What to Bring on a Long Road Trip: A Guide to Road Trip Essentials
This post contains affiliate links and we appreciate you using our links as we can earn a small commission when you make purchases with no additional cost to you. If you have any questions please feel free to drop us a line at campfiretravelers@gmail.com
Are you planning a long road trip? Packing for a road trip can be overwhelming, especially if you're a beginner. But don't worry, we've got you covered! In this blog post, we will share some tips and tricks on what to bring on a long road trip. From road trip essentials to road trip hacks, we've got everything you need to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable.
Plan Your Route
Before you start packing, it's important to plan your route. This will help you determine the length of your trip and the stops you need to make. Use a GPS app or a road atlas to map out your route and identify rest stops, gas stations, and other amenities along the way.
Planning your route ahead of time can help you save time and make the most of your trip. Here are some tips for planning your road trip route:
Research Your Destination - Whether you're visiting a new city or exploring a natural park, do your research ahead of time. Look for must-see attractions, local events, and hidden gems that you wouldn't want to miss.
Use Road Trip Planning Tools - There are plenty of online resources and apps that can help you plan your route. Use websites like Roadtrippers or Google Maps to find the best routes, discover points of interest, and calculate driving times.
Take Scenic Routes - While major highways are often the fastest way to get from point A to point B, they can also be boring. Consider taking scenic routes to enjoy the natural beauty of the area you're traveling through. Plus, you might stumble upon some unique roadside attractions along the way.
Plan for Detours - Be open to taking detours if you come across something interesting or unexpected. Some of the best experiences on a road trip are the ones you didn't plan for.
Plan Your Meals - Plan your meals ahead of time to save time and money. Look for local restaurants or grocery stores along your route to try new foods and save on dining costs.
Keep a Travel Journal - Consider keeping a travel journal to document your journey. You can write about your experiences, draw pictures, or glue in souvenirs like ticket stubs or postcards.
Play Road Trip Games - Road trips can be long and boring, especially for kids. Keep everyone entertained by playing classic road trip games like the license plate game, I Spy, or 20 Questions.
By following these tips and planning your route ahead of time, you'll be able to make the most of your road trip and create unforgettable memories.
To add a little more fun to your trip:
Create a Themed Route - Plan a route around a specific theme, such as national parks, breweries, or historical landmarks.
Go Off the Beaten Path - Explore less-traveled routes to discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Ask Locals for Recommendations - Ask locals for recommendations on the best places to eat, drink, and explore. You might discover some hidden treasures that you wouldn't have found otherwise.
Use Social Media - Use social media platforms like Instagram or Pinterest to find inspiration for your road trip route. You can also follow travel bloggers or influencers for recommendations on must-see destinations.
By incorporating these creative tips into your road trip planning, you can add an extra level of fun and excitement to your journey.
Road Trip Essentials
When packing for a road trip, it's important to remember the items that will make your journey more comfortable and convenient. Here are some road trip essentials that you should consider bringing along:
Water - Staying hydrated is important on a road trip. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it as needed. We LOVE these affordable water bottles!
First Aid Kit - Accidents can happen, so it's a good idea to have a basic first aid kit with you. Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
Map and GPS - Even if you have a GPS system, it's a good idea to bring a map as a backup in case of technical difficulties.
Sunglasses and Sunscreen - Protect your skin and eyes from the sun's harmful rays by packing sunglasses and sunscreen.
Entertainment - Bring along books, magazines, or electronic devices like tablets or laptops to keep yourself entertained during long stretches of driving.
Comfortable Clothing - Dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy movement. Avoid tight jeans or restrictive clothing that can make sitting for long periods uncomfortable.
Snacks and Drinks - Bring a variety of snacks and drinks to keep you fueled throughout your journey. Pack some healthy snacks like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit, and don't forget to bring plenty of water.
First Aid Kit - Accidents can happen on the road, so it's important to have a first aid kit on hand. Pack band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you need.
Blanket and Pillow - A comfortable blanket and pillow can make a long drive much more enjoyable. Choose a lightweight blanket that won't take up too much space and a pillow that can be easily compressed.
Phone Charger - Your phone is your lifeline on a road trip, so make sure you have a reliable phone charger. Consider investing in a portable charger in case you don't have access to an outlet.
Cash and Credit Cards - Make sure you have some cash and credit cards on hand in case of tolls or emergencies. It's also a good idea to bring a spare set of keys in case you lock yourself out of your car.
By packing these road trip essentials, you'll be ready for whatever the road throws your way. And don't forget to pack them in a way that makes them easy to access, such as a small bag or backpack that you can keep in the front seat or within reach in the back.
Road Trip Packing
Packing for a road trip can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:
Pack Light - Remember, you'll probably be in and out of several hotel rooms, so you don't want to overpack. Pack light, versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.
Use Packing Cubes - Packing cubes can help you stay organized and maximize your space. Use them to separate your clothes, toiletries, and other items.
Roll Your Clothes - Rolling your clothes can save space and prevent wrinkles. This method also makes it easier to see what you've packed.
Pack for the Weather - Check the weather forecast for your route and pack accordingly. Bring a raincoat, hat, and gloves if necessary.
Keep all the kids' stuff together - A central location for the kids to easily access will help keep everyone organized and happy. This car organizer is a perfect option.
Road Trip Entertainment
Long drives can be boring, but with the right entertainment, you can make the time fly by. Here are some ideas for road trip entertainment:
Audiobooks and Podcasts - Audiobooks and podcasts are a great way to pass the time and learn something new. Download some before you hit the road.
Music - Create a road trip playlist with your favorite songs and sing along to your heart's content.
Games - Play games like I Spy or the license plate game to keep yourself entertained.
Movies and TV Shows - If you have a DVD player or a tablet, bring some movies or TV shows to watch.
Autio - We love bringing along Autio (formerly HearHere). Autio is an app that provides thousands of location-based audio stories and experiences. Unlike any of the other apps on this list, Autio is nationwide, meaning you could be anywhere in the US and a story is probably nearby. With Autio, you can learn about the history of an area, the people who lived there, and the events that shaped the local culture. The app features a wide and diverse range of stories, from local legends and myths to historical events and notable figures. And even a few narrated by co-founder Kevin Costner. With Autio, you can explore an area on your own terms, taking in the stories and experiences that interest you the most. The app is available for download on iOS devices only (for now) and is a great tool for those who want to explore an area in a more immersive way.
Road Trip Hacks
Here are some road trip hacks that will make your journey more comfortable:
Use a Trash Can - Keep your car clean by using a small trash can. Line it with a plastic bag to make emptying it easier.
Bring a Car Phone Mount - A car phone mount can be a lifesaver when using GPS or taking phone calls.
Use a Cooler - A cooler is a great way to keep snacks and drinks cold. Freeze some water bottles and use them as ice packs.
Pack a Shower Caddy - A shower caddy is a great way to keep your toiletries organized and easily accessible. It's also easy to pack and can be hung on a hook or doorknob for convenience.
Use a Hanging Shoe Organizer - A hanging shoe organizer can be hung on the back of the front seat to keep items like snacks, water bottles, and electronics within reach. Or this backseat organizer that we have and love.
Invest in a Car Cooler - A car cooler is a great investment for road trips. It keeps drinks and snacks cold, and can also be used to store perishable items like groceries.
Bring a Portable Stove - If you're planning on cooking your own meals, a portable stove is a convenient way to do so. It's also great for making hot beverages like tea or coffee.
Use a Roadside Assistance Service - Consider signing up for a roadside assistance service like AAA. It can save you time and money if your car breaks down or you get a flat tire.
Pack a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot - A portable Wi-Fi hotspot can be a lifesaver if you need to work on the go or if you're traveling through areas with spotty cell service.
Keep Wet Wipes Handy - Wet wipes are great for cleaning up spills and messes, and they're also refreshing for a quick clean-up on a hot day. We love Dude Wipes and always take them on road trips.
Bring a Travel Pillow - A travel pillow can help you get some rest during long stretches of driving. It's also great for car naps during rest stops.
Store Important Documents in One Place - Keep important documents like your driver's license, registration, and insurance card in a designated spot like a glove compartment or center console. This way, you'll be able to access them quickly if needed.
By incorporating these road trip hacks into your journey, you can make your trip more comfortable and stress-free.
Safety Tips
Safety should be a top priority on a road trip. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Buckle Up - Make sure everyone in the car is wearing a seatbelt at all times.
Take Breaks - Take breaks every few hours to stretch your legs and give your eyes a rest.
Don't Drive Distracted - Avoid using your phone or other devices while driving. If you need to take a call or check a message, pull over to a safe location.
Check Your Car - Before you hit the road, check your car's oil, tire pressure, and brakes. Make sure you have a spare tire and a jack in case of a flat.
Packing for a long road trip can be daunting, but with these tips and tricks, you'll be well-prepared for your journey. Remember to pack road trip essentials like snacks, a first aid kit, and a phone charger, and use road trip hacks like a shower caddy and a car phone mount to make your journey more comfortable. Stay safe on the road by taking breaks, avoiding distractions, and checking your car before you go.