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65 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials: Your Complete Packing Checklist

Get organized with our road trip essentials checklist including gear recommendations and a printable packing list to ensure a smooth journey.

There is an undeniable magic to a good road trip: the freedom of the open road, the opportunity to visit unparalleled sights, and the unique experiences that you stumble upon along the way. However, creating these unforgettable moments requires effective planning and smart packing of the right road trip essentials.

At Bearfoot Theory, we’ve gone on our fair share of road trips and experimented with a plethora of gear – some items have worked well and others not so much. We know that packing for a road trip can easily turn into a stressful part of your journey if organization isn’t your forte – there’s nothing quite as disheartening as realizing you’ve left something important behind.

In this post, we’re excited to share our top selection of road trip gear that will help you optimize your road adventure to its fullest. You won’t need a tricked-out van or struggle with a daily game of Tetris trying to fit everything into your trunk. Keep scrolling for our road trip packing list that covers the gear essentials for ensuring a safe and amazing time on the road.

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Entertainment

Kitchen items, vehicle essentials, clothing, footwear, & accessories, personal care, miscellaneous.

Download a printable version here

Road Trip Navigational Tools

While part of the fun of a good road trip might be getting lost and exploring remote back roads, it is crucial to have reliable navigational tools so you don’t end up utterly lost.

Here are our recommendations for road trip maps and apps:

Paper Map or Atlas

Although we all know Google Maps is essential for directions, I persoanlly like carrying a paper map too. Plus, hopefully some of your itinerary will take you off the grid and out of cell phone service.

For that reason, you’ll want to carry a paper map or road atlas. Paper maps are also better than phone apps for telling the difference between a well-graded gravel road and a gnarly 4×4 road.

My favorite paper maps are the Benchmark Road and Recreation Atlases which also detail public lands, camping areas, National Parks, and more.

Shop Benchmark Road and Recreation Atlases at:

A GPS is handy for navigation when you don’t have cell service. If you don’t want to purchase a GPS, download Google Maps for offline use or use the app maps.me instead. This is a helpful free app that you can use to navigate and find sights and amenities even without cell service.

Just be sure to download the maps.me map for the region you’re going to be traveling in ahead of time so that it will work offline.

Still in the planning phase of your trip? Check out our road trip destination ideas here! And if you’re looking for a car camping checklist, head to our Car Camping Essentials blog post .

Road Trip Apps

Downloading a couple of apps before you head out will make road trip planning easier and will help you find things you’re looking for on the road like campsites, rest stops, amenities, and more.

The Roadtrippers App is a handy one too. It lets you save locations on the go, find destination points along your route, and locate lodging, gas, restaurants, and more.

The iExit App can help you determine the best areas to take a pit stop on major highways while you’re traveling.

Gas Buddy is a helpful road trip app that will help you find the cheapest gas prices so you aren’t wasting money when you fill up.

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Looking for more helpful apps? Check out our post on Must-Have Van Life Apps . Many of them are also great for road trips!

Road Trip Clothing, Footwear, & Accessories

Packing for a road trip means filling your bags with versatile, well-fitting, and durable clothes that allow you to do a little bit of everything.

You’ll want to have clothing, footwear, and accessories that:

While crazy patterns can be fun, I prefer to pack solid prints that will go with everything. That way, you don’t have to really think about packing specific outfits.

Here are a few of my favorite road trip essentials picks for clothing, footwear, and accessories. For more recommendations, check out the links below.

Road Trip Packing Lists

Road trip entertainment packing list.

Road trips are all about having a good time, right? Right. Make the drive fun with the following entertainment essentials. I also recommend keeping your day hiking essentials in your trunk too so you’re always ready for a spur-of-the-moment hike, should you need them.

Music Playlists

What’s a road trip without music? A good playlist will keep your energy up and will help the miles fly by. Load up your phone with plenty of tunes ahead of time in case you’ll be driving through areas with limited service. I’m a HUGE fan of Spotify.

Podcasts & Audiobooks

If music isn’t your thing or you need a break from rockin’ out, download a couple of audiobooks or a bunch of episodes of your favorite podcasts.

For suggestions, check out our favorite outdoor podcasts . The Libby App and Audible are also great resources for downloading audiobooks.

A book or two is always nice to have along on a road trip so you can read in your downtime.

We often like to bring books about the places we’re exploring so we can learn about the area while traveling.

Travel Games

If you’re traveling with kids, games are a great way to keep everyone happy and entertained.

But games aren’t just for kids! Bringing along a deck of cards or your favorite road trip games provides fun for everyone.

A set of headphones or AirPods are nice to bring on a road trip in case you need a little alone time.

Bring a camera to capture the memories on your trip and check out our photography page for tips and tricks for taking great photos.

Not everyone enjoys journaling or sketching, but a notebook is nice to bring along on a road trip for those who want to record their trip.

If you like to journal or make notes about the places you travel to, pack a small weatherproof notebook .

Shop Rite in the Rain Notebook at:

iPad/Laptop

An iPad or laptop is nice to have along for evenings when you just want to Netflix and chill. Download a few movies ahead of time for easy viewing.

Road Trip Snacks & Kitchen Packing List

One of the best parts about a road trip is tasty road trip snacks, wouldn’t you agree? Whether you’re a salty or sweet person, having quick and (mostly) healthy snack options can make or break a long drive.

It’s also a good idea to pack some kitchen and cooking gear even if you’re not camping so you can whip up that impromptu picnic.

Here are our road trip snack and kitchen essentials:

Healthy Snacks

Having healthy snacks easily accessible will stop the hanger from creeping in and help you avoid gas station temptations like chips and candy (no judgment though if you want to indulge!)

Some of our favorite road trip snacks are:

Planning on doing some hiking during your road trip? Don’t forget your favorite hiking snacks (which TBH, I also eat while driving!).

A cooler will keep your fruit, veggies, dips, and other snacks cold so you can eat fresh on the road.

If you’re just packing a few cold drinks and snacks, a small, lightweight cooler like REI’s Cool Haul 24 Soft Cooler is a versatile option.

Shop REI Cool Haul 23 Soft Cooler at:

Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is key for staying hydrated and eliminating single-use plastics.

An insulated Hydro Flask will keep your water nice and cold on hot days. I also like their straw lid version which allows you to easily drink one-handed while you drive.

Shop Hydro Flask Insulated Water Bottles at:

Read next: How to Reduce Waste on Road Trips

In addition to saving money and avoiding plastic bottles, having a water jug with you makes for a quick and easy fill-up of your water bottle while on the road and before heading out on a hike. It’s also a smart thing to have in case you break down or run out of gas.

The GSI Outdoors Folding Water Cube holds 15 liters of water and has a convenient tap handle that prevents spilling.

Shop the GSI Water Cube at:

Consider bringing an insulated coffee mug for keeping coffee and tea hot on sunrise drives or making sure your beverage stays cold on hot days.

The Hydro Flask 20 oz Tumbler has a splashproof lid and its tapered design allows it to fit into most cup holders.

Shop the Hydro Flask 20 oz Tumbler at:

Muli Tool/ Swiss Army Knife

A multi-tool or versatile knife like this Swiss Army Camper Knife is always good to have along, whether for slicing apples, cutting rope, or opening that nice bottle of wine.

Shop the Swiss Army Camper Knife at:

Utensil Set

Saying no to single-use plastics is easy when you have a reusable utensil set with you.

This To-Go Ware Bamboo Utensil Set comes in a handy holder and is perfect for on-the-go meals whether you’re road-tripping or not. It comes with a fork, knife, spoon, chopsticks, and a bamboo straw.

Shop the To-Go Ware Bamboo Utensil Set at:

Quick-Dry Towels

A set of small quick-dry towels is a great zero-waste alternative for wiping your hands and cleaning up messes and spills. A roll of paper towels works too.

Shop the REI Quick-Dry Towel Set at:

Reusable Bag

A reusable bag like the REI Stuff Travel Tote will come in handy for those grocery store stops along the way and once you arrive at your destination.

Shop the REI Stuff Travel Tote at:

Read next: Camping instead? Check out our Car Camping Essentials Packing Checklist .

Packing & Organizing Road Trip Essentials

Keep your stuff organized and easy to find with these road trip packing essentials.

Suitcase, Backpack, or Duffel Bag

You likely already have a suitcase, backpack, or duffel bag at home that you can use to pack for your road trip, it doesn’t need to be anything fancy, just something to comfortably hold your clothes and other belongings.

If you don’t own one already, we love the REI Co-op Roadtripper Duffel .

Shop the REI Roadtripper Duffel at:

A day pack for hikes and other outings is always good to bring on a road trip. It doesn’t have to be big, just big enough to hold water, your phone, camera, keys, snacks, and other hiking essentials.

This Osprey Tempest pack has been my go-to for day hikes and adventures for a long time. The Osprey Talon is the men’s version.

Shop the Osprey Tempest Pack at:

Packing Cubes

If you’re like me, your suitcase (or duffel) can be a disaster. I tackle this problem by using packing cubes to keep all of my clothing organized while I’m road-tripping. Underwear in one. Socks in another. Pants. Shirts. Each category of clothing gets its own cube.

Shop REI Packing Cubes at:

Toiletry Bag

Having all your toiletries and smaller essentials in one bag makes it easy to find them when you need them.

This REI Co-op Shower Roll Bag is a favorite that makes it super easy to access all your toiletries in one place.

Shop the REI Shower Roll Bag at:

Road Trip Packing List for Personal Care

Getting out of your normal routine can make it a bit more of a challenge to keep up with personal care, but with these essentials, you’ll find your new road trip routine in no time.

UV rays can come through your windows so bring a tube or two of good mineral-based sunscreen , especially if you’re road-tripping in the summer.

It’s also handy in case you find an exposed viewpoint you want to picnic at or a sunny hike along the way.

Shop Sun Bum Sunscreen at:

Lip balm is always nice to have along in case your lips get extra dry. We prefer lip balm with SPF for sun protection, like this one .

Shop Sun Bum Lip Balm at:

Toothpaste & Toothbrush

Any old toothpaste you have at home will do, but if you want an eco-friendly, travel-size option, Hello toothpaste bites are a great pick.

Shop Hello Toothpaste Bites at:

Bring the toiletries you need from home, like soap or face wash, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant.

If you want to save space, try these refillable 2.5 oz  humangear GoToob+ Medium Squeeze Bottles . 

Simply fill them up with your favorite products and pack them in your toiletry bag.

Shop Humangear GoToob+ Bottles at:

Tissues or Toilet Paper

Tissues or a roll of toilet paper are always handy to have in the car on a road trip in case rest stops are under-equipped or you have to pee in the wild.

Just remember to pack out and dispose of your toilet paper in the trash .

Read next: How to Poop in the Woods and Leave No Trace .

You’ll want a way to tame that windswept hair after a long drive, so throw your hairbrush in with your other personal items.

A small, travel-size version like this one is always nice to have for trips.

Shop travel-sized hairbrush at:

Bandanas can be used in many ways and is sure to come in handy, whether as a napkin or as a headband t keep your hair from blowing in the wind when you’ve got the windows down.

The Nomadix Bandana Towel adds even more versatility with its absorbent microsuede material, SPF 50 protection, and anti-odor properties.

Shop the Nomadix Bandana Towel at:

Sometimes it’s nice to freshen up after a long drive, or maybe you’re hiking and camping on your road trip as well. A pack of wipes is always on our road trip packing list so we have the option to clean up a bit in a pinch.

The  Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes  are our favorite because they’re gentle on the skin and they are compostable (although you still need to dispose of them properly in the trash).

Shop Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes at:

Vitamin C/Immune Boosting Tablets

We like to pack hydration tablets on any adventure, and if they’re immunity-boosting that’s even better.

These NUUN Immunity Hydration tablets are easy to throw into your bag and pop into your water bottle when you need an extra boost.

Shop Nuun Immunity Hydration Tablets at:

Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is always good to have readily available, especially these days. We love this all-natural one from Dr. Bronners .

Shop Dr. Bronner’s Hand Sanitizer at:

Advil/Ibuprofen

While you won’t always need something like Advil or Ibuprofin, we like to include it on every road trip packing list since it can be a lifesaver when you get a killer headache and need it.

Read next: Camping Tips for Women: How to Stay Fresh & Clean on the Road

Miscellaneous Road Trip Essentials

These items are necessarily ‘essentials’ but they can make your road trip more comfortable and trouble-free.

I don’t know about you, but I consider a pillow a road trip essential (especially if you’re the passenger)!

Bring a comfy pillow from home or an inflatable pillow if you’re short on space. This NEMO Fillo Pillow is compressible, lightweight, and awesome for camping, backpacking, and napping in the passenger seat.

Shop the NEMO Fillo Pillow at:

Whether you’re reading in bed, going to the bathroom in the middle of the night, or rummaging around your car, you’ll want a headlamp nearby.

The BioLite Headlamp 325 is a go-to piece of nighttime gear that’s ultralight and rechargeable with a USB cable.

Shop the BioLite 325 Headlamp at:

Read next: Looking for more options? Head over to our post on the Best Headlamps for Hiking & Camping

A small blanket is a nice item to have along in case you find the perfect picnic spot or if you just need a little extra warmth at any point on your road trip.

We love Rumpl’s cozy, packable blankets – they won’t take up much space in your car and they come in all kinds of fun colors and patterns.

Shop Rumpl Blankets at:

Quick-dry towel

Be ready for those impromptu swimming hole dips with a lightweight, quick-dry towel like the Nomadix Original Towel . It’s also sand resistant, so if you’re heading to the beach, you don’t have to worry about tracking loads of sand back to your car.

Shop Nomadix Towels at:

First-Aid Kit

Stay safe and be prepared in case of an emergency by having a car first aid kit that has been personalized to your own medical needs.

This  My Medic MyFAK First Aid Kit  is equipped with all kinds of expert-picked first aid and trauma supplies. You can strap it to the back of a headrest for easy storage or just toss it in the back so it’s there when you need it.

We love that it comes with a small tearaway pouch that you can fill up with essentials and take on day hikes, backpacking trips, and other short adventures as well.

It’s more expensive than some other first aid kits, but it also has more supplies and lifesaving equipment than most.

Shop the My Medic MyFAK at:

Phone Charger & USB Cord

You’ll be surprised how quickly your phone battery will drain when using navigation mode and a variety of apps on your phone so it’s good to be able to charge from your vehicle.

If your headlamp and camera come with car-compatible chargers, bring those along too.

GPS Communication Device

I’d argue that the Garmin InReach is a road trip essential if you plan on exploring remote backroads where there is no cell phone service.

If you break down somewhere, the Garmin InReach allows you to send custom text messages no matter where you are or to call for medical help if you are in an emergency situation.

It also has a GPS and some helpful navigation tools for when the navigation apps on your phone won’t load.

My boyfriend Ryan is a Type 1 Diabetic, so when we are in the van or hiking, the Garmin InReach gives me added peace of mind.

Shop the Garmin inReach Mini at:

It’s always handy to have a little bit of cash on hand in case you come across a farmers market or a roadside stall or if you plan on camping at more remote campgrounds, which are typically cash-only.

Vehicle Road Trip Essentials

I won’t go into too much detail in this section because you should really have these basic necessities in your vehicle at all times, whether you’re road-tripping or not.

These include:

• Driver’s License and Registration
• Proof of Insurance and Contact Info
• Your Car Operation Manual
• Spare Tire and Jack
• Roadside Emergency Kit
• Jumper Cables (or a self-starting jumper )

Planning a road trip? Check out our other road trip tips, guides, and essentials:

• Car Camping Packing Checklist
• How to Road Trip with Your Dog
• How to Find Free Campsites
• Campervan Companies for Your US Road Trip
• How to Reduce Waste on Car Camping Trips
• Cheap Road Trip Tips: How to Save Money on the Road

We hope this road trip essentials checklist helps simplify packing for your next epic adventure. Now tell us: where are you headed and what’s on your road trip packing list?

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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16 Comments

Thanks for sharing such a great checklist, I Believe anyone who read this post will be valuable for him for sure. Regards, Team Yugo.pk

I love these lists! As busy as a work week can get, lists like this will help get me outside sooner and more often. I think it would be great if you had a PDF document in the form of a checklist, so I could gather items on the fly and know that I have them ready or loaded into the car/truck/van/camper. Just an idea for this page and great lists.

I like your advice about bringing a spare tire and knowing how to change should be part of the road trip necessities. We won’t know what would happen to us on the road during our trip. One possible problem that might arise would be a flat tire. Having a spare tire will allow us to change it immediately. However, if you’re not capable of doing it on your own you can call someone to assist you. This happened to me a few years ago, good thing I keep the contact details of my roadside assistance service provider which responded to my call immediately. Having this will lessen our worries. You might want to check the blog I’ve read a few weeks ago which provides a list of tips on handling a road trip like a pro. here is the link: https://blog.beepbeep.ph/road-trip-essentials/

I found your article interesting to read the must haves list for the road trip. There are lots of thing which I never remember to bring with me on the road trip. Thank for sharing these checklist.

What a great, comprehensive list. You can also add roadside assistance, it can be a lifesaver when we broke down 9 days into our trip. Loved the roadtrippers app as well. However, we made the rookie mistake of not getting a gas card until halfway through.

What do you normally have in your First-Aid Kit? We are crafting a blog post on our blog and we would definitely mention your website in it.

Its Nice., Thank you for your Necessity guides. These are useful to many.

Great checklist! One addition that we were glad to have on our recent road trip was our checkbook. During the Covid era, we prefer not to handle cash, and some campgrounds didn’t take cards, but writing a check and leaving it in the envelope worked great.

That’s a great tip, thanks Tom!

These modules are all great Lots of information and quite a few things i wouldn’t ever have thought of. However, why do i need to resubscribe every time i want one of your checklists? Seems like there one subscription should “do” and there should be a place i can just download what i want.

After requesting 3 or 4, it now tells me my request is successful but wont sent the mail with the download link.

This is irritating for me and would seem to create lot of duplicate ‘subscriptions” for you.

Hi Linda! Thanks for sharing that with us and our apologies for the inconvenience. There’s not a straightforward solution to this unfortunately as it would require us building out some sort of a membership page where people can login and download all the resources they want. At this time the way we have it set up is the easiest way for our readers to get the specific resources they want delivered to their inbox. It doesn’t result in duplicate subscriptions on our end as your email address is only added to our list once, and I am seeing that the emails for the checklists you’ve requested have been sent. Perhaps check your spam folder or try doing a search for Bearfoot Theory? If you’re still having issues please email me at contact (at) bearfoottheory.com and I’ll help get this resolved personally. Thanks again – we’ll keep your feedback in mind and will see if there’s a way we can improve this process 🙂

thank you, it was very helpful.

A night hike, river tubing, or secret single-track – you never know what adventure may arise while traveling. Don’t miss out because you don’t have the gear. Below are gear staples for us on any adventure:

Rain jacket Daypack Headlamp Water bottle Compass Swimsuit Dry bag (waterproof) Bandana or Buff headwear

Great list – you never know what adventure you could find yourself on!

Thanks for your wonderful work! Fun and practical — a breath of fresh air!

I’d like to add two items that simplify and improve road trips for us:

— A small (maybe 8-inch square) “front-seat bin” for each traveller. Keep your small personal items — sunglasses, reading glasses, snacks, medicines, phone, and so — on in one designated place to ensure that you don’t have to root around to find your things.

— Small waterproof duffle for each person’s shoes — hiking shoes, sandals, comfy campsite shoes. Keeps the car cleaner and, again, ensures that things are “where they’re supposed to be”!

Hi Roy, these are great suggestions! We love tips for staying organized. Thanks for sharing!

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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

Best 10 road trip essentials, roadtrip checklist for car care, car camping essentials, essentials for specific road trips, road trip packing list – tips and tricks, road trip faq, faq about the best road trip packing list, final road trip thoughts.

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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Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

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!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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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The Ultimate Road Trip Packing Checklist & Best Tips [Printable]

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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.

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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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Road Trip Checklist (+ Printable PDF)

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Overwhelmed with planning a road trip and all the things that go into pre-vacation planning? Use this road trip checklist to organize your planning and get a step-by-step guide to all the things you should be thinking about and doing to prepare to hit the road for a long car ride. Plus download our free printable PDF to always have this convenient to-do list on hand.

Pre Road Trip Planning Checklist

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Pre Road Trip Checklist

☑ pick a destination.

You can’t take a road trip unless you know where you’re road tripping to! The very first thing you need to do when planning a road trip is to decide where you’re going to go. This is an essential step because it defines everything else you need to do to get ready for your vacation. Your budget, need for flights and rental cars , itinerary, and even packing list are determined based on where you are going.

☑ Choose a Route and Map Your Stops

Once you know where you’re going you can get a better idea of how to get there. Plan your road trip Route with Google Maps or use an app like RoadTrippers Plus . Once you know your route you can start researching and plotting stops along the way and in your destination.

Need help planning your road trip route? Join our challenge! Sign up below and in just five days you can have your entire route planned!

Road Trip Road Map

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☑ Make a Budget

You should never take a road trip without first determining your budget. Budgeting is essential to informing every decision you make along the way. Are you going to stay in 5 Star hotels or roadside motels? Are you going to splurge on a bunch of big activities or stick to free sites? Are you eating at sit-down restaurants or fast food drive throughs? And just how much gas are you going to need to do everything you want to do? Having a road trip budget is essential, learn how to set a road trip budget here .

☑ Find a Pet Sitter or House Sitter

You want to make sure that any furry (or not so furry) friends left at home are well taken care of while you’re away. And, for longer trips, you might consider a house sitter to take care of your entire home. It you’ve never used a pet sitter or house sitter before, start looking early because it can take a while to find the right fit and many sitting services have service caps and might not have room for new clients. If you already have a dog or cat sitter you know and love book as soon as you can to be sure you are on their calendar.

☑ Make a Packing List

Don’t wait until the last minute to start making a road trip packing list! Start early to allow yourself plenty of time to gather everything you need from around your house or shop for new things. Check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for ideas on what to pack.

☑ Shop for Things You Need

Once you know what you need to pack, you’ll know what you do and do not have. Now is the time to start shopping for anything on your packing list that you do not already own.

☑ Buy a National Parks Pass

If you’re planning on visiting any National Parks while on your road trip, consider buying a National Parks Pass . This annual pass allows access to 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country, including all national parks.

☑ Check Drivers License Expiration

You don’t want to be a thousand miles from home and realize you’ve been driving on an expired drivers license. A month or two before your long car ride double check the expiration date and renew your license if need be.

☑ Plan Your Itinerary

You should already know by now your destination and a general idea of your route, but now is the time to start getting more specific. Research all your stops, make a spreadsheet of everywhere you want to go, gather information, and start forming a solid plan.

☑ Book Your Hotels

Now is the time to start booking your trip! Once you know where you’re going and have an itinerary that includes where you plan to stop each night, start researching where to stay, reading hotel reviews , and book hotels along your route .

☑ Book Your Rental Car

If your road trip is starting in a different city from where you live, you don’t own a car , or you would just rather not put the extra miles on your own vehicle, you’re going to need to rent a car for your road trip. Book early to get the best deals.

☑ Book Flights

If your road trip is starting in a different city from where you live, you’ll need to book flights to get there. Book early for the most flexibility and best deals.

☑ Book Activities and Tours

If you are planning any excursions, activities, or tours, book them ahead of time to make sure you get a spot.

☑ Purchase Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can help with unexpected delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies. Look into buying travel insurance to see if it is right for you and your trip.

☑ Confirm Your Bookings

Before you leave on your trip make sure you’ve organized and confirmed all your bookings. If you have email confirmations, bookmark them and add them to a special folder for easy access and make sure your flights, rental cars, hotels, excursions, and sitters are all still confirmed.

☑ Get Your Car Checked

Before you hit the road, hit the mechanic. Have your car looked over to make sure nothing is wrong and have anything that needs to be maintenanced maintenanced. Check your engine lights, top off fluids (windshield fluid, brake fluid, coolant), get an oil change, check your tire pressure, check your spare tire, check your brake pads and rotors, and make sure your headlights and turn signals are properly working. If you’re driving thousands of miles, get an oil change now so you don’t have to stop mid-trip.

☑ Buy Snacks

Buying road trip snacks ahead of time is an essential part of road trip planning! Grocery store (or wholesale store) snacks will have a wider variety and better price than you’ll get at gas stations along the way and packing up your car with snacks means you’ll never have to wait until the next time you need gas to get a bag of chips.

☑ Make a Road Trip Playlist

When you’re driving through multiple towns and multiple states, you don’t want to have to be playing constant catch up with radio static. At least a week out, make a road trip playlist of everyone in the car’s favorite songs. Or, better yet, make a themed playlist based on where you’re going! Need inspiration? Check out our list of The Best Road Trip Songs to Blast in the Car .

☑ Download Road Trip Apps

Make sure you have all the best road trip apps downloaded to your phone. Some of my favorites include the Roadside America app , RoadTrippers Plus ( Use code SILLYAMERICA to save $5! ), and GasBuddy .

☑ Pack Your Bags

A week before your road trip is the perfect time to start packing your bags. You don’t want to stress yourself out with waiting until the last minute but don’t want to start so early that you need to unpack something in the meantime or forget what is already in your bag. Need packing help? Check out our guides on what to pack for a road trip , fun things to pack for a road trip , and road trip luggage .

☑ Share Your Itinerary

In case of emergency, it is always a good idea to share your itinerary with someone who is not going on the trip with you. Your parents, a sibling, or a trusted friend. Let them know where you are going, when you’ll be where, where you are staying, and a general route.

☑ Look Up the Weather

The night before you hit the road it’s a good idea to look up the weather at your starting point, destination, and some spots along the along the way. You want to make sure you’re prepared for whatever weather is coming.

☑ Water Your Plants

Water your plants the night before you leave so you’ve not scrambling to do it in the morning and so you don’t return to wilted leaves.

☑ Make Snacks and Sandwiches

If you’re making your own road trip snacks or packing sandwiches in your cooler, make them the night before.

☑ Pack Your Car

You might need to leave a few things until the morning, but get a head start on the day by packing your car with your luggage and essentials the night before.

☑ Charge Phones and Electronics

Make sure all the electronics you’re bringing with you are fully charged. Don’t forget to charge your mobile phone and road trip camera .

☑ Set Up Your Cat or Dog Cam or Home Surveillance Camera

Keep an eye on your pet (or your house) by setting up a motion-censored camera .

☑ Finish Packing

No matter how much you’ve packed ahead of time, there will always be last-minute things to pack right before you go, like those sandwiches you made last night or the razor you had to use this morning. Gather up all those last minute items and get them to your car.

☑ Unplug Electronics

Unplug any electronics that won’t be used while you’re away, like lamps, toasters, coffee makers.

After a long road trip, no one wants to return home to a dirty house or an unexpected smell. Be sure to take a few minutes to tidy up and make sure every dish is cleaned and every trash bag is taken to the curb.

☑ Leave Notes for Your Sitter

Leave out a note with instructions for your pet or house sitter.

☑ Feed and Snuggle Your Pets

If you have cats or dogs be sure to leave out enough food to last until the sitter checks in. Give them extra snuggles to make sure they know you will miss them and will be back soon!

One last step before you leave on your road trip: close all your windows and lock all your doors!

Right click and save the image below or click the image or button to download a free printable PDF Road Trip Checklist to use for planning a road trip.

Photo by  Peter Fazekas  from  Pexels

Plan Your Road Trip

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Valerie Bromann

Founder & road trip expert.

Valerie Bromann is a a website manager, content creator, and writer from Chicago, Illinois (currently living in Dallas, Texas). As an avid road tripper who has visited hundreds of roadside attractions, Val always pull over for a world’s largest thing. Founder of Silly America and author of The Road Trip Journal & Activity Book , she visits, photographs, and writes about all the weird tourist destinations she visits and offers road trip planning advice and inspiration based on her own travels so you can hit the road for yourself.

Follow Valerie & Silly America

Last modified: December 21, 2023 Category: Road Trip Planning

20 Road Trip Tips from a Road Trip Expert

Route 66 in kansas: a complete list of kansas route 66 attractions, share this post ⤵, by valerie bromann.

The road trip you’ve been dreaming of starts here! Journal about your stops and get to know your fellow passengers with activities and exercises designed to pass the time and bring you closer together. Instead of “Are we there yet?” you’ll find yourself asking, “We’re there already?”. Complete with prompts you can turn to while driving between locations, this journal will one day be a memento of your life-changing trip.

Silly America

Silly America is a roadside attractions blog designed to help travelers find unique stops for their next road trip. The website is a tribute to the great American road trip, devoted to all that is odd in America: roadside attractions, tourist traps, peculiar destinations, bizarre events, road food, fun festivals, and more! It’s a travel website and trip planner for those seeking an offbeat road trip.

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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?

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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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How to Pack for a Road Trip + Packing List (2023)

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: March 13, 2023

One of the quintessential vacations is the classic road trip. If you’re getting ready to hit the road, you’re probably needing a road trip packing list and some tips for how to pack your car. After taking dozens of road trips over the years, here are my expert tips for things to bring on a road trip along with some organization tips for the car.

What to Pack for a Road Trip?

Planning and packing for a road trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re going on a short weekend getaway or a long cross-country journey, there are plenty of things to consider.

You’ll be putting together your car emergency kit, creating your ideal playlist, and loading up the trunk with all the road trip essentials . Here’s what you need to know about packing smart and preparing for any unexpected challenges when taking a road trip.

Affiliate links are included in this post, if you purchase from my link I may earn a commission.

What should an adult pack for a road trip?

As an adult, there are some of the best things you should pack for a road trip. What you choose to pack may be a lot different than what a child or an entire family chooses to pack. Here is a list of ten items to pack for a road trip to make sure you have a good time in the car.

1. Toiletries

Pack the essentials such as shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste and toothbrush, soap, razor, and other items you may need if you’re overnighting in a hotel. But also think about personal comfort/grooming on the road. Do you want to pack a hairbrush, lip balm, eye drops, hand lotion, etc?

2. Clothing 

Be sure to pack comfortable clothes for the weather you will be traveling in. Consider if you need a change of clothes for overnights or if you’re driving to a different climate than you started in.

Include a pair of slip-on shoes for the car but also a pair that is suitable for walking in case you decide to take a hike or explore somewhere new. I have a few ideas for great road trip outfits .

3. First-Aid Kit 

No matter where you are going, it’s always a good idea to have a basic first-aid kit handy in case of an emergency. Pack all your prescriptions, bandages, antiseptic creams, pain relievers, etc., so you can deal with minor injuries while on the go.

4. Electronics & Accessories 

Your smartphone, laptop, and camera should be at the top of your packing list because they’re essential for keeping memories and staying connected with family and friends during your travels. Don’t forget adapters, chargers, and extra batteries if necessary. 

5. Maps & Road Directions 

You never know when technology will fail you when looking for directions! Be sure to bring along a road atlas , physical maps, and/or a GPS device to help guide you on your journey safely and efficiently. 

6. Comfortable Blankets & Pillows 

Having comfortable blankets and pillows can help passengers stay comfortable and even take a nap. They’re also needed if you plan to take sleeping breaks in the car during a long drive.

7. Snacks & Drinks

Pack road trip snacks like granola bars or trail mix for an energy boost throughout the day, plus something refreshing like bottled water or cold drinks that won’t go bad after several hours in the car.

Make sure to include towels so you can quickly dry yourself off after a quick swim or even rainy weather! Compact travel towels are best since they don’t take up much space in your luggage/carrier bag(s).

9. Money & Identification

Bring along some cash just in case credit cards don’t work wherever you go, plus your driver’s license! Also, make sure to bring your passport if you’ll be crossing the border. And make sure you have your car registration and insurance packed as well.

10. Entertainment 

It’s always nice to keep yourself entertained, especially during long road trips! Consider bringing books, magazines, music, and/or movies depending on what type of entertainment suits you best! Audiobooks are a great option on long trips, you can often get a good deal with Audible or Audiobooks.com .

Kindle Paperwhites are also great for bringing lots of books without taking up a lot of space and can be read in the dark or bright sun. If you’re an avid reader, check out Kindle Unlimited . I have it and love that I can read unlimited free books continuously.

What should you pack for a child on a road trip?

Packing for a road trip with a child can be tricky. It’s important to make sure you have everything your little one needs, without adding unnecessary weight to your vehicle. Here’s a list of essential items that you should pack when taking a road trip with a child :

1. Car Seats 

When driving long distances, it’s important that children are safely and securely strapped into their car seats. Ensure your car restraints are up-to-date and suitable for your child’s age and size.

2. Healthy Snacks & Drinks

Try to avoid too many sugary drinks and snacks while on the road, as they can increase crankiness in young kids. Opt instead for healthy road trip snacks such as fruit, vegetables, and crackers that will fill them up without the sugar rush later on.

3. First Aid Kit

You should always carry basic medical supplies in the vehicle, especially when traveling with children. Items like antiseptic cream, saline solution, bandaids, and ibuprofen are helpful for travelers of all ages. Depending on what age group the kids are in, you might want to add child-safe versions of medications like Benedryl and pain relievers.

4. Clothes & Toiletries

Depending on how long the journey is it’s important to pack several changes of clothes including underwear and socks along with toiletries such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and shampoo, especially if you’re planning extended trips or staying overnight.

5. Favorite Toy & Blanket From Home

Nothing soothes a child more than familiar objects from home; it makes them feel safe and secure in an unfamiliar environment away from home comforts. Pack something small like their favorite blanket or teddy bear from home to take away some of the homesickness during times of restlessness on the road trip. A pillow can also come in handy for helping kids nap.

6. Activities & Games

Keep boredom at bay by packing some creative activities for kids to do while traveling in the car such as picture drawing books, travel games, or sticker collections! If space is limited, digital devices preloaded with fun educational apps, cartoons, or reading material can be just as beneficial!

When my girls were really young, I tried to plan for a new activity, toy, snack, or show for every 30 minutes of the drive. Taking frequent breaks to stretch your legs and let kids run around can also help break up the long drive.

7. Activity Board & Bin

Kids might be coloring or drawing and will need a flat surface for their work. An activity lap desk can come in handy for kids. You might also consider an organizing bin for helping them store all their activities. If your kid will be watching shows on a phone or tablet, a headrest mount might be useful.

8. Sun Protection & Insect Repellents

If you’re planning outdoor activities it’s always helpful to have sun protection like sunscreen and hats handy, often overlooked but equally essential are insect repellents which come in effective spray bottles compatible with any kind of climate!  

Packing may feel overwhelming initially but these road trip essentials will ensure your little ones travel safely and enjoyably along the way, stress-free!

Ultimate Road Trip Packing List

Sometimes you don’t think about the individual items you may need on a road trip! This list of simple items is just as important as the big items! Use this list and my blog post of road trip essentials for all things you need on a road trip!

I’m including a printable road trip packing list you can sign up for at the bottom of this section.

Driver’s License

A driver’s license is an essential item for any road trip. It allows you to legally operate a motor vehicle while on the open roads, and also serves as a form of identification if needed at airports or other travel hubs. It is necessary for renting a car if that should be needed during the trip. Having a valid driver’s license before taking to the highways is always recommended!

Car Insurance & Car Registration

Car insurance and registration is an important element of any road trip, as it protects against unexpected damages or liabilities that may arise during your journey. Driving without the right coverage can leave you vulnerable to costly legal bills if an accident occurs. 

Car insurance can provide access to roadside assistance services if your vehicle breaks down, allowing you to reach your destination with minimal disruption. Having the right car insurance in place before hitting the open road is a must, as it can save time and money while providing peace of mind.

A spare tire is also an essential item to bring on a road trip. You never know when a flat tire may occur, and having the right equipment to replace it can save you time, money, and headaches. 

A spare tire also allows for greater flexibility if unexpected road conditions prevent your vehicle from proceeding safely. A spare tire can be beneficial in emergency situations where you need to get off the highway or drive through harsh terrain. Having a reliable spare tire ready at all times is important. 

Roadside Emergency Kit

Every road trip should include an emergency roadside assistance kit . Make sure you take a well-stocked kit with you that includes important road trip essentials like jumper cables, a tarp, bottled water, rags, plastic bags, gloves, flashlights and batteries, jumper cables, flares or reflectors, tire jack and tools to change a tire, and extra oil and fluids for your vehicle.

Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected breakdowns or repairs quickly and confidently, reducing the hassle of being stranded on the side of the road. 

Car Phone Mount 

A car phone mount is necessary if you plan on using your phone while driving on a road trip. Not only does a car phone mount keep your device within easy reach, but also provides a secure place to store it so that you can keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. 

Car phone mounts come in a variety of styles and offer features such as adjustable positions for improved visibility, auto-clamping, gravity hold for easy use, and wireless charging capabilities. Having a reliable car phone mount will make your road trip much more enjoyable and safe. 

Car Power Adaptor

Car power adapters are available in different styles and allow you to charge phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and other USB-connected devices while you drive. Having a reliable car power adapter eliminates the need for frequent stops to recharge, enabling you to focus on enjoying your journey without worrying about losing power.

Packable Cooler

Taking a packable cooler along on your next adventure can be extremely helpful. Not only does it keep food and drinks cool and fresh, but it also helps save on space. Perfect for camping trips, or just a day at the beach, these easily-packed coolers are great for any outdoor activity. 

They come in many sizes to accommodate different amounts of food and drink supplies, making them an ideal choice for those who need to bring snacks and refreshments along with them. You can even buy plug-in coolers to act like a mini-fridge for keeping snacks and drinks cool.

Trunk Organizer

A trunk organizer is a great way to organize your car’s cargo area. It allows you to maximize the space in your trunk while also keeping things tidy and easy to find. Trunk organizers come in many different sizes and styles, making it easy to find one that works for you. 

They are perfect for holding items such as sports equipment, groceries, emergency items, and more. With a trunk organizer, you can be sure that all of your items will be stored properly so they don’t take up too much space or get jumbled together. Just keep in mind how your suitcases will fit if you choose to use an organizer.

Travel Picnic Kit

If you’re looking for the perfect way to enjoy your lunch on the go, a travel picnic kit is an ideal solution. Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or exploring a new city, having a portable set of dinnerware, utensils, and food containers can make all the difference. Even just bringing a portable picnic blanket works well.

Not only does it save time by letting you eat wherever you are, without worrying about packing up leftovers, but it also allows you to create tasty meals that are healthier than restaurant food or fast food. Plus, with colorful designs and fun patterns available, a travel picnic kit adds a bit of style and personality to your meal-time experience.

Taking a travel mug with you on a road trip is an excellent way to save money and reduce waste. Making sure your car has adequate cup holders is essential. It’s always nice to have your favorite hot or cold beverage nearby while traveling, so don’t leave home without one!

If you’ve ever forgotten your sunglasses at home, while taking a road trip, then you know this was a huge mistake. Pack a few pairs of sunglasses, so you can protect your eyes while you drive or even sit in the front seat. 

Printable Road Trip Packing List (PDF)

Sign up for my email list in the box below and my road trip packing list pdf will be sent straight to your inbox!

Apps You Need For a Road Trip

Google Maps

The most important app for any traveler, Google Maps allows you to easily plot out routes and check traffic in real time. You can plan your road trip with Google Maps to include gas stations, rest stops, attractions, and more. It offers spoken turn-by-turn directions that make navigating easier than ever before. 

If Google Maps isn’t enough for you, then Waze is worth looking into as well. This app provides crowdsourced reports on traffic conditions that allow drivers to make driving decisions based on where they are currently located. In addition, it has community alerts that notify drivers when there are police officers or road obstructions ahead. 

One of the essential road trip apps has to do with fuel; specifically finding affordable fuel quickly along your route. GasBuddy makes this happen by helping users find nearby gas stations with their lowest prices listed before they stop. No more worrying about running low while searching for cheaper fuel options,  this app will take care of it all! 

TripIt helps travelers organize every detail of their trip into one streamlined itinerary including flight times, hotel reservations, and car rental information. Plus, it keeps track of any travel confirmations that come through emails so you don’t have to waste time manually entering data from each confirmation email into another program or writing everything down on paper. 

Spotted by Locals

This unique app allows people to explore like a local wherever they go by providing authentic recommendations from local experts who live in the cities they’re visiting. Get off the beaten path and discover hidden gems that only locals know about: restaurants, bars, events, and more are at your fingertips with Spotted by Locals ! 

Roadtrippers Plus

One of my favorite apps for sightseeing road trips is RoadTrippers Plus. It’s an app that helps you find all the best attractions and restaurants along your route, along with reviews of the attractions. Sign up and use code BTR5QTP to get $5 off.

Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, SoundCloud

Don’t forget to load up your favorite music streaming service before taking off! Long trips tend to get boring without good tunes keeping everyone entertained during long stretches of driving, plus music can really set the mood while exploring new cities or playing silly car games to break up monotonous highway miles.  

Best Snacks to Pack for a Road Trip 

When on a road trip, you probably get extremely hungry. That’s where your favorite snacks to pack for a road trip come in. You’ll want to add some munchies that each traveler. These are some road trip snacks you may want to consider. And don’t forget a few trash bags for easy disposal!

• Granola Bars – A classic favorite made with oats, nuts, and honey that is easy to eat while driving. Make your own or buy some prepackaged ones.
• Trail Mix – A combination of dried fruit, nuts, seeds, and sometimes chocolate pieces that makes for a tasty snack on the go. 
• Sandwiches or Wraps – Whole grain bread filled with lean meats make great portable meals that can be eaten quickly at rest stops.
• Homemade Muffins – Perfect for a sweet treat on the road; these handheld snacks can be filled with wholesome ingredients like quinoa and chia seeds.  
• Beef Jerky or Pretzels – Classic salty snacks that have been around for years! Searching for organic versions may even be possible in gas stations these days! 
• Cereal – Dry cereal can make an excellent road trip snack. Some of our favorites are cheerios and chex.
• Nuts and Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds provide a good source of protein and healthy fats to keep you full while on the go. 
• Gummy Bears or Fruit Snacks – These will appease your sweet tooth cravings in a somewhat healthier way depending on which you choose.
• Applesauce or Yogurt Smoothie Pouches – Easy to eat and pack; these make a great snack for anyone in the car.  
• Popcorn – Pop some before your trip or buy any of the popular bags sold in most grocery stores. 
• Fresh Fruits or Vegetables – Carrots, celery sticks, cucumber slices, oranges, and grapes are light enough to not weigh down your stomach after a long drive, plus they’re healthy!

How to Pack Your Car For a Road Trip 

Whether you’re embarking on a short road trip or a long one, packing your vehicle correctly is important. To make sure everything goes smoothly, here are some tips for getting your vehicle ready for a road trip.

• Make a List – Before you start packing, make a list of all the items you need to bring with you. Consider the type of trip you’re taking and include clothing, toiletries, snacks, maps and emergency supplies in your list.
• Pack Smartly – When it comes to loading up the car, pack heavier items first and closer to the back of the vehicle. Place lighter items such as blankets and pillows near the front and above heavier items so that they are easy to reach during the drive. Make sure everything is securely fastened down with bungee cords or straps so that it doesn’t move around while driving
• Clean out Your Vehicle – Before leaving on your trip it’s important to give your vehicle an interior clean out. This includes taking out any unnecessary items like empty water bottles or old takeout containers that won’t be needed during your journey.
• Consider Comfort – During long trips comfort should be the top priority when it comes to packing up your car. Bring along a small pillow, blanket, or set of headphones to help make the ride more comfortable if there will be multiple people in the car at once.
• Leave Space – Don’t overpack! Remember to leave some space in case you need more room for souvenirs or something else while on your journey
• Double Check Everything – Before getting behind the wheel of your vehicle, double-check that all maintenance has been taken care of so your car is ready for the trip. Items such as spare tires and jumper cables should also be checked off before leaving home just in case something unexpected happens while driving. 

First, I suggest that each person (including kids) pack a small bag or tote of their favorite toys/activities. This will be kept nearby and contain things that will keep you busy.

For adults, this might be magazines, books, or electronics. Kids might pack some books, coloring books or journals, electronic toy(s), printable activities/games, dolls, or legos.

A food bin is a big must for any road trip. I like to use a small box to store all our road trip snacks .

I make each of our girls their own plastic container of special snacks, this was learned after one too many, “but Mom, she already had two granola bars…”. If each child starts with the same number of “fun” snacks, they can’t argue if they eat all of theirs.

We also pack some general snacks that everyone enjoys, but the special snacks — like granola bars and fruit snacks — are limited.

Following these simple steps can help ensure that both you and your car are safe for whatever journey lies ahead!

Diagram to Pack for a Road Trip

1 – Passenger Seat

This is where the main passenger (usually me) keeps their stuff. I like to pack magazines, my iPad, and my purse in a narrow tote. I’ll also store some lip balm and eye drops in my bag

2 – Main Console

We keep electronic chargers here along with many of our road trip essentials. Depending on how your car is built, what you can store in this space might be limited.

Some essentials that should be stored nearby the front seats are paper towels, wet wipes, kleenex, dental floss, hand sanitizer, lotion, and a travel first aid kit .

See my full list of road trip essentials we bring on our road trips and figure out where best to store them in your car. Keep in mind what you’ll want to access easily while driving and what can be stored in the back for use at stops.

3 – Garbage

We have a special car trash can that loops around my seat belt latch and has an elastic opening so things don’t fall in or out accidentally. You can also use a plain plastic grocery bag looped around the gear shift.

I recommend each row of passengers have its own trash bag. If you’re traveling with kids you might even want to give each kid a garbage bag they can keep near their seat.

Having easy access to garbage bags will be a huge help in keeping your car clean and organized during your road trip .

4 – DVD Players

We’ve always had dual DVD car screens that we bought at Target, but now that our girls received tablets for Christmas, we like these  tablet headrest mounts .

Our girls love watching some of their favorite movies while on a road trip. Of course, you may decide to skip this. One of my big tips, if you are buying DVD players for multiple kids, consider buying a set that offers independent playing options.

As our girls got older sometimes they’d want to watch the same movie, but other times they didn’t and our players let them watch their own movies or they can watch the same one.

5 – Kid Bags

Each of your kids should bring a bag of personally selected items for the road trip. It could include a book or journal, or a special activity/toy. Our girls use their school backpacks.

If you’re wanting to keep things off the ground, you might consider a  backseat organizer that lets kids store misc stuff in pockets on the back of the seat. We’ve also used one of these middle seat organizers for the girls to share (see #7 below).

You can also consider packing a plastic lidded bin that is placed below your child’s feet. Just make sure it’s easy for the top to be removed while seated.

Related Post:  Best Kids Travel Bag Activities to Pack

6 – food.

This is where we keep all the road trip snacks. We often use one of these clever crates and place it in an easy-to-reach location for each person.

For kids, I recommend making them each their own snack bag or box so that there are no arguments about who’s had too many of one kind of snack. Each kiddo should get the same amount of fruit snacks, granola bars, etc. Make sure you remember wet wipes & napkins.

Another tip is to bring lidded/sippy cups for young kids. They work great for sharing a bottle of juice or water, and no spills!

For adults, consider a thermal mug if you’re a coffee drinker. Your hot drinks will stay much warmer than those disposable cups from the store. Bring reusable water bottles, too.

7 – Kids Activities

This is normally another bag and carries more kids’ activities and games. We normally have a blanket for each kid in this space too. If the road trip isn’t too long, this could be the only space you store kids’ activities. We’ve used boxes and this backseat organizer for placing between the girls’ seats.

8 – Luggage

Bags and stuff you don’t need to access while driving go in the back. We often have one hotel stop on our main road trip drive, so we pack one overnight bag with all of our stuff for that hotel night so we don’t have to bring in each person’s luggage.

Another tip is to keep some extra snacks/treats or special drinks and such back here so you can dole them out when you stop. You can also store some of the other road trip essential items back here.

FAQs for What to Pack for a Road Trip 

What should go in a car emergency kit.

A car emergency kit should include a first aid kit, jumper cables/battery starter, flares or reflective triangles for safety if your car breaks down on the side of the road, a flashlight with extra batteries, an emergency tool (like a hammer or a window breaker/seatbelt cutter combo). It should also include blankets and warm clothing in case you are stranded in cold weather. 

Don’t forget water, energy snacks, and basic tools like screwdrivers and wrenches. It’s also good to keep items such as windshield washer fluid, fuel line antifreeze, and deicer spray in your vehicle in case the weather turns bad.

What should you pack if you’re traveling through a cold state?

If you are driving through a cold state, it is important to pack winter road trip items such as warm clothing and blankets, as well as a winter car kit. This should include items such as jumper cables, windshield washer fluid, de-icer spray, fuel line antifreeze, and an emergency tool (like a hammer or window breaker/seatbelt cutter combo). 

Consider packing snacks that contain healthy energy sources like nuts and fruits. Bring along extra batteries for your flashlight and any other electronic devices you plan to use on your trip.

What type of shoes should I pack on a road trip?

When packing for a road trip, it is important to choose shoes that provide comfort and support. Depending on the nature of your journey, you may want to pick shoes with features such as waterproofing or ankle support. The best shoes to pack are:

• Running shoes – Athletic shoes are great for long days of driving, as they offer plenty of cushioning and shock absorption. I prefer slip-on loafer sneakers for road trips.
• Hiking boots – These sturdy boots provide support for walking around during stops and exploring in unfamiliar territory.
• Sandals – For warmer climates where days might be spent primarily outdoors, sandals can be comfortable and stylish. Try to avoid slide sandals as they aren’t great for driving in.
• Rainboots – In the event you encounter bad weather during your travels, rainboots can protect your feet from wetness and mud, but it might be easier to pack a pair of water-resistant sneakers or hiking boots.
• Ballet flats – When space is limited, ballet flats are easy to pack away but still provide comfort during walkabouts in town or at a rest stop along the highway.

What should I pack for a 12-hour drive?

If you’re embarking on a 12-hour drive, packing the right items can make all the difference in having a comfortable trip. Making sure your car is stocked with essential items will help ensure that you don’t run into any unexpected issues along the way.

• Snacks: It’s always a good idea to pack some snacks for your journey. Choose nutrient-dense snacks such as fruits, nuts and granola bars that will give you lasting energy along the way.
• Drinks: Whether it’s water or a caffeinated beverage, make sure you have enough drinks to stay hydrated throughout your journey.
• First Aid Kit: Accidents and injuries can happen, so make sure you pack a first aid kit in case of emergency.
• Cash: Have some extra cash on hand in case you need to use toll roads or if there’s an unexpected stop along the way.
• Entertainment: Bring along some books, magazines, or music to keep you occupied during your drive.
• Blanket and Pillow: Make sure you have a comfortable blanket and pillow to help make the journey more bearable.

By packing these essential items for your 12 hour drive, you can have a more comfortable and enjoyable journey. With a little bit of planning, you can ensure that your trip is as stress-free as possible.

What are 3 tips to prepare for a road trip?

1. Plan your route – Make sure you have a good idea of the route you’ll be taking and plan out stops along the way if needed. Consider alternate routes in case of traffic congestion or detours, too!

2. Pack light – When packing for a road trip, consider bringing only the essentials so that you don’t have to lug around too much luggage. This will make the journey more comfortable, and you can always stop to pick up items if needed.

3. Bring entertainment – Make sure you have some form of entertainment such as books, music, or games for both adults and children in the car so that everyone stays busy during the drive. This will help make the journey fly by!

Bonus Tip: Have your vehicle inspected. Before you head out on a road trip, make sure to get your car checked for any potential issues. This will help ensure that you don’t have any problems during the drive and can get safely to your destination without any surprises!

Whether you’re a road-tripping expert or spending several long hours in the car for the first time, with these packing guides and road trip tips, you’ll be ready to head on a family road trip any time of year!

Check out my full list of road trip tips .

Share and Save This Post:

Thursday 6th of May 2021

This is amazing. Thank you.

Catherine Brady

Sunday 15th of March 2020

Love all of the practical tips in this post!! Also, the related spin off posts are super useful as well-especially the one on organization and the first aid kit!

Susan Summers

Thursday 5th of December 2019

Thanks for the tips. We're planning on doing our first road trip in France next summer. Can't wait!

Friday 6th of December 2019

Great, Susan! Hope you have a fabulous trip!

15 Brilliant Road Trip Hacks – Two Frugal Moms

Sunday 16th of July 2017

[…] 10. How To Pack Your Car For A Road Trip […]

Erica Gilbert

Wednesday 21st of June 2017

Nice tips and love the visuals! Glad you’ve mentioned the first aid kit. It’s important to check this before the trip and keep it where it’s easily accessible, especially when you’re traveling with kids. I usually keep a travel size pain relief oil, since it works for multiple situations. Also, a roll of toilet paper comes in handy to quickly clean up any spills or to wipe something.

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Ultimate Road Trip Packing List w/Printable Checklist

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• Printable Packing Lists

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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Ultimate Road Trip Planner: Travel Checklist for a Long Car Journey

Posted on Last updated: May 25, 2020

Nick and I made an epic road trip from Perth to Darwin in Australia. While the scenery along the coast was incredible and we did some amazing things, we had quite a bit of car trouble which was a bit of a spoiler of the trip!

Besides everything breaking down, from the lights to the entire clutch, we also weren’t sure if the tires (and the rest of the car) were good enough to take us on the rugged part between Broome and Darwin, so we decided to skip it. Unfortunately, this was the part of the trip we had looked forward to most, but our car just wasn’t in the right shape to take us here.

In this road trip planner, I’d love to share some of the tips we gathered after making our own long car journey, so the next time you go on a road trip (wherever in the world you are planning road trips doesn’t really matter) you’re a bit better prepared than we were and hopefully can enjoy the journey a bit more as well!

You can read more about our  South England road trip here.

Let’s get right into it!

Ultimate Road Trip Planner: Road Trip Checklist

Planning a Road Trip: Before You Leave

Every great trip starts with a bit of planning. So before you leave on a long car journey, have a think about the following:

1. Pick the Right Travel Company

I like to start this road trip planner with one of the most important things of making sure your journey will be successful: pick your travel company carefully! Driving with friends or people from the hostel can be fun for a couple of hours, but if you are close together for three weeks, do you still feel the same?

Driving alone can have its benefits, but remember that if you get in any (car) trouble, there is nobody there to help you out. If you can find anyone to tag along with you, you’ll be a bit safer and have probably more fun on the long stretches of asphalt as well :)

I have road tripped with my boyfriend as well as my entire family and I can only say that I found it important to have a bit of space (three people on the back seat is just too much for long drives) and to make sure that you don’t get into things that clearly annoy your travel companions. If you follow there simple rules to start with, you’re already well on your way to a great road trip!

When driving together, you can also split up the time each person has to drive… and see even more!

2. Set up a Loose Itinerary

When you start your road trip, you are probably on some sort of a time schedule, but having some room to breathe in your itinerary is really important, we’ve learned from our own trip. We (ok, me mostly) had planned way to much places to stop at and things to see and do, that sometimes we felt a bit rushed along the way.

We really wanted to see the Pinnacle Desert in West-Australia

3. Decide on your Navigation Techniques

4. Plan where to Stay for the Night

During your road trip, you have a couple of options where to spend the night. You can choose to stay in hotels, motels or hostels along the way, where you park the car and sleep in a proper room (sometimes with breakfast included), but if you’re more on a budget perhaps camping or sleeping in the back of the car can be an option.

For our trip, we chose to sleep in the back of the car. First of all, because the tent that was included when we bought the car turned out to be way too small for us (as in feet and head sticking out from both sides) and because we wanted to be able to sleep at basic (cheap) spots close to nature.

Our Palace… Ok, Cabin… Ok, Sleeping-Container.

How to Prepare Car for Road Trip?

Making sure your car is in good condition before you set out on a road trip is very important. While it’s usually not necessary to know how to fix the entire engine (unless perhaps you’re driving the Mongol- or Dakar Rally), knowing some of the basic features of your car will really help you out on the road, so do some research on that for your road trip planning. Preparing car for road trips is essential!

5. Know how to Check Basic Car Features

Besides knowing all the buttons on the dashboard, make sure you know how to check if your indicators, interior lights and headlights work (and how to change the light bulbs in them), also check the horn, your windscreen wipers (add fluids if needed), your brakes, transmission fluid, antifreeze and oil (and know how to top this up).

Check any manuals to know what gas/diesel you need and check how the heater and possibly air-conditioning works. Getting your car ready for road trips also means getting ready to learn a bit about the car yourself!

And then the clutch fell out from under our car… not really something we could fix ourselves :(

6. Make sure your Tires are in Good Shape

Your tires are one (well, four. well actually five, also counting your spare…) of the most important parts of your car. So when planning a road trip, make sure they are in good shape to start with. The tire pressure should match the specs in your owner’s manual. And if your tread is low, it’s time to buy new tires. Too much air in your tires can be just as bad as too little, so have that checked as well.

Another thing that you have to pay attention to in most countries, is the changing between summer- and winter tires. Winter tires offer you more grip to the roads in Winter conditions like snow and ice, but in general during low temperatures. When you hit the brakes on a snowy stretch of road at 50km/h, it will take 30 meters to stop using Winter tires, but over 60 meters with Summer tires! This could be a matter of life and death, really!

In many European countries, the use of Winter tires are obligatory (for example in Germany, you will definitely get fined if you don’t have them), but the rules vary in each country, so don’t take a risk and check it out!

The advice is to change tires around the 7 Degrees (Celsius) mark. So when it’s colder, change to Winter tires and when it’s warmer, change back to Summer Tires. As the weather is currently getting warmer, this is the time to change to Summer tires!

In this video you can watch a mechanic explain to you how to change your tires. Doesn’t actually look to hard, but of course you can have someone do this for you.

Driving on the beach? Need your 4WD? Learn about how to deflate your tires so you don’t get stuck! Here is a short video showing you what can happen and a blog on 4WD-ing  in Australia.

7. Pack First Aid Kit, Tool-Box and Emergency Numbers

Also make sure you have roadside recovery included in your car insurance policy. Things will go wrong right when you don’t expect them and in that case it’s better to have them to rely on, even when you rent a car! Get some good travel insurance , so you’re covered for help.

Have a printed road trip list (in case your phone battery dies) of emergency numbers from both the local emergency services as for either your car rental company or the road side assistance.

A Road Trip requires quite a bit of planning, but once you’ve got your basics covered, it’s time to enjoy the ride!

What to Pack for a Road Trip Checklist

Now that you’ve prepped your car, the next thing on your road trip planner is to load it up with other road trip supplies you might need for your trip, so get out that packing for a road trip checklist! To figure out what to bring on a road trip can be hard and you can be inclined to just fill up every space just because you don’t have to carry it. Just remember though, that the lighter the car, the more efficient you drive, so don’t overpack!

8. Gear & Clothing

To help you with your road trip planning, I’ve created a short packing list with all of the basic items to take with you on a car journey. It’s definitely not complete as everyone has a different travel style, but if I missed any essentials, let me know!

Road Trip Packing List:

Here is the complete list with road trip  necessities. Anything to add to this road trip check list? Let us know!

ROAD TRIP CHECKLIST FOR CAR

Still wondering how to pack for a road trip? My tip is to get some handy storage boxes to keep all your gear and clothing in, so that you don’t spend hours upside-down in the booth of your car trying to get something from the bottom of your bag.

Good sunglasses can make all the difference!

9. Food & Drinks

Thinking about what food and drinks to add to your road trip necessities list is also very important, because you don’t always have access to a supermarket while on the road. Especially once you hit the smaller towns, you can find that most items will become a lot more expensive as well.

So if you’re asking me what to plan for a road trip, I’d say: make sure to 1) always carry enough water 2) bring enough snacks (because I personally snack a LOT – or I will get grumpy) and 3) think about how you’re going to cook for all your meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner).

Along the way, see if you can stop at any farmers markets. It’s a great place to stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables and it’s a great way to meet the local people, taste typical delicacies and relax from the long drive!

Road Trip checklist for couples: make stops for a romantic lunch or dinner, such as this one we had on the beach!

What to do on a Road Trip?

Let’s move on to the next phase of your road trip planner: the actual driving! Because isn’t that the best part? If you are thinking you might get bored on the trip, here are some suggestions on how to spend your time:

10. Music, Fun & Games

Music is the one thing everyone probably enjoys on a good road trip. It’s the songs you hear on the local radio or keep on hearing from your music player that will remind you of all the good times when you get back home.

You can either put together a road trip music list before you leave, or be surprised by the music specific to the area you’re in. But radio’s don’t always work everywhere, so make sure to have some backup songs on your checklist for long road trip and Sing Along!

Here is my own Road Trip Playlist for you to listen to:

Having a break to 1) surf and 2) check out this Emu on the road! Oh the freedom of a road trip!

11. Photo-Spots & Stopovers

Ah, now we get to the good stuff! Of course one of the best ways to take a road trip is to stop often to take pictures, get active or do some serious sightseeing. Before you leave, you can plan some of the interesting places to stop along the way, but keep looking out of the window for roadside signs to help you make some spontaneous stops as well!

You can stop at bigger cities, small towns or even just a viewing area or service station. As long as you take some time to stretch your legs and breathe in some fresh air! If you travel with kids or pets, these stops are essential for keeping the spirit high as well.

With a National Park Pass you can not only enjoy some time in nature, but also use their restrooms (at the visitors center) and go for a picnic, which is a lot better than most of the road-side service stations or greasy fast food joints!

Sometimes you meet a horse wandering around. So of course I had to stop and stroke it! Can I keep him? ahh? ahh?

12. Taking a Break

Another one of the more important road trip tips: Have a break when you need one! There is no use pushing on to that next stop when you’re tired, as you can only endanger yourself (and others!) when you’re not sharp enough to handle quickly. Make sure you have a road trip planner with stops planned in.

Professional truck drivers aren’t supposed to drive more than 11 hours in a 14-hour workday, but you should probably take a break at least every 2-3 hours or so. Stay hydrated and have enough foods to keep feeling well. A stop doesn’t have to be long, but at least 15-20 minutes every couple of hours can make all the difference.

Same goes for when it gets to dark to drive, or as we had on our trip: when the weather suddenly turns bad! We almost got stuck on a deserted sandy road that suddenly got washed away by a huge rain storm! We saw it coming, but pushed on while we had better stopped driving when we still had the chance. Lesson learned.

How to Save Money on a Road Trip?

Finally in this road trip planner, some more road trip ideas (that you will love, because they are tips to save money!) If you pay a little bit more attention to the way you drive, you can really save quite a bit:

• Follow the speed limit. There is a reason governments lower speed limits when there is a gas crisis , by driving slower, you can boost your mileage.
• Avoid abrupt stopping and starting. When you accelerate from a standstill, you use extra fuel. Take notice of the timing of the red lights, so that you reach them slowly and can even see them turn green again without coming to a full stop.
• If your car has a cruise control, use it when the conditions allow it.
• Don’t overfill your gas tank and make sure to close the cap well. I read that every year, 147 million gallons of fuel vaporizes from tanks in the U.S. alone!
• When it’s cooler outside, it will increase your car’s power and mileage. So leave early in the morning or late in the evening, especially in summer. As air conditioners are quite efficient these days, you can turn them on and cause less drag on the engine than driving with the windows open as well.

Plan your Road Trip with these Expert Tips

• Planning on a Road Trip in the UK? My friends Peter & Kash went on an epic journey and have some great tips for you!
• If there is anyone that can tell you about road tripping with a family, it’s Caz & Craig from ytravelblog , who set out to explore their home country Australia by car.
• Planning an road trip USA? Make sure to check out Amanda’s blog for all nessesary do’s & don’ts or read Tonya’s blog for the best Road Side Attractions you can see during your road trip America.
• A Great list of Free Road Trip Apps on Mashable .

Ok, so this was not the ultimate road trip car in the end, even though he looked so good!

Love cars? Check out these articles we wrote for you car-lovers out there:

• The Panini Collection Of Unique Cars In Italy You Need To See
• Outstanding Enzo Ferrari Museum Modena , Italy – Step in the World of Car Perfection!
• Tested: This is the Ultimate Supercar Driving Experience in Italy!
• Lamborghini Museum Italy : This Exclusive Factory Tour is the Best!

Looking for more backpack reviews? Make sure to check out our following posts:

• Is This The Best Carry On Luggage I’ve Found?
• Fjällräven Kånken Backpack Review
• Flowfold Denizen Limited Tote Backpack Review
• Arcido Faroe Backpack Review
• Backpack Review Quechua Forclaz
• This Innovative Carry On Backpack Was Made To Spark Joy!
• Ultimate Carry-On Bag by Standard Luggage – Version 2.0

Also make sure to read:

• How to Use the Clever Konmari Folding Method for Travel
• 5 Unique Gift Ideas for Someone Going Travelling You Need to Know About
• Best Glamping & Camping Tips and Tricks : How To Make the Most out of your Holiday

I hope that all of these tips help you by planning a road trip yourself and that you now know what to take on a road trip! When you make sure you cover the basics and think about your health, safetly ánd entertainment, I’m sure you will have a great time on the road!  Have you ever made – or are you planning a road trip?  Where to? We ‘d love to hear it!

Disclaimer: This article about what to bring on a long road trip includes some affiliate links. We get a small commission when you purchase any products through these links at no extra cost to you!.

Jade Robson

Wednesday 21st of April 2021

This is amazing. I’ve been planning a western Aus trip (I’m living in Melbourne at the moment) and I might follow this guide exactly! And throw in Karijini NP as well. Enjoyed reading the article above, really explains everything in detail, the article is very interesting and effective. Thank you and good luck with the upcoming articles. Thanks so much!

Thursday 13th of June 2019

In summer, make sure that the AC in your car is working!

Tuesday 29th of January 2019

Thanks for sharing this information with us. If there is anyone that can tell you about road tripping with a family, it’s Caz & Craig from travel blog, who set out to explore their home country Australia by car.

Kanika Bakshi

Monday 5th of November 2018

Love it! Thank you for a great round up of what to do with the road trip – And some of those landscapes are beautiful!while traveling via road, its always fun things to carry with the roads might trouble you but if you have a former guide or pre-plan you might go easy thanks for the share.

Monday 1st of October 2018

I loved your article. It really shows people how to make one of these trips. It looks like you had a a wonderful time in Australia. And well.. the Australian costs are simply wonderful

I think I might have forgotten some of the items you listed on my last trip.

Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 55+ Essentials to Keep You Safe, Fed, and Prepared

This article was originally published on our site Nomad Paradise. As part of a rebrand, we are publishing all our travel packing and tips content in one place for you to enjoy - The Travel Method. For world cuisine and recipes, you can keep visiting Nomad Paradise.

Leave no stone unturned before you hit the open road with our road trip packing list that you can download and print off today. Use it to help you plan a memorable road trip.

Road Trip Packing List

Want all our essentials and suggestions in one handy, downloadable checklist you can print off, tick off, and fill in at home? Read to the end of this article to get to the download link and plan your next road trip with confidence.

1. Phone and Charger

If you’re using your phone as your sat nav or you and your friends or kids plan to use your phones in the car, batteries can quickly drain.

Consider a car charger adapter with multiple USB ports and a portable power bank for when you’re not in the car or as a backup if you have multiple phones to charge and not enough car chargers.

2. Driver’s License/ID and Registration Details

Naturally, this goes without saying, but it can be easy to forget if you have it on you. Double-check before you leave.

3. Cash and Cards

In addition to your credit and debit cards, be sure to have cash on hand. If you’re going somewhere a little more rural or off-beat, it may be harder to find cash machines or stores that take cards.

4. Roadside Assistance Membership and Details

If you don’t have one already, roadside assistance memberships, such as AAA roadside assistance, are there for you in those moments when you can’t get the car going and need help. Be sure to have your membership card and details on hand, including a contact phone number.

5. First-Aid Kit

You can get smaller, all-in-one travel-sized first-aid kits, which fit comfortably into the glove compartment. Particularly if you plan to hike or do some outdoor activities, it’s also good to have one on hand.

6. Pain Relief, Allergy, and Prescribed Medication

If you take any prescription medication, be sure to pack enough for the day with instructions on how to take it, if necessary. Over-the-counter pain relievers or any allergy medication is also a good idea to pack.

7. Bottled Water

Load up a large multi-pack of bottled water into the trunk. You can use this water for drinking, washing hands, or topping up your windscreen wiper fluid levels.

Car Maintenance and Emergency

8. all-in-one roadside emergency kit.

If you’re not sure of what you need to cover all bases, a roadside emergency kit will give you warning lights, jump leads, and other vital tools. All of it is packed into one convenient handled container that can be stowed in the trunk.

9. Spare Tire

If you don’t have one, visit your local garage and get one to be stowed in the trunk. Flat tires are more common than many people think.

If you do get a flat, the first thing you’ll need to do is elevate your car using a jack so that you can remove the tire.

11. Lug Wrench

Once elevated, make sure you have a lug wrench so that you can remove the lug nuts on the wheels and tighten them back on once the tire has been changed.

12. Jump Leads and/or Portable Battery Charger

If you have a flat battery, even if someone stops to help, you’re out of luck if they themselves don’t have jump leads or cables.

If you are going rural, you may want to consider having your own portable battery charger in the trunk. Though it can be expensive and heavy, you can use the portable battery charger to jump-start the car without needing another car.

13. Spare Engine Fluids

Consider packing spare engine oil, water, and brake fluid, just in case you need to top up or a warning light comes in. However, never pop the hood and attempt to add any liquids when the engine is hot.

14. Emergency Lights

Especially if you break down at night, emergency lights make you visible to other road users and can be used as a sign for help. Often, they’ll be included in the all-in-one roadside emergency kits, so double-check if you already have them.

15. Tape and Zip Ties

If you don’t have specialized equipment, having duct tape and zip ties handy can be used to patch things up and keep things connected until you reach a garage or get help further down the road.

It may be a little old-school, but GPS sat navs don’t need an internet connection. If you are going off-beat or very rural, this may be a better setup than using a phone that needs a 4G or 5G connection.

17. Maps App with Offline Mode

With Google Maps and apps like Maps.me, you can download maps beforehand to be used offline. It’s better to have this in place as a failsafe in case your phone loses internet connection and starts struggling to update your map.

18. Road Atlas of Area

Ordering an up-to-date road map or atlas of a certain area usually includes all the lanes and smaller roads, which some apps and map reading technology misunderstand or fail to pick up. It’s good to have a road atlas for backup.

19. GPS Transmitter

A failsafe for rural adventures, a GPS transmitter will send out a distress call to a pre-determined contact number. If you’re really going out into the wilderness, this is a good device to have, just in case.

20. Travel Pillow

If you’re going to be on the road for more than a few hours, consider packing one or more travel pillows for everyone to use. If you’re driving, you can still pull over and use it to get some shut-eye if you’re feeling tired.

21. Blankets and Towels

Even if it’s hot outside, with air-con in the car, things can get a little chilly. Pack a versatile, comfy travel blanket and use it to help you sleep or relax in the car.

22. Thermal or Comfy Socks

It’s nice to take your shoes off (if you’re not driving) and let your feet breathe, but be sure to wear some thermal or comfy socks to help with circulation and keep your feet warm.

23. Sun Shield

Use a sun shield or sunshade to keep the sun from getting in your eyes when driving.

Entertainment

24. prepared phone playlist.

Have a road trip playlist prepared beforehand on your phone in the likes of Spotify so that you can connect to your car stereo via Bluetooth and keep the car happy with some great tunes.

25. Bluetooth Speaker

Great for in the car and outdoor destinations, such as green parks or the beach, connect your phone to a wireless Bluetooth speaker and enjoy a higher quality of sound than your car stereo can provide.

26. Bluetooth FM Transmitter

If you’re driving an older car that doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, you can use an FM transmitter, which can be slotted into the cigarette lighter.

Connect it to an open radio frequency, then connect your phone via Bluetooth and play your favorite songs through the transmitter.

27. Coloring Books and Pens/Pencils

Coloring books are for kids and grown-ups alike, and you’d be amazed at how quickly you can lose yourself in intricate patterns and beautiful drawings.

28. Collection of Word/Vocal-Based Games

Need some inspiration? Check out this list of road trip games , note down the rules, and have a list of them handy for when you’re in the car.

29. Card Games

As long as there’s no board and the dealer is willing to reach over to each person, card games can generally be played with just the cards in your hand. This makes many card games ideal for playing in the car.

30. Journal and Pen

Take the time on the road for self-reflection, doodling, writing, poetry, or other outlets of thought and creativity. Pack a journal and colored pens, and enjoy some personal time in the car.

31. iPad or Tablet with Downloaded Movies

You will very quickly burn through data when streaming, so instead, take advantage of the offline download modes most major streaming services now have. Be sure to pack a portable charger for your tablets.

If you want to get everyone excited about going on a trip, you could even pick a movie from our list of travel-inspired movies to stoke the sense of adventure in the car.

32. Headphones

The last thing you want is everyone in the car watching different things on their phones or tablets and loud noise coming from each device.

33. Kindle Paperwhite

If you’re the passenger, get lost in a good book for hours on end. With a Kindle Paperwhite, you can have hundreds of titles downloaded to one device, ready to read.

34. Portable Charger

If you have lots of devices running in the car, a portable charger can help you keep everyone’s phones and tablets topped up on power. Be sure to have the correct cables on hand, and make sure your charger has been fully charged the night before your road trip.

35. Extra Layers

Whether you’re hiking in the heat or spending time by water, it’s always good to have extra layers and spare clothes.

36. Coat or Jacket

You never know when the weather may turn cold, so have a coat or jacket on hand in case you need to keep warm.

37. Sunglasses

It’s important to keep the sun out of your eyes, especially when driving.

38. Hiking Boots

Even if you’re not hiking, if you’re going off-road or outdoors, sturdy boots, sneakers, or hiking shoes are always better to have packed in the car.

39. Spare Socks and Underwear

Especially if you do some outdoor activities, it’s good to have a change of socks and underwear.

40. Swimwear

I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve ended up at a beach or lake on a road trip and not have my swimwear on hand to go in the water. If you are planning a beach day or visiting a waterfall or lake, always pack your swimwear in case.

41. Beach Towel or Large Foldable Towel

Travel towels are ideal for picnics, beach days, or just giving everyone in the car somewhere to sit on the floor when there’s no seating around.

42. Portable Laundry Bag

Clothes can get dirty, wet, or sweaty, so have a spare bag or portable laundry bag to keep any clothes you change out of away from food, blankets, and clean clothes.

If you are planning a camping trip, naturally, you will need a far more extensive list than this. You can head over to our camping gear rundown to get ideas for everything you need. If you are planning an overnight stay and driving back in the morning, pack the following.

43. Toiletries Bag

Include your essentials, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and specific shampoo. As it is only one night, you may not need to pack items such as a razor for shaving and so on.

If you have trouble sleeping in beds other than your own, you should have enough room in the car to bring your pillow, which you can even use to help you sleep on the car seat.

45. Daypack or Overnight Bag

Keep your change or clothes and toiletries in a daypack or overnight bag, separate from your other items.

46. One Full Set of Spare Clothes

Make sure you pack one full set of clothes to change into in the morning.

Food and Drink

What summer adventure or beach trip is complete with a trusted cooler to keep all your drinks, snacks, and packed food in?

48. Collapsable Water Bottle

Great for when you find water fountains and fresh drinking water, collapsable water bottles will also help save space when you’re not using them.

49. Vacuum Flask

Keep your hot tea and coffee or ice-cold drinks in a vacuum flask, and look for one with a handle to make it easier to pour. Be sure to bring cups, too, if you’re not drinking from the flask.

50. Sealable Ziploc Bags

Any prepared food, such as sandwiches, fruit, vegetables, or opened food, you can store in Ziploc bags, to keep them fresh and keep the car clean from messes.

51. Plates and Cutlery

Decide how you’re going to eat more substantial meals. You could pack the food in Tupperware with forks, or you could pack plates, either disposable or non-disposable. Make sure you have somewhere, or a free bag, to store the dirty plates.

52. Wet Wipes

It’s always handy to have wipes on you to clean yourself, spillages, or sanitize your hands before eating food.

53. Trail Mix

Some would argue the king of road trip snacks , trail mix is simple to pack and, if the bag is big enough, it keeps hunger at bay for everyone in the car in between meals.

54. Granola or Protein Bars

Great for quick, filling snacks, easy to carry, and minimal mess.

55. Sliced or Packaged Fruit

Get some more vitamins and minerals in with some sliced or pre-prepared fruit, and seal them in Ziploc bags to keep the fruit from spoiling.

56. Portable Coffee Maker and Ground Beans

As long as you have access to hot water (see below), devices like AeroPress or portable coffee makers that run on batteries or USB charge mean you can still enjoy your favorite ground coffee, no matter what time of day it is.

57. Travel Kettle

If you are packing a coffee maker, get yourself a portable travel kettle so that you can boil some of the water you packed.

Feel free to download and print off our road trip packing list and use it to make sure you leave no stone unturned before your next adventure on the road.

Road trips can sometimes be deceiving because if you’re only planning to be gone for an afternoon, full day, or at most one night, it often feels like you can leave many things to chance.

Especially with a motor vehicle, it’s always good to plan ahead. Often, if you go to rural places, it can be difficult to get help, and thus, you’ll need to get things up and running yourself.

Spend the time necessary to cover all your bases so that you can focus your energy on having a great day on the road. From keeping everyone fed to making sure you have the tools to get the car back on the road, a little planning can go a long way.

You Might Also Like to Read

• Vacation Packing List (All the Essentials)
• Packing List for Weekend Getaways

Save and Pin for Later

Plan your next road trip with confidence by saving this article to one of your boards and having the checklist ready to download a few days before your journey.

Author: Dale

Dale Johnson is a content creator from the UK. He has traveled full-time for over three years and to over 30 countries and writes on a number of travel-themed topics, including travel packing tips and the latest gear.

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How to Plan a Road Trip and Have an Epic Adventure

A road trip is the perfect chance to bond with your crew while immersing yourself in the journey. Check out our tips to plan a road trip!

A road trip can be a marvelous adventure or an unmitigated disaster. You could build memories that last a lifetime, or you could come home with a few new enemies. It all depends on how you prepare and approach the journey! In this ultimate travel guide, we’ll give you all the tips to plan a road trip that your whole crew will love. We’ll hook you up with the ultimate playlist, give you some specific road trip itineraries, help you choose your travel companions, and even make sure you have the tools to eat healthy along the way. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a group of friends, or solo, these tips will help you design the perfect road trip!

Adding Let’s Roam to Your Road Trip Itinerary!

With hundreds of scavenger hunts , urban art walks , and bar crawls scattered across the United States, we’ve set you up for an easy and fantastically fun road trip! When you roll into a city, pull out your Let’s Roam scavenger hunt app , and explore with one of our sightseeing hunts or maybe a creepy ghost tour ! You’ll also get access to Let’s Roam Local , which features local recommendations for restaurants and attractions.

Pros and Cons of a Road Trip

If loading up your wild crew and hitting the open road sounds like an epic adventure to you, you aren’t wrong! It absolutely can be. Taking a road trip has excellent advantages and can be a great bonding experience, but it’s not for everyone. Here are a few pros and cons.

Immersion: A road trip puts you in the mix of nature, small towns, and landmarks that you miss when flying.

Intimate Conversations: Long scenic drives offer the perfect atmosphere for deep convos. For a little help with your road trip chats, check out our list of “ 150 Riveting and Relatable Road Trip Conversation Starters .”

Budget Friendly: If you’re sharing prices with a group of friends, a road trip can save you big bucks!

Lasting Memories: Road trips offer nostalgia, a carefree vibe, and one-on-one time that you don’t get with other travel methods. You can create some epic memories on a road trip!

Boredom: If traveling with kids or adults with a short attention span, road trips can be monotonous if not planned correctly.

Time-Consuming: Road trips should be considered a journey, not a drive to a destination. If you don’t enjoy the “getting there,” then a flight is a better option for you.

Takes More Planning: A good road trip may take more planning than other trips. You’re going to need a route, multiple accommodations, road trip games, and plenty of planned breaks.

How to Plan a Road Trip: Step-by-Step Guide

Designing a fun road trip is so much more than picking a starting point and taking off (unless that carefree vibe is the goal for you). If you follow these helpful steps, you can pretty much ensure that your travel plans will be a hit!

1. Pick the right people.

Just because someone is your best friend (or your closest family) doesn’t mean they’re an ideal travel partner for you. If you and your spouse are taking the kids on a road trip, then choosing travel companions isn’t an option. But for everyone else, when planning a road trip, you want to choose wisely.

You need to be able to agree on attractions, style of accommodation, and all the major stuff, but it’s also nice to have someone who thinks differently than you and who can bring a fresh perspective to your travels.

2. Ask pre-trip questions.

The laundry list of things that can feasibly go wrong on a trip is a big one, but you can hedge off most of these with proper planning. Sitting down and having strategic pre-trip conversations can save you days of heartache. Here are a few topics that you need to hash out before you plan a road trip.

What is the overall vibe you’re looking for?

If you were imagining a road trip filled with adventure, quirky roadside attractions, long hikes, and rousing scavenger hunts but you never have this conversation with your travel companions, you might end up in a rut.

They may be dreaming of spa visits, resting on the seashore, and long talks over nightly wine. Are you looking for adventure, a cultural experience, or rest and relaxation? Make sure you agree on what kind of vacation you’re taking.

What is your overall budget?

You should have a good idea of what everyone is comfortable spending on this trip before you begin planning. There should always be a little wiggle room in the budget for unexpected costs, like tolls. If you know the maximum budget, you can plan a trip that fits comfortably within the parameters.

How long do you want to be on the road each day?

Perhaps your idea of a road trip is bopping 2-3 hours to the next town and finding a luxury hotel or casino to spend the afternoon in. Your travel companion’s idea of a road trip may be 12-hour days, stopping at every roadside attraction and taking long roadside hikes. You might need to make a schedule and compromise on drive times each day.

What kind of traveler are you?

This is a loaded question because it encompasses so many facets. Some road-trippers are all about a tent campsite, while others choose a luxury camper, and others take the hotel route. Accommodation is only one aspect of this conversation. You also need to talk about

• Packed itinerary or a lot of free time
• Get up early each day or sleep in and rest
• Make detailed plans or wing it
• Experience new things or stay in your comfort zone

What are your must-do items for this trip?

Road trip planning is flexible, but you want to make sure that each person gets to do one or two things at the top of their list. Have everyone write down the list of attractions they want to add to the itinerary, and have them designate them a 1, 2, or 3. Ones are absolute must-dos. Twos are highly preferred, and threes are possible if you have some extra time.

What gets on your nerves when traveling?

Even the people we love most can really push our buttons on a long road trip. Make sure you know the little things that get under your companion’s skin, and try to be aware of them as you travel.

Do you want to share everything or have time to yourself?

Some people choose to spend their entire vacation together. They share rooms, book all the same activities, and eat in the same restaurants. Other travelers may prefer to have their own space at night, drink their coffee alone in the morning, and schedule a few activities to do solo. There’s no right or wrong way, just make that decision before you plan the trip so no one’s feelings get hurt in the moment.

3. Start planning your epic road trip.

Many of the potential problems we’ve discussed above are easily avoidable with open communication and proper planning. Here are a few travel tips for making sure your next road trip goes as smoothly as possible.

• If you’re traveling with a new travel companion, make it a short trip until you know you’re compatible travel partners.
• Plan your trip together, ensuring that everyone gets their favorite things on the itinerary and that major expenses are agreed upon.
• Schedule alone time each day for everyone to clear their head and have some rest.
• Choose the best route for your trip. It should be somewhere that fits the overall vibe you have agreed on, fits in the budget, and offers a variety of attractions along the way. Beautiful scenery never hurts either!
• Download helpful apps (more on this in a sec) like Google Maps.
• Make sure to create a massive road trip playlist full of songs to keep you upbeat and ready for exploration. Check out “ Road Trip Sing-Along Songs for Every Type of Adventure ” to get your playlist rolling!
• Pack healthy snacks. Hungry friends become hangry friends, and hangry friends are no fun! Check out our list of “ Healthy Travel Snack Ideas to Keep Your Belly Full ” to avoid the trappings of fast food and all the consequences that come along with too many gas station corn dogs.

On the Trip

• Remember to stop and smell the roses, so to speak. Don’t get so caught up in getting there that you miss the gems of the journey.
• Pull your weight! Travel companions should be helping one another along the way and make the trip easier for each other, not harder.
• Don’t gossip. There’s always a point in a trip where one person separates a bit, and it’s easy for the others to feel ostracized or gang up on the third person. Keep any negative thoughts about your travel mates between you and them, and don’t bring it up with the rest of your crew.
• Be sensitive to the vibe. There’s a time for laughing until you cry, a time for deep conversation, a time for wild nights of drinking, and a time for quiet contemplation. Try to feel your companions’ needs and be respectful of the moment.

Helpful Road Trip Apps

Let’s Roam: You can access bar crawls, sightseeing hunts, urban art walks, and more!

Google Maps: Plot all your destinations using the My Maps feature, and share it with everyone on the trip. Once you’ve lined out your route, download it so you have access to offline maps. Cell service can be a big issue when traveling across certain sections of America.

Roadtrippers : This is a very user-friendly and well-rated road trip planner. If you’re struggling to line out the best route, download it immediately!

Route 66: There are several Route 66 apps for iPhone and Android, but honestly, none of them are an amazing product on their own. We recommend downloading both Route 66 Ultimate Guide and Explore Illinois Route 66 .

AllTrails : If you’re planning on taking some day hikes on your trip, then AllTrails is your best friend.

iOverlander : If you’re traveling by camper van or RV, iOverlander is extremely useful for finding the best deals and giving detailed explanations of campsites and parking options.

AAA Mobile : The AAA app offers roadside assistance, trip-planning help, and access to discounts along your route.

iPad Games: Make sure to download a few games for the kiddos as they will likely need at least a little screen time.

Where to Go on Your Road Trip: A Few Suggested Itineraries

Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day trip or an ambitious cross-country journey, we’ve got the perfect road trip for you! Check out these awesome options.

1. National Parks of Utah

Utah is a natural wonder with massive and unusual rock formations around every turn. From canyoning in Zion National Park to wandering the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, nowhere beats Utah for an adventurous road trip. There are so many great spots on the side of the road to just pull off and explore a slot canyon, take a short hike, or rest in a stream. If you and your crew are adventurous souls who just want to get lost in nature for a week, Utah is your best bet!

From the otherworldly landscapes of Yellowstone National Park to culturally important sites like Mesa Verde National Park, the U.S. is loaded with incredible national parks! Check out our guide to “ The Ultimate National Park Road Trip .”

2. Pacific Coast Adventure

The dynamic northern Pacific Coast of the U.S.A. is an absolute stunner! Starting in northern California and working your way up the coast of Oregon to Washington State is an excellent journey full of incredible coastal cliffs, odd seaside rock formations, idyllic lighthouses, and delicious seafood. From visiting seal caves to exploring tidepools, going sandboarding, and experiencing Lewis and Clark historical sights, there’s a little bit of something for everyone, and the scenery is to die for!

Be sure to check out our “ Seattle by the Sound ” scavenger hunt for a riveting adventure through Pike Place Fish Market and the beating heart of Seattle.

Equally awesome but with a totally different vibe, the cities of the California coast make great options. Start in San Francisco and work your way south through Los Angeles to San Diego. This would afford you day trips to bucket list spots like Alcatraz, Napa Valley, Sequoia National Forest, Catalina Islands, and Joshua Tree National Park.

3. Themed Road Trip

If you’re traveling with kids (or you’re young at heart), consider a themed road trip. Include costumes and themed food, and even decorate your car with the theme! You could be astronauts in flight and take a trip from Houston to Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Hit up the Johnson Space Center in Houston, the Infinity Science Center in Pearlington, Mississippi, and the Solar Walk in Gainsville, Florida. Once you reach Cape Canaveral, explore the Kenny Space Center , and visit the NASA launch site. You can even take a ride on Space Mountain at Disney World as you pass by!

For a full list of fun themes like this one, check out “ 20 Remarkable Road Trip Theme Ideas .”

4. Nostalgic Route 66

The original American road trip, Route 66 is an adventure full of quirky roadside attractions and cute Midwest towns. The official route runs from Chicago to Los Angeles. For all the details on planning this massive journey, check out our Route 66 road trip guide !

5. Local State Parks

We’re convinced there’s not a single state in the Union that isn’t worth checking out in full! If you’re on a tight budget this year, check out your own state parks. From ancient Native American sites to natural wonders, every state has something fun and educational to offer.

Check out your state parks websites as well. They often run special events for families in the summer, ranging from cultural and historical history lectures to hands-on animal conservation seminars.

6. International Options

The iceland ring road.

A flight to Reykjavik is usually one of the cheapest European flights from the continental United States, and Iceland is one of the most dynamic landscapes on Earth. Its legendary Ring Road encircles the island and treats the adventurous traveler to black sand beaches dotted with ice diamonds, flocks of adorable puffins, snorkeling with humpback whales, active volcanoes, and ice-blue hot springs.

If that all sounds good to you, check out our guide “ Driving the Ring Road of Iceland .”

Campervan Through Canada

Our neighbor to the north has some pretty incredible scenery! It’s huge, so you’ll likely have to choose a region. You could set your sights on Niagara Falls and check out both the New York and Canadian sides or spend a week roaming Vancouver Island and ogling all the amazing wildlife!

You will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization to enter Canada.

Fun Things to Do on a Road Trip

No matter where you roam, you’re going to spend a lot of time in the car. Here are some fun ways to keep yourselves awake and entertained along the way!

• Download podcasts or audiobooks on a shared interest so you can listen to them during the morning hours.
• Check out our list of “ The Best Road Trip Games for Kids, Teens, and Adults ” to fill your car with hours of fun!
• Stop along the way to make some funny roadside TikTok videos or upload wacky pics to social media.
• If you’re traveling through the United States, make sure to seek out the quirky roadside attractions !
• Enjoy a new adventure each day with Let’s Roam !
• Challenge yourself to spend 24 hours in Buc-ee’s or Wall Drug, living off the gas station amenities.
• Spice up the long drives by trying something new and adventurous each day. Maybe you eat the weirdest local cuisine, stop by an amusement park and ride the coaster, or join a local arts and crafts class!
• Visit educational sites like Native American pueblos, historic buildings, or UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Spend a day in the Jr. Ranger Program at one of the national parks!
• Try wild swimming or soaking in a hot spring.
• Test out the local food by researching the best traditional restaurants on your route.
• Look up a band from each state that you pass through, and listen to their music.
• Find an author who lives/lived in your destination, and read one of their books on the trip.
• Make frequent pit stops for friendly competitions like three-legged races, push-up contests, or jump rope competitions.
• Picnic along the way. Pull the car over, throw out a blanket, bust out the healthy foods you packed, and enjoy the moment!

Closing Thoughts

We sometimes look at road trips as secondary options to a bigger vacation we can’t afford or don’t have time for. However, a well-planned road trip can be the adventure of a lifetime! So, don’t hesitate. Call your gal pals, gather the fellas, round up the kids, plan a road trip, and pack the snacks. Then, hit the road! Adventure and a lifetime of memories are waiting for you and your crew!

For more tips and tricks to help you successfully travel as a group, check out “ The Dos and Don’ts of Traveling With Friends .”

Frequently Asked Questions

When planning a road trip , pick your companions wisely , decide on a trip vibe , map out a route , add in some fun adventures for pitstops , and ensure a good time with a fun playlist!

The original road trip, Route 66 is considered the best road trip in the United States, followed by a trip up the West Coast Highway One from California to Washington State.

Road trips are a really fun vacation if they are planned appropriately. Make sure you have a good group to travel with , a route with plenty of visual interest , and fun stops along the way !

For a long road trip , get plenty of exercise on your pit stops, pack some healthy snacks , download your favorite podcasts, and plan some fun adventures to take as side trips!

There are several apps that are great for road trips. Making a trip-specific map on Google Maps is a good idea, and Roadtrippers is excellent for helping you with organization.

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The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: Things to Bring on a Road Trip Check List

Are you a globetrotter? You’ll want to read this article for packing tips for your next adventure, especially road trips! Road trips have an adventurous, feeling that destination vacations lack- they even give you more freedom in what you do on your journey than most other types of travel plans would allow. Planning a road trip from scratch can be tricky but worth it when done right. Let me help you one at a time.

This blog post will give you an ultimate road trip packing list , with everything your need to pack for a long-distance journey by car or a motorhome. We’ll start with road trip essentials like documents to carry, navigation tools, car accessories and road trip gear and then move on to clothing, toiletries and electronics. We’ve also included some of our favourite accessories for those special moments that deserve capturing!

If you are just interested in the road trip specific information, you can read our exclusive road trip essentials and road trip planner guides.

• Road Trip Planning and Packing

Before we talk about packing, do you love road trips or do they terrify you? If the latter, don’t worry, I have been there once but now can easily plan and pack a long road trip without hassle. When you plan a long road trip, leave nothing to chance and take the stress out of planning by following my detailed step-by-step r oad trip planner guide.

The packing process has never been an easy task for me. Now the next question is who packs for their tips well in advance? Not me! I usually start off packing mostly one or two days before the trip. Being a full time professional, I go on long holidays taking the short annual leaves. Nowadays being organized is always key when you’re trying not to stress yourself out over your vacation plans. I fully rely on the ready-made packing list I have prepared that acts as the final check list to pack quickly to save time and still be fully ready for a trip. For any trip, I only think about destination or weather specific needs in advance, but everything else just gets picked up from this ultimate road trip packing list I have prepared filled with all the must-have things to carry on a road trip. Once you’ve checked off everything on this list shared below, I promise it will be smooth sailing from here out. Happy travels!

Travel and Car Documentation

Navigation tools, road trip packing list for the car, car accessories, travel photography, productivity tech/ electronics, road trip entertainment apps, meal replacements, food or camping gear, road trip safety essentials, winter clothing, summer clothing, toiletries & personal care, road trip bags and luggage, ultimate road trip packing list, road trip essentials packing list.

Road trips require extra attention because they involve remote traveling as well as preparing everything from clothing to food if necessary. Road Trips need extra packing compared to a destination break, as you need to pack extra for the vehicle and personal care for remote travelling. This section offers advice about all those road trip essentials before embarking on a journey anywhere or anytime soon.

The road trip essentials checklist starts with the must-have some road trip specific information like your car and driving related documentation to carry on a road trip.

• Driver’s License: Most fundamental thing for your road trip
• Car registration/manual
• Car rental contract details if you are renting a car
• Car insurance
• Personal Travel insurance
• Visa (if required)
• Credit Cards
• Emergency phone numbers along the route
• Printed accommodation details
• Cash – Sometimes you would need to pay in cash on the way, For example: state park entrance fees

All the road trippers should have these essential road trip navigation tools to carry on a road trip. You cannot find your way through the destination without these devices and printables!

• Smart Phone
• Car phone mount
• Navigation Apps
• USB chargers for the phone
• Printed maps

A road trip can’t start without a fully functioning vehicle – you need to pack specifically for your car journey to be smooth and safe. When you are planning for a road trip with several people in the car, it’s always better to travel prepared rather than risk losing your plans if anything happens.

• Navigation tools (Listed above)
• Locking wheel nuts
• Spare tyre / breakdown kits
• Breakdown cover
• Spare light bulbs
• Warning triangle
• Catalytic Converter
• Blind spot mirror

Road Trip Gear or Accessories

For your own personal care and wellbeing and to help keep up with the pace of a road trip, it’s worth adding a few accessories and comfort items in the car.

• An offline music playlist and headphones : Sometimes the driver or passengers wants to listen to their choice of music
• Reading material: Kindle/iPad /Tablets
• Writing materials : Journals, Pens
• Portable charger
• Car Trash Bin
• Car trunk organizer
• Travel pillows
• Seat Cushion
• Throws / Blankets
• Sun Glasses
• Chewing Gum
• Motion Sickness Tablets for the passengers
• Reusable shopping bags
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper
• Car tissue paper
• Car freshener
• Hot water bottle

If you are into travel photography, it’s always better to prepare your road trip kit including photography equipment and other electronic accessories.  

• Camera Tripod
• Extra batteries
• Memory Cards
• Card reader
• Charging Cables

Some road trippers prefer to document their road trip experience through writing, while others would rather do it digitally. Photographers and content creators might want to regularly work with their content on the go. Some of the electronics gear to carry include:

• Chromebooks/Laptops
• Google Home/ Amazon Echo
• Battery pack
• USB Car Charger
• USB charger
• USB cables + spare

Road Trip Apps

Download helpful applications from the App Store or PlayStore on your smartphone. You can also find range of applications to help you on the way including road trip planners, parking space allocators etc.

• Waze/Google Maps/Apple Maps
• Offline maps: Don’t miss downloading maps to be not stuck when there is no data
• Maps.me App and other offline maps also helps with trails
• Weather forecast apps – Sometimes you would have to change plans according to weather on a road trip
• Toilet Apps like Flush, Find Public Toilets etc to find public toilets on the route
• Mobile payment Apps like Apple Pay, google Pay, Samsung Pay etc
• Bank app updates to authorize transactions
• Rental Car Apps for managing bookings if you are renting a car in your destination
• Accommodation Apps: Booking.com, Airbnb, Hotels.com and other last minute booking apps.

Long journeys do call for some entertainment, as not all the roads are scenic 😉 Do make sure to download some music and organize the playlist to create that ultimate road trip vibe while in the car. You could also listen to your favourite podcasts or audio books.

• Spotify / YouTube Music / Apple Music etc with offline songs
• Audio Books
• Smart phone games for passengers

Road Trip Food

It is not always easy to find restaurants during a road trip. The best way to prepare for a long road trip is by stocking the car with snacks and easy food that can be eaten while driving. This also helps with saving time sometimes.

Some of the snacks that can be carried in car include:

• Granola Bars
• Protein bars
• Chips/Crisps
• Juice boxes
• Dried Fruits/nuts
• Cereal/porridge for breakfasts
• Juice Boxes
• Soft Drinks
• Fresh Fruits- my favourite are oranges as they don’t need washing
• Cheese sticks/Pretzels

Some easy meal replacement options include:

• Sandwich Items (Bread, Meat, Cheese)

If you plan to camp or might cook at your accommodations, below is a list of essential utensils that can be carried separately for cooking or eating in the car:

• Cooking set for those who plan to cook on the way
• Cooler – to store food like milk, frozen vegetables, meat slices etc if you are cooking in your accommodations or on the road. I usually store milk and left overs in the cooler.
• Flask with hot water – To make some tea or coffee or even cup noodles
• Reusable travel water bottle 
• Reusable travel coffee mug

A list of cutlery items to carry as needed include:

• Reusable Cup/Plates/Cutlery – for picnics or eating in cars
• Zippered Plastic Baggies or Sandwich Bags
• Plastic Food Containers
• Paper Towels
• Utensils 
• Butter Knife
• Sharp Knife
• Paper Plates
• Plastic Bowls
• Swizz knife or Corkscrew/can opener/bottle opener
• Reusable Shopping Bag

Road trips are all about having fun, but it’s also important to be safe and cautious at all times. Road trippers should prepare their vehicles with emergency roadside kits just in case of any emergencies. Here is a good list of things to carry in your car for road safety.

• Roadside Emergency Kit
• First Aid Kit
• Air Compressor
• Jumper Cables
• Window Hammer
• Booster Cables
• First Aid Kit (Pain Reliever, Band Aids, Antibiotic Cream, Benadryl, Tums)
• Empty Portable Gas Can
• Washer Fluid
• Transmission Oil
• Brake Fluid
• Rags and an Old Blanket
• Extra Car Key
• Gallon Jug of Water

General Travel Packing List

Whenever you travel, it is important to pack accordingly for the trip. You need to choose perfect travel clothing that will help you stay comfortable on your travel journey as well as look great when you travel. A travel packing list should have all the essentials including garments and accessories like travel shoes, travel pants, travel tops and travel dresses according to one’s destination.

The travel clothing packing list depends on the travel destination, travel season and travel style (casual or formal). A generic list items look like:

• Leggings/Jeggings
• Under garments
• Pyjamas/sleeping clothes
• Running/Sports wear
• Rain coat/ Wind cheater/ Waterproof
• Sweatshirts/ Jumpers/ Cardigans/ Fleece (helps for flight)
• Winter Hat/Beanies
• Fleece lined leggings
• Bathing suit/ Beach towels
• Sun glasses
• Sandals/ Flip flops
• Short sleeved/tank tops
• Summer shirts

Personal travel care products are important during travel to ensure that you stay clean and fresh all day long.

• Conditioner
• Tooth Paste
• Tooth Brush/Floss
• Tooth Brush Charger
• Nail clipper
• Comb/Hair Brush
• Hair Straightener
• Makeup essentials – (I dont make up, no list, sorry)
• Sanitary Products
• Moisturizer
• Razors/Tweezers
• Basic medicines

With all those items to pack for your road trip, you’re going to need a place to store them. Choose a duffel bag, suitcase, or backpack for your clothes, a toiletry bag for your bathroom needs, and a smaller road trip backpack and/or purse for use during the day. You might also want to bring along a laundry bag to separate your used clothes from your clean clothes and a couple of extra bags to organize your sweatshirts, snacks, and anything else you want to keep on close to hand in the car.

• Duffel Bag, Suitcase, or Backpack
• Small Backpack
• Purse/Neck Wallet
• Small Bags for the Car
• Toiletry Bag
• Laundry Bag

Think about the adventure that awaits you and what kind of things might make it even more special. A lot can happen on a trip, so be sure to pack an extra toothbrush or two just in case! Pack all your basic toiletries plus any extras like contact solution for those times when something comes up unexpectedly (or if you forget) as well as anything else that will provide comfort during travel- such as your favorite snacks to keep your energy levels up while driving long distances. You’ve got this, after all; start packing and enjoy your journeys!

Jumana is a travel writer and technologist living in the United Kingdom, born and brought up in India. While she is busy with her full time job as a computer technologist, she is an active explorer during her spare time. She has been exploring states of India since she was 15 and then around the world since she moved to the west in her 20s. Her favourite travel style is “On the Road” and she has perfected the art of road trip planning, covering multiple famous and undiscovered routes around Europe, UK and USA. She is on a mission to road trip the planet and learn more about the cultures around the world.

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Hit the Road with Ease: 10 Helpful Road Trip Planning Apps

Posted: August 6, 2023 | Last updated: August 6, 2023

Road trips are “in” this year. Whether you need a travel packing list, the cheapest gas price, or a toilet finder, there’s “an app for that!” Using a road trip planner app is a convenient way to store all your essential travel plans all in one place. Below we’ll explore ten useful apps that can help you stay organized, budget, and find your way around.

1. Roadtrippers (Route Planning)

Roadtrippers is a robust road trip planner app with many useful features. Not only can you plan out your entire trip, but you can also use the app to navigate. The app allows you to mark your planned stops easily and suggests things for you to do along the way. You can estimate how much you’ll spend on gas, book hotels and tours, and get traffic updates. Roadtrippers Plus has even more features, allowing you to create itineraries and download pre-made trip guides.

2. PackPoint (Packing List)

A road trip packing list can help you keep track of your belongings before, during, and after travel. It’s the best way to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything essential. But rather than keep track of a paper checklist, why not use an app? PackPoint is a travel packing list app that allows you to create custom packing lists for free. You can categorize your list and even see what the weather is like at your destination. The premium version also allows you to link to your TripIt itinerary! 

3. TripIt (Itineraries)

TripIt is a mobile itinerary app that allows you to compile your road trip or travel plans all in one place. You can send your travel confirmation emails to the app, add things like photos and PDFs, email your itinerary to someone else, and even sync your trip to your calendar. TripIt Pro has additional features such as trip reminders, a rewards program tracker, “go now” reminders, and a host of flight-related tools. If you love itineraries, you’ll love this road trip planner app!

4. Waze (Traffic & Directions)

Waze is a GPS navigation and live traffic app that helps you get where you need to go. Not only does it help you get to your destination, but it allows users to input information such as road hazards, construction sites, and police sightings.

Another popular feature of the app is its rerouting tool. When the app notices traffic back up ahead, it will notify you of the situation and offer alternative routes. Waze has also added features such as a speedometer, a gas finder, a parking garage/lot finder, and it will even sync with your music and podcast apps.

5. Google Maps (Destination Finder)

Suppose you’re directionally changed, like me. Using Google Maps to get around a new city is a game changer. The app isn’t just for driving navigation and can be used when getting around on foot or by bike. And if your location history has been enabled, the app will even give you destination recommendations based on places you’ve previously visited. In addition, Google Maps will let you share your location and download maps offline if you know you’ll have spotty service.

6. GasBuddy (Best Gas Prices)

GasBuddy is a fuel savings app that uses your location to help you locate cheap gas. You can also sign up for a free Pay with GasBuddy card to save even more at the pump. Here’s how it works.

Once you receive the card in the mail, you will connect it to your bank account. Next, you’ll use the app to unlock deals. Then, when you are ready to fill up, you use your GasBuddy card instead of your debit card. When you do this, you’ll receive up to 25 cents off per gallon, and if you upgrade to their premium account, you can get up to 40 cents off per gallon. The GasBuddy card works at 95% of gas stations in the U.S.

Additionally, if you want to save even more on gas, you can participate in their Shop Your Way program. Use the app to shop for their retailers, and they will apply more gas discounts to your card.

7. Flush (Toilet Finder)

The Flush restroom finder app is genius! All you have to do is open the app, and it will display public restroom options near you. The app also tells you if the bathroom is handicap accessible, if there is a fee, and even lets you know if a key is required. And this app isn’t just for those in the U.S.; it helps you find toilets worldwide!

8. Trabee Pocket (Budget Tracker)

The Trabee Pocket app was designed specifically for tracking your spending while traveling. The app allows you to enter pre-trip costs, add on-the-go costs, categorize your purchases, and show you how much you’ve spent via a pie graph. And if you don’t want to hold on to your paper receipt, you can take photos and upload them to the app.

When your road trip is over, you can export your expense detail to a PDF or even a CSV file that you can open in Microsoft Excel. This simple-to-use expense tracker is great for budget-conscious road-trippers looking to watch their spending!

9. HotelTonight (Last-Minute Stays)

If you’re looking for last-minute hotel deals, HotelTonight is your app. Perfect for road trips, this app is ideal for those who decide, unplanned, that they want to stay the night in town before moving on to their next destination. So how does it work?

HotelTonight partners with hotels to help them fill up their unreserved rooms. In return, they can offer deep discounts to get those rooms filled. And although the app advertises last-minute accommodations, you can also book stays up to 100 days in advance. Be careful, though! Because these are great deals, you likely won’t get a refund for a cancellation or the ability to request a different type of room.

10. Guide Along (Audio Tours)

Guide Along , formerly known as GyPsy Guide, is a GPS-narrated audio tour app that will give you information about your current location. While driving or walking, the app will suggest local tips and tell you about all the things there are to do and see around you. It’s a personal tour guide at your fingertips! The app lets you download and play tours offline if you know you’ll have bad cell service in an area.

Final Thoughts

There are tons of road trip planner apps, so be sure to research and find the apps that best fit your needs. It’s always a good idea to test out your apps before your trip so you’re not fumbling around while driving. Enjoy your vacation, and be safe out there!

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Photo Credit: [@scanrail/DepositPhotos]

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How to Plan a Trip: A Month-by-Month Guide

Trip planning can be a daunting task. Flights, insurance, gear, itineraries, accommodation, and so much more all need to be considered and sorted out before you go.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed , especially when you haven’t done something like this before.

After over close to twenty years of traveling the world, I’ve planned countless trips and vacations for myself, friends, and family, even group tours. In the beginning, it was trial by fire. I learned a lot of lessons the hard way . However, that helped me develop an efficient checklist that ensures I don’t miss anything important during the trip-planning process.

One big question I get asked a lot is when to start planning. To answer that question, this post breaks the planning process down into month-by-month steps so you can plan your next trip with ease.

Here’s how to plan a trip:

Table of Contents

12 Months Out: Decide on Your Destination(s)

12 months out: start collecting points & miles, 8 months out: visa requirements, passports, and vaccines, 4-6 months out: book your flight, 3-4 months out: book your accommodation, 2 months out: plan your activities, 1 month out: get travel insurance, 7 days out: pack.

If you already have a dream destination in mind, great! If not, here are some posts to help you get started:

• 11 Cheap Places to Visit on the US Dollar
• 10 Places to Travel on a Budget
• The Best Tropical Islands in the World
• My Favorite Cities in the World
• My 31 Favorite Places to Visit in the USA

But, this far out, the real thing you want to do is start saving money and figuring out your costs. Accommodation and flights are the obvious ones, but how much do restaurants, attractions, and other activities cost? Knowing these costs will allow you accurately estimate how much money you’ll need. Here is how to research costs:

• Buy a guidebook
• Check out my free travel guides (we break down all costs for each destination)
• Skim the cost of living on Numbeo.com
• Google prices for major activities you want to do, such as scuba diving, winery tours, etc. ( Get Your Guide is a good place to start)
• Use Skyscanner or Google Flights for flight prices and sign up for alerts to get emails if the price changes
• Use Discover Cars to price out (and book) a rental car if you need one
• Use Booking.com and Hostelworld to research accommodation costs

That may seem like a lot but you just want to get a general idea of how much you need to save. You can head to this page to see all my articles on how to save money for your trip .

These days, most cards have welcome offers of 60,000-80,000 points (some can be as high as 100,000) when you meet their minimum spending requirement (generally $2,000-5,000 USD within a 3–6-month time frame). That’s enough miles for a free round-trip economy flight to Europe from the East Coast of North America.

For more information on this subject, check out these posts:

• Points & Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
• How to Pick the Best Travel Credit Card
• My Favorite Travel Credit Cards
• How to Earn Points by Paying Your Rent
• The Ultimate Guide to Points & Miles
• How to Collect Points & Miles in Canada

In addition, get a fee-free ATM card. I use Charles Schwab, but there are lots of other banks that don’t charge ATM fees (don’t forget to check your local banks and credit unions too). Here’s how you can avoid bank fees while traveling .

While you likely won’t need a visa to your desired destination, you should still check to make sure. If you’re a US citizen, use the State Department’s search tool to learn about your destination’s entry requirements. (Canadians can use this search tool .)

Additionally, make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your trip ends. Many countries require this for entry. Passport application and renewal wait times can be long (the standard is 6-8 weeks in the US), so do this as soon as possible.

Also, research if you need any vaccines for your trip as many countries require vaccines to enter (and I don’t mean COVID). You can learn more about country requirements and recommendations at the CDC’s website . They can help you find a clinic near you as well (if you’re in the US).

Here are two articles on how to score a cheap flight:

• How to Always Find Cheap Flights
• 5 Steps to Booking a Cheap Flight

If you’ve signed up for a travel credit card and received your sign-up bonus, use your miles to book your flight and/or hotel. The further out you book, the more availability there will be. Use tools like Point.me and Awayz to help you find the best redemptions on your points (for flights and hotels, respectively).

But even if you aren’t using miles or didn’t find a cheap flight deal, there are still many ways to avoid being the person on the flight who paid the most for their ticket. My two favorite sites for finding cheap airfare are Skyscanner and Google Flights .  

Here are my go-to sites when it comes to finding the best deals on accommodation:

• Hostelworld – Hostelworld has the largest selection of hostels and is my go-to site for finding affordable hostels.
• Booking.com – Booking.com is the best overall platform for finding budget hotels and guesthouses.
• Agoda – Agoda has the best results if you’re heading to Asia (though it sometimes has good US deals too).

I recommend checking the cancelation policy of wherever you book. I like having the flexibility to cancel if something comes up.

If you’re on a tight budget or you want to connect with more locals during your travels, consider joining platforms like Couchsurfing or BeWelcome . These communities allow travelers to stay with residents for free as a sort of cultural exchange.

Long-term travelers can also try housesitting or WWOOFing as well, as they both offer free accommodation (in exchange for pet sitting or farm work, respectively).

Now it’s time for the fun part of travel planning! That means reading books about your destination, learning general travel tips, connecting with online communities, and pre-booking any necessary activities.

Pre-booking ensures you don’t miss out on things that you really want to do on your trip. If you’re going to a popular destination, tours and activities fill up quickly, and if you’re going to a smaller place, activities or tours might only run on certain days and have limited availability.

Either way, Get Your Guide the best place to search for and pre-book activities, tours, and tickets. Local tour operators and attractions can list their offerings on this online marketplace, so you can find tons of stuff here, from food tours to museum tickets with skip-the-line entry.

Get travel insurance . That way, these purchases are protected should something happen that makes you cancel your trip.

A lot of people think, “I’m healthy. I don’t need travel insurance.” But travel insurance is much more than just medical protection. It covers you when your camera breaks, your flight is canceled, a family member dies and you have to come home, or something gets stolen. (That’s why you’ll also want to familiarize yourself with any common travel scams to look out for, as well as how to conduct yourself in order to blend in to avoid looking like a target for petty theft.)

Yes, it’s an added expense. But it’s always better to be safe than sorry. I never leave home without it, because I’ve seen firsthand just what can happen on the road.

I never thought I would pop my eardrum while I was scuba diving in Thailand, break my camera in Italy, or get knifed in Colombia.

Unfortunately, bad things can happen when you’re traveling. True, these events are few and far between. But they can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If you’re not prepared to pay out of pocket, buy travel insurance.

Here are some posts on travel insurance to get you started:

• How to Buy Travel Insurance
• The 5 Best Travel Insurance Companies
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors

I never leave home without travel insurance. You shouldn’t either.

I travel with a 45L REI bag and then a smaller day bag. Here’s my suggested packing list to help you take just the right amount of stuff and avoid overpacking ( here’s a list for female travelers ).

Additionally, bring any prescriptions you need for the duration of your trip. Try not to rely on filling those abroad (though bring a prescription and doctor’s note just in case).

With everything taken care of, it’s time to go on your trip and have fun! Make a list of last-minute items you need to pack the day of (your toothbrush, glasses, phone charger, etc.) and check in online beforehand (you can do so 24 hours in advance). (If you’ve got lounge access through a premium travel rewards card , you might find yourself looking forward to getting to the airport early.)

If you’re feeling nervous, don’t worry. That’s perfectly normal. Feeling anxious or unsure is something every traveler experiences. But you’ve made it this far. Trust your planning and follow your instincts. You’re about to have the trip of a lifetime.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Thinking of taking a last-minute drive to see the eclipse here's what to know.

Geoff Brumfiel

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred. AFP Contributor/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred.

NASA says that roughly 31.6 million people live in the path of this year's total solar eclipse, and a little under half of the U.S. population lives within 200 miles driving distance of the path of totality .

That could mean many millions of Americans will hit the road to get a better view on April 8. If you're still pondering whether or not you want to make the journey, here's what to consider.

Have some destinations in mind, and check the weather and cloud cover forecasts in advance

It's a good idea to scout out one or more locations within driving distance, so that you have some flexibility if traffic or weather is threatening your plans, says Jonathan Upchurch, a professor emeritus of civil engineering at Arizona State University who has studied travel around solar eclipses.

There are several interactive tools that show the path of totality, including Eclipse2024.org and the National Solar Observatory . You can use them to figure out what sites might work best for you.

In terms of weather, check not just the weather forecast, but also the cloud cover forecast. Some websites, such as Windy.com will predict cloud cover ahead of time, giving you a sense of whether you'll actually be able to see the eclipse in all its glory.

Everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before April 8

During the total solar eclipse in 2017, Upchurch says he chose to go to Idaho "because there were some great chances of having sunny skies, and I had the opportunity to be nimble and relocate if I wanted to."

Before driving into the path of totality, make sure your gas tank is full and that you've got everything you need

During the last total solar eclipse in 2017, it's estimated some 5 million people took to the roads, and those numbers will potentially be much higher this year.

Given all that, Upchurch says it's important to make sure you're taking what you need into the path of totality. You should make sure your car is gassed or charged up, and that you have plenty of snacks and water with you in case you get stranded for a while, especially when trying to leave.

Solar Eclipse 2024: Totality stretches from Texas to Maine

Simple tips to safely photograph the eclipse with your cellphone.

Also don't forget to bring eclipse glasses, which must be worn anytime you're looking at the sun, except for the few minutes when it is completely blocked by the moon.

Some state emergency planners also recommend bringing a paper map or road atlas in case cellular networks become overloaded with visitors seeking directions from their phones.

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone! Erika Goldring/FilmMagic hide caption

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone!

Arrive early and stay late

Once you figure out where you're going to watch the eclipse, and you've got your supplies, try to get there early. Although traffic is likely to be heavier than normal on the morning of eclipse day, it still should be possible to reach many destinations without too much hassle, says Upchurch.

"Leaving is definitely going to be more of a problem," he says. As the eclipse concludes, people will take to the roads all at once to try and get home as fast as they can. In 2017, that led to traffic jams that lasted many hours in some areas. If possible, Upchurch says, people should stay put for a while to try and avoid the worst of the post-eclipse rush, which in 2017 stretched even into the following day in some parts of the country.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

And one more thing: If you do find yourself on the move near the time of the eclipse, state officials stress that you should not simply pull over to the side of the road or highway you're driving on. It's important to be parked legally and safely at the moment of totality.

If you're already in the path of totality: Relax and enjoy!

Several major metropolitan areas including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo are already inside the path of totality, so there's no need to seek a better view, Upchurch says. You'll probably have the most fun simply staying where you are.

Shots - Health News

Watching a solar eclipse without the right filters can cause eye damage. here's why.

If you're on the edge of the path of totality, however, you might consider making a short trip to get closer to the center of the eclipse's path.

"If you're within about 40 miles of the center line, you'll have two-and-a-half minutes or more" of complete totality, Upchurch says. It's up to you to decide whether it's worth making the trip to a more central location.

Despite studying the potential hassles of traveling extensively, Upchurch says he's still looking forward to seeing the 2024 eclipse, which he plans to watch from Texas.

"Totality is absolutely spectacular," he says. "If you have a chance to witness it, I would do it."

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