8 Things to Pack for a Road Trip
Going on a road trip is a unique way to spend your holiday. You will be able to enjoy not just the destination, but the journey as well.
At the same time, you avoid dealing with the planning issues or extra fees from booking transport options. All you need is your loved ones, your car, and a readiness for adventure.
Well, not exactly.
Like any other trip, you must pack properly to ensure that you can have maximum fun with minimum fuss.
With road trips, your packing list will look a bit different. Still, you get the freedom to decide precisely what you want from this experience and how you will get it.
Read on for some essentials to bring along on your next road trip.
Documentation and Emergency Supplies
To make sure everything goes smoothly while on the road, make sure you have all the right paperwork in easy reach.
This includes your driving license, car registration and insurance information. Of course, you also need to make sure that you are prepared in case of an emergency.
This means that you should have spare petrol stored safely in your car, a spare tyre and the gear to change it, along with an extra car key on another keyring or with someone you trust.
Be sure you know who you can contact should you experience car trouble while on the trip. You should also bring a fully equipped first aid kit. No one wants to get hurt on vacation, but you never know when bad luck will intervene.
A Map
Technology nowadays is excellent. With a few taps on your phone, you can be on your way to a foreign locale with its mysteries and adventures and know that you will probably not get lost on the way.
However, there are times when technology can become limited, especially when you find yourself in a location that does not have a good signal.
Thus, it is ideal to have an actual paper map and the ability to read it. You never know when you might get lost without any phone connection. Better safe than sorry, after all.
Travel Trash Can
Even while you are having fun on the road, it is essential to remember about keeping your space clean.
That said, you should prepare a travel trash can to ensure that everything is tidy and that you will not be littering.
A simple plastic bag will work, but a dedicated trash container can help you make sure no accidental trash spills out.
Sanitary Supplies
Beyond keeping the car clean, you also want to be able to keep yourself clean. This will also help you feel and look fresh during your trip.
Having basic toiletries like tissue or toilet paper will be helpful if you encounter an understocked public restroom.
You should also pack wet wipes to help clean up after in-car meals. Some sanitiser can also go a long way.
Portable Chargers
While on your trip, you also want to make sure that all your electronics are charged and stay charged.
In the car, you will probably have limited options to keep your phone battery full. Be sure to bring an adaptor that lets you charge from the car’s battery or have your own power bank.
Entertainment
Car rides are fun, but they can also get repetitive if your journey is a long one. Be sure to bring enough entertainment for everyone.
If you have a portable DVD player or one that is installed right into your car, you will be set. But also try to vary your options.
Bring a hand-held game console or magnetic board games. Having some sweet tunes while you are driving will also make the experience better.
Creature Comforts
With all the gear that you will be bringing on your road trip, it can get a bit cramped in the car. Therefore, you want to make your space as comfortable as you can.
You can do this by bringing lots of cushions and pillows or your favourite soft toys. Blankets will also help to keep you warm and snug.
To prevent the sun from damaging your skin or eyesight, be sure to bring a good pair of sunglasses and sunscreen.
Of course, it is also essential to wear loose and soft clothing while travelling. Additionally, you can bring a bedroll or sleeping bag in case you need to camp out in the car too.
Snacks and Drinks
While you can make frequent pit stops to get you and your travel partners fed and watered, you should also bring your own food.
Be sure to pack nutritious snacks and food for the kids and healthy treats and meals from Black Hawk for your dog if you choose to bring him along.
Keep drinks cool and food fresh in a portable cooler. The last thing you want on this trip is to get dehydrated.