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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

Road trip

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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.

The booster cables and discharged battery, cold winter day

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.

Group of mixed ethnic teens packing up a car ready to go on a road trip together. The camera is placed in the boot of the car. They are at holy island in the North East of England.

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 .]

Young women singing and having fun on road trip with convertible car.

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.

Vehicle fully packed for a hiking and camping trip. Dog bowl included.  Fishing rod and rifle included.

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.

A young elementary-age girl takes a nap in the back seat of the car on a long road trip. She is snuggled up with a blanket and a stuffed animal giraffe. Her brother is in a booster seat next to her watching a game on a tablet.

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.

Smiling girl enjoy reading book while sitting in car safety seat.

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.

Detail of hand filling the fuel tank of the passenger car

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

Tags: Travel , Vacations , cars , Road Trips , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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Fresh Off The Grid

89 Road Trip Packing List Essentials for Hitting the Road

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

Megan opening the trunk of a red car which is parked on the side of the road next to an orchard. Mt. Hood, which is shrouded with clouds, can be seen in the distance.

Written in partnership with Toyota

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

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

Megan stands next to a car with a roof box. She is placing a sleeping bag into the box

Before you go…

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

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

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

Quick Home Maintenance Check: 

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

Clean your car

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

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

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

Overhead view of jumper cables, tire patch kit, tire pressure guage, and a tire inflator

Vehicle essentials

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

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

An open glove box with a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and an organizing pouch

In the glove box

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

The trunk of a car organized with road trip essentials

Organization

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

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

Megan is sitting in the front seat of a car looking at a map

Navigation and electronics

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

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

Entertainment

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

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

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

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

Megan in the front seat of a car holding a can of iced coffee

Comfort essentials for road trips

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

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

Toiletries and personal items

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

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

Megan sits on the back of a red car and is putting on a pair of shoes

What to wear on a road trip

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

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

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

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

Basic road trip packing list

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

Megan and Michael sit next to a red car that has an awning set up with string lights.

Camping basics

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

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

A red Prius Prime driving on a bridge next to a waterfall.

Essential road trip planning tips

Route planning.

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

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

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

An atlas opened to show a map of Oregon. A notebook and pen, car keys, and a cell phone rest on top of the map.

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

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

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

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

Make a budget

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

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

A car and a tent next to trees.

Where to sleep

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

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

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

A box full of road trip snacks

What to eat

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

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

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

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

Megan and Michael sit next to a red car and are cooking on a camp stove.

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

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

How to shower on a road trip

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

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

A red car driving on a U shaped road lined with trees.

What are the best road trips in the USA?

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

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

Made possible by Toyota

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

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

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Outstanding information. Thank you for the great tips!

road trip list of essentials

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41 Things You Need for Your Next Road Trip

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

road trip list of essentials

Related To:

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

ESSENTIAL GADGETS

road trip list of essentials

Adjustable Car Cup Holder Expander

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

road trip list of essentials

Phone Mount

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

road trip list of essentials

Car Power Strip

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

road trip list of essentials

Tablet Headrest Mount

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

road trip list of essentials

Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

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

road trip list of essentials

Flexible Phone Tripod

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

road trip list of essentials

Portable Phone Charger

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

road trip list of essentials

Emergency Car Kit

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

road trip list of essentials

Fire Starter

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

road trip list of essentials

First Aid Kit

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

road trip list of essentials

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

Photography by Dom Martin http://instagram.com/domdommartin

Travel Pillow

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

road trip list of essentials

Travel Throw

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

road trip list of essentials

Travel Hammock

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

road trip list of essentials

Microfiber Towel

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

road trip list of essentials

Air Freshener

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

road trip list of essentials

Car Window Shades

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

HEALTH + HYGIENE

road trip list of essentials

Car Diffuser

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

road trip list of essentials

Nausea-Relief Wristbands

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

road trip list of essentials

Foaming Hand Sanitizer

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

road trip list of essentials

Essential Oil Towelettes

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

road trip list of essentials

Tissue Holder

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

road trip list of essentials

Insect Repellent

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

road trip list of essentials

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

ORGANIZATION

road trip list of essentials

Car Seat Headrest Hook

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

road trip list of essentials

Car Ceiling Cargo Net Pocket

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

road trip list of essentials

Car Trash Bin

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

road trip list of essentials

Packable Daypack

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

road trip list of essentials

Laundry Bag

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

road trip list of essentials

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

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

FOOD + DRINK

road trip list of essentials

Saucemoto Dip Clip

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

road trip list of essentials

YETI Cooler Bag

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

road trip list of essentials

Car Seat Organizer

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

road trip list of essentials

Reusable Water Bottle

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

road trip list of essentials

Portable Coffee Press

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

road trip list of essentials

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

road trip list of essentials

Collapsible Storage Containers

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

road trip list of essentials

Kitchen Utensil Set

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

road trip list of essentials

BioLite CampStove 2

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

road trip list of essentials

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

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

ENTERTAINMENT

road trip list of essentials

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

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

road trip list of essentials

Scrabble To-Go Board Game

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

road trip list of essentials

Kindle Paperwhite

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

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6 Essential Road Trip Gadgets

6 Essential Road Trip Gadgets

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Bearfoot Theory

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.

A blue sedan is pulled over on the side of a dirt road on a road trip. There are snowcapped mountains and pine trees in the distance.

Find this post helpful? Learn how you can support Bearfoot Theory’s work here . You can also shop for gear through the affiliate links in this blog post where we get a small commission at no cost to you. It helps keep our team running and the lights on. THANK YOU! -Kristen

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.

Download our PDF road trip packing list

When you join our newsletter, road trip essentials at a glance.

Download a printable version here and subscribe to our newsletter while you’re at it!

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 person holds a Benchmark Road Atlas in the driver's seat

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.

Patagonia Capilene Cool Tee

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.

A woman bends down to take a photo with a camera with mountains in the background

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.

A blue Suburu pulled off the road on a road trip in Utah

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 .

A person sits in a camp chair next to a lake on a road trip

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

A woman takes a selfie out the window from the passenger seat on a road trip

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 )

The back of a yellow VW van with 2 bikes near to a "welcome to Oregon" sign

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?

Related Posts

Bearfoot Theory | Discover your ultimate guide to road trip essentials on our latest blog post! Learn essential packing tips, snack ideas, safety gear, and more to ensure your journey is as smooth as it is memorable. Perfect for first-timers or seasoned road trippers, this post will help you gear up for your next adventure. Pin this for future road trip planning!

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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Road Trip Packing List

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

Road Trip Packing List

The Road Trip Essentials: Gear for An Epic Road Trip

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

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

Packing A Car For A Road Trip

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

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

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

Road Trip To Glacier National Park

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

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

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

Standalone Bags & Organizers

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

Packing Bags In Car

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

The North Face Borealis Backpack

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

Patagonia Atom Sling (8L)

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

Clothing & Accessories

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

  • Men's Focused
  • Women's Focused

Paskho Ability Modern Traveler Pants

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

DUER Live Lite Pant

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

Paskho Ability Modern Traveler Pants

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

Uniqlo Dry Stretch Easy Shorts

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

Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-Shirt Review

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

Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt

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

Icebreaker Siren Hipkini Briefs

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

Anatomie Skyler Travel Pants

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

Encircled Women's Dressy Sweatpant

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

lululemon Hotty Hot Short II

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

Icebreaker 175 Everyday Short Sleeve Crewe

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

Patagonia Women's Capilene Cool Trail Tank Top

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

Patagonia Women's Fleetwith Romper

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

Eleven By Venus Williams Lucky Bralette

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

Breezy Tee Black Boho Headband

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

Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Jacket

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

Also, make sure to pack:

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

Productivity & Tech

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

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

WANDRD The Travel Journal

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

Joby Micro Stand & GripTight One GP Stand

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

Anker PowerDrive Speed+ 2 Car Charger

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

Anker PowerLine III Flow

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

WANDRD The Travel Journal

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

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Black Diamond Astro 300-R Headlamp

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

Bagby Silent Digital-Free Alarm Clock

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

BESTEK 300W Power Inverter

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

  • Headphones (noise canceling is clutch)

Toiletries & Personal Care

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

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

Tide To Go Instant Stain Remover

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

Blossom Menstrual Cup

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

Lush Solid Perfume

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

Gravel Explorer PLUS Toiletry Bag

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

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Gravel Soft 3oz Liquid Bottles

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

Matador FlatPak Soap Bar Case

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

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PackTowl Personal Towel Review

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

Viva Naturals Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

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

Welly Human Repair Kit

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

Tide To Go Instant Stain Remover

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

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

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

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

Coleman Classic Propane Stove

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

GSI Outdoors Halulite 1 Qt. Tea Kettle

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

MSR Alpine Nesting Bowl

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

Ultimate Survival Technologies FlexWare Sink 2.0

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

REI Multi Towel

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

Squish 5 Quart Collapsible Mixing Bowl

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

United By Blue Ravine Packable Tote

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

Stasher Reusable Silicone Bag

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

Primus CampFire Cookset S/S - Large

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

Coleman Classic Propane Stove

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

Coleman Propane Fuel Cylinder - 16.4 oz

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

Aeropress Coffee Maker

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

Sterilite 6qt Clear Storage Box White Lid

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

Sterilite 32qt Clear View Storage Bin with Latch

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

Reliance Aqua-Tainer - 7 gal.

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

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

Sleeping & Camping

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

REI Tent

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

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir® XTherm™ Sleeping Pad

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

The North Face Eco Trail Bed 35

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

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow Cinch

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

Coghlan’s Mosquito Netting

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

DIYMAG Neodymium Disc Magnets

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

Everbilt 10 ft. x 12 ft. Heavy-Duty Tarp

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

MSR Ultralight Utility Cord

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

Miscellaneous

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

Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug 12oz In Cup Holder

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

Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug 12 oz

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

Gerber Shard

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

Heroclip Medium HangerHeroclip

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

AmazonBasics RFID Travel Passport Wallet

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

FinalStraw 2.0 Reusable Collapsible Straw

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

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REI Flexlite Camp Dreamer Chair

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

Scrubba Travel Wash Bag Review

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

Hefty 18qt Plastic Storage Bin with Gray HI-RISE Stackable Lid

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

humangear GoTubb Review

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

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

Ready, Set, Drive.

Sitting In The Passenger Seat On A Road Trip

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

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

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road trip list of essentials

Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

road trip list of essentials

15. Emergency Roadside Kit

19. flashlight.

  • 21. Road Atlas 

24. Books [or E-books]

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

  • 38.  Tablet or Laptop

43. Paper Towels

  • 46. Shelf-Stable and Travel-Friendly Ingredients 

51. Packable, Lightweight Jacket

  • 55. Hangers 

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

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

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

Personal Carry Items

1. license and registration.

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

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

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

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

3. Credit/Debit Cards and Wallet

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

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

4. Pocket Knife

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

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

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

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

Emergency and First Aid

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

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

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

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

7. Car Manual

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

8. Alternative Forms of I.D.

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

9. Large First Aid Kit

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

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

10. Bug Spray

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

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

11. Su n screen

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

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

12. Duct Tape and [Super] Glue

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

13. Emergency Radio and Power Bank

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

14. Satellite Phone or Communicator

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

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

Road Trip Car Essentials

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

16. Spare Tire

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

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

17. Car Jack

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

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

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

18. Jumper Cables or Jump Starter Box

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

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

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

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

21. Road Atlas 

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

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

Entertainment

22. road trip games.

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

23. Playlist

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

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

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

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

Inclement Weather and Environmental Gear

25. umbrella.

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

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

Comfort and Convenience

27. sleeping bag, blanket, and pillow.

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

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

28. Earplugs

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

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

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

Personal Hygiene and Cosmetics

30. hand sanitizer.

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

31. Wet Wipes

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

32. Personal Toiletries

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

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

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

Tech Essentials

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

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

Be sure to include car chargers for your devices.

35.  Power Inverter

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

36. Wireless Earbuds [or Headphones]

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

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

37.  Camera

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

38.  Tablet or Laptop

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

Food Storage, Prep, and Clean-Up

39.  cooler with ice.

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

40.  Portable Camp Stove [with Fuel]

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

41.  Cooking and Eating Utensils

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

42.  Dish Soap and Sponge

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

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

Food and Water

44. water and snacks.

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

45. Road Trip-Friendly Foods

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

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

46. Shelf-Stable and Travel-Friendly Ingredients 

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

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

Variety of Clothing

47. shirts, pants, and shorts.

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

Or, maybe you can … and that’s gross.

48. Socks and Shoes

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

49. Weather-Appropriate Accessories

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

50. Disposable Underwear

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

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

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

… I can’t. I just can’t.

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

Better to have it and not need it …

Storage and Organization

52. plastic bags [and/or tubs].

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

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

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

53. Packing Cubes

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

54. Reusable Shopping Bag or Tote

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

55. Hangers 

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

Wrapping up the Road Trip Essentials

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

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

Safe travels! Now, get out there!

road trip list of essentials

Joshua Davis

The Packable Life

54 Road Trip Essentials [Packing List + Must-Haves]

A winding mountain street during a road trip through southwestern Colorado against a cloudy sky

I’ve been learning the ins and outs of road trip essentials and perfecting my packing list since I was old enough to get behind the wheel. The open road had me hooked at a very young age and will continue to draw me in for the rest of my days.

As an eager teenager, I took my first adventure to Las Vegas with a carful of giddy friends. The complete freedom to explore as I pleased was exhilarating.

Since then, I’ve explored thousands of miles of my captivating home state of Colorado , driven the stunning California coastline, navigated the magical Hawaiian islands, and traversed the barren plains of Texas.

I’ve voyaged the sweeping Irish countryside, bumped up and down countless miles of rural Mexican roads, and soaked in the fascinating culture of North Vietnam on a motorbike .

These years of experience have taught me that packing for a long journey on the open road isn’t easy, so I’ve put together a list of my favorite road trip essentials to help you. I’ve also included an interactive checklist list, my top ten road-tripping hacks, and a list of all the lodging, navigation, and travel resources I use when I’m on the road.

Ready? Let’s get into it.

Road Trip Essentials & Packing List

  • What Exactly Should You Bring?
  • Safety & Repair Accessories
  • Tech Gadgets

Food & Drink Must-Haves

Music, entertainment & relaxation, clothing & comfort items.

  • Camping & Outdoors Gear

Family Essentials

  • Organization & Storage Systems
  • Road Trip Packing List + Checklist
  • More Road Trip Resources
  • Final Thoughts: Road Trip Essentials

What Exactly Should You Bring on a Road Trip?

This is a tough question to answer, I’ll admit. Everyone has specific needs for their road trip, and my setup will look quite different than yours. We’re all likely headed towards separate destinations when we jump in the car for an adventure, so what I throw in the trunk may not work for you.

Keep this all in mind as you look over my road trip essentials, and prepare for your trip as you see fit. Take some of my advice , get your hands on a few pieces of gear you think will help, and leave the rest behind.

If you want to skip past my recommended products and jump straight to my complete packing list, click here . The checklist is interactive, meaning you can click the boxes as you get ready for your adventure and stay organized throughout the packing process.

Safety Gear & Repair Accessories

Black Viper brand car alarm and remote start set

Alarm System & Remote Start: Viper 5906v

If you’re taking a proper road trip, you’re likely to pack a lot of valuables in your vehicle that are essential to protect. So, arm your car, truck, or camper van with a proper — LOUD! — alarm system that can also auto-start your rig remotely.

VIEW ON AMAZON

A car jack kit for cars, trucks, and camper vans

Car Jack Kit: Big Red Scissor Lift

Nobody ever plans on getting a flat tire, but they happen regardless. A proper car jack kit will allow you to remove and replace your tire safely without expensive emergency roadside services. Make sure you have a spare tire and a lug wrench as well.

Battery powered jumper cables/power bank

Power Bank Jumper Kit: Hulkman Alpha85

Dead batteries are a morale killer, plain and simple. This high-capacity power bank allows you to bring your car back to life by yourself and has a handy flashlight, compass, and USB charging inputs to boot.

A 12-volt air compressor for cars, trucks, and camper vans

12-Volt Air Digital Compressor: Fortem

Whether you want to fill a tire with a slow leak, need to adjust tire pressure for off-roading, or simply want to avoid paying for air at gas stations, this 12-volt air compressor will get the job done quickly, safely, and efficiently.

A red gas canister, an essential safety item for long car rides

One Gallon Gas Container: Garage Boss

Running out of gas in the middle of nowhere is a drag, so get a portable gas container, keep it full, and hit the road with peace of mind. This $14 investment could be the difference between hitchhiking to a gas station and arriving safely by yourself.

196-piece tool set for car maintainence

Versatile 196-Piece Tool Set: DEKOPRO

Breakdowns and equipment failures are a very unglamorous reality of the road-tripping lifestyle. Keeping a versatile set of tools on hand will allow you to handle minor repairs when they arise and get you back on your way safely.

A minimalist travel windshield repair kit

DIY Windshield Chip Repair Kit: RainX

Windshield chips are a pesky reality of road tripping and can get expensive and dangerous if ignored. This affordable repair kit will fill chips and cracks with a fast-drying resin and prevent them from spreading and ruining your windshield.

A roll of duct tape

Duct Tape: Duck Tape Brand

If all else fails, use duct tape. (That’s what I tell myself at least.) Whether you’re sealing a leaky hose, patching a tear in your tent, or fixing a broken pair of sunglasses, a roll of duct tape is a must-have on your upcoming road trip.

A red travel-sized first-aid kit

First-Aid Kit: Surviveware

Whether you’re confronted with a minor scrape or an injury far more severe, a fully-stocked first-aid kit will be your ally. Packed with everything from band-aids to a CPR mask, this portable setup will be there when you need it most.

A National Geographic road atlas (Adventure Edition)

United States Atlas: National Geographic

Digital maps are handy, but a physical road atlas offers an in-depth look at your surroundings without the need for technology. Use this detailed, adventure-focused atlas to plan your US, Mexico, or Canada trip as you go. Traveling Europe? There’s an atlas for that too.

Tech Gadgets & Navigation Accessories

Black power delivery power bank

High-Capacity Power Bank: Anker PowerCore

For better or worse, a dead phone can leave us feeling powerless when traveling. Ensure that your devices are always ready for action when you’re away from an outlet with this hefty power bank that will fully recharge an iPhone 8 up to seven times.

A magnetic cell phone mount for dashboards

Magnetic Phone Mount: Neckteck

If you’re road-tripping without a phone mount, you’re doing it wrong. I love this particular setup because it’s minimalist and reliable. Simply adhere a thin metal disc to the back of your phone case and a powerful magnet within the mount will hold it without fail.

A four input 12-volt USB charger

4-Port Car Charger: Amazon Basics

A car charger with four ports is probably overkill on a road trip with a couple of people, but it’s essential for groups of three or more. Four ports means a carful of people can keep their precious devices charged at all times. Don’t forget extra long micro USB or USB-C cables.

A black, waterproof Bluetooth speaker

Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker: JBL Charge 4

Whether you’re blasting tunes at a campsite or setting the mood in your hotel room, you’ll need a solid Bluetooth speaker to get the job done. The waterproof Charge 4 has mega battery life, powerful sound, and even has a USB output to charge devices when their batteries get low.

A silver and black digital Olympus camera

Digital Camera: Olympus OM-D E-M10

Cell phone photos probably won’t do your trip justice, so get a quality digital camera if you want to capture your adventure properly. My current travel camera is the budget-friendly OM-D E-M10, which is compact, easy to use, and takes great high-res photos.

A two-burner camping stove for family camping trips

Powerful Travel Stove: Camp Chef Ranger II

Those who want the option to cook meals on the road can do so with this incredibly powerful 34,000 BTU dual burner stove. The Ranger II can be attached to a standard 5-gallon propane tank or can run off of smaller one-pound camping canisters with an adapter .

A picnic set for families of four, essential for meals in the park

Backpack Picnic Kit: Sunflora

If you’re going to cook in style on your road trip, you’d better eat in style as well. This luxurious picnic set not only has full tableware for up to four people, but also includes a blanket, cutting board, corkscrew, insulated food and drink compartment, and salt and pepper shakers.

A grey 12-volt fridge/freezer combo for car travel

12-Volt Fridge/Freezer: Alpicool

Keeping your food fresh and your drinks cold is vital during long stretches in the car, and this 12-volt fridge/freezer combo will do just that. It plugs into your cigarette lighter, draws power while the car is running, cools its contents quickly, and is incredibly efficient.

A hand-powered espresso maker

Portable Espresso Maker: WACACO Nanospresso

Of all the road trip gadgets on this list, this is one of my absolute favorites. With this handheld device, you can create restaurant-quality espresso on demand. All you need is boiling water, a Nespresso capsule (or coffee grounds), and your own two hands.

A Jetboil stove for camping and backpacking

Rapid Water Boiling Stove: Jetboil Flash

If you need to boil water in an instant, the Jetboil Flash is exactly what you’re looking for. This lightweight camping stove takes water from room temperature to boiling in less than two minutes, allowing you to make tea, coffee, instant meals, and more.

A green 32 oz Hydroflask thermos

Insulated Thermos: Hydro Flask

Whether your beverage is boiling hot or ice cold, the uber-efficient Hydro Flask thermos will retain its temperature for a very long time. My incredible 32 oz vessel has kept ice for over three days before it finally melted, which is a dream on longer trips.

A folding aluminum tables with two chairs for car travel

Folding Table & Chairs: REDCAMP

If you’ll be cooking during your road trip, or simply want somewhere comfortable to play cards or eat takeout, a compact folding table will serve you well. This lightweight aluminum set comes with two chairs and weighs in at only two-and-a-half pounds.

Four different covers of audiobooks

Audio Book Subscription: Audible.com

Nothing passes the hours on the road like a good audiobook. An Audible subscription — click here for a free 30-day trial — gives users one free audiobook per month (to keep forever), selected free titles, guided exercises, and newspaper subscriptions from all over the world.

Four different album covers for Spotify and Amazon Music

Streaming Music Subscription: Amazon Music | Spotify

If you plan on listening to CDs or MP3s on your upcoming adventure, you’re stuck about a decade behind. Get with the modern times and sign up for a streaming music subscription which will allow you to listen to pretty much any song whenever you want. Amazon Music | Spotify

A yellow inflatable kayak with two oars and a pump

Inflatable 2-Person Kayak: Intex Explorer K2

This durable and portable kayak will give you the freedom to explore lakes, gentle rivers, and other bodies of water as you please. Fully inflatable in just a few minutes, this cushy setup can put you out on the water at a moment’s notice. (Don’t forget to grab some life jackets !)

A frisbee, a vital part of a road trip checklist

Frisbee: Innova Big Kahuna

Frisbees provide endless entertainment and will forever be a staple of my road trip packing list. Whether I’m camping, strolling the beach, or relaxing at a park, my Innova disc is a great excuse for me and my girlfriend to run around outdoors and breathe some fresh air.

A green and blue hammock for two people

Hammock: ENO DoubleNest

Leaving my hammock behind would be a huge hit to my relaxation capabilities on my trip, and is thus unacceptable. Thankfully, I’ve never forgotten my DoubleNest, so I can sway in the breeze at will (so long as there are two trees and a nice view).

VIEW ON REI

A deck of waterproof playing cards

Waterproof Playing Cards: Kovot

I play cards frequently when I travel — gin rummy is my game of choice — and usually wear out a normal deck within a couple of weeks. Thankfully, I’ve invested in a set of waterproof cards, which stand up to humid environments (and spilled drinks) quite well.

Red and blue collapsible corn hole game

Cornhole Set: GoSports Portable PVC

If frisbees, rafts, hammocks, and playing cards aren’t your thing, then maybe you can find a little entertainment playing cornhole. This lightweight setup — made of PVC and high-quality fabric — includes eight bean bags and packs away conveniently into a carrying case.

Pair of black Knockaround brand sunglasses

Polarized Sunglasses: Knockaround Fast Lanes

I tend to break or lose my sunglasses all the time , which is why I don’t let myself spend much on a pair. Knockaround’s polarized shades have the feel, quality, and style of high-end sunglasses, but only cost $25 a pair. They come with a carrying case, pouch, and cleaning cloth to boot.

VIEW ON KNOCKAROUND

A small grey travel pillow

Travel Pillow: Casper

Napping is an essential part of the road trip lifestyle and a comfortable pillow will take your sleep game to the next level. My small Casper Nap Pillow is compact, cozy, and stays cool as I watch the miles go by and fade away into dreamland.

A blue microfleece blanket

Packable Travel Blanket: BlueHills

While we’re on the subject of car naps, I’d be remiss if I didn’t recommend a comfortable and portable blanket to help you get some sleep on the road. This microfleece blanket packs down to the perfect size for cars, and is great for airplanes, camping, and at-home use as well.

Yellow and pink earplugs

Earplugs: Howard Leight by Honeywell

When spending hours in a cramped car, sometimes you need to tune out the background noise. Ear plugs will help you do so, and give you some respite from your fellow passengers. I’ve tried multiple brands of earplugs, and these are by far the most comfortable.

Green sandals for water sports

Sandals: Montbell Aqua Gripper

Any road trip wardrobe is incomplete without a good set of sandals, and the Montbell Aqua Grippers are my top choice. They’re lightweight, portable, and versatile enough for hiking, watersports, or any other outdoor activity you might come across during your adventure.

A green Scrubba laundry bag

Portable Clothes Washing Kit: Scrubba

If you’re frugal and impatient like me, you’ve got no time for laundromats during your travels. The portable hand-washing bag allows you to clean your clothes in a matter of minutes. All you need is some warm water, laundry detergent, and your own two hands.

Camping & Outdoor Gear

A blue REI two person tent for car camping

Lightweight 2-Person Tent: REI Half Dome SL 2+

If you do it right, your voyage will lead you to some beautiful camping destinations. Once it does, you’ll want a quality tent to get comfortable in and catch some rest. I recommend the REI Half Dome 2 Plus for couples, or the Half Dome 4 if you’re camping with three or more people.

Sleeping bags for road trips with kids

Sleeping Bag: Hyke and Byke Eulos

Though I’m a bit of an ultralight gear snob and sleep in a $500 quilt, I’ve tested out a friend’s Hyke and Byke Eulos and was very impressed. It’s warm, lightweight, and uses water-resistant 800-fill down. The best thing about it? It costs about one-third of what I spent.

VIEW ON HYKE AND BYKE

A green inflatable sleeping pad

Lightweight Sleeping Pad: Sleepingo

To catch some solid sleep in your tent, you’ll need a comfortable sleeping pad to cushion you from the ground below. This particular model has blown me away. It’s comfortable, packs down to the size of a Nalgene, and inflates and deflates as quickly as you could ever ask for.

Five-gallon pressure camping shower

Pressure Camp Shower: Nemo Helio

Life spent bouncing from campsite to campsite isn’t the cleanest existence, which is why a portable shower is a must-have on your next road trip. This foot pump pressure-powered system allows you to get a strong and refreshing stream of water on demand.

Packable 24-liter waterproof day pack

Packable Day Pack: 4Monster

Whether you’re setting off on a day hike or venturing into the city for an afternoon, a packable travel backpack will serve you well. This 24-liter waterproof pack will carry your gear, snacks, and other essentials with ease, and compresses down to the size of a soda can.

An ultralight backpacking and camping chair

Camping Chairs: Moon Lence

Car camping without a comfortable chair is against the unwritten rules of road tripping, so get your hands on one of these if you haven’t already. They weigh only two pounds apiece, fold down into an ultra-compact carrying case, and are as comfortable as they are convenient.

A hangable water filter pouch

Water Filter: LifeStraw Flex with Gravity Bag

Purifying natural water when you’re camping will save you money, time, and resources. I recommend using the LifeStraw Flex filter system to treat lake and river water safely and conveniently. Simply fill the bag, hang it up, and let gravity do the rest.

A collapsible water pouch for hiking and backpacking

Collapsible Water Bottles: Platypus

Clunky metal and polycarbonate water bottles are a thing of the past when it comes to exploring the great outdoors. So, instead of bringing along your Nalgene or HydroFlask, opt for a far more lightweight option like the SoftBottle to store your backcountry beverage.

A multitool Leatherman with knives, screwdrivers, and pliers

Multitool: Leatherman Wingman

Keeping your outdoor gear in working order is easy with the right multitool, which is why I recommend packing a Leatherman on your next expedition. Whether you’re prepping fishing line or tightening the screws on your ski bindings, the Wingman has the right tools to get the job done.

Waterproof trash bin: a must-have on your road trip packing list

Portable Trash Bins: EPAuto

A family packed tightly into a car on a long road trip is a recipe for a mess, but it doesn’t have to be. This handy waterproof trash bin will attach to just about anywhere inside your car and can hold up to two gallons of trash without so much as a leak.

Unscented wet wipes

Wet Wipes: Amazon Elements

If you’re a parent to young children, you know quite well that literal sticky situations will arise on your next adventure. Be prepared for anything with this mammoth supply of baby wipes that’ll help keep your car and your children clean until the next backseat disaster.

Amazon Fire HD tablet

Tablet: Kindle Fire HD 10

When all of the games, singalongs, and coloring books get old, the kids are going to get bored. That’s when you dazzle them with a tablet loaded full of fun games, apps, movies , and kid’s shows. Boredom will turn to delight, and all in the world will be right again.

Blue and red kids headphones

Volume-Controlled Headphones: JBL for Kids

At $25 a pop, these just-for-kids headphones are a no-brainer for road-tripping families. These headphones max out at 85 decibels, which is designed to protect its listener’s hearing. They’ll pair up well with a fully loaded tablet to make for the perfect distraction when you need it most.

Family card game called 'Kids Against Maturity'

Family-Friendly Card Game: Kids Against Maturity

If you were to play Cards Against Humanity with your young children, you might just be a bad parent. Instead, play Kids Against Maturity, which is a family-friendly spin-off. It’s entertaining for both children and parents and is a great way for families to goof off on long rides in the car.

Two black window shades for cars

Sun-Blocking Window Shades: Enovoe

Children don’t enjoy having the sun shining in their eyes; nobody does actually. So, help them out by shielding the sun’s annoying (and sometimes harmful) rays with window shades. This transparent set won’t block the view out the window or create any blindspots, either.

Helpful Organization & Storage Systems

A black Yakima storage box for tops of cars

Rooftop Cargo Storage: Yakima Skybox

Sometimes, there’s just not enough room inside the car for all of your wonderful gear. Don’t worry, though, you can create more space. Slap a Skybox or two on the roof of your car and, just like that, you don’t have to leave any of your precious gear behind.

A trunk organizer storage tote

Trunk Organizer Tote: JACO CargoPro

In the heat of car travel, trunks can turn into a disaster zone in a hurry. Prevent the mayhem by setting up a few helpful organizer totes to keep all of your gear, gadgets, and accessories in order. Or don’t, and prepare yourself for a lawless and chaotic trunk of oblivion.

A laundry bag with a world map on it

World Map Laundry Bag: Kikkerland

Stinky, dirty clothes have no business mingling with clean road trip supplies, so stash them in a laundry bag like a civilized human being. This world-map bag packs down into the palm of your hand, and can stash a decent amount of clothing when thrust into action.

Road Trip Packing List + Interactive Checklist

Here’s the exact packing list and interactive checklist I use to get ready for my road trips. Click the ‘+’ sign to expand the category, and use the checkboxes to stay organized as you pack for your trip.

Roadside Emergency Kit

First-Aid Kit

Gas Container

Car Jack Kit

Jumper Cables

Air Compressor

Windshield Chip Repair

Car Charger

Charging Cables

Battery Bank

Lantern/Light

Bluetooth Speaker

Camera Lenses

Camera Batteries

Camping Stove

Cutting Board

Bottle Opener

Coffee Maker

Cooking Oil

Cooler/Refrigerator

Long Sleeve Shirts

Button-Up Shirts

Rain Jacket

Light Jacket

Winter Jacket

Athletic Shorts

Skirts/Dresses

Bathing Suit

Long Underwear

Hiking Boots

Baseball Hat

Soap/Laundry Detergent

Laundry Bag

Clothing Line

Safety Pins

Toiletries Bag

Conditioner

Hair-Styling Product

Dental Floss

Contact Solution/Case

Ear Cleaner/Swabs

Nail Clippers

Advil/Aspirin

Multivitamins

Playing Cards

Sporting Equipment

Journal/Pen

Sleeping Pad

Sleeping Bag

Travel Pillow

Water Filter

Water Bottles

Camping Shower

Folding Table

Camping Chairs

Packing Cubes

Reusable Grocery Bags

Storage Totes

Window Shades

Water Storage

Toilet Paper

Garbage Bin

Lighter/Matches

Windshield Scraper

Medical Insurance

Car Registration

Car Insurance

Helpful Road Trip Resources

A yellow Porsche parked in the streets of Hong Kong

Now that you have your essentials and packing list squared away, it’s for some tools to crush your next road trip. Here are a few helpful resources that’ll help your next adventure go smoothly:

  • RoadTrippers – Incredibly detailed trip planner to build your dream itinerary
  • Hipcamp – Connects users with private landowners who offer camping on their property
  • Booking.com – My go-to website for booking affordable hotels, hostels & homestays
  • Couchsurfing – Budget-friendly lodging option where hosts offer up a free place to stay
  • Turo – Rent private cars at fair prices to avoid going with big-box companies
  • RentalCars – Puts users in touch with car rental agencies all over the world
  • GasBuddy – Helps users find the most affordable gas prices within a certain radius
  • WorldNomads – Widely-trusted travel insurance popular in the backpacking community

Essential Gear + Packing List = Perfect Road Trip 

A man standing in front of his car looking over a Hawaiian shoreline

Well, I’ve divulged about as much info as either of us can handle when it comes to road trip essentials and packing lists. I hope you found some useful gear, hacks, and resources to help you plan your next journey on the great open road.

While you do that, I’ll be busy plotting my next adventure: a 3,000-mile adventure to the Pacific Northwest region of the US. I’ll be booking campsites, gathering a long list of can’t-miss destinations, and piecing together the most scenic route possible. I’m going to get as prepared as I possibly can.

But, if my wild and unpredictable history of car voyages is any indication, few things will go according to plan. At least I’ll have my road trip essentials and packing lists to cling to when life on the go gets dicey.

Stay safe out there, and may the open road lead you to fascinating new places.

Last Updated on March 18, 2024

Photo of author

Noel Krasomil

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support this website and keep it 100% ad-free.

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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.

The road you will drive after you finish packinf for a road trip

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.

A first aid kit: a necesary thing to take on a road trip

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.

A phone: a definite road trip item

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.

road trip list of essentials

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

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 .

A vrusted van not suited to bring on a road trip

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!

how to pack for a road trip repair

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

winter road trip essentials tires

  • 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

doing laundry on a road trip checklist

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

road trip packing list: sunscreen for skin care

  • 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

A pair of shoes someone packed for their roadtrip

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

Human Jacket Winter Outside Alone Cold Wood

  • 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.

A road trip van without any gear packing

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

A billy that made someone's road trip packing list

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

A well organised collection of road trip packing

  • 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.

audy on top of a mountain in japan with the osprey aether

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

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!

Cereal: things you need to take on a road trip

  • 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

more organizational stuff to bring on a road trip

  • 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

Man stops for a break on his road trip

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

A road trip supply list for digital nomads: a laptop

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.  

road trip list of essentials

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

Man adds a bike to his road trip packing list

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.

road trip list of essentials

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.

road trip on the florida coast

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.

Active Roots Security Belt

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

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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.

things to do on a road trips adults

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.

road eastern sierra nevada california road trip

  • 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.

Roadtrip Crete Greece

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.

This pretty picture thus ends the road trip packing list

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!

Ralph Cope

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road trip list of essentials

Road in Ireland surrounded by trees on either side--you'll see plenty of views like this during your 10 day Ireland road trip!

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what to pack for a road trip!

Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm standing in front of a waterfall when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park Croatia

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

Table of Contents

The Most Important Road Trip Essentials

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

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

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

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

Photo of an empty road to the left with Verdon Gorge visible on the right--be sure you have the perfect road trip packing list ready to go before seeking out amazing views like this!

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

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

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

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

Kate Storm in a blue skirt overlooking Ragusa Ilba from Ragusa Superiore, one of the best views on this 10 days in Sicily itinerary

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

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

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

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

Cenote X'canche as seen on a Yucatan road trip--cenotes like this are well worth seeking out, but be sure you go over the best things to bring on a road trip before you go!

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

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

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

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

Jeremy standing to the right of a country road during our road trip in France. He's standing in front of a black rental car with the rear hatch open, and he's wearing a black jacket.

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

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

road trip list of essentials

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

Small Tuscan country road lined by trees--roads like this are one of the benefits of taking epic day trips from Florence!

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

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

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

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

Kate Storm in a white shirt and blue jeans overlooking the blue domes of Oia in Santorini--this island is incredible and worth visiting as part of your 2 weeks in Europe!

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

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

road trip list of essentials

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

road trip list of essentials

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

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

Things to Do in Acadia National Park

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

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

Empty curving road in Ireland with green fields on either side--it's worth making sure you have all the necessary road trip essentials before starting an epic drive out here!

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

road trip list of essentials

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

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

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

Zebras in Kruger National Park

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

road trip list of essentials

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

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

Hiking in the High Tatras: Couple at Viewpoint

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

road trip list of essentials

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

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

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

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

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

Kate Storm sitting on a swing in the water in Bacalar Mexico wearing a pink bikini--plenty of bathing suits definitely belong on your beach vacation packing list

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

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

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

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

Jeremy usually opts for shorts and a t-shirt.

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Photo of Highway 1 in California shot from above. Black and red text on a white background reads "the ultimate road trip packing list"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

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

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

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

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

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Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

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

July 22, 2019 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on July 21, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

The Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here is my ultimate road trip essentials packing list!

Table of Contents

Road Trip Car Essentials

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

driving in south africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

emergency car kit

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

blyde river canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

30+ SPF sunscreen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Car Charger with USB Port

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

road trip list of essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

travel-sized umbrella

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

French Press

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

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

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

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

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

First Aid Kit

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

road trip list of essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hand Luggage Suitcase

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

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

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

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

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Planning an epic road trip close to home or abroad? Don't leave your house without these road trip essentials! Download the free road trip checklist to make sure you don't forget your toothbrush or anything else that's important...again

About Lauren Melnick

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

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

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49 Essentials for a road trip packing list + Free Checklist

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions when you click links and make purchases at no extra cost to you. View details here. By purchasing items through the included links, you’ll help keep this site running. Thank you for your support!

Whether you are road tripping across the country or just a few hours from home, it’s important to include these top essentials on your road trip packing list to be prepared, stay safe, and of course, have fun! I’ve learned a lot over the years after some pretty great road trips around the USA , Scotland, and Australia.

As a solo female traveler, I used to think road trips were dangerous, but after I went on a few of my own, I realized those fears were all in my head. Stopping whenever and wherever you want, not having to perfectly pack and repack a suitcase, more room to stretch your legs, and the ability to travel to those unique “off the beaten trail” destinations are a few reasons why road trips are my favorite way to travel!

In this post, I’m sharing all my favorite road trip essentials, from car safety gear to entertainment and comfort items that are important to making the most out of any road trip.

If car camping is something you are interested in, check out these car-camping road trip articles. I went on a US cross-country car-camping road trip in 2021 and had a phenomenal experience. Car camping is a great way to see the country and save a TON of money!

  • How to Plan a Cross Country Car Camping Road Trip
  • The 15 most popular car camping questions answered
  • 13 Useful Car Camping Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers
  • How to comfortably sleep in a car while car-camping
  • 13 Practical items you don’t want to Car Camp without

Table of Contents: Jump to

Road Trip Tips:

  • Always keep the gas tank at least 1/2 full.
  • Plan your route ahead of time and have an idea of where you are going, what stops are possible, and a general idea of how to get there.
  • Don’t have a strict plan/itinerary. The best thing about a road trip is the flexibility of stopping anywhere that looks appealing at a moment’s notice. Don’t limit yourself to only pre-planned adventures.
  • Download offline maps over WiFi before you leave
  • Have a paper map as a backup
  • Talk to locals to get info on hidden gems that most travel guides don’t know about.
  • Bring snacks and plenty of water
  • Know car care basics such as how to check engine oil levels, measure tire pressure, jumpstart a car and how to change a tire.

Car Care travel essentials

Whether renting a car or driving your own, insurance, a safety plan, and emergency essentials should be on top of your road trip packing list. Use these items to maintain the car and keep it clean and have peace of mind.

  • Car insurance
  • Driver’s license
  • Rental Agreement (if renting)
  • AAA or some kind of roadside assistance
  • Spare tire + flat tire change kit
  • Jumper cables
  • Tire Pressure Gauge
  • Quarters (in case you need to blow a tire up or use a vacuum at a gas station)
  • Hand Towels
  • Emergency car kit- this car emergency kit contains Battery Booster Cables, 2 Light Sticks, Reflective Vest, Emergency Rain Poncho, Warning triangle, whistle, Tire Pressure Gauge, Window Breaker etc. This all in one kit has you covered for any possible eventuality.

Road trip accessories to include on your road trip packing list

All of these items will make your drive smoother and get you where you need to go safely. Make sure to download your maps before you are out of WiFi range. Some apps like HERE We go and Maps. me offer offline maps, but I find Google Maps the most convenient, reliable, and easy to use (as long as you remember to download offline maps before you are out of WiFi range)

  • Paper maps/directions
  • Offline Maps
  • Cash or coin for tolls
  • Flashlight/headlight
  • Extra batteries
  • Hands-free phone mount
  • Portable battery charger
  • Car chargers for electronics
  • Reusable shopping bags

Entertainment road trip travel essentials

I usually take the scenic route and stop every few hours to avoid boredom, but playlists and podcasts are my go-to for long stretches of road. I love a mix of Yacht rock, Tropical house, and upbeat pop to get me moving. Kygo, Jonas brothers (Happiness Begins album), Fleetwood Mac, and the Eagles are some of my all-time favorite car riding tunes.

If you are going somewhere remote, a portable wifi device is an awesome accessory. I used one in Iceland, and it was a lifesaver. Also, don’t forget a camera or two to document your trip and remember it for years to come.

  • Wifi Hot Spot – Solis
  • Digital Camera- Sony A6100, is a great beginner camera that’s lightweight, easy to use, and takes very nice photos.
  • Water proof action camera- GoPro
  • Additional recording devices, (phone or drone)

Personal Care essentials to pack for a road trip

Some of these road trip packing list items are “just in case”. You might not use them every day, but when you need them, you will be glad to have them!

  • Glasses or contact lenses
  • Disinfectant wet wipes
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Snacks/Food
  • Immunity tablets
  • Medication/Motion Sickness Pills
  • 1st aid kit
  • Deodarent/Body Wipes
  • Toilet paper
  • Additional Toiletries (tooth brush, toothpaste, comb, lotions, face wash ect.)

Comfort car riding essentials to add to your summer road trip packing lis t

Most of these items are great for napping in your car or staying cozy if you are riding shotgun.

  • Eye mask + ear plugs
  • Rain Poncho
  • Flip Flops or slip on sandals (for quick stops and showering in public showers)

That may seem like a long list, but most items pack small. Don’t forget your luggage with clothing, swimsuits, toiletries, shoes, etc. If you are interested in car camping this post shares all the must-have items I bring on my car-camping road trips.

I hope you found this list helpful and enjoy road tripping as much as I do. Below is a link for a printable road trip essentials checklist. I always use one of these when I am packing to ensure I do not forget a thing.

Click here to download my Road Trip Packing Check-list

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Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

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I’m enjoying your blog so much, Sam. I’m thinking of living in my car as a tiny house and just traveling, and your posts are perfectly informative, accessible and insightful. Thank you. Happy travels,

This makes me so happy! I am so glad you found my site helpful. I’ve been doing a lot of living out of my car on and off for 3 years now. It gets exhausting but nothing beats the freedom I feel while on the road or the ability to wake up in nature and watch a sunrise without having to get up extra early to drive somewhere to see it. Best wishes for your future travels! Please let me know if I can answer any specific questions you may have.

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30 Absolute Crucial Road Trip Essentials You Need To Be Packing

Post Summary: Road Trip Essentials To Put On Your Next Packing list

So, you want the freedom of the open road, with nowhere to go but onward.

But what the heck do you need to pack?

Berty and I always find ourselves on the road ( our Instagram pretty much consists of road trip pictures! ), so we  created a list of road trip essentials to minimize stops, keep us entertained and save us money along the way. 

We’ve perfected this road trip packing list for countless trips – from Alaska to Utah , the Pacific Coast Coast to the Olympics in Washington .

If you are in the beginning stages (or dreaming up your next destination!) this post provides a great list to get you started, along with other road trip tips along the way!

road trip list of essentials

Planning A Trip? Make Sure To Read These Posts For More Road Trip Essentials:

Car Camping 101: The Guide To Sleeping In Your Car (For Free!)

20 Brilliant Car Camping Hacks For Your Next Road Trip

How To Find Free Camping In The USA

101 Fun And Random Road Trip Questions To Ask Your Friends

15 Essential Road Trip Planning Apps To Use

Getting Around The Pacific Northwest By Car

30 Necessary Road Trip Essentials You Must Be Packing

Note: This post contains affiliate links of seriously cool items we love. Any purchase of things we recommend here will help us fund our next epic road trip to share with you all!

Ever been with a hangry passenger?  Snacks absolutely need to be on your road trip packing list, especially if you want to  save money while you travel . Make sure to bring a good mix of healthy foods like baby carrots, apples, nuts, and crackers.

Bring a mix of sweet and salty things, but also indulge in some junk food as well. Need meal tips? Read our post full of easy camping meals .

2. Good Navigation Apps

Have you ever lost your way, and lost cell service at the same time? It’s a jarring experience – one we don’t like to be in! Before any journey now, one of our most important road trip essentials is downloading a navigation app , especially one with offline features.

Currently, we’re loving The Dyrt and their new road trip planner feature! It helps us plan out stops like the best places to get gas, camping along our route, and it can even work offline.

We also recently upgraded to The Dyrt Pro Membership to find places to stay near some hot springs in Idaho, and it was so helpful to have these maps downloaded offline to look on the go! Try their pro membership free for 30-days when using our code MANDAGIES !

3. Kleenex / Hankerchief

If you are feeling under the weather, Kleenex can prevent further germs from infecting your other car mates too. Looking for a sustainable option ? Try to purchase a few bandanas instead, and washing them with the rest of your clothes on laundry day!

4. Emergen-C / Vitamin C Tablets

Speaking of sickness, in addition to packing lots of vitamin C rich foods, Emergen-C or an electrolyte drink mix/tablets can be a great way to support your immune system and overall health on a long road trip. We like to add these items on our road trip packing list because they usually come in a tablet or dry form, which is easy to store and carry.

5. Chapstick

Sometimes air conditioners can dry out the inside of the car. Add chapstick to your road trip essentials to help! We like buying from the brand Burt’s Bees , because they have lots of flavor options and are made with natural ingredients!

road trip list of essentials

6. Car games/cards for delays or waits

If you are waiting, say, for a ferry or a traffic issue to clear, it’s always nice to fall back on classic card games (just not the driver!) or classic road trip questions to keep spirits up and your mind off the delays! Have kids? Download these free printable games and puzzles to keep them busy!

7. Headache Medication

Sitting in the car for long periods of time can take a toll. Ibuprofen, Advil, or other similar headache medication can be a great addition to any packing list because this over-the-counter product not only can relieve headaches but reduce fevers too.

8. Sunglasses

Driving into the sunset can seem romantic, but not when you’re staring straight into the bright lights for hours on end. Save your vision and protect your eyes with these road trip must-haves!

9. Car Chargers

Berty and I have loads of tech we use on a regular basis during long road trips. To make sure our batteries are charged we have this car adapter to use when we’re driving from place to place. We’ve had it for years and we love that it not only has USB ports but regular ones for bigger items like laptops!

10. Slippers

For me, I like to take off my shoes and get comfy on long road trips. We absolutely love the Ember Mocs made by Teva , because they have a collapsible heel. You can easily slip them on and off, or lift up the back for a little more grip on your foot.

When putting together your road trip packing list, bring a pillow for those times when it’s not your turn to drive. A pillow is also useful for when you need some quick shut-eye at rest stops to regain your energy and stay alert on the road.

We own two of these super comfy neck pillows (one on the driver side and the other on the passenger) and we actually use them as pillows for a clever car camping hack too.

12. Headphones

Headphones are excellent road trip essentials for those times you need to have a little bit of space to yourself . These noise-canceling ones from Bose are a little pricey, but worth every penny for peace and quiet. Alternatively, you could purchase wireless ones , that easily fit in your pocket and take up very little space.

13. Clothes/Shoes

Don’t forget to account for enough clothes on your road trip packing list. Pack enough for the number of days you will be gone, or pack less and plan forr stops at a laundr0-mat. On any given trip, we recommend no more than 3 pairs of shoes and always pack more socks and underwear than you need. Find our PNW Packing List here !

road trip list of essentials

Stylish and functional, make sure you have something to cover your eyes and protect your skin on an extra sunny day.

Road Trip Essentials - Downloaded Podcasts

15. Audio Choices (Road Trip Podcasts, Playlists + More)

Entertainment is one of the most important road trip necessities!

Download playlists on Spotify so you can listen to them offline. We also highly recommend >audiobooks too, so that you can “read” while you drive. We listened to 20 hours of Ready Player One on our road trip around Vancouver Island , and we couldn’t wait for long stints in the car!

Want to learn new things? We have a list of the best road trip podcasts to check out, ranging from true crime to The Office recaps!

16. Little Bluetooth Speakers

Bluetooth Speakers are helpful in case you reach certain areas with poor reception, but still want to listen to music. We own this one!

17. A Cozy Blanket

Whether it’s cold at your destination or the air conditioning is too much to handle, a blanket is an easy go-to comfort on a long drive. You can also use it as a privacy screen if you are sleeping in your car.

It’s okay to have your favorite indulgences on your road trip packing list! That little burst of sugar will give you energy for the long drive ahead. Our favorites are gas station candy, which includes some combination of Sour Patch Kids and something chocolate!

Studies show that chewing gum can help you concentrate on the task in front of you . So grab your favorite flavor and get driving!

20. Paper Directions/ Road Trip Apps

Berty and I constantly lose service when driving on remote roads to find free camping spots . Make sure to screenshot the route on your phone, or track it on a map with a pencil in case you go out of cell range. Have a smartphone? Download these essential road trip apps to make your life easier!

5-Gallon Portable Water Jug

21. Water Bottle

A hydrated driver is a happy driver! Easy, go-to water bottles here , here , and here . Need a LOT of water for your road trip? Try this 5-gallon foldable water cube for easy water transportation.

The Essential Road Trip Packing Checklist - TheMandagies.com

22. Thermos

Ask at gas stations and convenience stores if you can fill your thermos with coffee instead of using their disposable cups. This reduces YOUR waste and probably does a better job of holding your hot beverage. I’ve got my eye on this Stanley thermos as my next purchase.

23. Empty Tote

Bringing an empty tote is an excellent addition to your road trip checklist for its many uses. Pack a tote full of food and have a roadside picnic or bring it with you to a local farmer’s market to pick up goodies.

Our favorite universal tote is this one , which has carried all sorts of things for us! You can also find our favorite adventure bag picks in this post .

24. Duct Tape

Duct Tape seems to be the fix for everything.

Road Trip Essentials - Headlamp

25. Flashlight /Headlamps

It’s important to bring extra lighting for camping, night adventures, and emergencies alike! Pick up a few of these inexpensive headlamps from Petzl for keeping in your car to see at night.

26. First Aid Kit

A simple first-aid kit will do. Make sure to keep it in your car, even on short weekend trips!

27. Batteries

Make a list of items that may need a battery change on your journey and have a few extras of those on hand.

28. Proof of Insurance/ID

A driver’s license is a no-brainer as far as road trip essentials go, but make sure you have a hard copy of your proof of insurance too! In addition, make sure your tabs won’t expire during your trip and you’ve got the proper registration forms.

29. Jumper Cables

Jumper cables are one of those things on your road trip list you hope to never use! They can save you from being stranded, but you can always help out a buddy who is stuck too. Here’s a video on how to do it properly.

30. Car Fluids

Things like oil and antifreeze are a must. If you’re taking a winter road trip , make sure to read our winter emergency car kit of essential items to keep in your car during cold weather!

Road Trip Essentials For Winter Travel - TheMandagies.com

Did we miss anything? What are YOUR road trip essentials? Let us know in the comments!

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Follow our Road Trip Board on Pinterest for some inspiration for other road trip essentials!

Packing for an adventure on the road? Don't leave the house without this road trip essentials list! We're sharing everything from slippers to playlists to the best drink carrier! You're not going to want to miss these road trip must haves. #roadtrip #road #list #photography #ontheroad #instagram #packinglist #checklist #vanlife #road #travel #USA

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

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

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

The Ultimate Road Trip Checklist

What to Pack for a Road Trip Checklist including Essentials Not to Forget

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

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

Cheap Car Rentals

Food, drink and snacks for your road trip

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

Entertainment for road trips

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

Health, safety and personal care essentials

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

Other recommended items for your road trip packing list

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

Family road trip checklist – if traveling with kids

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

Pet road trip essentials – if bringing your pet along

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

What is on your roadtrip checklist?

Not sure what to pack for a road trip? Click on this road trip packing list for all the road trip essentials you need. *Travel Packing Road Trip Ideas | Travel Packing Road Trip Products | Travel Tips Road Trip Packing | Travel Tips Road Trip Products | Road Trip Essentials List | Road Trip Essentials Checklist | Road Trip Tips Packing | Road Trip Packing Tips | Road Trip Packing List Family | Road Trip Packing List Kids | Road Trip Packing List Summer | Road Trip Travel Tips #roadtripessentials

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10 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Globetrotting Teacher

Travel-Tested Road Trip Packing List Essentials: Your Complete Guide

You’re planning to hit the road and need a complete road trip packing list with all the travel-tested road trip essentials for a successful trip. Well, you’re in the right place!

We all know the main reason most people love a road trip, flexibility and being in control of the journey. But, the next biggest reason is getting to pack whatever and however much we want.

Vacation without bag fees or having to throw away oversized toiletries. Amen to that!

Road Trip Packing List

The good news is I’ve driven across the country multiple times, to all 48 continental states, and across Canada. (This doesn’t include road tripping internationally, either.)

And, along the way, I’ve made more  road trip mistakes  than I can count. But, I’ve also learned A LOT, too, and I’ve put it all together in this mega guide about what to pack for a road trip.

You can fill your car with whatever and however much you want, but if don’t have the road trip supplies you need for a successful trip, things can go south quickly.

Plan to Rent a Car for Your Road Trip?

I always search rental car costs on a site like  Kayak  because it compares prices from multiple sites all at once. It’s quick and I can easily see the best deals for my dates and pick-up location. 

Road Trip Essentials for Your Car

When planning a road trip, there are road trip necessities for both you and your car. Let’s start with the car. After all, it doesn’t matter how comfortable you are if there are car troubles, right?

Beautiful landscape seen through the rearview mirror

First and foremost, whether you’re driving your car or a rental, don’t leave without having these road trip car essentials.

  • Driver’s License
  • Car Registration and Insurance Information
  • Extra Car Key…not on the same key ring
  • AAA Membership and/or Phone Number(s) for Roadside Assistance
  • Spare Tire…with a tire jack and tools to change a flat
  • Water Resistant Flashlight …coincidental that car trouble always happens at night, in the rain??

No one wants to break down and certainly many road-trippers have fun, incident-free adventures. But, it still pays to be prepared. Don’t leave home without a  roadside emergency kit .

Even though you may have some of these items at home, like an air compressor or materials to repair a tire, I like having a complete kit. Not only is it convenient, it likely includes things you didn’t think of and is expertly packed to save space.

If you’re driving in remote areas, like  driving in Utah  where there are long stretches without gas stations, you may also want to have these supplies.

  • Quart of Oil
  • Jug of Coolant or Water
  • Wiper Fluid
  • Portable Gas Container …great peace of mind when the next gas station isn’t for a long time!

A winter road trip packing list should also include things to keep you safe from snow and ice.

  • Ice Scraper…not fun doing this by hand!
  • Tire Chains

What to Bring on a Road Trip: Basic Must-Haves

Road Trip Packing List Essentials Map with Pin

Before getting into a list of must-have road trip items, there are 2 that deserve a special call-out.

First , every successful road trip includes a  paper map like this .

Smartphone apps like Google Maps and Maps.me are great, but when you lose service in remote spots, like in places along an Oregon Coast road trip , and your maps aren’t downloaded, the ability to get step-by-step directions disappears, too. Absolutely use the apps, but have a paper map, too.

Get a map with roads, landmarks, and information for an entire region instead of just 1 area. It’s perfect for those spontaneous whims along the way!

Second , it’s important to bring a  First Aid Kit . Obvious, I know. But, not having what you need for an injury can ruin an entire day of your trip.

road trip packing list essentials cellphone dashboard mount

Besides these road trip basics and whether your trip is long or short, solo or as a family, you’ll want to also have these things in the car.

  • Car Phone Charger …works with your USB cord if your car doesn’t have one already…or even if it does and you just want more USB ports to keep everyone smiling.
  • Power Inverter …with AC outlets and USB ports
  • Hands-Free Phone Mount …safety + easy-to-see Google Maps for navigation = WIN!
  • Portable Charger …when there are more devices in the car than charging ports or you’re on the go outside of the car
  • Garbage Bag…or a  car garbage bin  that doesn’t just collect trash but also protects against leaks
  • Roll of Toilet Paper…not all rest stops are created equal
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Body/Baby Wipes
  • Bug Spray…nothing worse than getting bit while out of the car stretching your legs
  • Paper Money and Coins…for parking meters, air pump at gas stations, tolls, broken ATMs, laundromats, etc.
  • Gas, Dining, and Travel Rewards Credit Card(s)…Whether you earn cash back, miles, or points, make sure the money you spend on this trip is helping you earn for the next one.
  • Electronic Toll Pass…if applicable where you’re driving

Let’s switch gears (couldn’t help myself!) away from the car and think about you and the other people on this road trip. These next sections are broken up into road trip necessities lists that cover being comfortable in the car, entertainment, personal items, and food.

Things to Bring on a Road Trip to Keep Everyone Feeling Cozy

Keeping everyone in the car happy and relaxed is so important! Snacks, entertainment, and interesting sights won’t be of much help if you’re not comfortable. So, be sure to stock the car with these things you need for a road trip.

  • Extra Layer of Clothing…I always keep one of  these fleeces  handy. They’re perfect for hiking, temperature changes, and when someone blasts the AC.
  • Blanket or  Sleeping Bag …versatility (think picnic blanket) and a (possible) rolled-up space-saver
  • Travel Pillow…here’s  my favorite.
  • UV Window Shades
  • Sunglasses …can’t drive without mine. Plus, I love these for their functionality whether I’m heading to the mountains or the beach.
  • Travel Cup …coffee to-go, a must!
  • Reusable Water Bottle…like  these bestsellers
  • Water…in bulk with a spout to avoid spills
  • Pain Killer…headache, body ache, etc.
  • Hand Lotion
  • Towel(s)…sudden rainstorm, someone actually jumps in a lake, etc.
  • Mints and/or Gum

Road Trip Essentials List – Entertainment to Keep Everyone Smiling

Road Trip Packing List Essentials Taking a Photo from the Car Window

From iSpy to the License Plate game to high-tech gear and gadgets, take your road trip entertainment as seriously as things to pack for a road trip! It can be an all-out sanity saver, especially for families with kids.

Of course, recording and capturing the journey is half the fun. In addition to a smartphone camera, I always have one of my favorite travel cameras .

When I travel with my nieces and nephews, they love to bring  this instant camera ! If your road trip is packed with action-packed adventure, you may also want to bring along an  action camera  as I do.

Unless you have satellite radio, you can almost bet you’ll lose a clear radio signal at least once on your drive. What’s more, you’re likely to go through stretches where only a couple of stations come through and the chances of them playing all your favorite songs are slim to forget about it.

This means it’s all about playlists!  You’ll want to make sure there’s a variety of music that’ll keep the whole car happy.

Amazon Music  and  Spotify  give you access to millions of songs that can be grouped into playlists and downloaded onto your device so you can listen without an internet connection and/or save data from the road. Plus, both offer free trials, free plans, and even super cheap promotions for premium so you can test them out before your trip.

Road Trip Packing List Essentials Cellphone with Music

Similarly, subscribe to some podcasts through your device’s Podcast app. Be sure to download the episodes before you leave home or from wifi so you can listen to them with streaming data. My favorite road trip podcast is Radiolab!

If you’d prefer longer in-depth stories,  Audible  and  Audiobooks.com  have huge libraries, also with free books as part of a free trial. Download books for hours of any time listening!

Don’t want to bother the whole car with whatever you’re listening to?

Bring  headphones  and a  splitter   to share your music, podcast, or audiobook with only those who want it. And, no matter what you’re listening to take it with you on a picnic outside the car with one of  these portable speakers

And, whether you want to read in the car, around the campfire, or in your hotel room, save space in the car with a  Kindle  or download the Kindle App to  any device . You can  purchase a few books   or  try Kindle Unlimited free .

Of course, road trip must-haves aren’t all electronic. Non-electronic options are great for all-important laughs, memories, and bonding, not to mention how relaxing it can be to disconnect for a while!

Consider these group and family activities to make the time on those long stretches of road fly!

  • Loaded Questions …for family, friends, and smart pets 
  • Scavenger Hunt
  • Mad Libs …always a classic!
  • Map Games …a bestseller!
  • Travel Journals and Coloring

Road Trip Clothing and Personal Item Tips

Road Trip Packing List Essentials Backpack with hat and hiking poles

How to pack for a road trip is not like packing for other trips. To start, you need clothes that’ll be comfortable to wear in the car for a long-distance and clothes for wherever you’re going.

I like to wear my  leggings  and flip-flops in the car, but I have  hiking pants  and  hiking boots  for outdoor adventures.

Second, you may or may not want to store your clothes and personal items in a traditional suitcase. Here are a few road trip packing tips.

  • Duffel Bags and  backpacks  hold as much as a suitcase but can be squished into smaller places in the car.
  • If you’re planning to make multiple short (1-2 night) stops, pack a  daypack  with just the things you need for an overnight stay. It’ll also come in handy for day hikes or day trips.
  • Use  packing cubes  to organize clothes and just grab the cubes you need from the car.
  • Similarly, use drawers to pack and then just  pull the drawer  you need instead of lugging all your things from the car.
  • For campground, rest stop, and even hotel bathrooms, a  hanging toiletry tote bag  can help keep your items organized and away from less-than-sparkling sinks and toilets.

Road Trip Packing List Essentials Hikers Legs with Hiking Poles

As for the specifics of what to take on a road trip,  pack clothes with you to match your destination, the activities you want to do, and the weather.  

Heading to the beach? Going to a National Park to hike? Roadtripping in winter or fall and need warmer layers?

Clothes should feel good to wear, have multi-purposes, and be worn a few times. I never pack a shirt if I can only wear it once. Packing wisely also might mean going with a specific color palette. It’ll be easier to mix and match pieces and make different outfits with fewer pieces of clothing.

If you plan to hike, here are some ideas about what to wear on a hike and a few hiking essentials you might want to consider.

And just as your car will need a few important things if you are road-tripping in the winter, you will need to know what to wear on a winter hike to stay safe and warm.

Aside from what to wear on a road trip, your road trip list should include these personal items as well.

  • Sunscreen …if you have highly sun-sensitive skin like me , this is my SPF go-to. 
  • Mosquito Repellent …this is my go-to bug spray whether I’m road-tripping in Colorado or camping in Africa .
  • Scarf…I take one on every trip because they’re so versatile.
  • Prescriptions
  • Flip Flops…camping out + late night bathroom break = Happy to have slip-on shoes
  • Laundry Bag
  • Tide To-Go Pen
  • Hairbrush and Hair ties
  • Hat…baseball, sun, hiking, they all do the job of giving some shade

Road Trip Food List and Eating Accessories

Road Trip Packing List Essentials Picnic

Is driving on an empty stomach agony for you, too? It’s as if every hunger pang is multiplied by 100. Neither is it fun or practical to have to search for food every time someone in the car needs some grub.

If you’re  road tripping in Arizona , for example, you could be searching for a rest stop with snacks for quite some time in the more remote corners of the state!

Have a plan for your road trip food strategy.

  • Do you plan to mostly eat out in your destinations and just need snacks for the ride? Then, a  cooler bag  that is easy to carry and stuffs away when not in use makes the most sense.
  • Do you need more food storage for meals, camping, or a more budget-friendly road trip? Consider a  larger cooler  you can refill with food and ice at local grocery stores. Or perhaps skip the hassle of ice and go with an  iceless cooler  powered by a charge from your car.
  • If you want to be completely self-sufficient, preparing your own meals from the road, this  portable grill  is the perfect set-up along with a few of these road trip ready chairs.

You’ll also need some basic food storage and eating items.

  • Zippered Plastic Baggies
  • Food Storage Containers …different sizes and stackable
  • Toothpicks…great for grabbing small bites of food
  • Reusable Shopping Bag…all-purpose, really, but good for groceries

Road Trip Packing List Essentials Trail MIx Snack

The food to pack for a road trip doesn’t have to be unhealthy snack packs like you’d find in a rest-stop gas station. Here’s a list of road trip snacks that are delicious, satisfying, and (mostly) nutritious.

  • Granola Bars
  • Pretzels/Popcorn/Chips
  • Protein/Energy Bars
  • Dried Fruit
  • Cheese Sticks
  • Fresh Fruit & Veggies…things that don’t need to be cut like grapes, oranges, blueberries, apples, baby carrots, grape tomatoes, etc.
  • Drink Packets & Tea Bags…easy to mix with water.
  • Canned Tuna…with an easy-open can
  • Hard-Boiled Eggs
  • Sliced Meat
  • Jarred Vegetables….marinated or pickled
  • Sliced Bread
  • Peanut/Almond/Sunflower Butter
  • Juice Boxes

You’ll notice this list doesn’t include bottles of water. It’s cheaper (and not to mention less plastic waste) to buy larger gallons and jugs of water to refill your reusable water bottle.

Miscellaneous Things to Take on a Road Trip

Road Trip Packing List Essentials Road Ahead with a View

Finally, these last road trip supplies to consider for those unexpected jams, when you need to make the most of your space, and whether or not you’re camping out.

  • Duct Tape…seriously can fix almost anything at least temporarily
  • Swiss Army Knife …tools for many situations
  • Trunk Organizer
  • Rooftop Cargo
  • Tent …only necessary if you’ll be camping. (I also always bring a  sleeping pad  camping, too.)

If you’re planning to camp and spend a lot of time outdoors, check out this outdoor lovers gear guide and this road trip gift guide for more ideas.

Your road trip list of things to bring is the key to a successful trip. Being prepared means being able to handle any number of situations without them getting in the way of your road trip travel plans.

What’s on your road trip packing checklist?

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Road Trip Essentials

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Do You Know How to Avoid the Most Common Travel Mistakes?

38 thoughts on “travel-tested road trip packing list essentials: your complete guide”.

road trip list of essentials

Hi, I work for a magazine called momaha magazine in Omaha. It’s part of The Omaha World-Herald. We would love to mention some of your must haves in an article we are doing on traveling. Would that be OK if we credit you?

road trip list of essentials

Thanks for reading, Marjie. I appreciate you asking and have no problem the mention and credit. 🙂 Thanks so much for asking!

road trip list of essentials

While starting off a road trip it would be much better to select a luxury car which is capable of handling bumps and rigorous roads , moreover renting a car will not only be more affordable but it will also save your time. Here are some road trip essentials that you must consider before going on the journey: Spare tire Driver’s license Car Jack Snacks Phone charger Water Car Registration and insurance information

Thanks for the tips, Sheena. I’ve never rented a luxury vehicle and have had many successful road trips. I do always recommend renting the right type of vehicle for where you’ll be driving. Thanks so much for reading!

road trip list of essentials

These are get tips! Very thorough! I’m taking a smaller road trip, just though most of Florida here and there to the keys. These tips will still help a great deal

Thanks for reading, Sean! A road trip through the Florida Keys sounds fantastic. Enjoy!

Great article with good advice. I love road trips and have traveled the length and breath of South Africa and neighboring countries. I live in Johannesburg, South Africa and more recently take regular trips to the coast (550km away). Our experience over the past 35 years has been that the way we drive and stops changed depending on the children’s ages, the route, destination and type of vehicle we used. Most importantly it is attitude. Since they were young we created excitement by pretending to be lost, especially if it was dusk or dark. Stories of wild animals worked well.

Breakdowns can also be adventures, provided you are prepared. Unfortunately, If I am not prepared I get irritable and aggressive but my wife knows how to deal with me.

Lastly, on our last trip over the Easter weekend, the roads were closed several times along the way due to accidents. What should have been a 5 and half hour trip took us 13 hours. Longest being a 5 hour stop on a National Route that had to be closed at the toll gates for the accidents ahead to be cleared. Glad that we had bought food and drinks before leaving Durban (additional food for the children’s supper and school lunch the next day).

Main Roads in SA are well maintained, most routes are serviced with garages and food outlets. Very scenic options. But try to stay off the roads at night as a safety measure. [PERSONAL INFORMATION EDITED OUT]

Thanks for reading, Mohamed, and for the tips on road tripping in South Africa.

road trip list of essentials

I’m going on a road trip from Bozeman, MT, to Portland, OR (via Seattle) with my sister in June and was glad to find your article. It’s good to have all that information in one place. Thanks!

Thanks for reading! 🙂 Hope you have a great road trip. I love that part of the country.

road trip list of essentials

Where is that hilly road? We want to try it out for ourselves!!

Thanks for reading, Aurora. It’s Highway 212 in Lithonia. 🙂

road trip list of essentials

This is great, thank you! Off to the South of France on Thursday in my little mini convertible 🙂

Amazing!! Enjoy and thanks for reading, Jenna. 🙂

road trip list of essentials

WARNING about the portable coolers that charge through your car charger: I’m a medical courier & have been stuck on the road with a dead battery many times & I’ve burned through several new batteries in a short period of time because of such coolers that will charge like your phone, through the car. Using that equipment was incredibly straining to the car’s battery even while driving. And if you happen to forget & leave the cooler plugged in to the charger overnight, then it’s guaranteed you’re gonna need a jump the next morning,

Thanks for reading and sharing, GP. Definitely have to unplug the cooler when the car is not running because it will drain the battery otherwise.

road trip list of essentials

Audio books are free through your local library, there is an app for that. Wanted to print this out, to use it. But at 30 pages, nevermind. Oh well. Thanks for the nice read though!

Thanks for reading, Julie. Yes, you can get Audiobooks through many local libraries. Thanks for the reminder!

road trip list of essentials

Thank you so much for the tips Jackie! I am going to be heading to the beach soon and the road trip will be about 8-9 hours. I am excited! We will be there over my younger brothers birthday. He loves the beach. Usually we go mini golfing but it’s closed right now.

Keep doing what your doing, Cameryn

Enjoy your road trip, Cameryn! Thanks for reading. 🙂

road trip list of essentials

Great tips! I’ll be heading down the Pacific coast highway then up route 66 at this point or up to Bryce Canyon.

Thanks for reading, John. I’ve done those drives and both are amazing! Enjoy!

My family and I are going on a long road trip, and since we all know that car breakdown is inevitable, we’re thinking of looking for a roadside assistance service; so we may contact someone just in case of an emergency. I’m glad you shared these tips; we’ll make sure to bring the car manual, an extra key, and a spare tire as well. We’d also keep in mind to equipped our vehicle with a quart of oil and a potable gas container.

Thanks for reading, Rachel. Sounds like you’ll be prepared! Hope you have a great road trip. 🙂

road trip list of essentials

Wow! Great list! There were several items I needed to add to my road trip list, including a first aid kit. Thanks so much!

Thanks so much for reading, Mairsie. Glad the list was helpful!

road trip list of essentials

Thank you for this it really helped me with my road trip!!

Thanks for reading, Morgan. Glad to hear it!

road trip list of essentials

Loved the Article – was able to make a comprehensive list of items needed for next weeks trip.

One thing that should be stressed. Before taking ANY road trip with your personal vehicle (not all of us can afford rental rates even with a AAA discount.

Ensure that your vehicle has had a through inspection and have them check the tires top off any fluids and catch any needed repairs. It will cut down on the chances of you having to be towed due to travel damage.

I did that and found out there was a recall notice on my vehicle and was able to get it fixed in time Also make sure your tags are current! Police/hwy patrol really do not like a car that isnt current

Thanks for reading, Tiffany. I’m glad to hear the list was helpful and so appreciate the tips! I’m sure they will be helpful to others who read. Have a great road trip!

road trip list of essentials

A simple must-have item if your road trip has you staying in hotels at night: an extension cord. Hotel outlets never seem to be close enough to a chair to allow me to charge my tablet and work on it at the same time. One inexpensive extension cord has become priceless to me.

Thank you for reading, Sandyb. I couldn’t agree more! I have a portable power strip with 2 outlets on each side. The cord folds in on itself and snaps into place making it super compact. Thanks for the reminder about putting this in the article!

road trip list of essentials

I never see anyone suggest that you bring a second set of car keys? My wife and I do this with each one having their own set fro the car we are traveling in when together. Just have someone charge you to get the door open because your keys are on the car seat.

Thanks for reading, Robert. My husband and I do the same. However, it’s definitely worth an ask, especially if renting a car from a smaller car rental company. Happy Road-Tripping!

road trip list of essentials

#1) I wouldn’t recommend open toed footwear ( ie flip-flops) around campsites as they lend themselves to toe injuries due to stubbing on stones, curbs, or pieces of wood. Something like clogs (Crocs) or slip on boating shoes

#2). You should learn how to take care of your vehicle yourself rather than having someone else do it for you. There won’t always be someone around to check your vehicle when it is needed the most. Checking tire air pressure, coolant levels, oil levels is not difficult or mysterious. You should be doing this at home also. Your owners manual can show how to do it.

Thanks for reading and sharing your tips, Lynn! 🙂

road trip list of essentials

Getting ready for a road trip from Montana to New Jersey and back in 2 days and thought I must be forgetting some things. I am a very well-seasoned traveler, but it is always easy to forget little things. You have done a superior job on this article. Thank you, I found a few things I was over-looking. I recently retired and bought a 5th wheel trailer. It seems there are still things I forget to add at the last minute.

Thanks for reading, Beth. Glad the article was helpful and hope you enjoy your road trip!!

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road trip list of essentials

  • May 12, 2020
  • Budget Travel Tips

Want the best packing list for road trip essentials? From tech essentials on a road trip to snacks for kids and adults – you’ll know exactly what to pack for a road trip.

Below are 63 items to make a roadtrip better. Since this is a pretty huge post, you can skip to sections with the table of contents above, just click to the section of the post.

So what type of items will you find in this ultimate road trip packing checklist?

What categories of items are in this roadtrip checklist?

Canadian Rocky Mountain road trip essentials

Here is a  VERY  shortened list of what types of items you’ll find in this post. Chances are, you’re not going to need every single item listed here, but I guarantee you’ll need some of them.

What to pack for a road trip essentials

  • Road trip technology essentials
  • Generic items to bring
  • Safety road trip items
  • Car organization items
  • Snak ideas for a roadtrip
  • Cold weather gear
  • Luxury items for a roadtrip
  • Comfort items for a roadtrip
  • Entertainment items for a road trip
  • Family essential items
  • Hygiene road trip items

I specifically left out a clothes packing list when going on a road trip. Why? There are just too many climates and things to consider. This post is already massive, so clothes to take will be coming in a different post.

Make sure to sign up to the Horizon Unknown newsletter to know when that post becomes live.

How is this roadtrip packing list put together?

There are plenty of ways to go on a road trip, and my way of doing a trip will likely be different from others.

That’s why I asked over 30 other travelers to give me their best item to pack in their vehicle before they set out – and I’m glad I did. I’ve done plenty of road tripping, but there are still items below I wouldn’t have thought of.

This list really is the ultimate guide to packing a car for a road trip. I’d love to hear you “must have” item for a road trip – leave a comment at the bottom of this post.

So that’s enough of the introduction, let’s get into it! Here are 63 items you need to pack for your next road trip!

Just to be clear, some links below are affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, well, I earn a small cut – this doesn’t increase the coast for you and is a great way to support this site – I really appreciate it!

Things to pack for a winter road trip

These are the must-have road trip items. They are important for every road trip.

I know this initial list is quite basic, but it’s worth noting anyway. We are going into everything you need to cover yourself on a road trip.

It’s worth noting these are handy things to make sure are in any rental cars you hire to do a road trip.

1. Spare tire

If you’re going on a road trip, you need a spare tire. The last thing you want is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with a flat.

2. Car manual

If you need to do basic maintenance, you’ll want the manual to make sure you do it right.

3. Drivers license

I mean, pretty obvious, right? Don’t drive without a license. It’s illegal.

4. Car registration

You should always have this in the car no matter what, fine for no registration can be pretty big.

5. Emergency kit

If your car breaks down, a good emergency kit will be invaluable.

6. Road trip insurance

Whether something goes terribly wrong or something small, these travel insurance stories should make it clear why road trip insurance is important.

Road Trip Tech Essentials

Roading tripping on quiet roads

These are the technological items to help make your road trip easier. Sure, you don’t really need a GPS, you could go the old school way of paper maps and just exploring, getting a little lost and finding your way eventually.

Here are a few road trip tech essentials to help make your journey a little easier.

Clara – Petite Capsule

Whether you are traveling with a baby and toddler , as a couple or on your own, an essential item for any road trip is a car GPS. It helps you get to your destination easily, without having to plan and memorise every turn.

What’s great about a car GPS, in particular the Navman Ezy460MT , is that it has free map updates included, so you have all the latest maps at no extra cost.

It also has many handy features for when you are taking a road trip to an unfamiliar or new area. Free live traffic updates help you to make informed decisions about whether you should vary your current route based on traffic congestion and accidents. It takes these incidents into account and calculates your new projected arrival time.

The advanced lane guidance, landmark guidance, spoken directions, and spoken street names are useful features to ensure you stay on route and not miss your turn. Displaying the speed limit on screen is convenient too.

Suggested smart routes based on historical traffic data are nifty to ensure you take the best route for the time of day you are driving during your road trip. Spoken safety alerts, like when you are approaching speed and red light cameras, are beneficial.

A car GPS is more reliable than Google Maps, which may be unavailable due to no mobile signal, or your phone battery dies. It also saves your data. A car GPS is super handy and is a road trip essential.

8. Go Pro Camera

Road trip sandy adventure

Campbell & Alya from Stingy Nomads

In the last couple of years, our GoPro became our favorite item to pack for a road trip. New models like GoPro HERO7 and GoPro HERO8 are great for taking both videos and photos.

The stabilization of the camera is amazing, you can attach it to your car using a special car mount and take great footage even if you drive off-road, no shaking or blurring.

The GoPro is great for filming in challenging conditions; strong wind, heavy rain, dusty road, underwater etc. If it gets dirty or dusty you can just rinse it in freshwater.

We used our GoPro7 to take videos and photos on our Namibia road trip and it worked great, especially for filming in the desert where sand can be a big problem if it gets inside the camera. With the GoPro we didn’t have this issue.

We took it on a walk over the sand dunes, on safari drives, filmed in heavy rain, driving through the mud and dust and it never failed. The latest GoPro models are water and dust proof even without a housing.

If it’s covered in sand you can just wash it off. GoPro is a great item to create amazing dynamic videos of a road trip.

9. Portable Bluetooth Speaker

James & Anh from Team AJ Travels

A Bluetooth speaker is one of those items that should be on every road trip packing list, but once you have used one you will never go back to traveling without it! 

We use the Bose Soundlink Revolve. It strikes the right balance between quality and size (don’t confuse with the Revolve+ which is way too big). You get thick bass and clear high end sound that is as good as anything I have at home. 

I love it so much that when I am not traveling it follows me around the house from the kitchen, to the study, to the balcony depending on what I am doing. 

To best explain the importance and versatility of this item I will tell you about our road trip around the south coast of Iceland in a campervan. 

During the day the speaker was a far superior option to the campervan speakers where there was no Bluetooth connectivity, and the local radio sounded awful on the van speakers anyway. 

This bluetooth speaker even swaps between phones to source the content we wanted, and would have great quality music and podcasts while on the longer legs of the drive. 

In the evening after setting in at a camping ground the speaker made for some easy background music while we had an outdoor dinner and a few wines, then as it got dark it was easy to swap over to the laptop and watch a movie before bed in the back of the van. 

Even if you are staying in hotels instead of a van, it is always handy to be able to connect to a laptop rather than relying on local TV when settling down for the day. 

So no matter where I go this little speaker is worth its weight in gold! 

10. Digital Camera

Cath –  Travel Around Ireland

One thing we always remember to pack when we’re going on a road trip is our camera. You just never know when you are going to around a corner and go “wow”. And a camera is a must-have for these moments. Our camera of choice is a Canon G7X which has all the capabilities of a DSLR without the heaviness and bulkiness of one.

The Canon G7X is a digital camera which takes great photos and video. It has a 4.2 x zoom lens, can shoot HD video and has WiFi connectivity abilities, meaning you can share great photos directly to your phone ready to upload to Instagram. What makes this better than a phone camera is the fact it can shoot in RAW, the digital version of a film negative, which allows you to process the photo after you get back from your road trip.

And why would you take a digital camera with you, even when you have a phone? This digital camera produces great quality photos and the RAW functionality means you can process them later. Sure, there are phone cameras that produce great pictures too, but I prefer having my photos from a digital camera.

Plus, it’s always good to have a backup if you prefer using your phone and it runs out of power and you forgot to bring your portable power bank!

If you’re wanting to take great pictures, a good camera is an essential road trip item.

11. Dashboard Cam

Road trip list in Cuba

Vicky – Day Out in England

It’s sad to say but dashboard cams are always a good idea for a road trip these days. Unfortunately, accidents do happen and so having the security and assurance that there will be a record of any wrongdoing is a good plan. I have a cheapo one and used it on a recent trip to the Isle of Wight . Nothing happened, but it’s good to know it was there if it did. 

Dashboard cams start at around £15, and go up into the hundreds. You can get a decent one for around £50 though. 

Simply attach to your dashboard and if for any reason you need footage of what’s happened on your road trip, the dashcam will have recorded it. 

When you’re buying one look for one with a long battery life so you don’t have to spend time and energy charging it. Also, get a wide angle one, and if you spend a bit more you can get one with a parking monitor too. Check the recording quality and that it has an easy to use mount. You’ll need to buy an SD card on top, and it can help to get one with an app too. 

I hope you never need to use the footage, but for an extra piece of mind it could pay to just splash out a bit to get one for your road trip. If you’re in a rental car, don’t forget to pick it up before you leave!

12. Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Mario – Rest and Recuperation

really cannot travel without an Amazon Kindle. My mixed feelings are due to the romanticism of a heavy reader.

Like everyone else, I love having a book in my hands, the feeling of the pages being turned, the distinctive smell of paper released. My two-walls-library is a witness to my love for books. Though, traveling is a whole different thing. You need flexibility and lightness, which are the enemy of a heavy reader. Or at least it was until a few years ago they invented e-books and e-readers. Now all is solved, as I can just carry with me a 200g item that has thousands of books in it.

Ok, no more romanticism. But I do not even have to plan so carefully before leaving for a long trip. I just need to have a couple of books downloaded and then make sure to find a Wi-Fi every now and then to download more.

Ironically, I just binge used my Amazon Kindle Paperwhite during a trip to…the Amazon, or  Amazzonia as we call it! I spent three full days on a boat climbing up the Amazon River from Belem to Alter do Chao, where the only thing to do was sleeping or reading in your hammock, with occasional trips to the top deck to see the wonderful view over the river and the forest.

As I had limited space in my backpack, the Kindle Paperwhite was really important. And, in fact, the first item I prepared when packing!

13. Charging Cables

With all those tech devices for your road tripping adventures, you will need a few charging cables. Make sure you pack your phone charger as well!

You can buy multi connection cables, that have more than one, but a fast charging cable is a great option.

14. Maps.me or Google Maps Offline

With Maps.Me you have to pre-download a location where you’re going and then you can access all the information even when you’re offline.

Google Maps is a pretty good alternative. Read how to make a custom Google Maps Itinerary here.

What to bring on a road trip generic items

Here a list of pretty basic items for a road trip. They are simple things most will take on their road trip, but it’s good to have on a roadtrip checklist, just to be sure they get packed.

15. Foldable Water Bottle

Driving over a bridge on a road trip

Tiana Bantis – Passport of Memories

One thing I never go on a road trip without is a reusable water bottle. It’s the perfect way to stay hydrated and reduce your plastic consumption.

I discovered the Vapur water bottle 2 years ago, before my 3 month Europe trip and it was a lifesaver. I love how light and portable it is for being on the go.

It rolls up super small with the help of the carabiner when there’s no water inside. Once you need to refill it just flatten the body out and it will fill all the way up and it doesn’t leak! You can buy it in either 750ml or 1L depending on your activities.

I love that the bottle takes up very little space and can easily fit into a backpack, purse or hang with the handy carabiner. I have brought it on many trips and it doesn’t disappoint!

16. Hydroflask Waterbottle

Oksana & Max from – Drink Tea & Travel

We never leave for a trip abroad or a road trip without our handy Hydroflask bottles. We have been using them for years and there is a lot that we love about them.

First and foremost carrying one reduces the use of single-use plastic water bottles and disposable coffee cups. Making it both a handy reusable water bottle and a warm drink mug.

The products have a double vacuum insulated wall which allows cold liquids to stay cold for up to 12 hours or hot for up to 6 hours. We have left our bottles on the beach, in the hot sun and have come back to cold water.

Plus there is no flavor transfer, so you won’t notice a difference in taste if you have been using the bottle for tea and then switch back to water.

We like to support companies with sustainable practices and who support social responsibility so Hydro Flask really hits the mark.

All bottles are 100% recyclable and they only produce their products at meticulously chosen factories that practice social responsibility, fair labor, and strong ethics. While at the same time contributing to charities like Parks For All.

17. Dashboard Phone Mount

Driving along quiet roads on a trip

Emily – Wander Lush

Having driven in dozens of countries – from a jaunt across Spain to a  full lap around Oman  – there are a few road trip essentials that I can’t live without. My handiest piece of kit is a dashboard mount that I use to hold my mobile phone.

To save money, I always try to avoid hiring a GPS when I travel, and opt to use Google Maps instead. It’s therefore absolutely essential (and in many countries, it’s the law) to have my phone mounted at eye-level for hands-free navigation.

A good phone cradle has a sturdy mount – I prefer the ones that slot into an air-conditioning vent rather than the suction cups that never seem to stick to the windshield properly. An adjustable cradle that will fit any model of phone is also essential.

Running out of juice on the highway is worst-case scenario, and there’s nothing like Google Maps to drain your battery. That’s why I also recommend choosing a mount that has a gap at the bottom so you can plug your phone in and charge while driving (a car adapter is another useful piece of gear for any road trip).

18. Lifestraw Go Water Bottle

Lifestraw Go Waterbottle near a waterfall

Tammy – Travelling Tam

No matter where in the world you are, the Lifestraw Go water bottle is a must-have product to chuck in the car. With a patented built-in micro-filtration system, this bottle kills 99.9% of all bacteria as you drink. That means you can fill it up with any quality of water you find on your travels – be it from a stream, waterfall, lake or even a dodgy looking roadside puddle – it will be safe (and taste good too).

The Lifestraw Go is ideal for emergency situations or simply instead of bringing or buying countless bottles of water. Just think of all the space it could save you. I’ve used it countless times in countries with unsafe tap water too and it has saved me lots of money, especially at those tourist sites that charge you a premium for bottled water.

The handy carabiner attached at the top is super useful, allowing you to clip it onto your day bag or bike whilst you’re off exploring. The taste of fresh water from a waterfall or stream is hard to beat and to be honest, I now prefer it to anything else!

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and practical travel product that could potentially save your life, then the Lifestraw is one of the best products on the market that you should definitely invest in for your next road trip.

19. Day Pack

You’ll want to be able to explore places along the way and a day pack means you can be a lot light while taking the essentials with you.

My favorite bags are Osprey – they have a hue range of day trip backpacks.

20. Flashlight

If you plan to be traveling at night, taking a flashlight (also known as a torch) is a great idea.

It doesn’t need to be expensive, just a small one and know where it is incase you’re looking for it in the dark.

21. Umbrella

An umbrella is one of those items you probably should take on every road trip. You’ll be glad you have one when you need it.

There’s nothing worse changing a tire in the rain!

22. Reuseable Shopping Bag

If you’re spending a while on the road, like my 31-day road trip through northern Canada and Alaska , you’ll probably want to buy groceries.

A re-useable shopping bag is a great item to have and also reduces unnecessary waste.

23. Plastic Bags

In saying that, plastic bags are still very handy on a road trip. Having a couple can definitely help the clean up of rubbish in a car or the organization of the small items as well.

You don’t need many, but I always have a few tucked away for when I need them.

Road Trip Safety Essentials

Safety essentials on a desolate road trip

Every road trip will need some form of safety items, just incase something goes wrong.

Hopefully, you’ll never need to use any of the items below on your trip, but  if  something does happen, you’ll be so glad you have them.

24. Flat Tire Inflator

Sundeep and Bedabrata – Delhi-Fun-Dos

We still shudder by thinking of experience few years back when we had a flat tire in the middle of the jungle and we realized our spare tire was also damaged.

Thankfully it was just a bunch of us friends and we managed somehow. We have learned from that experience and take measures to avoid getting stuck in a situation like that again.

Being travel bloggers , we are always on the move and we don’t start on a road trip without all our gadgets ready to go. Lately, one of the most essential items we keep before starting on a road trip is a car tire inflator.

First of all, it hardly takes any space. It is portable and so compact we never feel it occupied much of our boot.

Secondly, it doesn’t require any battery charging or an external power source. We just plug it in the car cigarette lighter slot and switch on the engine.

Even in the state of the puncture, it helps us inflate the tire sufficiently and drive to the nearest tire repair station or a car workshop. It is a complete life savior.

Whether we use it or not, it is a huge comfort to know we are covered and will not be stranded in the middle of a jungle in a flat tire situation again.

25. First Aid Kit

Christina – Honest Travel Stories

Road trips are so much fun, right? There’s nothing but you and the road, maybe your partner in crime is there as well. Maybe you’re traveling with your whole family. Doesn’t really matter, road trips rule and everyone knows it.

But uh, do you ever think about “what if”? I know I’m always thinking about this. Mostly because I’m a bit anxious, but I digress.

Well, for all the “What if”s in the world, I have made a rule to not leave the house for a trip without a first aid kit.

I know I must sound like your grandma now, but it only takes a night spent near the toilet due to some awful food poisoning to start appreciating a first aid kit. And I assume you won’t be road tripping to spend your time only in your car, so you have a chance of getting hurt.

You can either buy a first aid kit or create your own, if you have specific needs. I usually do a combination of both because I feel I need more types of medicine with me, especially if I travel in areas where I am not accustomed with the food or water. But plain old patches and disinfectants can be all you need in most situations.

When I fell and hurt my knee on my trip to Japan I wish I had my first aid kit with me. Instead, I had it in my luggage at the hotel. Don’t be like me, take it with you everywhere you go! And also, change the contents from time to time.

Some of them have an expiration date, and God knows what may happen to you if you take old pills at one point. This would make you need a second aid kit to save you from the first aid one, and that just doesn’t sound like a fun road trip.

A decent first aid kit should be part of every road trip essentials packing list.

26. Jerry Can

Have you ever run out of gas (petrol)? I have and it’s not fun. Especially when you’re on a long road trip and in the middle of nowhere.

I always make sure to take spare fuel with me, and I’m glad I did on my Dempster Highway story. Hopefully, you won’t ever need this spare jerry can, but the peace of mind is worth the extra item.

Car organization for a road trip

Organizing your road trip car on rainy days

Keeping the care organized during a road trip is so important.

The items listed below will help you keep your road trip vehicle nice and organized.

You’ll be wishing you had a good road trip organization if you break down on a rainy night and not knowing where anything is. Save yourself the trouble with the items below.

27. Packing Cubes

Great for keeping your belongings organized, either in your bag or in the car itself. You can buy packing cubes in a huge variety of sizes, colors and shapes.

28. Travel Trash Can

Ever been on a road trip and all of a sudden the trash has piled up? It’s easy to do and not that pleasant. A travel trash can makes it easy to keep your road trip vehicle clean of garbage.

29. Air Mattress 

Unless you have a large and open car, an air mattress won’t be used to sleep inside the car itself. But if you’re planning on visiting friends or family, making sure you have a nice bed to sleep on and be well-rested will improve your road trip.

Road Trip Snack Ideas

Here are a couple of snack ideas – for both adults and kids.

Being hungry (or hangry) on a road trip is a terrible thing. The good news is that it’s usually easy to avoid.

30. Road trip snacks for adults

Snacks for traveling on the open road

Raquel – Meals and Mile Markers

Whenever you’re road tripping, one of the most important things to have handy is a good snack! As someone who loves to eat, I have a few tips on traveling with food. While it may be tempting to buy a pack of individual-sized snack servings, opt for the full-size bag instead.

Not only will this reduce your environmental impact, but it will also prevent the garbage from piling up in the car! The less garbage you have to worry about tossing out, the less stress you’ll have between pit stops.

Another important thing to keep in mind is the sustenance of snack food. While junk food is nice when you need a quick pick-me-up, the granola will fill you up for longer! When eating hearty snacks, you’re more likely to feel satisfied which will prevent “hangry” outbursts whenever you miss a turn or get stuck in traffic.

If you like to start new traditions, a great idea is to make your own snacks before leaving. Find a recipe for breakfast bars, trail mix, or oatmeal cookies that you can prepare ahead of time. If you find the perfect road trip recipe, you can even give it a fun name, such as “Car Trip Cookies” so that you always have a special snack to look forward to whenever you travel!

31. Road trip snack ideas for kids

Neha & Abhishek – Revolving Compass  

As a couple of travel bloggers who have been extensively traveling with our two kids, we do a lot of road trips with our kids.

We must accept, traveling with kids needs a lot of preparation if you want to really enjoy your trip to the maximum. Two major aspects of doing road trips with kids include keeping them entertained and their tummy satisfied.

Since a hungry kid means disaster for your trip and two hungry kids means an explosion in the car!

Also, kids tend to gravitate towards junk food available in the roadside shops and cafes if they are hungry and you are not prepared with the right snacks. Which can prove costly for their health when you do a lot of road trips like we do.

So, let us tell you about some of the healthy kid’s snacks for road trips that we always pack on our journeys:

  • Single portions of packed yogurt to replace the cravings for ice creams.
  • small bottles of Buttermilk or homemade milkshake in chiller box to replace the store-bought milkshakes.
  • Homemade Lemonade to keep the kids hydrated, particularly on road trips in summertime.
  • Baby carrots with hummus or dip.
  • Separately packed portions of fruits, whole bananas – the superfood for anytime kids are hungry.
  • Homemade chips with homemade salsa.
  • Granola bars and Multigrain crackers.

With these kinds of snacks, we are able to keep the kids hunger pranks at bay. And also save a lot of time taking lesser pit stops during the road trip.

Cold Weather Gear

This section is for those road tripping in freezing temperatures.

Many places around the world have a cold climate and you should be prepared for the cold weather overnight will bring, especially if you’re from a place that doesn’t get near freezing.

Make sure you dress for the occasion as well. That means, if you’re driving through the Arctic Circle, have warm clothes and extra layers in case you get stuck (or run off the road, as I did in 2017).

32. Ice Scraper

If you’ve spent time in a cold climate, you likely know the joys of a frosted windscreen. You don’t want to drive a car with frost impeding your view as it’s super dangerous. Make sure you have one of these to be ready if you need it.

33. Snow Shovel

A snow shovel is important if you get bogged down in snow and need to dig yourself out. You can also get a regular shovel to help with getting stuck in dirt as well. It doesn’t need to be very big, but it’ll be handy when you need it.

Road Trip Luxury Items

These items below are items you could  probably live without. I say probably as I can’t really function without coffee – that’s why there are two different methods of making coffee on a road trip.

But these items increase the quality of a road trip for some.

34. Travel Coffee Maker 

Making coffee on a road trip

Amber Hoffman – Food And Drink Destinations For the coffee addict who travels often, having that most important first cup can be a challenge. Where’s the nearest coffee shop? Does the hotel or Airbnb have a coffee maker?

Thankfully, there is a simple and easy way to ensure fresh, hot coffee no matter where you are traveling. There are a variety of options for making coffee on the go, but a simple pour-over is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to travel with a portable coffee maker .

Long before the era of Nespresso capsules, coffee was made using a paper filter, hot water, and coffee. Commonly referred to as the “pour over” method, there has been a resurgence of this method by baristas in coffee shops around the world.

Many coffee experts claim the pour-over method creates stronger and more vibrant coffee flavors and aromas. One thing is certain, this is the perfect coffee making method for traveling, so long as you can boil water.

Available in a variety of materials including ceramic and plastic, the main component of the pour-over is the cone-shaped paper filter holder. Making coffee is easy, simply by placing a paper filter in the holder, adding coffee and slowing pouring hot water over the ground coffee.

All three components are light enough for traveling and can easily be purchased at supermarkets while traveling. There are even all-in-one travel coffee makers that include a built-in filter and an insulated coffee cup.

Regardless of which version you decide to take traveling, the coffee lover will never miss out on having fresh coffee every morning when on the road.

35. Aero Press Coffee Maker

Aero Press Coffee Maker

Paul Healy – Anywhere We Roam

There’s nothing better than an awesome road trip. The freedom, the adventure, new landscapes; the wind through our receding hairlines. It’s an experience that can only be enhanced by one thing: a top-quality cup of coffee.

The best way to achieve that is with an AeroPress coffee maker – the perfect companion to groggy mornings, and an essential item to take on a road trip.

The AeroPress is a simple and ingenious coffee maker that uses trapped air to force coffee through a filter under high pressure. Comprising a chamber and plunger, ground coffee and water patiently wait in the chamber ready to be brewed to perfection by the plunger. The result is a road trip-ready coffee that’s smooth and rich.

Optimized for traveling, AeroPress is portable, lightweight and super easy to clean – just give it a quick rinse and you’re good to go. This makes it the ideal way to get a great cup of coffee while you’re on the road.

Since there is minimal waste except for a tiny paper filter and ground coffee, this makes it an eco-friendly way to make coffee. The only thing you need is the ability to boil water and your favorite ground beans.

To kick start a great day, the AeroPress is one of the best things to take on a road trip.

36. 12 Volt Cooler Car Fridge

Jan Robinson – Budget Travel Talk

Car Fridges are handy for picnics, road trips, and camping. My Engel Brand chest fridge was my Dad’s original and is over 30 years old. It just won’t die. There is a retro-looking chest fridge and it looks exactly like the original, but with the added advantage of modern advances. 

There are many brands available and some features to look out for are LED interior light, durable case, tie down points, digital temperature and thermostat, battery monitor, auto-switching between 240 and 12 volt with leads for both, fixed and optionally removable lid hinges, the weight of unit. A 40-liter capacity Engel fridge weighs 24 kg. 

Travel bags for the fridge can be purchased separately. Why would I need a travel bag, you might ask. The answer is travel bags prevent scratches and bumps and have a storage pocket for cords.

My favorite reason is that when disconnected from all power sources, like when free camping or boondocking overnight, the bag helps maintain fridge temperature. Most people leave the fridge in the bag as it is possible to access the fridge whilst it sits snugly in the bag.

While we have a fridge in our caravan (camping trailer) it is convenient to have a smaller fridge in the car whilst traveling between destinations or for trips without the van. When exploring country roads for the day, we love the convenience of lunch and drinks being easily accessible from the back seat. 

A car chest fridge can be used as either a fridge or freezer and is a general all-round useful item to have.

37. Thermal Bag

Taking a Thermal Bag on a Road Trip in Canada

Sheila –  Dicas de Paris

A thermal bag is something indispensable for my road trips. Road trips are my favorite kind of travel. Every year we take on the wheels at least two times.

Living in Europe gives me this kind of opportunity. Crossing France, from north to south. Going from The Netherlands to Croatia (and back!). Stopping by small vineyards enjoying some unknown wine. What else can one wish for on a road trip?

I try to make my road trip as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Going on a long route, sometimes I want to stop and enjoy the landscape. I like to do my resting pauses in more picturesque and charming places. I prefer to avoid gas stations, with a terrible smell and bad food.

I always have a thermal bag with snacks, fruits, and food according to my dietary needs. I like to avoid excess sugar consumption and food poisoning on the road. The thermal bag gives me the freedom to stop wherever I want. I can eat healthier, and not worry about where can I have my meal next. And if we cannot stop, the food is just there.

A thermal bag is my go-to for any road trip I make. Long or short, I will certainly have it under my seat.

Ruma Dey Baidya – Holiday Story

This happens almost every time that early morning you wake up in a hotel or in a road trip vehicle. You really need a cup of tea or coffee to start a day, but at that time of day, nobody is there to serve you. This is where a kettle can be a lifesaver for you. Especially When you have a small baby with you, it makes travel much more comfortable.

A small electric cup takes up very little space in your vehicle. This mug consumes a less amount of electricity so it’s easy to use wherever you go.  You can use a kettle for a range of different things. Of course, you can use it for boiling water and boiling milk for your kids, but also a small meal like noodles and a boiled egg. PRetty shady when you have limited space to cook in.

I travel with my baby when she was 8 months old. During travel, an electric kettle on a road trip helped prepare food and drink for myself and my young baby.  This kind of electric kettle comes in a range of sizes and capacities.

For even more minimalistic road trip packing, you can buy a handheld electric heating mug to keep your coffee hot.

39. Swiss Army Knife

Not really an essential for road trips, but can be incredibly handy. These multi tools can be used for so many things.

A Swiss Army Knife can be a little pricey, but you often get what you pay for. Even a cheaper version of these multi tools can help in a huge variety of situations.

Road Trip Comfort Items

These are items that help you relax during a road trip. If you’ve been driving long days, you’ll want to sit and relax at times.

Here are some items to help you chill out when road-tripping the globe.

40. Yoga Mat

Road trip camping by a fire

Meg Atteberry – Fox In The Forest

When it comes to camping out of your car, you’re able to bring a few handy extras. One thing that I never leave home without is a yoga mat. But here’s the catch, I’m no yogini. It turns out that a yoga mat has many uses for camping.

You can stretch, sunbath, or even have a padded spot for your pup to relax. While I’m camping in the desert , I love to use my yoga mat to stretch after a long day of hiking and climbing.

As an avid hiker, it’s important to keep my knees in tip-top shape, and having my yoga mat by my side lets me engage in physical therapy exercises without getting too dirty. It especially comes in handy at a trailhead, where you might want to do some cooldown stretching post-hike.

Another easy thing to do with your yoga mat is to create a little seating area. Simply lay down a folded yoga mat in front of a cooler. You can lean against the cooler and use the yoga mat as a small pad against the ground. The result is a camp-friendly alternative to your normal camping chair.

The great part about using a yoga mat is that it keeps the dirt off of your clothes. This is great for a road trip, where you won’t have access to laundry for weeks on end.

It’s easy to clean, simply wipe down your yoga mat with a little water if it gets covered in dirt. Overall, the versatility of a yoga mat makes it a must-have camping accessory you can’t live without!

41. Hammock

A hammock in the mountains

Ciaran and Maria – Maptrekking

Why Hammocks you ask? They can turn a great view into a day of relaxation that you will never forget, and I’ll explain how.

Picture this, the drive has been long so far. The hunger begins to rise and all you want to do is relax for an hour with something to eat. What better way than to gently rock back and forth with food in hand and an unforgettable view.

This is what happened to me on our last trip to Albania. During a hike, I wanted to rest and relax for an hour before continuing. Sitting on a rock with a sandwich didn’t tickle my fancy, especially since a large group of tourists was roaming around taking photos. I just wanted a moment alone.

I walked only meters into the tree line, away from everyone, and saw two perfect trees with a viewpoint in between. I knew I needed to set it up. It’s so easy to assemble. Wrap the harness around the tree on one end and secure with the safety hooks provided.

Then do the same on the other side. Push down on the hammock to make sure pressure won’t make the wraps slide and cautiously sit into it. Enjoy your relaxed lunch with the best seat around.

42. Travel Pillow

Comfortable Travel Pillow

Anna – Expert World Travel

I was very excited to see a whole bunch of companies experiment with neck pillows over the last few years.

Some on Kickstarter, some bigger companies, but all with fun and useful ideas to solve the “painful neck while sleeping sitting up” problem. If you have this problem, then you know how horrible it can be! I have always suffered from neck pain when traveling.

I fall asleep for a few hours on a fun road trip, or even on a plane, only to take up with a sharp pain or even a headache. Although I saw and tried a lot of solutions to this problem, none ever really solved it. Until I discovered the Ostrich Travel Pillow .

Specifically, the GO model. They have other wacky and useful designs, but this one really worked for me. This travel pillow solves two really big parts of the problem.

First, it keeps your head far more upright when you drift off to sleep. So much so, that you wake up without neck pain.

Second, it is also super soft and comfortable, so does not stop you from falling asleep in the first place.

Oh, and one other thing I loved about this pillow is that it rolls down to a reasonable size and comes with its own bag. So, it’s easy to bit in your day pack or maybe even a big purse. That way you can take it almost anywhere.

Just not to the office! I have used this pillow on so many different road and plane trips. Sometimes falling asleep for 5-6 hours at a time. That has never happened to me before. And I could never travel without it.

43. Camp Chairs

Sitting on camp chairs when on a road trip

Allan and Emma – MY RIG Adventures

One of the basic and essential road trip items is the humble Camp Chair.  They’re super easy to fold up and throw in the boot and serve you well, so don’t forget to pack one for each Road Trip member!

Want to pull up on the side of the road for a leg stretch and some lunch?  No need to wait until you find a Rest Area with picnic tables, you can pull up anywhere that’s safe and use your trusty Camp Chairs to relax with a sandwich.

Tired after a long day of driving and exploring?  Pull out the Camp Chairs and arrange them under a beautiful starry night and take a minute to unwind and be thankful for the great day you’ve just had. Met some other cool Road Trippers and want to warm up around the camp fire, sharing travel stories and adventures?

No worries, it’s BYO chairs, so you’re already sorted. And don’t forget easing yourself into a new day on the road with a quiet morning cuppa, looking out across whatever beautiful location you’ve found yourself in.

Sitting on a cold or wet ground just won’t cut it.  Luckily you’ve got a cozy Camp Chair. As you can see, those trusty Camp Chairs will serve multiple purposes, which is a prerequisite for many on their road trip packing list.

They’ll not only be an outdoor living chair, but a lounge and dining room chair as well. They come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, so there’s always a perfect chair to suit the individual.Make sure you bring them on your road trip!

44. Blackout Blinds

This is one I never thought about. Until I road tripped around Iceland for a few weeks. During my visit, the sky never got dark. Not once. It was an eerie, gloomy sky but only once the windows were blocked with clothes could I get a good nights rest.

Fast forward a few years, and my partner and I made custom blackout blinds for our Canada and Alaska road trip . If you have trouble sleeping through light hours, these may be a great benefit for you.

45. Blankets and pillows

Depending on where you plan on sleeping, bringing your own blankets and pillows might be a must. Whether you’re sleeping in the back of your car or at a friends place, it’s good to have the basics of sleeping comfort to help you sleep better.

46. Sunglasses

If you’ve tried driving while constantly squinted, you probably know how fun it is. Not at all. On top of that, it also makes it so you can’t see the road as well, so it can be pretty dangerous.

A good pair of sunglasses will make your drive more enjoyable and safer at the same time.

47. Sunscreen 

If you burn under the sun easy, sunscreen is likely something you shouldn’t overlook. Painfully red skin can really ruin a few days of your road trip and cause you to have less enjoyment out of that.

Plus, sunburn is typically bad for you and your skin. If you’re going swimming, you can get coral friendly sunscreen with oils that don’t damage the fragile ecosystem.

48. Bug Spray

I hate mosquitos. Does anyone like them? I doubt it. Bug spray is an item for almost every road trip.

If you haven’t tried doing something outside while being ravaged by a plague of mozzies (Australian slang), then you’re lucky and you really don’t want to experience it.

49. Quick Dry Towel

The reason a quick-dry towel is here is that I hate traveling with wet towels. A towel is a pretty common item, but a quick dry version is what I suggest taking.

I’ve stayed in many hostels during my travels and there have been so many times my towel didn’t completely dry, making my bag moist for ages. So I always made a point to travel with a microfiber, quick-drying towel.

Road Trip Entertainment Things To Pack

Leisure road trips are all about having fun, right? So you need to pack those items that help you enjoy your road trip how you want to.

People’s definitions of ‘leisure’ will vary greatly. But here are some common entertainment road trip items.

50. Binoculars

Looking through binoculars on a road trip

Erin – Sol Salute

If you’re going on a road trip through any nature or wildlife-filled destination, like any national park, for example, I highly recommend packing a pair of  high-quality travel binoculars . After investing a good pair of Celestron binoculars for a safari in South Africa we are hooked and never travel without them.

We were able to spot wildlife we otherwise would have missed on game drives in South Africa and when whale watching to spot orcas in the distance in Patagonia. We also put our binoculars to good use on hikes in national parks for bird watching, wildlife and to look ahead on the trail.

Gone are the days of the bulky binocular. Modern lenses and prisms allow for much more compact models without losing quality, but actually, offer a much crisper image with good vision in low light conditions. While binoculars will vary in size depending on the magnification (which effects lens size and weight), many fit in your pocket or the cup holder of your car. 

Two of the best brands of binoculars are Bushnell and Celestron. Both offer excellent glass at a range of prices. Nikon,  unsurprisingly , also makes high-quality  binoculars .

Whether you spent a lot on the best of the best or search for a more budget-friendly pair, you’ll appreciate the benefits of traveling with a pair of binoculars.

51. Nintendo Switch

Playing a Nintendo Switch on a Road Trip

Mark – Voga Tech

Complete your travel time with Nintendo Switch. Its construction and purpose make it ideal for use when traveling. Long trips and waiting at airports or hotels can be a bit boring, which is why the Nintendo Switches console is ideal fun. Also, if you travel with children, they will be pleased and you can shorten the travel and waiting times with one of the favorite games.

With the Nintendo Switch, make sure you bring along the accessories that come with it. For transporting the Nintendo Switch you need to provide the original suitcase if you do not have one you can use some of the well-protected top pockets on your backpack or suitcase.

When traveling by plane or by car they can be very noisy and the sound coming from Nintendo Switches can disturb your traveling companions. So be sure to bring a   gaming headset for your Nintendo Switch . The Nintendo Switch battery lasts 3-7 hours, so you might want to bring an external battery as well. Since some of the trips take a long time, extra battery life will be of great importance to you, as it will extend the life of your Nintendo Switch console.

In the United States, FAA rules govern what kind and size batteries you can bring on a commercial flight. In July 2017 the TSA updated its screening procedures. All electronics larger than a smartphone need to go into a bin, not stay in your bag. 

52. Killer Playlist

Making a Music Playlist For a Road Trip

Melissa – Queensland Camping

Once you’ve got all the essentials packed for your road trip, don’t forget to prepare yourself a killer playlist for the ride! Nothing makes a road trip better belting out the lyrics to your favorite songs as you cruise on down the highway.

I recommend that at least a few days to the week before getting out your favorite music streaming platform such as Spotify or download it from Amazon and start making your playlist. Having all your songs on a playlist will mean no fumbling around searching for songs while you’re on the road.

Don’t be selfish either this isn’t all about you. Consult everyone who is coming along on the road trip and find out what their favorite songs and artists are too. Everyone will have a way better time on the road trip if everyone is hearing their favorite songs as well as yours.

Do you need some inspiration for your road trip playlist? According to Spotify some of the classic road trip songs include  Go Your Own Way  by Fleetwood Mac,  American Pie  by Don McLean or  Jack & Diane  from John Mellencamp.

Now go and prepare your own killer playlist and don’t forget that the louder you sing along, the more memorable the road trip will be!

While not a physical item, many road trip checklists list this as a must have!

53. Road Trip Travel Games

Helen – Venture Up North

Sometimes, no matter how amazing the scenery, you just need a little break from driving to sit back and re-charge your batteries. I don’t know about you, but I find there’s no better way to do that than to challenge your fellow roadies to a quick travel game.

My personal favorites are Bananagrams and Uno. Both games are small enough to fit in the glove compartment of your car and pack away nicely into your backpack at the end of the journey. There’s also little chance of losing fiddly game pieces as Bananagrams comes with its own little zip-up banana-shaped bag (very on brand) and Uno…. well Uno is a card game so just make sure you keep all the cards together in a pack and you’ll be golden.

Both games are handy for keeping your brain switched on during your break from driving. Bananagrams, in particular, is a fast-paced game. Players are competing to be named ‘Top Banana’ by being the first one to get rid of their letter tiles (only real words allowed please!). Uno, on the other hand, is great fun if there’s a group of you playing.

Clearly these games aren’t safe to play whilst driving (please don’t try!) but there are plenty of games that are. To keep it lively, have a go at The Human Jukebox (hum that tune!), 21 Questions (you have 21 questions to guess e.g. the country or the famous person) or The Alphabet Category Game (choose a category e.g. fruit and ask everyone in the car to take it in turns to name a fruit beginning with ‘A.’

The first person to struggle to name something loses that round and the game continues with the letter ‘B’). These games are a great way to keep everyone in the car entertained on those long, winding and never-ending roads. Have fun!

Family Road Trip Essentials

Going on a family road trip? It can be a little chaotic at times, no doubt. Below are a few items to make your road tripping family enjoy their adventure more.

54. Backseat Butler

Taking a Backseat Butler on a roadtrip

Stephanie – Consistently Curious

If you open your car door and an entire Target snack aisle falls out, it is time to get organized. Chaos in the car sneaks up on you.  It starts with a few harmless wrappers on the floor, a book, or two left on the seat that slowly transforms into a toy tornado and the need for a hazmat suit. I know because I was there. 

Then we discovered the Backseat Butler by J.L.Childress.

Friends, this item needs to be on every baby registry and every car transporting a child . This organizer not only contains the toys, books, and snacks but is has cupholders! If it doesn’t fit in the organizer then it doesn’t come in the car. 

There are even side pockets that are great for crayons and wipes. In addition to an easily accessible front zipper pocket that is easy to reach that is perfect for snacks and go-to items. 

Having an organized car while traveling will make your trip go a whole lot smoother.  This has been one of our road trip staples that we never leave home without. 

55. Pop Up High Chair

Tori – Tori-Leigh

In addition to the typical diaper bag essentials and toys, a pop up high chair is a must for a family road trip. While it’s not on every mom’s radar, it will certainly make any trip with young children easier.

A pop up high chair is an easy, inexpensive, and lightweight way to guarantee young children have a place to sit safely and securely. Perfect for indoor and outdoor use, you’ll be surprised at how useful this simple item actually is.

If we’re camping or staying in a hotel, I can easily feed my baby without sitting him on the floor or my lap. It also comes in handy when stopping at a restaurant that doesn’t have highchairs or pulling over at a rest stop.

Aside from snacking, the chair is ideal for playtime and tinkering. I love that I can let my younger child play, knowing he’s secure in his chair, while I pack or tend to my other kid.

Most pop up highchairs assemble and break down in seconds, making them ideal for road trips with multiple stops. They’re easy to wipe clean on the go, as well.

Built for family travel, a pop up high chair is certainly a game changer for anyone embarking on a  road trip with babies or toddlers.

Hygiene Road Trip Items

Roadtrip items in Vietnam

Hygenic road trip items are important. You have to stay healthy when adventuring in general and road tripping is no different.

56. Female Urinary Device

Bhushavali – My Travelogue

As a woman, one of the biggest problems while traveling is… peeing! The natural necessity of sitting down to pee is really problematic when traveling to off-beat locations or road-trips where bathrooms aren’t common or clean!

Personally, I’ve used unclean public toilets and peed beneath trees & behind shrubs while trekking or trail walking. It’s uncomfortable but not a deal-breaker.

When I was pregnant and in the first trimester, I was traveling & needed to use a public toilet and it was just so dirty! I used it but I was so freaked out for the next couple of days that I might get an infection. Anyways, the next day I ordered a FUD (Female Urinary Device).

It basically is a funnel-shaped thing made of silicon, which will help a woman to pee like a man! So the whole issue of having the ‘sit-down’ to pee is avoidable.

It is cheap, it’s tiny and foldable (like a menstrual cup) and I have a zippered plastic pouch to store it. Today I just wonder, how did I ever travel before that without a FUD.

57. Hand Sanitizer 

If you’re adventuring away from civilization (where a lot of road trips go), you might find a lack of running water. But there will always be germs and hand sanitizer will be a handy item before eating or just general hygiene.

You can get little easy-to-access bottles on clips that make it so clean hands are never far away.

58. Toilet Roll

I mean, do I really need to go into this one? Don’t get stuck in the middle of nowhere without a spare roll of toilet paper. It’s a pretty good way to ruin your day.

59. Toothbrush and Tooth Paste

Basic hygiene items again. It’s another one that doesn’t really need an explanation, but it’s good to have on your checklist anyway.

60. Body Wipes

If you don’t have access to a shower, things can get pretty smelly pretty fast. A quick wipe down with body wiper/baby wipes will have you feeling refreshed. It’s a bit of strange tip, but always takes me back to my Wild Atlantic Way road trip in Ireland . That’s when I first discovered my love for baby wipe during a long road trip.

61. Deodorant

Whether we like to admit it or not, we all smell. It’s just a fact of being human. Being stuck in close quarters can be a lot easier managed if body odor isn’t wafting around the vehicle at all times.

62. Soap/Body Wash

You might not always have access to running water, a shower or even a bucket to dump over yourself, but when you do get a chance to wash yourself, a basic bar of soap will be a great addition to your road trip bag.

63. A Change of Clothes

While there isn’t a specific clothing list in this post, taking enough clothes to always have a clean set is pretty important. Putting on a clean shirt always feels better than a musty 3-day old, sweaty top.

Conclusion of the ultimate road trip essential packing list

Conclusion of the ultimate road trip essential packing list

That’s it! You’re pretty well set to take off on your road trip with all those road trip essentials listed above!

Wherever you’re hitting the open road, make sure you pack your essential road trip gear and you’ll have a great time. Exploring a new destination with a vehicle is one of my favorite ways to travel.

You should have a solid list of what to pack for a road trip, from entertainment to safety items, snacks and everything in between!

Did I miss something? Do you have any questions on what to pack for a road trip coming up? Drop me a comment below and I’ll get back to you – I answer every single comment.

I hope this list helped you plan your next road trip – please share this to social media and subscribe to Horizon Unknown’s newsletter to get more great travel tips .

Don’t forget to pick up your free roadtrip checklist PDF!

As always, thanks for reading!

Happy and safe travels,

Ben – Horizon Unknown

Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Checklist Everything You Need To Pack For a Road Trip

Thanks for putting together this collab Ben! The road trip ideas from fellow bloggers are simply amazing. And we are happy to put some of these to use when we do our next road trip 🙂

Hey Neha, thanks for the reply. I’m happy you could contribute and thanks for helping to make it such a great post!

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Means To Explore

The Definitive Road Trip Packing List: Essentials for You, the Family, the Pet, and the Car!

  • Post author: Rachel Means
  • Post last modified: 2023-10-25

Road trips will never go out of style. They are by far the most scenic way to see a country , often more affordable than flying, and there’s a great chance you’re going to make a lot of memories in the process.

Good or bad times, still memories! Driving through New England or the Blue Ridge Mountains during peak fall color is not something you’ll soon forget. Neither is the time the AC went out just hours into your family’s multi-day road trip in the middle of summer vacation. 🤷‍♀️

To help make the most of your road trip, we’ve compiled decades of road tripping experiences to create the most complete and detailed road trip packing list we could muster . Not only does this list cover standard road trip essentials, but it also provides detailed lists for various activities, the family, the pet, and the car!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

13 Road Trip Essentials – The Condensed List

Looking for the short version? Here’s our condensed list of road trip essentials.

Every line has an “etc.” at the end. For a more detailed list of each of these, use the convenient table of contents above to jump to that section.

  • Pre-departure check-up for the car: brakes, wipers, fluids all topped off, etc.
  • Luggage with your clothes and toiletries
  • Travel Documents: car registration, proof of insurance, etc.
  • Backup maps: offline maps at a minimum, but a road atlas is the safest
  • Emergency kit for the car: jumper cables, spare tire, lug wrench, etc.
  • Emergency kit for people: bandages, gauze, Neosporin, tweezers, etc.
  • Food: car snacks, small cooler for drinks, large cooler for food (if cooking)
  • Entertainment for everyone aboard: playlists, books, movies/shows, car games, toys, etc.
  • Electronics: phone, tablet, camera, GoPro, portable gaming system, etc.
  • Comfort items: easy on/off shoes, comfy car clothes, travel pillows & blankets, etc.
  • Pet items: food, bed, leash, bathroom accessories, etc.
  • Activity specific items: camping, skiing, hiking, beach, etc.
  • Season specific items: winter driving, spring allergies, summer cooling accessories, fall warming accessories

A female mechanic checks a car engine

Road Trip Essentials for the Car BEFORE You Leave

Road trips require one absolutely essential ingredient: a reliable vehicle.

Whether you’re taking your car or RV or renting one of those, you need to make sure your primary mode of transportation is in good working order before hitting the road.

There’s nothing more annoying than getting 5 hours down the road and the change oil light comes on. Or you planned a road trip through the mountains, but all you hear is the screeching of your brakes.

Or the worst-case scenario: the transmission gives out.

Why yes, thanks for asking, that did happen to my family on one trip. They were, luckily, very near a city and able to stay in a hotel for a couple days while a local mechanic fast-tracked the repairs. Talk about a huge damper on your trip, but at least it gave out before they got to the mountains.

You can’t always catch something like that beforehand, but a quick check-up before a trip can’t hurt.

To help you avoid the worst-case scenario and get you started on the right foot, here are several car-care items to check off your road trip packing list before you even leave home.

  • Tire rotation
  • Brake check
  • Confirm all headlights, tail lights, and signals are working.
  • New windshield wipers, if needed
  • Top off fluids: wiper fluid, coolant, etc.
  • Check the spare tire is in good condition.
  • Vacuum the floorboards.
  • Install Weathertech floorboard liners, if you’re very concerned about making a mess.

Close up of a car tire as it drives down the road

Road Trip Essentials for the Car During the Trip

The devil’s in the details. It’s that one little item that you don’t think about until you need it that you’ll really miss.

Like a sunshade when you burn your hands on your steering wheel after leaving it at a trailhead for a few hours in the desert. Or a tire pressure gauge, or a flashlight, and on and on.

We could tell a story for each of these of when we needed it and didn’t have it, but we’ll spare you.

Here’s a thorough list of random, everyday items you want to keep in the car at all times during a road trip, just in case you need them.

  • Travel trash can
  • Umbrella 
  • An extra pen
  • Toilet paper
  • Extra car key, kept in a day pack or purse or something that is ALWAYS with you and will never be locked in the car.
  • Jumper cables
  • Tire pressure gauge
  • Extra coolant
  • First aid kit (for people)
  • Emergency kit (for the car), usually includes jumper cables, lug wrench, car jack, flashlight, and reflective cones, but should include winter items too, like tire chains, snow shovel, and sand/kitty litter for traction
  • Ice scraper, it may be spring where you live but the mountains can see snow into April and May in some areas
  • Hands-free phone mount
  • Flashlight or small lantern

Two American passports lay on top of a world map

Travel Documents & Cash to Bring on a Road Trip

When you’re flying, it’s important to keep certain travel essentials and documents within easy reach: an ID, a boarding pass, etc., or else you can’t get on the plane.

When you’re driving, you can hop in the car and go at your leisure.

But, while you may not end up showing any of these to anyone, you still need to have a few important travel documents on hand, just in case.

Here’s every document you could possibly need while on a road trip.

  • Driver’s License
  • Passport, if crossing an international border or if you’re road tripping through a foreign country
  • Vehicle registration
  • Insurance cards (car, medical, etc.)
  • Travel insurance policy
  • Roadside assistance policy
  • Emergency medical information card/bracelet (for diabetes, epilepsy, severe allergies)
  • Vaccine card (Some places are requiring these for entry to restaurants, etc.)
  • Hotel confirmations
  • Reservation confirmations (tours, restaurants, a show, etc.)

It’s always important to have at least some cash on hand , but toll roads can further complicate the matter. It used to be important to have the right kind of cash on hand, i.e. exact change for toll booths.

But luckily, we’re finally starting to see updated tolling systems in the United States, many of which don’t require cash, or even stopping at a traditional toll booth.

Open tolling uses cameras to take pictures of your license plate and sends a bill to the address the car is registered under.

Unfortunately, there is no consistent implementation across the US. You might encounter the newer open tolling systems and the ancient coin-only, no attendant toll booths in the same road trip.

Our advice: be prepared for anything!

  • Cash, including coins for tolls (or laundromats)
  • Credit cards

Red luggage, a blue backpack, a hat, and a soccer ball are packed into the trunk of a car

Clothing Road Trip Packing List

The essentials that most people have a good grasp on, but it can never hurt to make a list and check it twice before leaving! The number, of course, depends on how long you plan to be gone.

Pro Tip : Anything over 2 weeks, we recommend hitting a laundromat rather than packing more clothes.

It is always a good idea to pack 1 or 2 extra of all the biggies: shirts, pants, underwear, and socks.

  • Packing cubes, keep items organized and helps you pack more
  • Tops (T-shirts, blouses, dresses)
  • Bottoms (pants, shorts, skirts)
  • Underwear/Bras
  • Light jacket
  • Rain jacket (could be same as above)
  • Lounge clothes, a set or two of clothes strictly for driving and/or hanging out at the hotel after a long day
  • Slip-on shoes/flip flops
  • Hiking boots, if applicable
  • Walking shoes
  • Minimal jewelry

A toiletry bag full of road trip essentials

Toiletries for the Road

Self-explanatory; these also vary by person. Less is better! A single, gallon sized Ziploc bag or a small toiletry bag is sufficient.

  • Hair ties or Hair Products
  • Shaving razor
  • Antibiotic ointment (Neosporin)
  • Contacts case/solution & Glasses
  • Medications: ibuprofen, upset stomach, motion sickness, allergies, prescriptions, etc.
  • Minimal makeup
  • Nail clippers
  • Quick dry towel
  • Sunscreen 

A cooler full of food, ready for a road trip

Road Trip Snacks

What’s a road trip without food? One sad, hangry drive.

In our experience, this is THE MOST IMPORTANT category when packing for a road trip . It will make or break your trip faster than anything else.

First, we have snacking essentials that are not food, but rather accessories that make eating in the car easier.

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Extra napkins, straws, forks, spoons
  • Reusable travel mug (good for coffee or pop from gas stations or fast food joints)
  • Reusable water bottle (for everyone in the car)
  • Small cooler for storing drinks and snacks that need refrigerated

Second, there are many different types of food you could take on a road trip. There’s classic junk food, the bulk shopper’s prep, and the health-conscious, to name a few.

Rather than get into all that here, we’ve listed a few from every type in generic form.

  • Granola bars
  • Muddy Buddies
  • Pre-popped popcorn 
  • Club crackers
  • Animal crackers
  • Pre-sliced & diced Fruit & Veggies (so no cores or peels to deal with)
  • Dried fruit
  • String cheese
  • Cheese cubes
  • Mini muffins
  • Mini candy bars
  • Gummy candies, sour or regular
  • Bottled pop and/or juices
Pro Tip : If you’re planning to cook full meals on your road trip, bring another cooler that stays in the back and only comes out for cooking. You’ll save on ice if you keep the big cooler closed in the back and have a smaller cooler up front that can be repeatedly opened throughout the drive.

Electronics to Bring on a Road Trip

A controversial topic in some circles. Honestly, we can all do with less screen time, but the 4 hours between your last hike and your hotel & dinner is not the time to torture yourself.

Also, there’s some pretty sweet cameras out there nowadays for capturing photos and videos of your adventures. Road trips are jam-packed with memory-making opportunities, so use a camera to help you remember later.

A word of caution: less is better. The fewer expensive electronics you bring with you, the fewer you have to worry about protecting while you’re out and about.

Pro Tip : Never leave electronics, money, or bags visible when leaving your car unattended. Petty theft is a crime of opportunity. Thieves will break in for something as little as the change in your cup holder or as big as a tablet in a seat-back pocket.

There’s a good chance you don’t need a laptop and a tablet on your trip. Opt for the tablet as it’s smaller and easier to conceal from view if you leave your fully-packed car at a trailhead for a few hours.

We’ve listed all the possible electronics for a road trip below, but feel free to pare down as much as you can for your trip.

  • Camera and/or GoPro, and chargers/extra batteries
  • Tripod & remote
  • Extra memory cards
  • Cell phone & charger
  • Tablet & charger. Do the kids have their own tablets? 
  • Watch charger
  • Wireless headphones & charger
  • Laptop and charger
  • Portable gaming system, like a Nintendo Switch
  • Portable bluetooth speaker
  • Solar charger
  • Portable GPS, especially useful if hiking

Three kids in the back seat of a car play rock, paper, scissors

Road Trip Entertainment

Being a passenger on a road trip is fun! You can get comfy and appreciate the scenery more, but it does leave you with several hours of down time to fill.

Catch up on reading, your favorite shows, or play a road trip game with your car mates.

Be sure to have something available that doesn’t require the internet. There’s a great chance at some point you’ll pass through an area with no cell signal, and you’ll want something to fill that void.

Pro Tip : Download offline as much content as you can before you leave. If you need to do one day at a time and download new content each night at your hotel, that’s fine. Just start downloading when you arrive. Hotel wifi is typically slow.

Here are our entertainment suggestions so you don’t die of boredom while driving.

  • TV Shows & Movies
  • Travel Games
  • Travel journal
  • Coloring books & coloring devices (markers, crayons, pencils)
  • Binoculars, also great when hiking
  • Mobile WiFi, helpful but not strictly necessary

Orange hoodoos of Bryce Canyon are covered in white after a winter snowfall

Winter Road Trip Essentials Packing List

Winter reveals a beautiful variation on landscapes, especially in areas of the country where snowfall blankets the ground.

I hate snow but can’t deny that it does wonders for a bleak winter landscape.

But driving amongst snow and ice is no picnic. Ice and snow make roads slick and sometimes impassable. Sudden storms can reduce visibility so much that it’s better to pull off the road and wait it out.

Here are a few things to bring with, just in case, if you’re venturing out during this time of year.

  • Tire chains
  • Ice scraper
  • Extra blankets in the car
  • Emergency food in the car (non-perishable and water bottles)
  • Portable charger
  • Road flares/reflective cones
  • Kitty litter or sand, for traction in case you slide off the road
  • A small shovel, for digging out the tires if you slide off the road

A family in a car sets off on a road trip

Family Road Trip Packing List

Family road trips always leave an impression.

Whether it’s a good impression or a bad impression is completely up in the air, but there are a few things you can bring to help make it easier.

  • Kid travel pillows
  • Kid road trip games pack
  • Books, for those that don’t get car sick
  • Mobile gaming, like a Nintendo Switch
  • A tablet preloaded with offline shows & movies
  • Playlists and/or podcasts saved to your device
  • Headphones for everyone
  • Extra hand wipes
  • Extra plastic bags, for everything from trash to leaking drinks to wet and/or muddy clothes/shoes
  • Lots of snacks (see Road Trip Snacks section for ideas)
  • Floaties & deflatable pool toys and a foot pump for inflating

A small girl sits in her car seat, ready for a road trip

Road Trip Essentials for Little Kids (Infants & Toddlers)

Sometimes, you have to road trip with young kids. I don’t recommend it, speaking from experience, but some kids are great travelers and other times it’s just unavoidable.

In those cases, here’s a helpful road trip packing list for all things baby/toddler. Brace yourselves.

  • Many, many diapers. You can buy along the way so they’re not taking up too much room in the car, but it’s always good to have an emergency stash in the car.
  • Diaper disposal bag (leak-proof and sealable so no odor escapes). Dispose as you go, but sometimes there are roadside diaper emergencies and you have to take your trash with you. Be prepared for this.
  • Fully stocked diaper bag: diapers, wipes, butt cream, powder, etc.
  • Changing pad
  • Extra clothes, at least 1.5x as many as you think you need
  • Favorite doll/toy/lovey/blanket. You know what I’m talking about. Every little one has something they will not live without.
  • White noise machine
  • Pack n play
  • All.The.Snacks.
  • Sunshade for their window, usually attached with suction cups or similar

A copper-haired dog enjoys the breeze out of a car window

Pet Packing List for a Road Trip

Bringing your furry friend along for the trip? Some pets love road trips just as much as their owners; possibly more so.

We’ve seen many a dog living their best life with their heads out the window as their car cruises down the back roads. It always makes us smile.

If you do bring along your favorite adventuring dog or cat or what-have-you (yes, I’ve met a cat that loved to hike), make sure you can take them with you everywhere you plan to go.

Many parks don’t allow pets on trails, or if they do they have to remain leashed.

Here’s a quick pet road trip packing list:

  • Bathroom materials (poo bags; possibly litter & box for cats)
  • Hiking shoes. Some trails are too hot or too rough and will tear up the pads on your pet’s feet. Get them used to wearing shoes before you leave home.
  • Flotation device, if applicable
  • Vet records. Some places require proof that pets are up to date on shots to allow them to stay the night or participate at doggy daycare, etc.

Tents and camp chairs are set up around a fire ring at a campsite in a forest

Camping Packing List

Camping deserves its own post, really. There’s a lot to remember to bring, from the tent or linens for cabins to food and other activities.

Here we’ve provided a good, condensed camping packing list. We have a separate section for Road Trip Snacks above.

If using tents:

  • Small hand brush and dustpan, for removing excess dirt or unwanted critters from tents/cabins
  • Sleeping bag(s)
  • Sleeping pad or air mattress per sleeping bag
  • Portable stove
  • Camp cooking set: pot, pan, utensils
  • 5 gallon water jug/cooler, for drinking and cooking
  • Lanterns, min. 1 per tent
  • Flashlights/LED headlamp, 1 per person
  • Bucket for water for putting out the fire, or bring sand
  • Camp chairs
  • Bear spray, if applicable

If staying in cabins:

  • Sheets for every bed (flat and fitted)
  • Warm blanket for every bed
  • Pillows with pillowcases
  • Lots of hand wipes
  • Backup bug spray (wasp or roach killer), just in case

Blue beach chairs and a teal beach umbrella sit on the beach in front of the ocean

Beach Packing List

A road trip to the beach is the goal of many a Midwesterner. It’d be a shame to drive all that way and forget something.

  • Beach Towels
  • Reef-safe Sunscreen & aloe
  • Beach chairs
  • Beach umbrella or canopy/tent
  • Wagon for toting supplies (or small kids) back and forth from the car
  • Beach bag, to hold towels, books, valuables, etc.
  • Waterproof bag, for changing out of wet swimsuits
  • Beach reads, preferably physical books so the sun doesn’t interfere with a tablet screen
  • Sand castle building: bucket and shovel
  • Outdoor speaker
  • Go Pro or waterproof camera
  • Frisbee/Football/Soccer ball
  • Snorkel gear or goggles
  • Floaties, if applicable
  • Water shoes
  • Beach coverup (shirt/shorts per person)

Three hikers walk along a golden ridge in the mountains

Hiking Packing List

Some of the most beautiful road trips in the country pair perfectly with beautiful hikes . Take a road trip down Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, stopping for hikes as you go.

Here are our must-haves for hiking:

  • The 10 Essentials
  • Day pack with comfortable straps
  • Water bottle & filter
  • Sealed, salty snacks
  • Hiking boots
  • Hiking poles
  • Layers (elevation change = temp change)
  • First aid kit
  • Compass & map of the area
  • Whistle 

Happy travels!

Headshot of Rachel Means at Clingmans Dome in Smoky Mountains

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 36 US states and 14 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

road trip list of essentials

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What to Pack on a Road Trip: The 13 Essentials You'll Need

Don’t hit the road without these must-have items.

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Road trips, whether they’re cross country or just a quick visit upstate, require a very specific packing list. Even with the luxury of being able to bring more than just a duffle bag or carry-on suitcase, it’s all about packing pieces that are easy to style and can be layered.

Spending several hours in the car and bouncing around from location to location means you’ll want to be ready for any situation or climate. So, when choosing pieces, you'll want to prioritize versatility and comfort. Every traveler should pack basics that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits, including solid tees and an interchangeable piece of outerwear. While you can add a bold item or two, mainly sticking to simple garments will help you get maximum wear out of your outfits. If you’re searching for a way to elevate more relaxed ‘fits, use accessories like your favorite pair of sunnies or platform sandals to personalize your looks.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up 13 items you should bring along for your next road trip.

A Solid Tee

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

The first item you should pack in your travel bag? A T-shirt in a solid color or rather a few of them. T-shirts in traditional colors like black, white, or navy will act as the base of your looks and pair well with just about any bottoms. You can go for a sporty look by combining your tee with cargo pants or dress it up by trading pants for a midi skirt.

Relaxed Trousers

Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

Being stuck in a car for several hours (or days) calls for comfortable pants. Jeans may be your go-to on the daily, but they can be restricting when on a long trip. Instead, reach for a pair of pants with a relaxed silhouette, such as wide-leg trousers or joggers, for maximum comfort and movement.

With neutral bases, you’ll want to pack a few pieces of outerwear to round out your looks. A cardigan brings those cozy vibes but can add a pop of color to your outfit when worn in a vibrant hue or bold pattern. You can pair it with a sundress, leggings, or even a maxi skirt – the options are truly endless. 

A Button-Down Shirt

Button-down shirts may be a French fashion staple, but they should also be at the top of your packing list. They look amazing as a standalone top but are just as chic when worn over a basic tee or tucked into wide-leg trousers. This versatile piece can also be used as a swimsuit coverup if you plan to stop at any beachside locations. 

A road trip is the perfect opportunity to bring out your biggest tote bag, especially if you’re a traveler who dreads forgetting essentials. In a tote, you can pack everything from your favorite snacks to sunscreen and an extra sweater, so all your bases are covered. If you don’t want to lug around a tote while exploring destinations, pack a small wristlet to bring with you on those occasions. 

A Matching Set

Take the effort out of outfit planning by packing a matching set. Whether it’s a cozy lounge set or a patterned two-piece, this coordinated look will appear effortless without sacrificing comfort. If you’re skipping around to a few different cities, you can get two uses out of your set by mixing and matching the pieces with other garments. 

A Denim Jacket

A denim jacket is a timeless layering piece that will keep you warm and can be tossed over nearly every outfit in your travel wardrobe. Whether you choose black denim, traditional blue, or a jacket with beaded embellishments, this piece will make for an effortlessly cool ‘fit. For an even more relaxed look, opt for an oversized version. 

A Maxi Skirt

Maxi skirts are another great option for bottoms that can easily be dressed up or down. Pair a satin maxi skirt with a white tee and ankle-strap sandals for a well-balanced look, or opt for a knitted version to add some texture to your outfit. Going for a statement look? Reach for a cargo maxi skirt that is as edgy as it is comfortable. 

When packing for road trips, it’s best to limit your shoes to one or two versatile pairs. Sneakers are the most popular option because they’re the best for exploring and can be paired with everything from a T-shirt and shorts to a romper. Just make sure to pack a pair you’ve worn a few times to avoid any foot pains that come with breaking in new footwear. 

Slip-On Sandals

Not into sneakers? Slip-on sandals are another footwear option that is versatile and comfortable to walk in. Birkenstocks are back in style if you’re searching for a trendy option, but any sandal that can be slipped on and off with ease will do for a road trip. If you need some extra height, consider platform sandals with a back strap to help with stability. 

Sometimes, you just can’t be bothered to match a top with bottoms, and that’s why we recommend throwing a romper into your bag. It’s a no-fuss option that comes in a variety of colors, so you can make the look as bold or as casual as you’d like. To complete the travel-friendly look, accessorize with a belt and chunky footwear to contrast the casual garment.

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

No road trip is complete without your favorite pair of sunnies! They’ll protect you from harsh sun rays, and they add a certain cool factor to even the simplest of outfits. While it’s always a good idea to pack neutral sunglasses that will go with every outfit (you can’t go wrong with black aviators), consider throwing in an additional pair that makes more of a statement with a pop of color or a unique shape.

A Baseball Cap

Whether you’re riding with the top down or simply need a bad hair day fix, a baseball cap is a must-have in your travel bag. It’s small enough to carry with you everywhere and gives off a sporty chic vibe when paired with more elevated pieces like a midi skirt or halter top. Stick to neutral hues for a hat you can easily pop on with all your outfits. 

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IMAGES

  1. 15 Road Trip Essentials + Printable

    road trip list of essentials

  2. A Simple Road Trip Checklist: Packing Essentials

    road trip list of essentials

  3. A list of your travel essentials

    road trip list of essentials

  4. Road Trip Essentials

    road trip list of essentials

  5. Ultimate Road Trip Packing List w/Printable Checklist

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  6. 35 Travel Essentials to take on your Next Trip

    road trip list of essentials

COMMENTS

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    Jump Leads. Lug Wrench. Spare Tire & Locking Wheel Nut Key. Car Jack: Along with the other car safety items in this packing list, it will mean you are well prepared. They typically contain Jumper Cables, Light Sticks, Reflective Vests, Rain Ponchos, Warning triangles, Whistles, Tire Pressure Gauges, etc.

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    Comfort essentials for road trips. This is a list of little items we consider to be road trip essentials simply because they make the trip a little more comfortable and enjoyable. Snacks and drinks cooler: Keep a small cooler or insulated lunch tote within reach filled with any perishable road trip snacks and cold drinks.

  4. 55 Essential Road Trip Packing List Items [2024] (inc FREE PDF Checklist!)

    Bug Spray. Because bugs in the car are not fun and essential on a summer road trip. Large Water Bottles. If you get stranded, staying hydrated is crucial. Keep a couple of large bottles in the car in case of emergencies. And on warm days on a summer road trip. Toilet Roll.

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

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    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.

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  8. 53+ Road Trip Essentials (2023): The Ultimate Packing List

    Take a passport, CHL, or other form of state or federal issued I.D. and store it somewhere apart from your license. 9. Large First Aid Kit. A family-sized first aid kit stocked with basic meds such as painkillers, gauze, scissors, bandages, and antiseptic is a priority road trip essential.

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    Road Trip Essentials - Packing List. Bison on the road at Theodore Roosevelt National Park | Road Trip Essentials. 1. Car Chargers. Link: USB Car Adapter. A dead phone equals a dead road trip these days which is why packing a car charger (or 6) is a top road trip essential to pack.

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    54 Road Trip Essentials [Handy Packing List + Must-Haves] by Noel Krasomil. Road Trip Essentials: Interactive Packing List + 55 Must-Haves. I've been learning the ins and outs of road trip essentials and perfecting my packing list since I was old enough to get behind the wheel. The open road had me hooked at a very young age and will continue ...

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    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.

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    Melatonin Gummies. It can be difficult to sleep in a car on a long road trip, especially if you've been in the vehicle for several hours or even days. That's where Natrol's melatonin gummies step in. Packed with 5mg of melatonin per serving, they're your ticket to a restful night's sleep no matter where the road takes you.

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    Road Trip Essentials For Yourself. Sunscreen: Long days on the road mean the side of you closest to window is going to feel the heat from the sun's rays. Protect yourself with a 30+ SPF sunscreen that's also vegan and eco-friendly!. Hand Sanitizer: Sometimes those roadside bathrooms are the epitome of "ew". Grab a small bottle of organic hand sanitizer that can fit in your handbag for ...

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    Whether renting a car or driving your own, insurance, a safety plan, and emergency essentials should be on top of your road trip packing list. Use these items to maintain the car and keep it clean and have peace of mind. Car insurance. Driver's license. Rental Agreement (if renting)

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    5. Chapstick. Sometimes air conditioners can dry out the inside of the car. Add chapstick to your road trip essentials to help! We like buying from the brand Burt's Bees, because they have lots of flavor options and are made with natural ingredients! 6. Car games/cards for delays or waits.

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    Other recommended items for your road trip packing list. Cell phone mount. Car seat back organizer - This one has an insulated main compartment and this is a good one for kids. Umbrella. Pillows. Towels - Can be used as a seat cover, picnic blanket, to cleanup spills or dry off in an unexpected downpour. Paper towels.

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    Road Trip Essentials List - Entertainment to Keep Everyone Smiling . From iSpy to the License Plate game to high-tech gear and gadgets, take your road trip entertainment as seriously as things to pack for a road trip! It can be an all-out sanity saver, especially for families with kids.

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    If you're planning to hit the road this year, whether for an epic multi-month adventure road trip or you plan to spend a shorter (but equally adventure-filled) period of time traveling, having a complete checklist of road trip essentials ready to tick off will save tons of time when you're thinking about what to pack for the journey.

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    Road Trip Essentials for the Car BEFORE You Leave. Road trips require one absolutely essential ingredient: a reliable vehicle. Whether you're taking your car or RV or renting one of those, you need to make sure your primary mode of transportation is in good working order before hitting the road.. There's nothing more annoying than getting 5 hours down the road and the change oil light ...

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    A road trip packing list may seem like the easiest to tackle. ... "Items that don't require direct access, such as extra clothing, go in the trunk. Essentials, such as a phone charger ...

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