip?

With many hours spent in the car, you’ll need things to entertain yourselves and fun things to do. There are plenty of games you can play in the car, think of card games or things like Trivias, magnetic board games, blind tests… If you don’t get car sick, you can bring sudokus, crosswords puzzles and such, as well as a couple of books. You can also bring a tablet and watch movies or your favorite TV shows, just make sure to download them beforehand.

Did we miss anything? What about you? What are your road trip essentials / things you can’t travel without?

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The Ultimate Road Trip Packing Checklist & Best Tips [Printable]

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Check the Weather

Plan your route, how long is your trip, your vehicle or a rental, plan your sleeping arrangements, make a packing list early, choose the right gear, purchase travel-sized items, what electronics should i take, travel insurance, keep your travel documents safe and handy, cash and credit cards, keep your personal details close for emergencies, lay it all out, consider your itinerary, take out anything unnecessary, roof box, suitcase — what should go where, take a laundry bag, get your car road-ready, make the car comfortable, how many drivers, plan your driving time, note rest stops, be flexible, pack car activities, travel safely, make the trip an adventure, bring comfort items, know their limits, apps for road trips, how to prepare your house before you leave, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

There are few things as exciting as taking a road trip. Whether you’re going somewhere completely new or visiting an old favorite spot, it’s bound to be an adventure. However, one of the defining characteristics of road trips is that they can be unpredictable, especially if you’re not prepared. Weather changes, road conditions, or underestimating your ability to handle long car rides can come up.

Always ensure you have emergency and safety gear packed in your luggage, and bring plenty of water, music, and maybe a book or 2 to pass the time for a successful trip.

📋 Click To View Our Printable Road Trip Packing List >> 📋

Road Trip Packing Tips and Advice

Don’t get overwhelmed by the idea of planning your next big road trip. This guide will help you pack like a pro so you’re ready to hit the road, whether you’re driving a few towns over or across the country. However, being prepared isn’t just about what you pack. Here are a few things to consider before embarking on your car adventure.

While you’ll probably spend a lot of time in the car on your road trip, knowing what weather to expect is still an essential part of the planning process. For example, rainy weather might affect your visibility, so you must adjust to cover less ground in a day.

It’s also important to check the weather if you’re crossing multiple climate regions. It might be summer at home, but if you’re driving into the mountains, you’ll want to pack layers and a jacket because the temperature could drop drastically. 

Most of the time, a road trip has an end destination. Once you know your final stop, you can plan your trip accordingly.

Planning your trip route will not only help you get an idea of your driving times and what traffic and road conditions to expect, but it can also add extra fun to your trip. Take note of any side trips you could take or attractions you’d like to see while on your journey, and plan a few fun stops to help break up the miles in the car.

Most road trips are between 7 and 10 days in length but can vary greatly. Packing and preparing for a weekend-long getaway will be a lot different than for a 6-month-long adventure.

Some things will be on your packing list no matter how long you will be away from home. You’ll always want rechargeable batteries , a reusable water bottle, and a patch kit or spare tire.

Pack enough socks, underwear, and entertainment to last your whole trip, or at least until you can get to a laundry service or replenish anything you’ve used up.

You’ll want to decide if your road trip will be better in your vehicle or if you should rent one for the road. There are pros and cons to both.

Your Vehicle

The biggest upside to using your car is its familiarity. It’s an extension of your home, and you probably know how to change the settings to suit your preferences. However, consider its size. For example, if you’re going on a long road trip with 4 or 5 people, a sedan won’t be too comfortable.

Rental Cars

Rentals have the exact opposite pros and cons of using your own car. The advantages of renting come if your personal vehicle is small, isn’t equipped for electronics, or if it just isn’t road ready. You can find a temporary option to make your trip more comfortable and potentially more secure.

On the other hand, if you’re driving a rental, you have to be more careful about keeping it tidy. That could mean no eating while on the road or being meticulous about mud to avoid paying hefty cleaning fees or losing a deposit.

There are many ways to road trip, and any one of them has the potential for fun. However, they all require different types of planning, especially when it comes to your sleeping arrangements.

Here are a few of the most popular sleeping options for road trips:

• Hotels and Motels: This is the most comfortable option, but it requires the most planning, especially during popular vacation times, like during the summer or over a holiday weekend. To ensure you find a room that suits your needs, it’s a good idea to plan where you’ll be staying and make reservations.
• RV and Tent Campgrounds: Similar to hotels and motels, staying at these campgrounds offers some comforts, but they’re a little more rustic. If you’re road-tripping in an RV, you’ll often have access to electricity and water. Campsites set aside for tents usually have restrooms and access to cooking areas. Even in this case, you must make reservations to guarantee your spot.
• Car Sleeping: This is the least luxurious sleeping arrangement, but it’s popular for some types of travel. It’s most often preferred to pull over at a rest area for a few hours when driving long distances in a short time, but there are understandably no amenities.

Packing for a road trip takes a little more planning than you might be used to if you typically opt for other vacations. To ensure you have everything you need for hours on the road and whatever climates you’ll find yourself in, avoid waiting until the last minute to get your bags ready.

Start making a packing list as soon as you finalize your plans. Doing so gives you time to ensure you have the right clothes, toiletries, gear, and entertainment for the journey. It also gives you time to shop around if you need to, meaning you’ll have the best chance of finding exactly what you need.

You don’t need a luxury vehicle or top-of-the-line RV for a successful road trip. However, you’ll still want to ensure you have the right gear.

Some equipment might vary depending on the length and location of your trip, but there are a few things you should have no matter what sort of drive you’re taking on. Here are a few things you should remember to pack:

• Car battery jumper cables
• First-aid kit
• A spare tire, wrench, and car jack
• A tire patch kit
• A tire gauge and a small air compressor
• A warning triangle and reflective vest (preferably 1 per passenger)

Depending on your car, you might also want to invest in a luggage rack or roof box to save space inside your vehicle.

If you’re traveling with a pet, a crate or dog seat cover is also recommended, and if you have small children in the car, an appropriate car seat is necessary.

Even though traveling by car means you don’t have to worry about any restrictions on what personal-care items you can bring, you still want to pack efficiently. Using full-sized versions of your favorite hairspray or lotion can take up a lot of valuable space in your luggage.

Consider opting for travel or trial-size items unless you plan a particularly long trip. If your preferred brands don’t carry these products, you can make your own with reusable travel containers .

Depending on your sleeping arrangements, you’ll also want to pack soap and shampoo. This is particularly true if you plan on staying at campgrounds where toiletries aren’t provided.

Remember, spills are still possible even if you pack items in brand-new packages. To protect your other belongings from leaks, pack your personal care items separately in an easy-to-clean nylon or plastic toiletry bag . 

While it’s true that being in the car means you won’t be able to bring tons of electronics with you on your trip, you’ll still want to have a few tech items with you. Of course, you’ll bring your smartphone, which will likely grant you access to most of the apps and online resources you need.

You’ll also want to make sure you have a charger you can plug into your car with you as well. It’s a good idea to have an outlet and USB charger if you encounter a place to plug in when you’re not in your vehicle.

It’s a good idea to bring a tablet or e-reader , too. The larger screen is more convenient for watching videos or reading, which saves you from having to take up space by packing separate books or DVDs. You might also want to consider packing a camera to document your trip. A small digital or disposable camera will let you save your phone battery while still capturing photos and videos.

In most cases, your regular car and health insurance will cover your road trip. However, you might want to take out other travel insurance coverage in some instances.

If you’ve made any non-refundable reservations, travel insurance can help guarantee you get your money back if your plans change. You might also want to update or take out insurance on any valuable belongings you’ll be taking with you, like electronics or meaningful jewelry like engagement rings or wedding bands.

Consider taking the opportunity to become a member of AAA so you have some peace of mind if you need roadside assistance. These memberships also occasionally grant discounts at motels, attractions, and restaurants.

Travel Admin

Road trips might be a more low-tech way to vacation without complicated boarding passes and luggage tags, but there’s still some paperwork and administrative things to take care of.

Make sure you don’t forget these important documents:

• Your ID , including a driver’s license for anyone who might get behind the wheel; also, bring a passport if your trip might take you out of the country
• Car and health insurance information
• The addresses and booking information of any places you’ve made reservations at
• Multiple forms of payment , including money, credit or debit cards, and checks

If you want to go the extra mile, plan ahead in case you lose or damage anything while on the road by bringing extras of:

• Any health information to be aware of, including medical conditions, dietary requirements, allergies, and a list of medications taken
• Your contact details and those of your next of kin or emergency contacts

Keep multiple copies of all the necessary documents for your trip. If you have email confirmation for reservations or car rentals, save that email, take a screenshot on your phone, and bring a hard copy. Keep all necessary paperwork, including your ID, somewhere safe that you can easily access.

Most places today take credit and debit card payments and even mobile payment options, but don’t count on that being the case everywhere. Bring some cash with you in case of emergencies to ensure you’re not stuck and unable to pay .

At the same time, If you’re renting a car or booking a hotel room, you might be asked to leave a deposit ahead of time which should be returned to you at the end of your trip. In those cases, using your credit or debit card is the most secure option. 

With modern technology, it seems crazy that we used to memorize phone numbers or keep a written address book of contacts.

However, when planning your road trip, it’s best not to rely on your phone. Your battery could die, or a locked cell could keep someone from contacting your loved ones in an emergency. To avoid that, keep a physical list of contact information for yourself and your loved ones in a safe place.

Packing Your Car

The packing process is one of the most exciting parts of road trip planning. However, if you get too carried away, you might end up with a disorganized mess or even forget something important. Follow these tips to ensure you pack like a pro.

Before putting anything in your luggage, lay out everything you plan to bring. Here’s where making a packing list will come in handy. Seeing everything in front of you will help you notice gaps you might not have thought of.

Everyone knows to use the weather forecast as a packing guide, but make sure you also consider your itinerary.

If you think you may have a beach day, bring a towel and a bathing suit, for example. That’s why it’s a good idea to devise a plan of what you might do and see while you’re on the road so that you can pack appropriately.

Remember, there’s a difference between being prepared and being over-prepared. Only pack for the activities you are reasonably sure you’ll be able to do while on your trip. If you’re taking a road trip around Florida, you likely won’t need a snowsuit.

When it comes to packing clothes, personal care items, or entertainment, if you don’t use something at home, you likely won’t need it while on the road. For example, if you never wear a robe around the house or at the pool, don’t bring one with you.

Figuring out how to pack your car can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. There are 2 main options when it comes to packing up a car for a road trip:

Suitcases and Car Trunk

This is the easiest and most cost-effective way to pack, as most people already have a duffel bag or luggage set. However, if you’re traveling with a large group or have a smaller vehicle, the car’s trunk may not be large enough.

Roof Box and Luggage Rack

This packing option is more of an investment, but it can be more efficient for road travel as they both save space inside your vehicle. However, roof boxes offer more protection from the elements as they’re made of durable material suitable for most environmental conditions.

If you plan on going the roof box or luggage rack route, make sure to pack your important or valuable items in a separate bag that will stay inside the car.

You might also want to have a small bag with a change of clothes and your essential toiletries in the vehicle as well, so they’re easy to access if you’re overnighting at a hotel. 

You’ll likely have very limited access to a washing machine or dryer while on the road. Between washes, bring a spare bag to put your dirty laundry in to keep from mixing anything up with your clean clothing.

That could mean using something as simple as a trash bag, but you can also go the extra mile and opt for a waterproof bag you can use for swimming suits or other wet clothing items. 

Making sure your car is reliable and ready to handle long hours on the road is perhaps the most important part of the planning process. If you’re renting a vehicle, you likely won’t have to worry about doing much, as the car you get from the rental agency will probably have been inspected shortly before you get the keys.

However, if you’re taking your own car, there are a few things you’ll want to make sure you do before heading out.

• Check Your Oil: Make sure you have enough oil and that you aren’t due for a change to make sure your engine runs safely and efficiently.
• Get a Tune-up and Inspection: Take your car to your trusted mechanic for a look-over to have the brakes and engine checked.
• Check Your Tires: It’s a good idea to rotate your tires if it’s been a while since you’ve last done so. Make sure they’re aligned, balanced, and aren’t worn down as well. Depending on where you’ll be driving, consider changing to all-weather or off-road tires.
• Change Your Filters: Since you’ll be in your car for extended periods, changing your filters will help keep your vehicle free of air pollutants.
• Check the Lights: Test your turn signals, headlights, fog lights, and high beams to make sure they work properly.
• Check the Battery: Make sure your car battery doesn’t need to be changed. A mechanic can do this, but you can also do it at home with a multimeter.
• Fill the Tank: Of course, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to go an entire road trip without stopping for gas (or a charge if you’re using an electric vehicle), but it’s best to start your journey on the right foot with a full tank. 

Driving Considerations

To help things go smoothly, take the time to address a few things that can affect the drive.

Car seats are padded, but they aren’t usually designed for long journeys. Bring a lumbar or seat cushion for the driver to avoid back aches from hours on the road. For passengers, consider bringing blankets or pillows .

Of course, remember to have food and water in the vehicle so no one gets hungry or thirsty. It’s also important to wear soft, comfortable clothing and shoes. For example, you might want to opt for sweats instead of jeans.

One of the biggest factors that can affect your trip is how many drivers are hitting the road with you. That can mean the difference between covering 500 miles and 1,000 miles in a day, for example. If multiple drivers are going on the trip, you can plan your shifts behind the wheel according to your preferences.

Generally, it’s considered safe to drive for up to 8 hours with a break every 2 hours for at least 15 minutes to stretch your legs and rest. However, for some people, that’s still a long time to be behind the wheel, especially for multiple days in a row.

Even if you’re okay in the car for that long, other passengers might struggle with it. Don’t overestimate your abilities or the tolerance of your travel companions, and plan realistic driving times between stops.

Long periods in the car can be grueling and uncomfortable. While you probably planned some stops while figuring out your route, note other rest areas you might encounter while on the road and make sure to keep an eye out for signs of upcoming places to stop.

You might make detailed plans and have your road trip prepared down to the mile, but things happen. One day, you might find yourself burning out after just a few hours on the road, someone could get car sick, or unexpected traffic might pop up.

Be as flexible as you can, and come up with alternatives in case your Plan A doesn’t work out. This can also be a good thing! After all, being too rigid in your itinerary won’t leave much room for any other little adventures that could make your journey even more fun. Be open to stopping at a roadside attraction or checking out a town you drive by.

Road Trip With Kids Considerations

Road trips can be a great opportunity for family bonding and can give kids a lifetime’s worth of memories. However, taking on this sort of travel with children brings along a different set of considerations.

The number 1 thing that will help ensure your child is happy and entertained while in the car is to provide plenty of car activities. Here are a few options that will work in the confined space of a vehicle:

• Shows and Movies: This is the easiest option. You can download videos on a tablet or bring a portable DVD player.
• Coloring Books: It’s not recommended you bring markers that can stain, but colored pencils and a coloring book or drawing paper can work wonders.
• Travel-sized Games : If you have multiple kids or passengers, consider getting travel versions of board games like checkers or Monopoly or a deck of cards to play with. You can even find car-specific games like car bingo.

In most places, there’s an age and weight requirement for children to be in appropriate car seats.

In the U.S., most state laws for car seats require that children under 8 and/or under 65 pounds need a car seat, and children under 12 have to sit in the back seat of a vehicle. However, each state has further requirements, so double-check the laws where you’ll be traveling.

You can have all the games and toys your kid loves in the car, but they’ll still get bored after hours of driving. To help, make the trip an adventure . Point out interesting signs, stop at attractions, and give them a “job,” like looking for signs for your destination. All of that will help the ride be more exciting and tolerable.

Being away from home and their routine can be tough on kids, even if they’re excited about your vacation. Bring comfort items like their favorite blanket or stuffed animal so they have something familiar to make travel and homesickness easier to handle.

It’s hard enough for adults to take on a lengthy drive, let alone kids, and there’s no real way to practice building up that tolerance. Know your kids’ limits. Pull over for a while if they start getting agitated or uncomfortable , even if it means changing your plans and timeline projections.

Technology has made road-tripping so much easier thanks to software that can help you plan and drive. Here are a few handy apps (all for Android or iOS unless noted) to consider downloading before hitting the road:

Roadtrippers

This app is a lifesaver when you’re still planning a trip. Its map database can help you decide on a route and shows attractions, gas stations, hotels, and more for each option. It even provides travel time estimates and gas costs.

GasBuddy has access to fuel prices at over 140,000 stations in North America. If you need to fill up while on the road, it can help you decide which nearby station is most convenient.

You can’t use most map apps if you lose reception while driving. Maps.me is essential because it lets you download maps that can be accessed offline.

Roadside America

There are hundreds of landmarks and attractions most people have never heard of. This app, only available for iOS, compiles them all in 1 easy place, so you can see which ones you can stop at for extra fun.

Waze is useful for every drive, especially while on a road trip. The app gives you updates on traffic and road conditions while also providing alternative routes when they’re available.

• Get Rid of Perishables: Avoid buying perishables in large quantities the days before your trip and use up anything that might expire or go bad while you’re gone.
• Clean Up: On a typical day, you can put off taking out the trash or doing the dishes, but that’s not what you want to come home to. You don’t have to deep-clean your home, but tidying up will make your return more relaxing.
• Take Care of Your Mail: If you are out of town for over a few days, you’ll want to ensure your mail doesn’t pile up in your mailbox. You can ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pick up your mail or even ask the post office to pause service to your house for the extent of your trip.
• Make It Seem Like You Never Left: If leaving your house empty for multiple days worries you, make it seem like there’s someone home. In addition to the above tip for handling your mail, invest in a light or television timer.
• Get a Housesitter: It’s not always necessary to have a housesitter stay over. You can just ask someone you trust to come by and check on your home, water any houseplants, and feed your pets if they didn’t come on your trip with you.
• Turn Off Appliances: Power surges can come out of nowhere, especially if there are storms or construction work in your area. Avoid returning home to damaged tech by unplugging non-essential appliances and purchasing surge-protector strips you can shut off at the socket.
• Let People Know: Make sure you have a few close family and friends who know your itinerary and have copies of all your plans and documents, including a photocopy of your ID. You’ll also want to call your bank, credit card providers, and insurance company to let them know you’ll be traveling to avoid being flagged for suspicious activity.

Road trips are a great way to see the country, but they involve some planning to avoid mid-trip stress and headaches. Plan your route, make sure your car is road ready, and bring plenty of activities for yourself and any other passengers you have with you so hours in the car can fly by in a flash.

Remember to use our helpful packing list to ensure you don’t forget any essentials or overpack for the occasion, and download a few handy apps to make your trip run smoothly.

If you’re searching for inspiration, check out our guide to the best road trips in the U.S. , including routes and highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a road trip be.

Most road trips vary between a week and 10 days because they usually involve driving thousands of miles away from home. However, you can also plan trips that are shorter or longer as long as you’re comfortable in the car.

What not to do on a road trip?

There are a few rules for what not to do on a road trip. The most important rule is not to drive past your limit. If you feel like you’re getting tired, stop for the night or switch drivers for everyone’s safety.

How should I pack for a long road trip?

Consider how long you’ll be gone for and make sure you pack enough to last that long, plus have a few days’ worth of spares just in case. Also, make sure your car entertainment essentials and important items are easily reachable.

What should I not forget to pack for a road trip?

Batteries and chargers for all your tech are essential for keeping yourself and your travel companions entertained while on the road. Also, make sure you have all your travel and driving documents and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The 35+ best road trip essentials for fall adventures.

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Welcome to  The Hollywood Reporter ’s inaugural  Travel Week ! Hollywood stars and insiders log millions of miles for filming, festivals and wherever else the red carpet takes them, so why not look to these frequent flyers for travel inspiration? With   summer destinations still beckoning (and plenty of time to plan for fall trips), this week we’re highlighting insider-approved essentials, style and travel tips, deals and more. Allons-y!

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If you don’t already have a tricked-out camper van (like nomadic actress Holland Roden ) or prefer not to add extra miles to your ride, Outdoorsy and RV Share are among the best online RV and trailer rental services that let you borrow Airstreams (a favorite among globe-trotting stars like Milo Ventimiglia ), towable campers and others directly from their owners. And if you’ve got a driveable or towable travel vehicle that’s collecting dust, you can earn some money while it’s not in use by listing it for rent on the aforementioned platforms.

Related: The Best Gifts for Travelers

What Are the Best Road Trip Essentials?

To help you plan a great mini-vacay, the best road trip essentials can help you stay prepared for whatever comes your way — regardless of the route or season. Whether you’re boondocking along your cross-country route or glamping at your final destination a few towns over, we’ve put together a shoppable road trip checklist with items that are fun and functional for everyone.

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Stanley 40-oz. quencher h2.0 flowstate tumbler.

Staying hydrated is one of the most important things while traveling, which is why Stanley’s TikTok-beloved 40-oz. Quencher tumbler is a road trip essential. We love the cup holder-friendly design and stainless steel vacuum insulation that keeps your drink icy for up to two days or hot for up to seven hours. It comes in more than a dozen colors and the splash-free Flowstate lid lets you sip your beverage three ways.

Dramamine Motion Sickness Tablets

Can’t stomach the road — literally? Dimenhydrinate tablets (such as pharmacist-recommended Dramamine ) are a glove box must-have for anyone who tends to get nauseous or dizzy in the car.

Hook + Albert Leather Toiletry Kit

Hook + Albert’s genius leather toiletry kit has three zippered sections in a fold-flat design that makes it easy to keep your skincare, grooming products and other personal care essentials organized.

Béis Packing Cubes

Béis set of six packing cubes includes two shoe bags and a zip pouch, ensuring that your belongings stay organized. We like the mesh front panel for quickly peeking inside the cubes, and the top handles make it easy to grab your stuff.

Drowsy Sleep Mask ($20 off)

Turn the passenger or back seat into your own private spa and throw on Drowsy Sleep Co.’s wraparound silk mask , which is on sale for 20% off for a limited time. The soft material and padded design help your eyes feel comfortable without leaving that dreaded hair crease.

Business & Pleasure Premium Cooler Bag

For when you want to pull over for a quick picnic, this cooler bag from Business & Pleasure lets you enjoy cold drinks in style. It’s made with the brand’s UV-, water- and mold-proof umbrella canvas and it’s finished with chic leather handles and an eco-friendly printed lining.

Wey & Fly SUV Air Mattress

This top-rated SUV air mattress is a car camping essential. Four separate segments let you customize the fit to your vehicle’s back area, and the mattress features flocking on both sides for comfort. It’s suitable in temps as cold as -13°F or as hot as 122°F and a 12-volt air pump is included.

AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press Kit

No coffee snob ‘s travel kit is complete without AeroPress ‘s Go travel kit , which can make one to three espresso-style shots in under a minute. Just add your own grounded coffee (ideally a medium-fine grind) and water, then stir and press.

STDY Roadside Emergency Kit (20% off)

You can never be too prepared on the road, which is why — in addition to a first aid kit and a portable charger — a roadside emergency kit is also one of the top driving essentials we recommend keeping in your vehicle. This one includes a safety vest, a reflective warning triangle, 7.6-foot jumper cables, a whistle, tools, basic first aid items, gloves, PVC tape, tire repair tools and other road trip must-haves for your RV or car.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Neck Pillow (20% off)

Get some shut-eye in the passenger or back seat with Cabeau’s best-selling Evolution S3 neck pillow , which has a memory foam core and an ergonomic design that helps protect your neck and allows you to breathe and sleep comfortably.

Altec Lansing Kid-Safe Active Noise-Canceling Headphones

For the kiddos, Altec Lansing’s active noise-canceling headphones can connect to devices via Bluetooth or an auxiliary cable, and offers up to 15 hours of battery life. These comfy headphones are great for protecting hearing for kids ages 7 and up as the volume is limited to 85 decibels, and they’re IPX4 rated for withstanding a little bit of splashing.

Tekfun LCD Writing Tablet

You don’t have to be a kid to break your screen habit (and your boredom) with this LCD doodle board , which Amazon reviewers say is a great replacement for digital tablets. On sale for up to 56 percent off, the 10-inch tablet magically erases with the press of a button.

WaterStorage Cube

There’s not always a rest stop or convenience store on those long stretches where you can stop to buy drinks, and that’s when these collapsible water cubes (complete with a spigot) come in handy. Available in 1.3-, 2.6- or 5.3-gallon sizes, this road trip must-have is also great for camping or your home emergency kit.

Surviveware First Aid Kit (20% off)

Accidents — hopefully, minor ones — can happen anywhere, and this first aid kit by Surviveware is packed with more than 200 basic medical emergency items such as bandages, splints, wound dressings, tweezers, a first aid guide and more, all in a water-resistant 600D nylon storage bag.

Carpool Karaoke The Mic 2.0 Wireless Microphone System (20% off)

This could be the best or worst idea for a road trip, depending on your fellow travelers’ vocal chops. While passengers can simply belt it out without any technical assistance, this official Carpool Karaoke microphone lets everyone recreate their favorite Late Show with James Corden  bits while embellishing their performance with echo effects and lights. The microphone and speaker can stream audio from a music app or smartphone via Bluetooth, or you can connect it to your car’s FM tuner. The rechargeable battery promises up to six hours of non-stop karaoke (or auditory torture).

Regal Games Travel Bingo Set

You won’t be bored in the car and in the car bored with this set of four travel bingo cards (available in other games). Small enough to be stowed away in the glove compartment or seat pocket, each reusable card has fingertip-friendly shutter slides and large print that’s easy to read for kids and grown-ups.

Fulton The Classic Insoles

Need some support while getting your steps in? We’re fans of Fulton’s comfortable insoles , which are great for flat-footed walkers (like us) or anyone who needs arch support. We like that they’re made of sustainable cork (which molds to your feet) and that there’s no trimming required, and we’ve found that the insoles make our feet and knees feel more comfortable, especially during all-day outings.

Lelior Le Bonaparte Car Diffuser

Turn your car into a mobile spa with Lelior’s chic Le Bonaparte car diffuser , which plugs into any USB port to transform small spaces (up to 250 square feet) into a relaxing oasis with your favorite essential oils. The French fragrance brand also offers luxe hotel-inspired scents, including ones that evoke the Ritz-Carlton, the 1 Hotel South Beach, the Wynn Hotel and more.

Audible Subscription

When the reception is spotty but you want to catch up on audiobooks and podcasts while driving, Amazon’s Audible lets you download titles so that you can listen offline. New subscribers get 30 days free and one free credit, and Prime members get two free credits to use on titles that’ll stay permanently in their digital library. Sign up here .

Drive Auto Car Trunk Organizer (20% off)

Drive Auto’s genius collapsible car trunk organizer is made of water-resistant 600D canvas and expands to two sizes and nine compartments. The adjustable straps, outer mesh pockets and tie-down straps make it a must for anyone who wants to keep their ride tidy.

GummiShot Energy Gummies

For when you find yourself nodding off but don’t have time for a coffee stop, GummiShot’s energy gummies can help give you a boost of plant-based caffeine to keep you on the road.

Hydaway Collapsible Insulated Bowl with Lid

Our go-to for car camping and trailer travel, Hidaway’s collapsible silicone bowls are perfect for when you’re tight on space. This one-quart option includes a lid and insulated sleeve and we love how easy it is to fold up and throw in a backpack or picnic basket. (Other sizes and designs are also available.)

Ucomx Nano 3-in-1 Wireless Charger (32% off)

Tired of fumbling for a charging cable for your Apple devices? This three-in-one charger folds easily into a compact, travel-friendly size and can charge up your Apple Watch, AirPods, iPhone and other MagSafe- and wireless charging-capable devices.

Tushy Travel Bidet

No more worrying about TP at rest stops with Tushy’s travel bidet , which conveniently collapses to save space while staying discreet. It can hold up to 11 fluid ounces of water and features a hinged nozzle with three spout positions, a carabiner and a carrying bag.

Eco Flow River 2 Portable Power Station ($50 off)

Don’t get caught without power — stow Eco Flow’s River 2 portable power station into your trunk. This compact 600-watt generator weighs less than eight pounds and can keep up to six appliances running during your off-grid adventure. It takes just one hour to fully charge with an AC outlet, and you can plug in the optional solar panel to charge it under the sun — making it one of the most versatile and convenient (not to mention budget-friendly at under $300) power stations out there.

Bagsmart Large Hanging Toiletry Bag (7% off)

Whether you’re ending up at a hotel or just want to freshen up at a pit stop, this hanging toiletry bag makes it easy to stash all of your bath and body products, jewelry and other road trip essentials into a convenient carryall. And when you are ready to fly, the bag features a separate bag that follows TSA 3-1-1 liquids rules, making it easier to breeze through airport security.

Related: The Best Travel-Friendly Makeup Bags and Vanity Cases for Every Type of Beauty Lover

Kenu Airvue Car Headrest Tablet Mount

Kenu’s Airvue car headrest tablet mount lets passengers turn the back seat into a mini movie theater.

Everywhere You Go: A Guided Travel Journal

Document your adventures in Compendium’s Everywhere You Go travel journal , which is filled with creative prompts, inspiring quotes and blank note pages (think packing lists and contact info) so you won’t forget a thing about your trip.

JoyTutus Pickup Truck Waterproof Tent (38% off)

This six-foot-long truck bed tent makes it easy to turn your ride into a shelter for shut-eye or a quick rest, thanks to the padded floor and quick setup. It’s made of 150D waterproof polyester and has three windows for catching the sights or fresh air.

Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones

Don’t love your driver’s soundtrack? Sony’s WH-1000XM5 headphones (also available in black) are perfect for audiophiles, frequent travelers and anyone who wants excellent automatic noise canceling (Auto NC) and sound for listening to music, making calls and other situations where you need to cut out distractions. Our go-to amid noisy surroundings, these super-comfortable wireless headphones also include a 3.5-millimeter cable for when you want to plug in (such as an airplane entertainment system), and they offer up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge.

The four beamforming microphones deliver crystal-clear voice pickup for phone and video calling, and we like the speak-to-chat mode (which automatically stops the music so you can hear ambient sound) and the intuitive touch control settings for the volume, activating Auto NC, voice assistants and more.

Foval Car Power Inverter

When you’re traveling with digital nomads (or tech-obsessed passengers), this 200-watt car power inverter has two 110-volt outlets and four USB ports so you can charge up to six devices.

Thisworx Car Vacuum Cleaner ($8 off)

All of that extra mileage likely means more messes, too. Thisworx’s car vacuum cleaner conveniently plugs into your car or RV and features a HEPA filter, three attachments and a 106-watt motor to suck up dirt, crumbs, ash, pet hair and other debris.

Béis The Convertible Weekender

This laptop-friendly convertible weekender bag from Béis has all the compartments, pockets and space you need for one day or three. The removable bottom compartment (which doubles as a packing cube) and padded laptop sleeve, wide opening, key leash and luggage handle pass-through combine to make it the ultimate versatile carryall.

Zero Breeze Mark 2 Portable Air Conditioner

Not every camper van or trailer has modern upgrades, but Zero Breeze’s highly-rated Mark 2 portable air conditioner can keep you cool. It has four fan speeds and three cooling modes (including an “on-demand” setting for conserving energy), and it’s great for tents, small rooms and recreational vehicles. Go off-grid with the rechargeable battery, which gives you about five hours of run time.

Awoken Unisex Urinal

When nature calls, don’t be caught squirming in your seat until the next rest stop. This unisex urinal lets anyone — including kids — relieve themselves in the car without spillage (for safety and sanitary reasons, we don’t recommend using it when you’re at the wheel).

Duluth Trading Co. Seat Back Bunker

Whether you’re traveling with kids or very bored backseat drivers, Duluth Trading Co.’s Seat Back Bunker has plenty of pockets for stowing away road trip entertainment and other essentials.

Pendleton Washable Wool Blanket

Keep passengers warm with Pendleton’s washable wool blanket , which is made from sustainable materials and measures 54 inches by 60 inches. The machine-washable throw’s fringe also adds a stylish touch in your home on wheels.

Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro (30% off)

Of course, you’re going to want to document your moments, and Kodak’s Mini Shot 3 Retro instant camera offers the best of both analog and digital worlds. Plus, it’s currently on sale for 30 percent off.

HALO Bolt Portable Charger & Car Jump Starter (12% off)

36. halo bolt portable charger and car jump starter.

Equipped with two USB charging ports and a 120V AC wall outlet, this portable charger can also be used to jump-start your car battery with the included jumper cables. It’s also got an LED flood light for staying safe and visible in the dark and comes in a handy carrying pouch.

Nexar Beam GPS 1080p Dash Cam (11% off)

Popular among rideshare drivers, a good dashboard camera can provide peace of mind in the unfortunate event of collisions, or to capture stunning road trip views. Nexar’s GPS-enabled Beam 1080p HD dash cam captures 135-degree wide video and syncs with the brand’s iPhone or Android app, which can create post-accident reports with key crash information (such as driving speed, location, G-force impact and video footage) that you can send to your car insurance company.

The device can start recording immediately when it senses even minor impacts (even when you’re parked), and it comes with a 32 GB SD card for on-device video storage as well as unlimited cloud storage.

38. Yeti Hopper Flip 8 Cooler

If your vehicle is tight on space, Yeti’s compact Hopper Flip 8 cooler can fit a six-pack or whatever else you need to keep cool in between stops. The DryHide shell means it can take a beating in the rugged outdoors, and when used with a combination of Yeti’s ice packs and regular ice, the cooler can keep contents cold for two or more days.

Sanmitti Car Back Seat Organizer ($4 off)

You may be living a freewheelin’ driver’s life, but your car doesn’t need to look the part. Keep your car organized on trips and in everyday life with this back seat organizer , which contains pockets, fold-down trays (perfect for holding tablets to keep passengers entertained), water bottle holders and other storage compartments.

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13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

• Stunning coastal views and charming towns make the Pacific Coast Highway a bucket-list-worthy road trip in California. (100 characters)
• Route 66 is perfect for history buffs, connecting small towns and offering iconic landmarks along the way. (102 characters)
• The Great River Road, spanning 10 states, provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River for an ultimate bucket list road trip. (129 characters)

There's something inherently alluring about the open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to explore new destinations and experiences. From adventures on the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the stunning vistas of the Southwest, the United States is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking road trip routes in the world. This article lists some of the best bucket-list-worthy road trips to take in the USA for a memorable adventure. So, grab those keys, buckle up, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime on one of America's most scenic roads .

UPDATE: 2023/12/07 11:27 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Even More Great Road Trips To Take In The United States

The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48). This list was expanded to include even more excellent road trip ideas to explore the nation.

Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Byways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Staggering sheer drops and coastal views are what make this pacific coast adventure stand out.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous road trips in the US , stretching along the California coastline between Orange County and Mendocino County, covering a distance of approximately 655 miles. The highway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

Some of the must-see spots along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, the Hearst Castle, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. The drive also takes you through the spectacular Big Sur region, overlooking the coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

• Length: 655 miles
• When To Go: September through October
• Bucket List Stop: Pfeiffer Beach to see the falls

Route 66, Illinois to California

Perfect for history buffs, route 66 tells stories of america's midwestern glory days.

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica in California, covering a distance of approximately 2,448 miles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the US and offers plenty of places to visit along the way. The highway is a popular route for travelers, as it connects many small towns and rural areas in the Midwest and the Southwest.

Some of the must-see attractions and landmarks along the highway include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas; the Grand Canyon in Arizona; and the Santa Monica Pier in California.

• Length: 2,448 miles
• When To Go: May and September
• Bucket List Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa to add a quirky, famed landmark to the trip

Great River Road, Mississippi River

This route covers 10 states in total, making it an ultimate bucket list road trip.

The Great River Road is a national scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 miles.

Some of the highlights of the Great River Road include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri; the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi; and the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The road also passes through several national and state parks, such as Itasca State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Natchez Trace State Park.

• Length: 3,000 miles
• When To Go: During the fall months , September through November
• Bucket List Stop: The French Quarter in New Orleans for an authentic Crescent City experience

Related: 10 Bucket List Road Trips To Take In The US This Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Known for being the most scenic mountain road in the south, the blue ridge scenery is unparalleled.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive, spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The road is among the best road trips US states have to offer, especially due to the fact it provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and various opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering visitors a variety of attractions, including overlooks with panoramic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Some of the most popular stops along the parkway include the Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

• Length: 469 miles
• When To Go: Mid-May through Mid-September
• Bucket List Stop: Shenandoah National Park to take in the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains

Discover the best stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway when planning a road trip adventure along this road.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Seven mile bridge connects travelers to bahia honda state park, making it perfect for nature lovers.

The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile scenic road that connects mainland Florida with the Florida Keys , a chain of islands stretching southward into the Gulf of Mexico. The highway, which is easily among the best road trips in the US in terms of ocean scenery, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean - thereby also providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching en route.

Some of the highlights of the Overseas Highway include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, which features hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds. Other popular stops along the highway include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Dolphin Research Center, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

• Length: 113 miles
• When To Go: Between January and April
• Bucket List Stop: Bahia Honda State Park to appreciate the untouched beauty of this Florida Keys landscape, and any spring season festivals

The Pacific Northwest

In stark contrast to other pacific roads, the northwest scenic byway offers dense woods, mountain views, and scenic waterways.

The Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway, also known as the Cascade Loop, is another one of the most beautiful road trips in the US. It's a 440-mile scenic route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, allowing travelers to enjoy various outdoor recreation and cultural exploration along the way.

The Scenic Byway is dotted with charming mountain towns such as Leavenworth, and Winthrop, offering a Wild West vibe with wooden sidewalks and historic buildings. Other highlights of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway include North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning river canyon, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall viewing.

• Length: 440 miles
• When To Go: During the spring or summer months
• Bucket List Stop: North Casades National park, where travelers can cross off bucket list hikes, wildflower viewing, and scenic waterfalls off their list

Related: A Road Trip To Remember: The 10 Most Scenic Drives For Your Spring Vacation In The U.S.

The Grand Circle, Southwest USA

This route takes travelers through scenic rocky canyons between utah, arizona, new mexico, colorado, and nevada.

The Grand Circle is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the most iconic national parks and monuments in the American Southwest. The route includes the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada, stretching over 1,400 miles of stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and geological wonders.

The Grand Circle route typically starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, passing through iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands, known for their towering red rock formations, stunning canyons, and unique geological features. Other highlights of the Grand Circle route include Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Hoover Dam.

• Length: 1,400 miles
• When To Go: April to May, or September to early November
• Bucket List Stop: Monument Valley to explore hoodoos and other unique geological formations

The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Perfect for small town lovers and scenic lakeside views, this route promises all the beauty of the great lakes.

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a scenic road trip taking visitors around the five Great Lakes. The route is approximately 6,500 miles long and passes through eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of landscapes, from urban areas to small towns and rural countryside.

Along the way, visitors can explore national parks like Isle Royale, Pictured Rocks, and Niagara Falls, with various historic lighthouses, beaches, and scenic overlooks. One of the highlights of the tour is the Great Lakes Seaway Trail and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands, known for its charming waterfront towns.

• Length: 6,500 miles
• When To Go: During the summer months , between June and August
• Bucket List Stop: Niagara Falls for those who have never been, or Pictured Rocks for those who have

The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

Early america can be seen on this route, in the form of several landmarks and even a former midwest mining town.

The Black Hills and Badlands route is a scenic driving route passing through some of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Dakota. The route covers approximately 150 miles, taking visitors through a variety of landscapes, including the rugged badlands, towering granite peaks, and pristine forests, including several iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.

Some other notable stops along the route include Custer State Park, Deadwood gold-mining town, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of motorcycle enthusiasts.

• Length: 150 miles
• Bucket List Stop: Badlands National park to witness some of the most famous landmarks in American history

Related: Hit The Road: 10 Unforgettable Adventures Await With These U.S. Road Trip Ideas

The Texas Hill Country

Small towns and country that span for miles exude the true charm of the texas hill country route, offering the best views in the state.

The Texas Hill Country route offers picturesque views of beautiful rolling hills and charming small towns of central Texas. The route is approximately 200 miles long, extending between Austin and San Antonio. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural attractions. The road through Texas Hill Country takes visitors through several scenic small towns, such as Fredericksburg, Gruene, and Luckenbach. These are some of the best towns in the Texas Hill Country , each particularly known for its charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

One of the highlights of the route is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the landscape from the many lookout points and scenic overlooks along the way.

• Length: 200 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Fredericksburg, which is a bucket list destination for small town lovers

The Dalton Highway, Alaska

With this route being the only one that crosses the arctic circle, the dalton highway is the definition of "bucket list".

The Dalton Highway is the northernmost highway in the United States and the only road trip in this list that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway is an all-weather road but also incredibly remote and one that requires extensive planning (be prepared for breaking down in the remote Alaskan wilderness).

The Dalton Highway runs from Fairbanks (the main city in Interior Alaska) and ends at Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay (near the Arctic Ocean).

• Length: 414 miles
• When To Go: June to mid-July , when the highway is usually dry
• Bucket List Stop: Finger Mountain Wayside, which also has an interpretive half-mile hiking trail for those seeking more scenic overlooks

Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive

While hawaii might seem out of the way, the big island circuit drive is worth the flight to see active volcanoes and stunning coastal landscape views.

The Big Island of Hawaii is by far the largest island in the Hawaiian Island Chain and is home to some of the world's most active volcanoes and some of the most stunning landscapes. One of the epic drives to consider is to drive around the Big Island. The two main roads on the Big Island are Highways 11 and 19 and taken together they create one big loop around the whole island.

• Length: 300 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, August, September, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Pepe'ekeo Scenic Drive is at the start of Highway 19, just north of Hilo

Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive

It wouldn't be a bucket list trip if it didn't have a unique route, and the drive from seattle to washington and fairbanks, alaska, also brings travelers through canada.

This suggested road trip from Seattle in Washington to Fairbanks in Alaska is the only American road trip to also pass through Canada. This is a mammoth 2,150-mile road trip passing through some of the remotest landscapes of North America (including British Columbia and the Yukon Territory). Alternatively, to keep it an all-American 'road trip', consider taking the Alaska Marine Highway - a ferry network that is part of the American highway system that bypasses Canada.

• Length: 2,150 miles
• When To Go: During summer months, preferably early June and July
• Bucket List Stop: While Fairbanks is the ultimate bucket list stop, saving some time to explore Canada can also add a unique aspect to this road trip

We're having loyal Costco shoppers share their grocery lists with us. Here are their favorite things to buy there.

• Business Insider had 25 Costco shoppers share the items they frequently buy from the popular chain.
• Certain staple ingredients — like vanilla extract, rice, and coffee — are worth buying in bulk. 
• You can find especially good deals on name-brand classics, like Dave's Killer Bread.

As the third-largest retailer in the US , Costco consistently aims to keep its millions of cardholders coming back for discounts and bulk buys. 

The store attracts shoppers from all walks of life, from nutritionists to chefs to athletes, and everyone has a unique shopping list.  

BI had 25 dedicated shoppers share what they snag on their Costco runs — here's what they said.

Abigail Abesamis Demarest has shopped at Costco for over 10 years and likes to buy certain ingredients in bulk

She uses these frozen-berry blends in her smoothies.

Using frozen berries instead of ice makes smoothies cold and refreshing without watering them down.

This 4-pound bag of fruit comes with raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. 

Demarest mixes it with almond butter, almond milk, chia seeds, and cacao powder for a morning drink .

Buying salmon in bulk can be cheaper in the long run

Costco sells huge slabs of Atlantic salmon .

Demarest often pairs baked fillets with brown rice and veggies, like spinach or broccoli. 

This large piece can be divided into several servings, and you can freeze leftover fillets to make them last longer.

These prepackaged Starbucks frappuccinos are an easy, on-the-go coffee option

These Starbucks frappuccinos are tasty, and buying them in bulk makes sense.

Demarest will often wait to snag these until there's a manufacturer's coupon to make them even cheaper. 

Read Abigail Abesamis Demarest's full Costco shopping list: I've shopped at Costco for over 10 years. Here are the 15 products I always buy in bulk .

Solo shopper Alicia Diaz lives in New York with 2 roommates but finds ways to make her Costco membership worth it

This 5-pack of crest 3d white toothpaste can last diaz and her roommates months.

Although one person can finish a normal tube of toothpaste in just a couple of months, the Crest 3D White bulk pack can last for six to eight months, even when shared.

Diaz said that since she shares a bathroom, it's more cost-effective to buy this toiletry in bulk.

These Kirkland Signature leggings are one of Diaz's favorite buys

These comfy leggings come in several colors.

Diaz bought these leggings on a whim and was blown away, picking up three more the next time.

As a Lululemon fan, she said this cheaper Costco alternative is comparable to the name brand. 

These individually portioned packets of Yakisoba make for an easy dinner

Frozen and portioned meals are great Costco buys for solo shoppers since they have a much longer shelf life.

Each box of Yakisoba contains six packets of noodles mixed with sauce and an array of stir-fry vegetables.

Diaz will often finish cooking the noodles in a pan with chicken.

Read Alicia Diaz's full Costco shopping list: I'm a solo shopper at Costco. Here are the 15 things I always buy that make my membership worth it .

Lisa Tanner feeds her family of 12 by buying items in bulk at the wholesale chain

These packages of orville redenbacher's popcorn kernels make for a cheap and delicious snack.

This 8-pound jug of kernels will last Tanner about a month. 

She'll usually prepare two large batches multiple times a week as a ready snack for her 10 kids , popping the kernels with oil in a pan over medium heat.

You can eat as is or add your choice of toppings, like butter and salt. 

Rice is a versatile and inexpensive side dish

Tanner also grabs a 25-pound bag of Thai Hom Mali jasmine rice.

She often prepares it in the Instant Pot to serve alongside meals like hamburger bowls, fried rice, and casserole.

Kirkland Signature sliced ham is a great deal and can work in a number of meals

She also buys two-packs of uncured extra-lean ham.

Although ham works great in sandwiches, Tanner will also add this ingredient to dishes like fried rice, quesadillas, scrambled eggs , and baked potatoes. 

Read Lisa Tanner's full Costco shopping list: I'm a mom of 10 who's shopped at Costco for almost 20 years. Here are 20 things I always buy in bulk .

Tara Zeller drives 4 hours for each Costco trip

This foodsaver has saved zeller hundreds of dollars and makes her big hauls worth it.

Zeller uses the FoodSaver to ensure her frozen food lasts longer and doesn't get freezer burn, saving her up to hundreds of dollars since she can preserve her bulk buys.

Simply portion the food into your ideal serving, then seal and store it in the freezer for easy future meals .

These packs of souvlaki make for an easy dinner protein

These Greek-style souvlaki skewers are available in chicken or pork flavors.

Zeller will often grill some of the skewers and pair them with a side salad for dinner, then freeze the rest to whip up at a later date.

This shopper also picks up this large jug of Kirkland Signature maple syrup

Costco sells large bottles of pure, organic maple syrup. 

The breakfast staple works great on top of pancakes, waffles, and French toast , plus it'll last for a while. 

Read Tara Zeller's full Costco shopping list: I drive 4 hours and spend $500 for every Costco trip. Here are 16 things I always stock up on .

Majed Kassis runs the popular @CostcoBuys Instagram account, which has over 460,000 followers

Costco sells premade street-taco kits that are easy to assemble.

These ready-made kits include taco essentials — 12 flour tortillas, chicken, cheese, lime slices, salsa, and cilantro-lime crema.

Each pack can feed about three to four people.

They're a hit among Kassis' family and ideal for when you don't want to cook.

These cinnamon pull-a-parts make for a delicious dessert or breakfast

Found in Costco's bakery section, these cinnamon treats are a delicious buy. 

Each pack of 12 comes topped with tasty cream-cheese icing. 

Kassis pops them in the microwave for 20 seconds to warm them and make them melty.

Just Bare's breaded chicken-breast chunks are a hit among kids and adults alike

Kassis compared a 4-pound bag of these boneless chicken bites to Chick-fil-A's nuggets. 

She said they turn out wonderfully crispy in the air fryer and work well as protein on a salad.

Read Majed Kassis' full Costco shopping list: I run a Costco fan account with over 390,000 followers. Here are 12 of my favorite recent purchases .

Nutritionist Candace Nelson buys certain foods in bulk to whip up simple, wholesome dishes

Mandarins are an easy snack and chock-full of vitamin c.

Nelson will place a handful of mandarins in the fruit bowl each morning to set out as a snack. 

The easy-peel fruit is a great source of vitamin C and can last for several weeks in the fridge. 

Kirkland Signature mixed-nut butter doesn't contain any added sugar or salt

This wholesome mixed-nut butter combines almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, and flax seeds to make a delicious spread that you can add to snacks or meals.

Nuts are a great, wholesome source of fats — a food group that should ideally make up 30% of your daily calories .

Particularly, omega-3 fatty acids found in many nuts and seeds are good for heart health .

Snag a 2-pack of Dave's Killer Bread at Costco

With both 5 grams of fiber and protein per serving, Dave's Killer Bread is great for sandwiches and toast. 

Nelson will often toast the bread and top it with nut butter and sliced bananas. 

Read Candace Nelson's full Costco shopping list: I'm a nutritionist who shops at Costco for 2. Here are 15 things I always buy in bulk .

Salma Hamze shops at Costco for just her and her mom

This shopper buys this bulk tub of folgers' classic roast to make drip coffee.

This 51-ounce tub of ground coffee  lasts a while.

Hamze uses it to make drip coffee, though it can also be brewed with a machine or French press.

Costco sells large bags of these white-cheddar Hippeas

Hamze is a big fan of the bulk-sized bag of Hippeas — organic chickpea puffs.

She buys two bags at a time and enjoys this snack as a replacement for potato chips .

Taylor Farms' salad kits make lunch or dinner easy

These premade salad kits come with everything you need for a tasty serving of veggies , including dressing and toppings. 

The Mediterranean salad kit is Hamze's favorite.

Read Salma Hamze's full Costco shopping list: I shop at Costco for my family of 2. Here are 10 things I always stock up on .

Dana Engelbert drives 3 hours — 140 miles roundtrip — to buy these items in bulk

Kirkland signature organic apple-sauce pouches are a great snack for kids.

Engelbert buys these apple-sauce pouches as a wholesome snack for her kids.

Coming in a large box of 24 pouches, they are organic, gluten-free, and added-sugar-free.

Costco sells packs of hand-pulled rotisserie chicken breast

The wholesale chain's rotisserie chicken is a beloved staple, but Engelbert often picks up this pack of hand-pulled breast instead. 

It's a versatile meat option that can be added to salads, enchiladas, and more.  

Combat seasonal stuffiness with these bulk packs of allergy pills and nasal sprays

You can snag bulk packs of allergy pills and nasal spray from name brands — like Zyrtec and Flonase — at Costco.

Just make sure to check the expiration date and use them in time.

Read Dana Engelbert's full Costco shopping list: I drive 3 hours to shop at Costco. Here are 21 things that make the 140-mile trip worth it .

Gemma Acheampong's a Ghanaian track-and-field Olympian and semi-professional athlete who shops at Costco

This athlete opts for kirkland signature frozen salmon.

Each 3-pound bag of Atlantic salmon contains individually wrapped pieces of fish.

Acheampong said she used to buy fresh salmon, but realized she would end up freezing most of it and started buying these packs instead. 

She'll often bake a fillet with a marinade and serve it with vegetables for an easy meal .

Grapes are quite affordable at Costco

Costco sells 4-pound packages of green and black seedless grapes. 

Acheampong will often freeze them to have as a crisp, refreshing snack during the summer months. 

The grocery chain also sells green tea in bulk

Green tea is naturally caffeinated and rich in antioxidants .

Acheampong may drink between three to four cups of tea daily, so she grabs these bulk packs of 100 bags from Costco.

Read Gemma Acheampong's full Costco shopping list: I'm an Olympian and semi-professional athlete. Here are 16 things I always buy at Costco for myself .

Lizzy Briskin is a trained chef who likes to buy certain staple ingredients in bulk

Pure vanilla extract is a great deal at costco.

Pure vanilla extract can be a pricey ingredient, but Costco shoppers can snag a 16-ounce bottle.

You can use vanilla in various baked goods and breakfasts, from cookies and cakes to French toast and pancakes.

Sauerkraut is a great source of probiotics

Chock-full of natural probiotics to keep your gut healthy, sauerkraut can make a delicious addition to sandwiches or salads.

Plus, the ingredient, which comes in a 50-ounce container, can last for months sealed in the fridge.

Costco sells large bags of quinoa for a reasonable price

A wholesome staple to keep in your kitchen, quinoa is full of plant-based protein and fiber.

Although the trendy grain can be quite pricey at other stores, you can snag a bag that's over 4 pounds at Costco. 

Pair the ingredient with protein and veggies for dinner or use it to bulk up a salad .

Read Lizzy Briskin's full Costco shopping list: I'm a chef who shops at Costco. Here are my 12 favorite things to buy .

Costco shopper Jordan Kuntz lives on the road full-time in a 27-foot RV

Rao's marinara sauce is a delicious, high-quality option.

This shopper thinks Rao's red sauce is worth the higher price tag, and even celebrity chef Ina Garten has given this jarred option her seal of approval .

You can find a great deal on packs of two 28-ounce jars at Costco.

Add this sauce to a variety of pasta dishes or meat entrées. 

Canned salmon is a great staple that doesn't need to be refrigerated

Canned salmon is a convenient source of protein that doesn't need to be refrigerated, so it's perfect for camping or road trips.

Kuntz drains the ingredient and serves it with mayo, onion, jalapeño, salt, and lemon juice.

Seeds of Change's microwavable quinoa-and-brown-rice packs make for an easy side

This microwavable pack of grains is wholesome and ready in just 90 seconds.

Add it as a side with a protein-heavy dinner, or use it as the base for a rice bowl.

Read Jordan Kuntz's full Costco shopping list: I live on the road full-time in a 27-foot RV. Here are the 15 things I always buy at Costco .

Olivia Yi runs the recipe blog Costco Kitchen for over 35,000 Instagram followers

Pesto is a tasty ingredient that you can add to a variety of plates.

Yi wrote that Costco's pesto — made with Genovese basil and pine nuts — is one of the best store-bought options.

You can sauté veggies and meat in it or add a few spoonfuls to a bowl of pasta . 

Kerrygold's pure Irish butter is a quality staple

Available in both salted and unsalted options, this high-quality butter is worth the higher price tag, according to the shopper. 

This rich and creamy butter works well slathered on bread or used in decadent dishes. 

You can freeze Parmigiano Reggiano to make it last longer

Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano is aged over 24 months and boasts nutty and salty undertones .

Yi recommends adding it to pasta dishes or cheese plates and then tossing the leftover rinds into soup. 

To boost the ingredient's shelf life, Yi cuts the cheese into chunks and freezes what she won't use right away.

Read Olivia Yi's full Costco shopping list: I create easy Costco recipes for over 33,000 followers. Here are 15 of my favorite things to buy .

Personal trainer Rachel MacPherson shops for her family of 6 at Costco

The pom whole-grain tortillas are a versatile carb.

Costco sells packs of Pom's tortillas, which come with 15 whole-grain shells.

This wholesome ingredient can serve as the base for many meals, like wraps, homemade enchiladas, and quesadillas. 

Snag top sirloin steak at a reasonable price

Costco sells high-quality meat for fair prices, like this lean top sirloin .

MacPherson uses it to make steakhouse-style salads and sometimes enjoys leftovers as a side for scrambled eggs.

Salsa is great to have on hand to add to a variety of dishes 

Garden Fresh's salsa sports a lively flavor profile that works with several dishes, like omelets, nachos, and baked potatoes.

MacPherson also recommended pairing it with Kirkland Signature tortilla chips. 

Read Rachel MacPherson's full Costco shopping list: I'm a personal trainer who shops for a family of 6 at Costco. Here are 21 things I always stock up on .

Chelsea Schnyer's a bartender who shops at the chain for her bar on wheels

Cranberry juice is a popular cocktail ingredient.

Schnyer grabs this Ocean Spray cranberry juice from Costco to make cocktails and mocktails, like the Tropical Vodka Cran .

Shoppers can grab a pack of two 96-ounce bottles.

This shopper always picks up limes at Costco

Limes are a common ingredient in many cocktails, from the base of a margarita to the garnish on a Long Island iced tea.

So Schnyer makes sure to grab at least three bags each trip.

These infused ice cubes are a fun drink addition 

These Herb and Lou's infused ice cubes are the perfect addition to an old fashioned that won't water it down. 

Each box comes with 12 ice cubes.

Read Chelsea Schnyer's full Costco shopping list: I'm a bartender who shops at Costco. Here are 12 things I always buy for my bar on wheels .

Solo shopper Savannah J. Frierson budgets on each Costco run 

These affordable croissants are massive.

Frierson said these croissants may have been the reason she got a Costco membership in the first place.

They're massive, fluffy, and buttery, making for a great breakfast or sandwich base. 

Make dinner easy with Kirkland stuffed bell peppers

Costco sells stuffed peppers with ground beef and rice. 

Simply pop these in the oven and serve alongside dinner rolls for an easy weeknight meal. 

Kirkland Signature thick-sliced bacon can last a while 

This pack of bacon is separated into two 1 ½-pound portions, so you can freeze one while you use the other. 

Fry up a few strips to serve alongside eggs, or add a few pieces to a BLT. 

Read Savannah J. Frierson's full Costco shopping list: I'm a solo shopper at Costco who tries to stick to a $50 budget. Here are 14 things I love to buy .

Gabriella Sorrento said she lost 40 pounds with the help of these Costco swaps

Plantain chips are an easy snack.

Sorrento said that instead of cutting out snacks on her weight-loss journey, she found ones that work with her lifestyle, like Barnana's organic plantain chips. 

They're both salty and crunchy.

For a versatile spread, snag Good Foods avocado mash

Packed with healthy fats, this avocado dip is great for snacking or adding to a sandwich. 

It pairs well with tortilla chips or veggies.

Siete tortilla chips are grain-free and tasty

This grain-free swap for normal tortilla chips is made with cassava flour, avocado oil, coconut flour, chia seeds, and salt.

You can pair it with salsa or guacamole for an easy snack.

Read Gabriella Sorrento's full Costco shopping list: I lost 40 pounds. Here are 12 Costco products that helped me lose the weight and keep it off .

Elizabeth Blasi also said she lost 40 pounds by following the keto diet and buying some Costco staples

Kirkland signature almond flour is a keto staple.

You can grab a 3-pound bag of almond flour at Costco.

Blasi wrote that the ingredient was one of the reasons she was able to "sustain a strict keto diet for an extended period."

It's versatile and can be used as a flour substitute in baking or as breading in savory dishes. 

Blasi uses coconut oil in a lot of her cooking

The keto diet is chock-full of healthy fats, so coconut oil is a helpful staple to cook with since it has a smoke point of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

She said she'd use the ingredient to make fat bombs, which can increase your macros and satisfy a sweet tooth.

Canned chicken is versatile and high in protein

Chicken is a versatile source of protein to keep on hand. Blasi would use it in homemade pizza crust or in "avocado boats."

Read Elizabeth Blasi's full Costco shopping list: I lost 40 pounds in a year on the keto diet. Here are my 12 favorite Costco buys that helped me meet my goals .

Alana Al-Hatlani is a baker and her boyfriend is a chef  — so they snag several foods from the wholesale chain

Prosciutto is available for a good price at costco.

Al-Hatlani said they often use the salty, cured pork as a replacement for bacon in several meals, like pasta or eggs Benedict.

Shoppers can snag the meat from the chain in two 6-ounce packs.

This shopper likes to snack on Theo's organic double-chocolate cookie bites

Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, these dark-chocolate-covered cookie-dough bites are crunchy and tasty without being overly sugary.

You can snag a 21-ounce bag at Costco.

Mama Lil's spicy pickled peppers are a versatile ingredient and offer a kick of flavor

These Hungarian "Goathorn" peppers are soaked in a sweet brine of vinegar, sugar, garlic, maple syrup, fennel seed, and salt.

They're vinegary but not too salty, making them a great addition to foods like pizza or biscuits.

Read Alana Al-Hatlani's full Costco shopping list: I'm a professional baker and my boyfriend is a chef. Here are 13 of our favorite things to buy at Costco .

Culinary judge Meredith Ochs prepares for the holidays by getting her essentials from the warehouse

Fresh ocean spray cranberries are perfect to bake with.

Ochs loves fresh produce, so she gets excited when the 2-pound bags of Ocean Spray cranberries hit store shelves.

She grabs two and freezes one since they keep beautifully in the freezer. She can then bake cranberry-crumb cake any time of year.

Pom Wonderful pomegranates can dress up dining tables and elegant dishes

To Ochs, fresh pomegranates are beautiful both inside and out. Their blush skin is part of autumn's palette, and their round shape makes them look like natural ornaments.

Inside, pomegranates are packed with juicy arils that add a ruby-red color and tart flavor to salads, dips, and desserts.

To eat, score the peel with a knife and gently break them up by hand in a big bowl of water. The ready-to-eat arils will sink to the bottom.

Kirkland Signature praline pecans are a good addition to breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes

Kirkland Signature praline pecans are a Costco favorite . Ochs buys them during the holidays to add sweetness and crunch to various dishes.

Pecans have a distinct buttery, slightly woody taste that's enhanced by the sugary praline coating.

She likes to crumble them over a Thanksgiving sweet-potato casserole, toss them into salads with goat cheese, and top pancakes with them for a decadent breakfast. They're also great on a cheese plate.

Read Meredith Ochs' full shopping list: I'm a culinary judge who shops at Costco for the holidays. Here are 10 things I recommend buying .

Veronica Thatcher has worked at Costco for over 17 years, so she knows the best things to get for her family

The crazy cuizine mandarin orange chicken is delicious.

Crazy Cuizine Mandarin-orange chicken  is a family favorite on Thatcher's menu twice a month. Each pack contains lightly battered chicken breast and rib meat and a sweet and tangy orange sauce.

This meal is great for a quick, easy dinner in less than 20 minutes.

Each box contains 4 pounds of chicken with two packets of orange sauce.

Mission Carb Balance tortillas are great for tacos and wraps

Mission Carb Balance tortillas are one of Thatcher's favorite products and are versatile enough for mini pizzas , wraps, and countless other meals.

They contain 4 grams of net carbs and 0 grams of sugar per serving.

Read Veronica Thatcher's full shopping list: I work at Costco and spend $100 a week there to feed my family of 4. Here are 10 things we love to buy .

Pro baker Molly Allen grabs her staple ingredients from the chain

Allen goes through a lot of butter at home.

Most of Allen's baked goods, especially cookies, start with several sticks of butter .

She always uses unsalted butter for baking, and she can grab a big package at Costco for less money than if she bought smaller ones at the grocery store.

A pack of Kirkland Signature unsalted butter comes with four 1-pound boxes.

Allen uses the Kirkland Signature semisweet chocolate chips in a variety of ways

You can't make  chocolate-chip cookies  without this key ingredient.

Allen will melt it and dip cookies, pretzel rods, and marshmallows in it for a fun, flavorful twist. 

She picks up a 4 ½-pound bag of Kirkland Signature semisweet chocolate chips.

Read Molly Allen's full shopping list: I'm a professional baker. Here are 9 staple ingredients I recommend stocking up on at Costco .

Janice Costa has curated a shopping list for people who hate cooking

The fresh additions individually portioned, cooked chicken breast is great for salads.

Costa said the Fresh Additions pre-grilled chicken is a great ingredient to keep around to throw on top of bagged salad greens, put on a sandwich, or just heat and eat on its own.

She thinks it makes portion control easy and keeps a few packages in the fridge and freezes the rest.

The Happy Village organic frozen dark cherries are a great dessert

For Costa, frozen fruit is a late-night snack that's almost as good as ice cream.

Full of antioxidants, dark cherries are her favorite. She eats them right out of the bag but they're also good on top of yogurt or salads or in a smoothie.

She's also experimented with baking them into crescent rolls for a quick, simple dessert.

Costa dislikes fish but loves the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids

Costa isn't a fan of fish but her doctor has recommended having it several times a week. 

The Pure Alaska Omega salmon oil is a great compromise since it gives her the nutritional benefits of omega-3 fatty acids — like improved heart health and reduced inflammation  — without making her house smell like fish.

Read Janice Costa's full shopping list: I shop for just myself at Costco and hate cooking. Here are 15 things I love to buy there .

Solo shopper Karlin Krishnaswami looks for as many essentials as she can find

Red's keto-friendly egg'wiches with turkey sausage hit the spot.

Krishnaswami is a big fan of Red's keto-friendly quick and easy Egg'wiches. They take just over a minute and a half to microwave and taste great with Frank's RedHot sauce. One Egg'wich usually keeps her full until morning snack time, though she sometimes supplements it with toast or a smoothie.

She recommends taking the cheese off before you cook the Egg'wich. If you microwave it without doing so, she's found the cheese will melt off.

Precooked meals from Costco save the day

Whether they're made in-house by  Costco employees  or one of the many brands in the refrigerated cases, you don't need to be a family of four to benefit from buying the warehouse's prepared meals.

Krishnaswami buys meals for herself and makes a list of the use- or freeze-by dates and hangs it on her fridge. Then, she removes a portion or two for the fridge and portions out the rest for the freezer.

This way, she doesn't have to thaw more food than she wants while saving time.

Read Karlin Krishnaswami's full shopping list: I shop for just myself at Costco and stick to a budget. Here are 15 things I love to buy and how I use them .

Lindy Vogel, a mom of 6, grabs necessities for low-effort meals

Tasty bite organic madras lentils are her go-to meal for chaotic days.

As a mom with teens in extracurricular activities, Vogel finds these microwavable pouches of Tasty Bite organic madras lentils make ideal pre-practice dinners.

Vogel loves serving her kids a hot meal, even though they can't always eat dinner together as a family.

Vogel's kids enjoy the EastWest Cuisine chicken-and-vegetable curry

With microwave and boil-in-bag options, it's fairly effortless for Vogel to prepare the EastWest Cuisine vegetable-and-chicken curry. The mild spice also means Vogel's picky kids will eat it.

She also likes that the recipe contains cauliflower and peas — veggies her family doesn't eat enough of otherwise.

Read Lindy Vogel's full shopping list: I'm a mom of 6 who hates cooking. Here are 8 things I buy at Costco to make meal planning simple .

Executive member Dominic Bucca gets dinner items for his 2-person household

Bucca stocks up on kirkland signature frozen white shrimp.

Bucca always makes room in his freezer for these easy-peel, cleaned shrimp.

He uses them in classic shrimp scampi with tons of garlic. They're also great for pasta, cioppino, or restaurant-sized shrimp cocktails at home.

The Maldon sea-salt flakes taste great on so many foods

As someone who's worked in the food industry, Bucca has learned that Maldon sea-salt flakes are many chefs' go-to seasoning.

He finds that it's the best, flakiest salt available. Bucca plans on stocking up until he runs out of pantry space.

Read Dominic Bucca's full shopping list: I pay for Costco's $120 executive membership even though I only shop for 2. Here are some of my favorite things to get for dinner .

Watch: All the differences between the Costco food courts in the US and the UK

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