road trip vehicle ideas

Best Road Trip Cars in 2023

Get ready to hit the road for vacations and holidays in a car that's fuel efficient, reliable and comfortable. We found the best road trip cars for any adventure.

Kia Motors America |

Looking for Adventure? Head Out on the Highway!

People have a lot of pent-up travel lust after years of pandemic restrictions and uncertainty. Air travel in particular has seen a huge rise this summer, with the busiest day in the industry's history occurring in June. Rather than fight those busy flights, hit the road in a new vehicle that can fit all your luggage and maybe even help you keep your cool.

No single car is the perfect road trip vehicle for everyone, but great road trip cars have some features in common. We looked for vehicles that have good gas mileage for fewer stops at gas stations, enough USB ports to keep everyone's devices charged up and comfortable seats in all rows. Driver assistance features are important too, as they can help reduce fatigue during long days on the road.

When new information becomes available, we update our reviews, so the information in these slides might not match the reviews exactly.

Let's take a look at the best road trip cars so we can – finally – get out of town.

Hyundai Motor America |

2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

$31,350 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is among the best in its class. Its long list of features was refreshed for the new model year, and it was a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money and Best Hybrid SUV for Families awards. The regular hybrid is the best for road tripping, with up to 38 mpg on the highway. The available plug-in hybrid shines brightest when you can take full advantage of its 33 miles of electric-only power around town.

Inside, there's tons of room for adults in both rows of seating and a huge cargo area. An 8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay , wireless Android Auto , four USB ports and wireless device charging come standard.

2023 Volkswagen Atlas

$34,460 | usn overall score: 8.0/10.

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas has enough room to bring along everybody and all their gear. It's available with two or three rows of seating, and even the optional third row has enough room for shorter adults or squirmy kids. It has more cargo space behind the third row than most in its class. A 6.5-inch touch screen and smartphone compatibility come standard.

Despite being a 3-row SUV, the Atlas is easy to maneuver, even when you leave the highway for city streets. It can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly configured if you plan to bring a small camper or want to tow some toys for your vacation.

2023 Lincoln Navigator

$77,635 | usn overall score: 8.8/10.

Wherever your road trip takes you, the 2023 Lincoln Navigator will make sure you arrive in comfort and style. It's one of the best luxury large SUVs, with a well-built and high-quality interior. Standard features include a 13.2-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and five USB ports.

Every seat in all three rows is comfortable, and the available L model adds extra space to an already roomy cargo area. And though it is large, the Navigator turns in decent fuel economy estimates for its class, with up to 23 mpg on the highway. Standard safety features like lane-keep assist can help reduce driver fatigue too.

2023 Chevrolet Suburban

$57,200 | overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is the classic family road trip SUV. It's huge, with more cargo space than almost any SUV out there. It can be configured to seat up to nine people (though it's a tight fit). With seven or eight seats, even the third row provides enough legroom for adults. The interior is sturdy enough for epic journeys, and it comes with an 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and six USB ports.

Depending on how you configure it, the Suburban can tow up to 8,300 pounds, enough for the average camper. It also comes with driver-assistance features like lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking.

2023 Genesis G90

$88,400 | usn overall score: 9.3/10.

The 2023 Genesis G90 was completely redesigned this year, and it added an optional mild-hybrid powertrain that improves acceleration when passing on the highway. The available air suspension makes long drives a dream, and the long list of standard safety features-including adaptive cruise control-eases the tedium of driving.

The Nappa leather interior wraps the road tripper in luxury, and both rows of seating are comfortable for adults. The trunk is large enough for several suitcases, and it opens automatically as you approach. The G90 also has one of the longest warranties in the business.

2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

$30,725 | usn overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid takes everything that has made this compact SUV popular over the years, like a comfortable ride and plenty of standard high-tech features, and added a fuel-efficient and quick-accelerating hybrid powertrain. It can get up to 41 mpg on the highway, which helps cut road trip costs. It was also a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money award.

The interior is solidly built, and both rows of seating are comfy. There's also great visibility for everyone, so games of "I Spy" may get competitive. An 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone compatibility and a Wi-Fi hotspot come standard. Adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition (both standard) help you when driving in unfamiliar locations.

2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

$32,950 | usn overall score: 8.3/10.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid is a more fuel-efficient version of the popular compact SUV, with up to 43 mpg on the highway. It's been completely redesigned this year, with more standard tech features and an improved infotainment system. A 7-inch touch screen, smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and four USB ports come standard.

The seats are comfy in both rows, with room for adults to stretch out even on road trips. The rear seats recline, so whoever is off driving duty can take a nap. Standard adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist help reduce the fatigue that can come with hours of driving.

2024 Kia Carnival

$33,200 | overall score: 8.5/10.

The 2024 Kia Carnival basically begs you to get the show on the road, and it comes standard with several advanced safety features, including driver-attention monitoring.

The interior is upholstered with easy-to-clean materials, and all three rows have enough room for adults, though the third row is short on headroom. It also has lots of cargo space, even with all three rows in use. An 8-inch touch screen, smartphone compatibility and seven USB ports come standard.

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

$50,795 | usn overall score: 8.6/10.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacific Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid, so when you reach your destination and charge up, you can drive about 32 miles on electric power alone. Under electric power, this Chrysler gets 82 MPG-equivalent, and gasoline-only driving returns up to 30 mpg on the highway. These are great numbers for a minivan.

There's also a ton of tech included, like a 10.1-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and Amazon Alexa compatibility. All three rows of seating have lots of head- and legroom, and there's plenty of storage space. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control and a surround-view parking camera system.

2023 Ram 1500

$31,270 | usn overall score: 9.0/10.

If your road trip plan involves a camper or boat, you'll want to look into the 2023 Ram 1500 . When properly equipped, it can tow up to 12,750 pounds. As with most pickups, you can configure the 1500 in whatever way works for you.

There are a lot of options and body styles to choose from too, but they all have a spacious, high-quality interior. The availability of safety features and infotainment tech depends on the trim you choose and the options you select, so you can custom-build the road-tripping pickup of your dreams – or the one that fits your budget.

2023 Honda Civic

$23,750 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

Your road-trip car is probably also your go-to-work-every-day car. The 2023 Honda Civic ably handles both roles. It's one of the best compact cars in its class, and we named it the Best Compact Car for the Money as well as one of the Best Cars for Teens . All of its scores are high, especially when it comes to safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it the Top Safety Pick+ designation.

It's not just safe, it's also thrifty, with up to 42 mpg on the highway. A 7-inch touch screen and smartphone connectivity come standard. It also comes with adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition, which make driving in unfamiliar areas a bit easier.

2023 Ford Mustang

$27,770 | usn overall score: 9.2/10.

Sometimes you want to live the American road trip dream in an impractical sports car. But guess what – the 2023 Ford Mustang is a rather practical sports car with one of the highest overall U.S. News scores. There are several available engines, but sticking with the base turbo-four means an estimated 32 mpg on the highway.

Living the American muscle car fantasy on the open road is best for two people, since the Mustang's rear seats are pretty small. Its standard infotainment system has a 4.2-inch display – not a touch screen – and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Standard safety tech includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. But maybe most importantly, for purposes of the dream, the Mustang is available as a convertible.

Road Trip Car Characteristics

Passenger space : People turn cranky when they aren't comfortable after hours on the road. There needs to be space for everyone to stretch out.

Cargo space : At the very minimum, you'll be bringing luggage along and maybe also camping gear or tubes for floating the river. Make sure there's space for your gear.

Fuel economy : Stopping for gas on a road trip can get expensive. Fuel efficiency, particularly from hybrid powertrains, can ease the pain of stopping at the pump.

Infotainment : An AM/FM radio is no longer sufficient for most people. An infotainment system that's easy to use while driving and can connect to smartphones is key.

Safety tech : Driving long distances causes fatigue, and fatigue causes accidents. Modern driver-assistance features can help you stay alert and in your lane.

Reliability : No one wants to be the car in the breakdown lane while on their road trip. A good predicted reliability score shows that a particular model has on average been a solid performer over time.

John M. Vincent | U.S. News & World Report

Road Trip Car FAQs

What is the best car for road trips.

The best car for road trips is the one that fits your budget and your needs, so there's no one vehicle that will work for everybody. That said, the 2023 Honda Civic is a strong pick. It provides comfort, features, safety and reliability, and all for one of the lowest price tags on this list.

What is the best SUV for road trips?

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid combines a long list of standard features with great fuel economy, and it has one of the most spacious interiors in its class.

What is the best luxury car for road trips?

The redesigned 2023 Genesis G90 will take you anywhere in comfort and style. Most of its best features are standard, including leather upholstery.

What is the most comfortable car for long trips?

On a list of very comfortable vehicles, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid is probably the most comfortable, especially for back-seat passengers who can take advantage of those reclining seats. If comfort is your priority, take a look at our list of most comfortable cars for more options.

U.S. News and World Report |

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

Plenty of families take road trips, so you might want to check out the winners of our 2023 Best Cars for Families awards too. Maybe you've been left stranded on an unfamiliar road by your former car and are looking for the most reliable cars available. If you know you need to bring along a lot of gear, see our roundup of compact SUVs with the most cargo space .

When you're ready to buy a new car, use our Best Price Program to pre-negotiate a great price with a local dealership. You can arrange for online buying and even vehicle delivery through the program.

U.S. News & World Report |

Best Cars for Road Trips

2023 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid - $31,350 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
2023 Volkswagen Atlas - $34,460 | Overall Score: 8.0/10
2023 Lincoln Navigator - $77,635| Overall Score: 8.8/10
2023 Chevrolet Suburban - $57,200 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2023 Genesis G90 - $88,400 | Overall Score: 9.3/10
2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid - $31,225 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid - $32,950 | Overall Score: 8.3/10
2024 Kia Carnival - $33,200 | Overall Score: 8.5/10
2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid - $50,795 | Overall Score: 8.6/10
2023 Ram 1500 - $31,270 | Overall Score: 9.0/10
2023 Honda Civic - $23,750 | Overall Score: 8.7/10
2023 Ford Mustang - $27,770 | Overall Score: 9.2/10

Browse Cars

The Best Road Trip Cars From Every Category

When "Head out on the highway" is more than just a line from a song to you, these are the cars to buy.

Civic Hatchback

Embarking on an epic road trip adventure requires the perfect companion, and selecting the ideal car for the journey can significantly impact your experience. In an era where sustainability and efficiency take center stage, the realm of road trip vehicles has transformed. From the ever-expanding array of electric vehicles to power-oriented marvels, the choices have never been more exhilarating. The question is simple: What is the best car for long-distance driving?

That's a loaded question, so today, we'll explore the best road trip cars in 10 different segments, guiding you through options that guarantee comfort, dependability, and the freedom to navigate extensive distances effortlessly. Whether plotting a picturesque coastal drive, a cross-country odyssey, or a quick weekend escape, these road trip-ready vehicles will enhance the journey, and perhaps even the destination. Prepare to embark on your open-road adventure with unwavering confidence as we unveil the top contenders in the domain of road-trip cars.

The Hatchback: 2024 Honda Civic Hatch

The latest Civic Hatchback keeps its enjoyable driving dynamics intact despite being a more grown-up car than any Civic before it. In base form, its 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder produces an ample 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, while a turbocharged 1.5-liter ups the stakes to 180 hp and 177 lb-ft. Plus, if you're still of the old-school persuasion and like to be in control of the experience, you can get a six-speed manual gearbox in the Sport and Sport Touring trims - or a CVT if you prefer to relax.

With combined EPA ratings of up to 35 mpg in turbo guise and 33 mpg in base form, the Civic is light on gas, and starting at an MSRP of $24,950, it's light on your bank account from the get-go.

Combine its mechanical attributes with a spacious cabin and large trunk (24.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats), and it's a winner already. Factor in a full suite of connectivity options like a seven-inch touchscreen and matching digital gauge cluster (nine- and 10.2 inches respectively on the Sport Touring), and you have one of the most complete long-distance vehicles on the market and a perfect family road trip car.

The Crossover: 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

This fuel-efficient road trip car boasts a hybrid system, achieving an impressive 38 mpg combined EPA rating. The hybrid powertrain comprises a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder with electric augmentation, paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox, producing 226 hp and 258 lb-ft.

Whether traveling with a full crew or just a few, the standard all-wheel drive ensures surefootedness over any surface and in any climate through sun, snow, and rain.

Ideal for family road trips, it boasts a comfortable and spacious interior equipped with rear USB ports and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Five seats with ample rear legroom enhance the appeal of this compact crossover, and its generous 38.7-cu-ft trunk accommodates all your gear. You can use all five seats, or drop the 60:40-split rear seats to carry larger items. Starting at $32,325, the Tucson Hybrid ticks all the right boxes .

The Sports Car: 2024 Mustang GT Coupe

While there may be many options in contention for the title of the best sports car , we maintain when it comes to road trips, the Mustang has them all soundly beaten. A new generation has arrived for 2024, sporting updated styling and a new fighter jet-inspired interior with larger infotainment and digital gauge cluster screens.

Under the hood, the 5.0-liter Coyote V8 has been upgraded and now produces 36 hp more in the 2024 Mustang GT than the old model, totaling 486 hp. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional 10-speed auto, which may be better suited to long-distance cruising.

Should the road get twisty on your journey, the Mustang GT's combination of power, noise, and agility means an entertaining road trip is in the cards, and the supportive Recaro front seats hold you in place comfortably. Ample rear legroom - yes, it's a four-seater sports car - and a 13.5 cubic foot trunk make it practical too, and since you can get it as a coupe or a convertible, it's perfect for summer road trips.

The Wagon: 2024 Volvo V60 Cross Country

The Volvo V60 Cross Country excels in various aspects such as space, speed, off-road capability, etc. This versatile vehicle is a gem for road trips and an overall top-tier option. Sporting 26 mpg combined from a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, its raised ground clearance and AWD give it the ability to tackle dirt roads without the hefty fuel economy of traditional SUVs.

It comes fully equipped with advanced safety features, including a rear cross-traffic alert system and traffic sign recognition, plus semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. A five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA backs this up and ensures a safe road trip for the whole family.

It boasts an available Wi-Fi hotspot, enhancing connectivity on your journeys and keeping the kids occupied, and its spacious interior means they'll be comfortable for hours. 22.5 cubic feet of trunk space will accommodate suitcases, tents, and more; if you need extra, the fold-down rear seats let you accommodate even more. Additionally, you can add a roof-mounted bicycle rack, perfect for those with an active lifestyle, making it one of the best cars for road-tripping.

The Minivan: 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid

The $51,095 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid harmoniously blends gas and electric power, catering to road trips with its ample combination of cargo space, people space, and frugality. Furnished with a 3.6-liter V6 augmented by electric power, it produces 260 hp. It lays down this power through a front-wheel drivetrain. If you want AWD, you can have it, but that would require the non-hybrid Pacifica.

Spacious with seating for eight occupants, it looks after the family with advanced safety features like emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane assist, and blind spot monitoring. There's versatility aplenty with Stow 'n Go seating that avails additional cargo space without physically having to remove seats from the minivan, and between 32.3 and 140.5 cubic feet.

A heated steering wheel and three-zome climate control add extra luxury, and the new Pinnacle model adds even more luxury to the road trip experience. The panoramic rearview mirror helps to keep an eye on the kids during the, 'Are we there yet' arguments.

The Truck: 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor

Should road trips in 2023 call for a more 'cross-country' experience, the Ford F-150 Raptor is the only pickup truck for the job. While the allure is strong to go for the TRX-beating Raptor R and its supercharged V8, for road trips, we think the base Raptor is better, thanks to its twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6. Not only do you get 450 hp and 510 lb-ft sent to all corners via a 10-speed automatic gearbox, but you get 15 mpg combined (instead of the R's 12 mpg). You can still tow 8,200 lbs, get a versatile truck bed, and those sweet Fox shocks that can take you to hell and back.

Inside, all F-150 models come with standard features like a 12-inch digital gauge display and Sync 4-enabled infotainment system, soft bucket seats, wireless charging, and 400W USB ports with outlets in both the cab and the bed. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. With five seats, ample power, and go-anywhere capability, the F-150 Raptor is a road-trip truck with no equal.

The Full-Size SUV: 2023 Cadillac Escalade

If you need three rows of seats, a body-on-frame chassis, an abundance of passenger and storage space, and supreme luxury, the Cadillac Escalade may be the best road trip SUV there is, even if it does cost a slip more than $80,000.

With a versatile engine lineup including a Duramax diesel six-cylinder (277 hp/460 lb-ft) and a 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp/460 lb-ft), both saddled with a buttery-smooth 10-speed automatic, the Escalade can tow up to 8,200 lbs, meaning you can take everything with you on holiday. The spacious cabin accommodates a ton of cargo, and an available long-wheelbase ESV variant even makes the third row of seating adult-friendly.

The Escalade is loaded with exceptional tech such as the 38-inch diagonal OLED display encompassing instrumentation and infotainment, and a full-color head-up display. Super Cruise hands-free driving making long-distance trips on the highway a cinch, too.

The Grand Tourer: 2024 Lexus LC Hybrid

We've chosen the LC Hybrid for this list, but we wouldn't fault you for picking any of the LC models. The standard variant packs a sonorous naturally aspirated V8 (coupe and convertible), but for covering distance, the LC 500h's 3.5-liter V6 and twin electric motors still packs a 354-hp punch while consuming considerably less fuel at 29 mpg combined vs. the V8's 19 mpg. It looks achingly gorgeous, too. The downside is an electronic CVT, but with the additional torque of the e-motors, and given the laidback cruising nature of the LC, it's a forgivable offense.

Road trip cars typically need big trunks, and the LC falls short here with only 4.7 cubic feet in hybrid form, but with 2+2 seating in which the rear seats aren't suited for passengers, there's plenty of additional storage space in the cabin.

Packed with Lexus' array of safety systems, and now featuring a decent infotainment system , the car is technologically up-to-date and safe for you and a loved one to hit the road and soak up the miles in comfort and luxury.

The Luxury Sedan: 2024 Audi S8

The 2024 Audi S8 redefines the road trip experience with its blend of luxury and performance. Beneath its hood lies a formidable 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 563 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. While everyone knows the Mercedes-AMG S63 in this segment, the Audi S8 is seen as more of a sleeper, an understated performance sedan that can lap up the miles without shouting about its 3.8-second 0-60 mph potential. Combined with the nimbleness of its rear-axle steering and the surefootedness of its all-wheel drive, it's the perfect car for almost any occasion.

Whether you're seated up front or reclining in the massaging rear seats, you're swathed in luxury and cutting-edge technology. Plush leather seats provide a sense of opulence, while the MMI Touch Response infotainment system and onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, ensure seamless connectivity and entertainment throughout your road trips, while an optional rear-seat entertainment system keeps passengers engaged on extended journeys.

The only downside is the $120,600 price tag.

The Convertible: 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet

The Porsche Carrera GTS Cabriolet redefines the essence of road trips with its breadth of performance and capability. It's fast, it's comfortable, it's feature-laden, and it even has four seats - what more could you ask for? Beneath its curvaceous exterior lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, delivering 473 hp and 420 lb-ft, and with your choice of rear- or all-wheel drive, you get a 0-60 mph time of under 3.4 seconds and all-weather confidence.

Inside, the Carrera GTS Cabriolet pampers occupants with opulent leather seats and a cutting-edge infotainment system, including the Porsche Communication Management system. For audiophiles, the optional Burmester sound system promises exceptional audio quality, enhancing the soundtrack of your road trip.

With a front cargo area measuring 4.7 cubic feet and rear seats that can double as storage in a pinch, there's plenty of space for your luggage. Then, when the weather is right, a 12-second drop of the top lets you feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin. When the journey matters more than the destination, few cars do road trips like the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet.

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How to Have the Perfect Road Trip, According to an Expert

Whether you’re cruising in a G-wagon or convertible, these tips will make your next road a success.

Tanner Saunders is a Brooklyn-based travel editor and writer who has worked for Travel + Leisure , The Points Guy , Thrillist , and more.

Is there anything better than a road trip ? Imagine it: you and your crew cruising down the highway, your favorite song on the radio, sun on your face, and the feeling that something somewhere is waiting for you? It's the best feeling in the world. And Monique Harrison, the director of brand experience marketing at Mercedes-Benz , agrees.

And now, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues on, road trips are as important as ever. "With typical travel plans coming to a halt due to the pandemic, we saw a heavy gravitation towards road trips as a safer travel alternative," Harrison told Travel + Leisure . It's true, travel is complicated right now, but buckling up and hitting the highway has given folks the opportunity to explore their own backyards more. "It is nice to see people exploring destinations they previously did not make time for and experiencing the wonders of their own home states," Harrison said, adding, "Travelers have been able to uncover the beauty and joy that exists 'just a drive away,' which is a trend I hope will be here to stay."

If you're heading out on your own road trip soon, be it to the mountains in an SUV or top down to the beach, Harrison has some handy road trips to make your next adventure in the car as fun and safe as possible.

Travel + Leisure: What makes a good road trip?

"Road trips take a lot of planning and coordination with careful consideration for the driver and passengers' interests and preferences so they can enjoy their journey. For me, my top recommendations for planning a road trip are:

1. Choose the right vehicle for the journey. A comfortable and spacious SUV or wagon is best for longer trips with multiple passengers. Our new 2021 GLS SUV, a 7 seater, is well equipped to handle various terrain and conditions. A sporty coupe or convertible is better for routes where a couple or two friends are looking to take in the scenery and have a little fun on the road. The 2021 E-Class Coupe or Convertible still allows room for four passengers while providing enhanced levels of comfort, luxury, and safety for the journey.

2. Make sure to have a reliable and fun copilot to enjoy the journey with. Although nothing beats driving a Mercedes-Benz yourself, I sometimes quickly hand over the keys to my husband on road trips. It can be good to hit the road in the passenger seat to catch the scenery and enjoy the ride from a different perspective.

3. When road tripping, it is important to have a stockpile of playlists, podcasts , and audiobooks to help pass the time. This can help fill any lulls in conversation!

4. A list of pre-planned stops to check out local sights. This breaks up the trip and gives you things to look forward to along the way. It could be anything from a local shop, restaurant, or scenic overlook. Personally, I love stopping in local home decor boutiques! A good 'shop small' store always refuels me a bit.

5. Don't forget to utilize your car's charging pad for your phone! You never want to be without your phone's camera to capture any surprise attractions."

What should people know about their vehicle before taking a road trip?

"Before you set out on your trip, it's important to evaluate your car to ensure it is dependable, comfortable, and safe. Drivers should be familiar with the model's navigation system, safety features, and, of course, its entertainment and comfort capabilities. My favorite Mercedes-Benz feature to utilize on a long trip is our ENERGIZING Comfort massage function."

What do you think is the best Mercedes for a road trip?

"There are so many great options, but my favorite vehicle right now is the highly anticipated 2021 S-Class. The S-Class exemplifies the allure of Mercedes-Benz, combined with the legendary and traditional engineering expertise that defines the luxury segment in the automobile industry. I'd chose the S 63 Coupe which is cozy for two, has plenty of storage, and allows you to whip through the streets with speed, having fun at every turn."

What tips do you have for making a road trip more fun?

"When I am traveling across states, I love to explore unique stops along the way, which often means historical sites or unique small businesses. I prepare these fun stops in advance to add interest along the way. It's fun to embrace their distinctive attributes that you don't always find on the franchise-lined highways. Lastly, I'm always looking for the town's go-to restaurant, from fine dining to homemade ice cream!

For those traveling with kids, I like nostalgic games like 'I Spy' or the license plate game. If you are not the driver and have devices available, I enjoy playing the Scrabble app as a family — even the "made up" words provide amusement! The competitiveness provides good family fun."

Knowing you're based in Atlanta, do you have any must-see spots in Georgia for a road trip?

"As Georgians, we are so lucky to have many outdoor and socially distant friendly sites and attractions to visit. For those looking to be active, Sweetwater Creek Park is a scenic hike and may look familiar as it served as the backdrop of the Hunger Games trilogy. My top sightseeing recommendations are the Beltline, Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Amicalola Falls — all are rich in culture and history and make great day trips."

Tanner Saunders is the Experiences Editor at Travel + Leisure. He loves a good road trip.

23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

Wooden pier with shops on top juts out into the ocean

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Wide shot of a red canyon with a river running through it

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Couple sitting in front of a curving road

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
The AFAR Guide to Denver

Woman walking by a mural of a river and bridge

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
The AFAR Guide to Nashville
The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

A long shot of a mountain-backed city, framed by flowers and trees

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Green tree near brown house during daytime

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Overhead view of curvy Kancamagus Highway through fall forest

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Interior of Leah & Louise restaurant in Charlotte

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Two stand-up paddleboarders on the water at sunset

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

A brick building with an oversized guitar hanging off the side and a sign that says "Sun Studio"

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

Best road trip snacks
Road trip planning apps
Podcasts and audiobooks to download
What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

Top 10 US Road Trip Ideas for 2022

Introduction

Blue Ridge Parkway

California highway 1, natchez parkway, mohawk trail, overseas highway, the loneliest road in america, coast to coast north, coast to coast south.

Top Related Locations
Toronto , Canada ( Toronto Airport ): Embark on scenic road trips from Toronto to explore the picturesque landscapes of Ontario, from the Muskoka Lakes to the stunning Niagara Falls.
Calgary , Canada ( Calgary Airport ): Calgary is your starting point for epic road journeys through the Canadian Rockies, where you can discover pristine mountain scenery and charming alpine towns.
Vancouver , Canada ( Vancouver Airport ): Hit the open road from Vancouver to experience the breathtaking beauty of British Columbia, including its rugged coastline, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities.
Denver , Colorado ( Denver Airport ): Road trips from Denver lead to the Rocky Mountains, offering adventures in outdoor recreation, from hiking and skiing to exploring charming mountain towns.
Cancun , Mexico ( Cancun Airport ): Begin your road trip from Cancun to uncover the Yucatan Peninsula's archaeological wonders, pristine beaches, and cenotes hidden in the jungle.
Guadalajara , Mexico ( Guadalajara Airport ): Take to the Mexican highways from Guadalajara to explore the rich cultural heritage, historic towns, and tequila distilleries of Jalisco.
Merida , Mexico ( Merida Airport ): Merida opens the door to road trips across the Yucatan Peninsula, where you can delve into Mayan ruins, colonial cities, and natural cenotes.
San Francisco , California ( San Francisco Airport ): Road trips from San Francisco lead you along the iconic California coast, showcasing dramatic cliffs, majestic redwoods, and vibrant seaside towns.
Minneapolis , Minnesota ( Minneapolis Airport ): Embark on road trips from Minneapolis to explore the picturesque landscapes of Minnesota, from serene lakes and lush forests to charming small towns and cultural attractions.
Orlando , Florida ( Orlando Airport ): Discover the magic of road trips from Orlando, where you can visit world-famous theme parks, enjoy beautiful lakes, and explore Florida's diverse natural beauty.
Miami , Florida ( Miami Airport ): Embark on scenic road trips from Miami, where you can experience vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches and reach the Overseas Highway.
Cairns , Australia ( Cairns Airport ): Set out on road trips from Cairns to explore the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the lush rainforests of Far North Queensland.
Pula , Croatia ( Pula Airport ): Begin your journey from Pula, Croatia, to discover ancient Roman ruins and the stunning Adriatic coastline along the Istrian Peninsula.
Vienna , Austria ( Vienna Airport ): Take scenic drives from Vienna to explore the charming villages and vineyards of the Austrian countryside.
Geneva , Switzerland ( Geneva Airport ): Start your Swiss adventure from Geneva, where you can enjoy road trips around the stunning Lake Geneva, explore charming Swiss villages, and take in panoramic views of the Alps.
Agadir , Morocco ( Agadir Airport ): Hit the road from Agadir to uncover Morocco's coastal beauty, from sandy beaches to historic towns.
Wellington , New Zealand ( Wellington Airport ): Embark on road trips from Wellington to experience New Zealand's diverse landscapes, from mountains to coastlines.
Kos , Greece ( Kos Airport ): Discover the Greek island of Kos by driving along scenic coastal routes and exploring ancient ruins.
Birmingham , United Kingdom ( Birmingham Airport ): Birmingham is your gateway to discovering the cultural heritage of the UK's Midlands, with historic sites, museums, and scenic countryside drives.
Izmir , Turkey ( Izmir Airport ): Set out on a road trip from Izmir to uncover the rich history, beautiful coastal landscapes, and vibrant culture of the Aegean region.

Aleksandrs Buraks

The Complete Guide to Road Trips

Make your next trip worth the drive with curated itineraries, expert gear, and more.

Everything You Need to Plan a Stress-Free Road Trip

By Ashlea Halpern

How the Road Trip Recaptured Our Imagination This Year

By Amanda Fortini

14 Best Road Trips in America

By Jessica Chapel and Mark Ellwood

20 Road Trip Essentials to Pack for a Long Drive

By CNT Editors

Why Turo Is Quickly Becoming My Favorite Way to Rent a Car

By Megan Spurrell

Tips and advice

5 Things You Should Know About Rental Car Insurance Before Buying

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The Best Credit Cards to Use on a Road Trip

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A Beginner's Guide to Renting an RV

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On Your Next Road Trip, Stay at a Classic Motor Lodge

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U.S. itineraries

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Colorado Road Trip: 4 Days of Hiking and Hot Springs

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A Three-Day Road Trip Exploring Florida's Spanish History

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International itineraries

The Best Road Trips in the World

Your next big mexico trip is a drive across the border, lobster rolls and ancient beaches on canada’s acadian coast.

By Shelley Cameron-McCarron

The Ultimate Road Trip through New Zealand's Underrated North Island

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To Truly Experience the Scope of Namibia, Take This Road Trip

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Scotland's North Coast 500 May Be the Best Road Trip in the World

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What I Packed for a Cross-Country Road Trip

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A List of Historic, Weird, and Totally Fascinating Places to Stop on a Road Trip Across the US

A Nostalgia Trip Along US-41, the South’s Route 66

By Caroline Eubanks

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR ROAD TRIP

Inspiration
Packing Lists
Road Trip Advice

15 Genius Ideas for How to Organize a Car for a Road Trip

Nothing beats the thrill of hitting the open road, exploring new places, and creating unforgettable memories along the way. However, having a well-organized car can really make or break your road trip experience. That’s why I’ve put together 15 amazing ideas to organize a car for a road trip, so you can focus on the journey and not worry about the mess.

After countless journeys across the country, I’ve perfected the art of road trip car organization. I used to just throw everything in the car (with no road trip packing list, meaning I often forgot tons of items) and hope I would be able to find it when I needed it later. You probably won’t be surprised to hear this doesn’t work – it took me way too long to find that one item I needed, and I’d have to open everything open to find it.

Fast forward to now, when I’ve gotten much smarter about organizing and can tell you exactly where any given item is with 99% accuracy, and now I’m here to share my advice with you. Whether you’re a road trip newbie or a seasoned pro, these organizing tips and hacks will be a game-changer. From simple storage solutions to handy gadgets, these ideas are all about making your life on the road much easier.

Table of Contents

Quick Road Trip Organization Hacks

Here are a few tips to keep in mind before heading out on your trip:

Don’t overpack . I used to be a chronic over-packer and didn’t really think about if I’d actually use an item or pack way too much food that I never ate. Take a few minutes to write down a list of what exactly you’ll use and how much of each item you’ll need to save some space before you even pack.
Repurpose household items. While I have suggestions on this list of organization items to buy, you can also save money and get creative. Use empty tissue boxes as a plastic bag dispenser or a makeshift trash bin, and use an empty cereal container with a lid as a portable trash can.
Keep essentials within reach. I got big on this in the past year, and it’s made road trips so much easier. Store items that you’ll frequently need, like snacks, drinks, and toys, within easy reach to minimize the need to rummage through your bags while driving.
Clean out your car daily. At the end of each day, go through and throw out all the trash, recycle bottles, and put anything you’ve taken out back in its proper bag. You’ll thank yourself the next day.

15 Brilliant Ideas to Organize a Car for a Road Trip

These easy ideas for how to organize your car for a long road trip (like a Vancouver to Banff drive ) will ensure you keep a clean and tidy car on your next exciting road trip.

Check out my family road trip checklist and get ready to organize like a pro.

1. Backseat Organizer

First things first, use every storage compartment provided in the car to stow the appropriate items away in the right places. These include cup holders, backseat jackets, and the doors’ side pockets. When you’ve exhausted all the car’s available storage compartments, backseat organizers are your next go-to.

These are useful for ensuring there is ample space for passengers in the backseat and that the car doesn’t feel cluttered and cramped. Most backseat organizers are attached to one or both of the front seats so that they hang facing the passengers at the back.

Backseat organizers come with separate pockets where you can store different items such as toys, stuffed animals, wet wipes, and fresh diapers. It’s also a good idea to store a few disposable bags (like car sickness bags).

Some organizers sit between the seats or on the floor and feature different compartments where you can place certain items. Using a backseat organizer leaves enough space for other items like pillows, small blankets, and neck rests. Remember, the aim is to create enough room for passengers to sit comfortably.

This comes in particularly handy when traveling with young ones, and I have more tips for a road trip with a baby .

2. Organizing Containers

If you’re like me and can’t stand the idea of bits and bobs lying all over the car, you’ll love this road trip organization hack. Use small, plastic organizing containers and bottles to store pens, medication, and hair ties in the center console. Here, they’ll be easy for the driver and the person sitting in the front passenger’s seat to reach when needed.

The center console is an important area in the car that needs to be well-organized and free from clutter. This is a prime spot for keeping coins and loose change (for toll gates on the road and parking fees when you make your stops) and light snacks (like mints, dried fruit, and sweets) for the passengers in front.

You can save some cash and look around your house for useful items to turn into organizing containers. Get creative with old plastic bottles (like those used for pills) or Q-tip containers. This is also a helpful idea on road trips with couples so you can keep your snacks separate (trust me, it helps).

Driving cross country with a dog ? Make sure they have a container as well full of snacks, water, and poop bags!

I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to help me plan out my trips and find fun stops along the way. Use my code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off when you sign up!

3. Cord Organizer

Have you ever gotten frustrated looking for the right cable or cord for a specific device? Or felt completely overwhelmed when you opened your glove box to find a jumble of cords all mixed up together?

Say goodbye to that problem for good by using a cord organizer to keep your cords in one place. These usually come in small and medium-sized cases and pouches with different colors and designs. You even get convenient cable organizers with different compartments where you can store your gadgets’ cords and chargers neatly.

Get your free road trip packing list here!

4. Organize Your Glove Box

The glove box is the car’s command center and should always be as clean and organized as possible. Remove all items that aren’t needed for your trip (yes, that includes old receipts and dirty napkins from your favorite fast food joint). Only keep the essentials.

What are the essentials, you ask? Well, that’s easy. The items best kept in the glove box are your license and identity documents, cord case (see above), hand sanitizer, and tissues. It’s also handy to keep all-purpose wet wipes, a flashlight (with fresh batteries), a roll of toilet paper, and a direction map (as a backup if you encounter any problems with your GPS navigation system ).

Another great tip I can give you is to save space in your glove box by checking for an electronic (digital) copy of your car’s manual online. If you can find one, leave the chunky printed version at home and free up some much-needed space in your glove box.

5. Pre-Packed Snacks for Kids

Some people have strict no-food rules while traveling, but I firmly believe that snacks are essential for all passengers, especially road trip snacks for kids . Pre-packed zip-top bags with the kids’ favorite munchies should be placed conveniently in the car. It’s best to ensure they are easy and quick to access, like in one of the compartments of a backseat organizer (see above).

You can also use a stackable container to organize your snacks, neatly separating the food items into sections. A major advantage of pre-packed snack bags is that you can control the snack portions your kids consume on the trip. It also eliminates mess and clutter.

I find that it’s best to organize yummy pre-packed snack bags with a full lunch already prepared.

The following make for a well-balanced pre-packed meal:

A delicious sandwich
Fruits and/or vegetables
Nuts or trail mix
One sweet treat (granola bars are always a winner)
A juice box (or juice inside a spill-proof cup for the younger ones)

While you’re at it, use binder clips to seal unfinished snacks (like chips and sweets) and keep your receipts together. Bring a portable mini cooler bag to keep your drinks cold if there’s extra space.

Travel Tray for Snack Time

I like the idea of a set space where kids can enjoy their meals. Why not include a trav e l tray for kids to use for eating? Little ones can also place their gadgets on them while they watch their favorite cartoons on a cell phone or tablet.

Travel trays serve multiple purposes. Use them as a mini play station for the kids’ toys and games (also great for when the kids want to color in). If you prefer not to purchase a new tray, simply choose one from your home that’s a comfortable size to use and store.

Tip: Keep the remainder of the snacks in the car’s trunk with the rest of the groceries. Only have carefully prepared, packed snacks in the car’s main area so that no one overeats and risks getting sick during the trip. We did this during our Seattle to Crater Lake road trip , and I was glad.

Make sure to reserve your rental car ahead of time! I love using Discover Cars for my trips.

6. Use Carabiners to Hang Small Items

If you’ve ever gone hiking or camping, you’ve likely come across carabiners. Fish them out of that old “outdoors” box in your garage because they will prove helpful for your road trip.

When you don’t have bag hooks to use in the car, use carabiners as clever clips . You can attach as many carabiners as you need to the front headrests on either side so that they hang off facing the backseat. Use them to suspend small items like handbags, wallets, umbrellas, and kiddy backpacks.

You get locking carabiners that will sit securely once you’ve hooked them. This is useful when toddlers want to fiddle with them while sitting in the backseat.

You’ll find this especially helpful on an outdoor vacation like a Spokane to Glacier road trip .

7. Document Holder

Every road trip requires that your paperwork is in order, and I know just the item to help you stay organized. Use an accordion file or an e xpandable file folder to keep all your essential documents and papers in one place.

Keep the car registration, your insurance information, medical cards, and information related to your destination (such as accommodation details) neatly stored in the file folder. You should also keep a printed version of your itinerary with all your other paperwork.

Make sure to label each section of the folder clearly to know precisely where to find each document when needed. File folders come in many colors and styles, which is excellent if you want to get multiple uses out of them with your home admin. While you may not think you’ll use this, I promise you’ll be happy with this car organization hack for road trips if you do need to find a paper quickly.

Tip: Print a copy of my fantastic road trip trivia questions and keep them in your document holder with all the other travel papers. When things get boring on the road, whip out the questions and enjoy some fun trivia mania.

8. Organized Box with Entertainment Goodies

This is one of the best car storage hacks for your next road trip. Use clear containers and boxes to store essential items, such as coloring books, crayons, and stationery items for the kids. By using clear boxes, you can quickly identify what’s inside of them and get what you need quickly.

In fact, clear boxes are useful for more than just the kids’ entertainment goodies. You should do things a little differently on your next road trip and use clear boxes to store other items in the trunk. These include clothes, shoes, extra toys, and small trinkets you collect along the way – you’ll be glad you took the time to organize your car for a road trip.

Tip: If you have more than one child in the back of the car, a pack of travel games is a great way to eliminate fights and have everyone entertained and playing together.

9. Pop-up Trunk Shelf

The trunk of your vehicle can be a scary place, where different family members throw things in there for “safe-keeping” (only to be re-discovered months later). Bring an end to all of that with this road trip storage idea. Start by cleaning out your trunk and removing all the old junk that may have been sitting there for a long time.

Then, to prepare for your road trip adventure, use trunk shelves (and trunk organizers ) to keep items in the car’s back storage area neat and tidy. Sometimes you want to separate certain things, like keeping muddy, wet, or dirty shoes away from other items.

I suggest you organize the trunk’s items so that those you’ll need to use often are placed on the top (or in front), where they are easy to access. Set the trunk into distinct areas: luggage, groceries, a car emergency kit, dirty clothes, and shoes.

10. Hang Your Groceries Using a Bungee Cord

This idea seems like an odd one, but I promise you it works like a charm. When traveling with groceries, the last thing you want is for separate items to escape from their shopping bags and slide all over the trunk.

That’s why using a bungee or suspension cord is the perfect way to keep them neatly packed and standing upright for the duration of your trip. Fix your cord from one end of the trunk’s side to the other. Enjoy the benefits of not having your grocery items move and shift around in the car’s back storage area.

If you don’t have a bungee or suspension cord, make use of any suitable taut rope that you can fix securely across the length of your trunk.

Tip: Distribute your groceries evenly into all the shopping bags you’ve used. Make sure not to have some bags fuller or heavier than the rest. This way, you’ll avoid the bags tearing or splitting.

11. Pre-Packed First Aid or Sick Kit

As everyone knows, especially parents, minor medical emergencies do happen while on the road. From small cuts to minor bruises and other little mishaps, it’s always best to have a traveler’s first aid kit handy to handle any medical problems when they arise.

It’ll be frustrating if you don’t have the correct items or have to search for them in odd places around the car. So save yourself the stress and hassle by organizing a pre-packed first aid bag (also called a sick kit).

Your kit should have all the medical essentials, such as:

Bandaids (of different shapes and sizes)
Rolled bandages
Alcohol or disinfecting wipes
Topical cream for insect bites, antiseptic cream
Disposable gloves
Painkillers
Anti-nausea medication for car sickness
Mini scissors
Thermometer

Quick tip – make sure all medicines are still good and not expired!

12. Line Your Cup Holders with Baking Cups or Muffin Holders

This is a tip for decreasing the chances of creating a sticky mess in your cup holders when there are spills (and trust me, there will be, even when kids use spill-proof cups ).

By lining your cup holders with baking or muffin cups (try using silicone baking cups if you can), you protect the cup holders and keep them clean. You can change them out whenever they get too dirty, which is why it’s one of my favorite tips to organize a car for a road trip.

Sometimes you’ll travel in a larger group and need more cup holders in the car for all the drinks. Use a muffin tray , which you can place in an appropriately sized basket, as a multi-cup holder.

It’s also a good idea to keep paper towels in a convenient place in the car for quick clean-ups and tidying up after passengers eat something. And, of course, you’ll have wet wipes in your backseat organizer, which is one of my favorite tips to organize for a road trip.

A great way to prevent a mess on your seats and the floor is by using seat and floor protectors (try rubber floor mats ). These will prevent stains in your car from the mess that dirty shoes, spilled drinks, and food cause. Seat and floor protectors also come in handy when traveling with animals.

13. Use Suction Shower Caddies

Another unique road trip organization idea to store items while traveling is to use small suction shower caddies . You attach them to the windows in the backseat so that passengers can store small items like sunscreen, sunglasses, hand sanitizer, and hand cream nearby. This is also a great place to keep snacks and drinks, especially for the little ones.

14. Store the Car Emergency Kit in the Trunk

Although a well-serviced and well-maintained car shouldn’t give you any trouble on the road, it’s best to be prepared for any emergencies (like when the car breaks down). Prepare and store your car emergency kit in the back trunk to be ready when needed.

The kit should contain the basics, including the following:

Jumper cables
A wheel wrench
A tripod jack
A reflective cloth

The great thing about car emergency kits is that they already have their own designated spot beneath the trunk’s floor covering where the spare tire is typically stored.

15. Use a Designated Garbage Collection Bag

There’s nothing worse than a car full of empty snack packets and bottles lying all over the place. This is why one of my top travel tips is to have a designated garbage collection bag where you can store all your trash.

It’s a surefire way to avoid a dirty, disorganized car during your trip. You can buy a portable car trash can if you’ve got the extra bucks or use an old shopping or plastic bag.

Hang the garbage collection bag from the backseat or keep it on the floor. When you stop at a gas station or take a break to stretch your legs, you can dispose of it once it’s full. Replace it with a fresh, empty one.

Leave enough comfortable leg room if you keep any storage items on the floor. You can do this by storing certain items underneath the car seats.

Have any tips to add on how to organize a car for a road trip? Leave it in the comments!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

Road Tripping in the USA | The Ultimate Family Road Trip Ideas

As a family travel expert and a dedicated road trip enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share with you the best USA family road trip ideas that promise fun, excitement, and quality time together. Buckle up and get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime with your loved ones!

Are you ready to transform your family’s next vacation into a thrilling adventure filled with unforgettable moments? Family road trips are more than just vacations; they’re opportunities to bond, explore, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

In order to tick of these Top American Family Road Trips, and enjoy a once in a lifetime family road tripping in America experience, you need to rent a self drive car, and we recommend you to book your Rental Self Drive Car in Texas on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com

1. The Classic American Road Trip

2. disney magic on the road, 3. national park adventure, 4. coastal charms, 5. the wild west adventure, 6. southern comfort, 7. the great lakes getaway, 8. rocky mountain adventure, 9. island hopping in hawaii, 10. new england discovery, 10 best family road trip ideas in the usa.

Start: Anywhere, USA

End: Your Dream Destination

Total Distance Covered: Varies

The classic American road trip is the stuff of legends, offering your family the freedom to shape your adventure. Chart your own course, create your playlist, and hit the open road. Explore iconic landmarks, discover hidden gems, and craft an itinerary that caters to your family’s interests. From Route 66 to the Pacific Coast Highway, which are some of the Best Road Trips in the World , this adventure is a canvas for your imagination. The open road invites you to make spontaneous stops, share laughter, and revel in the joy of being together.

Start: Your Hometown

End: Orlando, Florida

If your family is enchanted by Disney, then imagine a road trip to the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando . Along the way, you’ll explore thrilling attractions, visit captivating theme parks, and create enchanting memories. These 10 Disney World Tips and Hacks , will further enhance your epic family vacation in Disney World. And why stop at Disney World? Extend the magic by visiting Disneyland in California or Disney resorts in Hawaii for an all-encompassing Disney experience that your family will treasure forever.

Start: Your Choice of National Park

End: Your Choice of National Park

America’s National Parks offer the ultimate playground for family road trips. Whether you’re marvelling at the geysers of Yellowstone , uncovering the ancient history of Mesa Verde , or gazing in awe at the majesty of the Grand Canyon , these treasured landscapes are a living classroom for your family. Hike scenic trails, camp under the starry skies, and dive into the heart of nature while discovering the heritage and beauty of our great nation.

Start: San Francisco, California

End: San Diego, California

Total Distance Covered: Approximately 500 miles

A road trip along California’s captivating coast is nothing short of breathtaking. Savour scenic drives along the iconic Highway 1 , explore charming seaside towns such as Monterey and Santa Barbara , and visit landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and San Diego’s world-renowned zoo. This road trip marries the beauty of nature with family-friendly destinations, promising your family a stunning journey.

Start: Denver, Colorado

End: Rapid City, South Dakota

Total Distance Covered: Approximately 350 miles

Transport your family back to the days of the Wild West on this incredible road trip through the heart of the Rockies. Discover national parks like Rocky Mountain and Badlands, step into the historic town of Deadwood , and gaze upon the grandeur of Mount Rushmore . Exciting outdoor activities, from hiking to wildlife watching, await your family in this thrilling journey through the Old West.

PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to different parts of USA to tick off these Best Family Road Trips in America –

Book your Rental Car in USA on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
Book the best USA Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
Book your Accommodation in America on Agoda or Booking.com
Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to anywhere in the USA, to enjoy premium Airport Lounge Access.
Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free road trip vacation in the United States.

Start: New Orleans, Louisiana

End: Destin, Florida

Total Distance Covered: Approximately 250 miles

Delight in the warmth of the American South with a family road trip along the Gulf Coast . Immerse yourself in the rich culture of New Orleans , unwind on the pristine beaches of Alabama , and savour the fresh seafood of Florida’s Panhandle. This journey weaves together the melodies of jazz, the flavours of southern cuisine, and the tranquility of coastal living, creating an unforgettable experience for your family.

Start: Chicago, Illinois

End: Mackinaw City, Michigan

Unearth the beauty of the Great Lakes region with your family road trip. Delve into the cultural tapestry of Chicago , explore captivating cities such as Milwaukee and Detroit , and bask in the serene landscapes surrounding Lake Michigan . Take ferry rides to enchanting Mackinac Island , where your family will create memories against the breathtaking backdrop of the Great Lakes.

End: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Total Distance Covered: Approximately 600 miles

Experience the majesty of the Rockies and the wonder of Yellowstone on a thrilling family road trip. Explore the mountainous terrain of Colorado , visit the geysers and wildlife of Yellowstone, and engage in outdoor adventures like hiking and rafting. This epic family road trip, which covers some of the Best Places to visit in Colorado , promises a fusion of adventure, nature, and education for your family.

Start: Honolulu, Oahu

End: Hilo, Big Island

Imagine a journey through the tropical paradise of Hawaii , where island-hopping becomes a reality. Explore the unique culture of Oahu , traverse the lush landscapes of Kauai , and witness the volcanic marvels of the Big Island. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, attend enchanting luaus, and give your family the gift of diverse experiences against the stunning backdrop of the Hawaiian Islands.

This 7 Day Oahu – Hawaii Travel Itinerary and 7 Day Kauai Trip Itinerary, will help you plan your Family Road Trip Adventure in Hawaii.

Start: Boston, Massachusetts

End: Bar Harbor, Maine

Immerse your family in the rich history and natural beauty of New England , which is one of the Most Colourful Destinations in the USA . Explore historic sites in Boston , savour the coastal charm of seaside towns, and delight in the fresh seafood of Maine . Lighthouses, scenic coastal drives, and the unique culture of this northeastern region await your family’s discovery. Do the New England Family Road Trip during the falls, and fall in love with the colours of the fall.

These are not just road trips; they are epic family adventures waiting to happen. Whether you choose the classic American road trip, a Disney-themed journey, or an exploration of national parks, these USA family road trips guarantee fun, bonding, and lasting memories.

Pack your bags, chart your course, and hit the open road for the best family road trips that will fill your family with joy, laughter, and a treasure trove of shared experiences. The adventure of a lifetime awaits your family, where the journey is as meaningful as the destination. Road tripping with family is a promise of endless discovery and a celebration of the extraordinary gift of togetherness!

Don’t forget to Pin this USA Travel Bucket List featuring the Top USA Family Road Trip Ideas for an Adventurous Family Vacation.

Family Travel in the USA | Road Trip Ideas | Travel Bucket List

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Colorado Travel Guide | Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Miami Trip Planner | Ultimate Travel Guide

Where to Travel in the United States? 20 Top Destinations

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Miami Trip Planner | Ultimate Travel Guide

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

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: March 13, 2023

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

pin image for how to pack your car for a road trip

What to Pack for a Road Trip?

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

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

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

What should an adult pack for a road trip?

girl on road trip getting bag from roof of car

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

1. Toiletries

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

2. Clothing

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

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

3. First-Aid Kit

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

4. Electronics & Accessories

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

5. Maps & Road Directions

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

6. Comfortable Blankets & Pillows

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

7. Snacks & Drinks

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

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

9. Money & Identification

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

10. Entertainment

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

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

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

kids leaning out of car window on road trip with mom and dad

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

1. Car Seats

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

2. Healthy Snacks & Drinks

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

3. First Aid Kit

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

4. Clothes & Toiletries

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

5. Favorite Toy & Blanket From Home

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

6. Activities & Games

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

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

7. Activity Board & Bin

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

8. Sun Protection & Insect Repellents

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

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

Ultimate Road Trip Packing List

screenshots of road trip packing list printable over image of miniature car

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

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

Driver’s License

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

Car Insurance & Car Registration

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

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

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

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

Roadside Emergency Kit

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

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

Car Phone Mount

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

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

Car Power Adaptor

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

Packable Cooler

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

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

Trunk Organizer

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

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

Travel Picnic Kit

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

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

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

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

Printable Road Trip Packing List (PDF)

Apps You Need For a Road Trip

roadtrippers plus screenshots app for planning road trips

Google Maps

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

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

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

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

Spotted by Locals

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

Roadtrippers Plus

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

Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, SoundCloud

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

Best Snacks to Pack for a Road Trip

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

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

How to Pack Your Car For a Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diagram to Pack for a Road Trip

Diagram for Packing Your Car for a Road Trip

1 – Passenger Seat

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

2 – Main Console

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

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

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

3 – Garbage

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

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

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

4 – DVD Players

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

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

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

5 – Kid Bags

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

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

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

7 – Kids Activities

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

8 – Luggage

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

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

FAQs for What to Pack for a Road Trip

What should go in a car emergency kit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What should I pack for a 12-hour drive?

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

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

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

What are 3 tips to prepare for a road trip?

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

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

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

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

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

Check out my full list of road trip tips .

pin image for road trip packing list printable screenshots plus essential items to pack for a road trip

Share and Save This Post:

Thursday 6th of May 2021

This is amazing. Thank you.

Catherine Brady

Sunday 15th of March 2020

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

Susan Summers

Thursday 5th of December 2019

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

Friday 6th of December 2019

Great, Susan! Hope you have a fabulous trip!

15 Brilliant Road Trip Hacks – Two Frugal Moms

Sunday 16th of July 2017

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

Erica Gilbert

Wednesday 21st of June 2017

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

The Best Gear for Your Road Trips

A person reading a road atlas while sitting on the hood of their car, parked on the side of a road in the desert.

By Kit Dillon and Wirecutter Staff

A road trip is an adventure. It doesn’t matter how far you go. But all adventures require a little planning (and one or two backup plans, in case things go sideways).

We took our first testing road trip in an age far less complicated than these past few years, but the gear we tested and the advice we’ve gathered here should still help you navigate the roads safely and comfortably.

Our original trip, in 2016, included 60 hours of researching and testing gear to take on the open road. We packed all of our top contenders into a Honda Fit EX and headed out on a four-day jaunt to determine what’s nice to have, what’s great, and what’s absolutely essential for your next road trip.

In 2020 we added a few items to help you adhere to safe-travel guidelines, and those things will always come in handy during flu and cold season. We’ve also added several selections to take on challenging winter car trips.

A car parked in the middle of a road with a bunch of road trip supplies placed for display on the ground next to it.

After traveling for 1,500 miles, through four states and six national parks, we think we have a good grasp on what makes an excellent road trip. In addition to performing our own research and testing, we consulted with half a dozen engineers, mechanics, and other experts to bring you these picks. Our hope is that the recommendations in this guide will help you see more and explore farther down the road than you thought possible.

Below, you’ll find recommendations for cargo boxes , binoculars , coolers , emergency beacons , a first-aid kit , a folding blanket , an ice scraper , an instant camera , inverters for your electronics , a multi-tool , phone mounts , a portable jump starter , ratchets and tie-down straps , a road atlas , stain remover , a stowable daypack , sun shades , sunglasses , a tire-pressure gauge , a toolkit for cars , a travel game , a travel pillow , water jugs , windshield water repellent , wipes , and so much more. These items will help you have a successful road trip, regardless of region or weather.

However, even if you have the best gear in the world, it’s always best to address small problems before they become emergencies. That’s why we asked Christopher Smith , a veteran automotive journalist with a penchant for restoring fixer-uppers, to help us put together some advice on how to prepare your car for a trip . (And he lives in South Dakota, where things are spread out, so he’s always prepared.) We cover everything from checking your tires and dipsticks to knowing what you should do if your car starts smelling like rotten eggs for seemingly no reason.

This guide isn’t specifically geared toward families, though most of the picks would be useful to a family traveling by car. We do have guides to infant car seats , travel car seats , booster car seats , and water bottles for kids —all things that are of particular interest to families on the road.

A car driving down a highway in the desert.

The research

Stowing your gear, in the driver’s seat, health and cleaning supplies, staying comfortable, refreshments, entertainment, just in case, preparing for a road trip.

A person grabbing an item from the trunk of a car that is filled with roadtrip supplies.

Being able to find what you need when you need it—whether it’s water, emergency lights, a change of clothes, or a granola bar—can make the difference between a short, easy stop that rejuvenates and a long, frustrating one that makes you question why you left home in the first place.

It all starts with packing. Don’t overthink it. We like to keep items grouped: emergency gear in the back right of the trunk, water in the back left, spare batteries in the glove compartment along with the power inverter, and so on. After a few days, double-checking that everything is where it should be before heading off becomes a comforting ritual, and it helps mitigate the worry that you left … something … in the motel last night.

And don’t overpack. As with a bag, a well-packed car is one that has less than you think you want to bring but everything that you truly need. You don’t have to bring everything—just the things that are essential. Remember, you want to enjoy the drive. Not having to worry about countless items that someone might lose or misplace is a big step toward that enjoyment.

Cargo boxes

Yakima SkyBox NX 18

The best cargo box.

This cargo box offers great aerodynamics, easy mounting and operation, and a lot of storage at a reasonable price.

Buying Options

A cargo box effectively allows you to double your trunk space by moving bulky items from your car’s interior or trunk to its roof. After gathering up as much intel as we could about rooftop cargo boxes from experts, retailers, manufacturers, customers, and outdoor-gear reviewers, we’ve concluded that of the 21 boxes we surveyed, the Yakima SkyBox NX 18 offers the best combination of features, build quality, and value pricing for most road trips.

The NX line replaces the Carbonite line of Yakima boxes, which included our previous cargo box pick, the SkyBox 16 Carbonite .

The cargo box’s low-drag aerodynamic design minimizes wind noise and reduces the impact on fuel economy. Its 18 cubic feet of space allows it to hold skis, duffle bags, backpacks, sleeping bags and other camping gear, or any random (though fairly lightweight) stuff, and it does so securely—both in solidly mounting to your roof rack and in resisting theft. If you don’t have a rack already, this REI car rack buying guide is a good place to start, but be sure to consult your car’s owner manual to see how much weight its roof can bear.

The SkyBox NX 18 is easy to use. Like most cargo boxes these days, it uses sliding brackets, rather than one or two fixed spots, for attachment to the crossbars, making perfect positioning a snap. To secure the brackets to the crossbars, you use a simple torque wrench (included) that will announce with an audible click—like a gas-tank cap—when you’ve tightened the four installation bolts down securely. The tool lives inside the cargo box, though out of the way of your gear, for safekeeping.

Once installed, the SkyBox NX 18 allows easy access from either side of the car, and its newly redesigned dimensions (a change from the previous model) make it less likely to interfere with a liftgate if you put it on a hatchback or station wagon.

If you need more space, Yakima’s older-generation 21-cubic-foot model (the company has not released an updated, NX 21 version so far) may still be available for purchase. Be aware, however, that this box weighs more and can encourage overloading past your car rack’s weight limit, which might be lower than you expect. It may also be too long in the back to clear some liftgates. As Ken Klaes, general manager of ReRack , a Portland, Oregon–based cargo-box retailer and rental company, explained to us: “A rack designed to carry 150 pounds doesn’t forget that the box is there; the weight of the box itself (often 50-ish pounds) needs to be subtracted from the weight rating to give you a real capacity for the box.”

Roof straps

Keeper Endless Loop Ratchet Tie-Down

The best ratcheting straps.

Easier to use than non-ratcheting straps, these straps ensure that your stuff stays put.

I spent many years working in rigging and rope access on offshore oil platforms, where I played with loads, angles, line pulls, and sheave-block friction percentages—in other words, I know a thing or two about strapping things down. You can find two common types of roof straps: ratchet straps, which have a mechanical lever and gear, and cam straps (sometimes called “lashing” or “loop” straps), which connect to themselves through a cam buckle . If I could choose only one type, I’d get ratchet straps because they’re easier to secure. More specifically, I’d get the Keeper Endless Loop Ratchet Tie-Down .

We spent several hours examining 22 strap options before landing on the Keeper version. Keeper is a reliable brand, and the ratchets are easy to tighten and loosen, thanks to their all-metal construction. ( Cheaper ratchets are hard to release and prone to sticking or breaking due to their reliance on plastic parts.) At 13 feet long, these 1-inch straps are long enough for all but the most strenuous loads on the largest of vehicles, and their nylon webbing’s 400-pound working load limit and 1,200-pound break strength put them right in line with similarly priced straps. You could get something that’s heavier-duty or longer, but you’d be paying more for strength or length you don’t need.

On our trip, driving in a car without a roof rack, we used the Keeper straps to great success. The straps held a full water jug to the roof of our Honda for a few dozen miles through the backroads of Arizona with no issues. Other Wirecutter staffers have owned Keeper straps for years and vouch for their overall strength and durability.

NRS 1″ HD Tie-Down Straps

The best cam straps.

Simpler and cheaper than ratchet straps, these straps have above-average strength ratings.

If you prefer the simplicity of a cam strap or don’t need the extra force that a ratchet strap provides, we like the NRS 1″ HD Tie-Down Straps , which come in a variety of lengths. They’re pricier than more popular options, but their webbing is rated to a 1,500-pound breaking strength (the cam itself has a 2,000-pound breaking strength) and a 500-pound working load, in contrast with the 600-pound breaking strength and 200-pound working load of this best-selling Keeper set . Equipment of this grade may seem like overkill, but Wirecutter’s Mark Smirniotis had several weaker cams fail on him when he was strapping loads to his Jeep. He noted in 2016 that of all the straps on Amazon with more than 25 customer reviews, the NRS straps were the only ones that had no reviews complaining of failed cams. NRS is primarily known as the premier kayaking- and rafting-accessory company, so the folks there probably know something about strapping awkwardly large loads onto cars.

Thule Quick Loop Strap 530

For smaller cars.

This strap offers a quick way to add load-stabilizing anchor points to a small car.

For owners of compact cars who want to move long or oversize loads, such as a kayak, we also like the Thule Quick Loop Strap . You secure these straps under the hood of your car (or the trunk, if you don’t have a hatchback) to create a set of forward anchor points to help stabilize the forward section of whatever it is you’re carrying. Judging from our testing, these straps are very quick to set up, and they can add a welcome level of versatility to tough packing situations.

Always check the maximum load of your car’s anchor points, such as the roof rack. Ratchet straps can apply a lot of force beyond just the weight of your belongings, so knowing your maximum load will help you avoid over-tensioning the straps.
If the straps vibrate against the roof while you drive, adding a few twists in them can sometimes stop them from slicing the air.
Don’t put knots in your straps, especially if you’re applying tension. Knots can cut through nylon with surprisingly little force. A knot also significantly reduces the overall load that the strap can handle.
Never use bungee cords to hold anything down. They’re fine for stabilizing items but not for securing heavy loads.

Driving can be fun, meditative, exhausting, and torturous. After five hours of driving through the desert, it can sometimes be all of those things at the same time.

A thousand little gadgets promise to make a long drive somehow easier. Most of them are useless and seemingly designed to distract you more than anything else. Try to avoid these items. The best gear is durable, unobtrusive, and easy to use—so you can keep your eyes (and your thoughts) on the road.

You will get bored—500 miles on cruise control with an automatic transmission can be a pretty dull time. Not always, of course, but sometimes it will be boring, and maybe that’s the point. In this frenetic age, that feeling is practically a luxury, and it’s essential to the trip. Revel in it.

A bunch of small roadtrip items placed on top of the dashboard of a parked car, including a case for sunglasses and a GPS system.

It would be impossible for us to pick the best overall sunglasses, since your choice ultimately depends on your personal style. We have picks for cheap sunglasses in a separate guide. But driving sunglasses are different because they’re designed to help you perform a specific task: driving safely. In that regard, Maui Jim makes the best sunglasses around, though they are something of an investment.

The best sunglasses

These are the clearest driving sunglasses we’ve found, with no perceptible distortion.

We compared a Maui Jim pair with more than 20 types of sunglasses, driving or otherwise, and found this pair to be the best of the bunch. The Maui Jim sunglasses had the clearest lenses, with no perceptible distortion, on the lightest frames we tested (0.6 ounce, or about half the weight of a wooden pencil). I’ve never encountered sunglasses that I can wear for hours on end without somehow hurting my nose, ears, or both. But during my trip there were a few afternoons when I had completely forgotten I was even wearing the Maui Jim sunglasses—despite five-plus hours of driving with them on.

The clarity of the lenses was another surprise. The Maui Jim lenses are so clear that it’s borderline unsettling the first time you try on these sunglasses. Thanks to the lenses’ exceptional clarity and polarization, everything—including the scenery around you and the road ahead—looks sharper through them.

A person reading an atlas while sitting on a car.

As far as specific model recommendations go, I suggest scanning the offerings on the Maui Jim website and reading the fit descriptions to find something that matches your aesthetic sensibilities. Unlike companies that go by lens size only, Maui Jim lists face shape as part of its fit guidelines. That means you’re more likely to find what’s most comfortable for you on your first try. Just keep in mind that bigger lenses tend to be better because they offer more coverage.

Maui Jim glasses come with a two-year warranty . After checking with the company, we confirmed that it fulfills warranties on its sunglasses no matter where you buy them. However, Maui Jim services only authentic lenses and frames that haven’t been modified in any way. You can tell whether the pair you have is genuine (and not a knockoff) by confirming that the Maui Jim logo is etched, not just painted onto the lens.

Smartphone mount

In an ideal world, people wouldn’t use a phone at all while driving, and if you have a copilot, you shouldn’t have to—you can delegate the phone-related tasks to them. But in reality, for many drivers, a phone is the source for navigation, information, messages, music, and (of course) phone calls. However, if you hold the phone in your hand as you drive—or look down at it in a cup holder or center-console bin—it can be a major distraction and safety risk. That’s why we recommend using a smartphone mount.

iOttie iTap Magnetic 2

The best dash- or windshield-mounted smartphone mount.

Whether it’s on a dashboard or windshield, this model is easy to set up, grips securely, and has a strong magnetic mount that supports most phones in any position.

iOttie iTap Magnetic 2 Air Vent Mount

The best vent-mounted smartphone mount.

This model is easy to set up and remove, and it has the same strong magnetic mount as the dash version. It securely held on to our cars’ vent slats.

iOttie iTap Magnetic 2 CD Slot Mount

The best cd-slot-mounted smartphone mount.

This mount attached quickly and firmly to our cars’ CD slots and has the same magnetic mount as the other iTap Magnetic 2 versions.

I enjoy the simplicity of my phone with no accessories, so I like that the iOttie iTap Magnetic 2 mounts offer an attractively easy way to mount and unmount my phone with one hand. In our tests , the magnets in all three versions— dash/windshield , vent , and CD slot —were strong, supporting most of our phones vertically and horizontally over even the roughest terrain. Only the large, 6.5-inch iPhone XS Max gave them some trouble when they held it horizontally; the mounts were solid with a 6-inch Google Pixel 2 XL.

To use the magnetic mount, you have to attach a small metal plate to the back of your phone or to the case. Doing so is safe for your phone, and we found this detail to be small, subtle, and attractive enough that we didn’t mind it. Often you can hide it entirely by attaching the plate to the inside of a phone’s case. But the plate could interfere with your ability to wirelessly charge your phone; if you want to be able to continue to use that function, consider the following options from our guide to wireless charging phone mounts .

iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2 Dash & Windshield Mount

Best mount for charging a smartphone on a dash or windshield.

This model delivered some of the quickest charging speeds and earned top results for stability. It lets you easily mount and unmount your phone, too.

iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2 Air Vent & CD Slot Mount

Best mount for charging a smartphone on a car’s air vent or cd slot.

This is the sturdiest vent-mounted model we tested, with fast charging speeds, a firm grip, and a quick way to attach and remove your phone.

The iOttie Easy One Touch Wireless 2—available as a dash and windshield mount or a vent and CD player mount —offers a convenient way to charge your phone in the car while also giving you easy access to audio controls, directions, messages, and more. In our tests , both models ranked among the quickest at charging our phones. Their spring-loaded tension arms made attaching or removing a phone of any size simple, and they held the phone steady while we drove. Both models offer a wide range of adjustability for positioning your phone where you can readily see it, regardless of the vehicle. iOttie also offers a magnetic mount (for vent use) that’s compatible with wireless charging.

Rain-repellent coatings

Rain and snow add stress to a road trip, and they decrease your visibility and your reaction time in an emergency. Along with wipers, rain-repellent windshield coatings can help keep your windshield clear. If you want the most effective rain repellent, pick up the classic Rain-X spray bottle and commit to applying it once a month. If you simply want to give your windshield a boost, Aquapel is almost as effective and can last six times longer between applications—but it is very expensive.

Rain-X Original Glass Water Repellent

Cheap but short-lived repellent.

This affordable hydrophobic spray offers effective protection, but it wears off after a couple of weeks.

Most auto-supply shops offer a huge variety of Rain-X products, including wiper blades, gels, and washer-fluid additives, but you should stick to the original Rain-X formula in the 16-ounce spray bottle because it has the most reliably positive reviews from buyers. Once applied, Rain-X forms a hydrophobic coating , which causes water to bead up and quickly slide off your windshield. Most people who have used Rain-X agree that maintaining its effectiveness requires reapplication about once a month. If your wiper blades start “chattering,” that probably means the coating is beginning to wear unevenly, and it’s time to reapply.

Aquapel Glass Treatment

Long-lasting but pricey repellent.

Aquapel bonds to your windshield for up to half a year, but it costs more than twice as much as Rain-X.

If you can’t commit to applying Rain-X once a month, consider Aquapel . Instead of coating your windshield, it bonds to the glass chemically , and it should last for three to six months before you need to pull out another one-time-use sponge and reapply. YouTube user jwardell posted a 30-day comparison video that shows how Rain-X is more effective initially, but after a month Aquapel still works even after the Rain-X has all but worn off.

For either repellent, proper application is the key to getting the maximum benefit. You need to start with an extremely clean windshield. Then clean it again just to be sure. Both of these repellents dry best in warm weather, out of direct sun. Even when perfectly applied, however, these substances have potential drawbacks. Some people who have used them complain that the repellents cause noticeable haziness at night. Others report that they had trouble getting windshield chips professionally filled after learning that the chemicals interfered with repair methods—though Aquapel’s site disputes such claims. Still, if you’re stuck in inclement weather on a road trip or a commute, either the original Rain-X spray or Aquapel can help increase visibility and decrease your stress levels.

Ice scraper and snow brush

Hopkins SubZero 80037

The best ice scraper and snow brush.

Efficient at clearing ice and sweeping snow, this scraper works on vehicles of all sizes.

The Hopkins SubZero 80037 tool combines a scraping blade and ice-crushing teeth to make quick work of thick or thin ice, and its plow-like bristle broom is the best we’ve tested —equally adept at shoveling snow off body panels and brushing it out from tight spots around mirrors and wipers. The Hopkins SubZero has a self-locking extension that’s easy to use when you want to fold the scraper away to make room in the trunk of your car. It’s of average size—39 inches folded up and 60 inches fully extended. But no other contender offers such a complete scraping-and-sweeping package with so few weaknesses.

Paper road atlas

Rand McNally Road Atlas

The best road atlas.

This atlas is large enough to use while you’re in motion, with a logical, straightforward layout.

With the advent of GPS units and smartphone navigation apps (both of which we recommend over the onboard navigation systems that might come with a car), the age of the paper road atlas would seem to be over. But don’t let anyone convince you of that. A road atlas is the heart of every road trip. It’s the inspiration.

Planning a road trip starts with imagining the places you could be next weekend, if you threw a few granola bars and some clothes into the backseat and left everything else behind. Of course, you could bring up Google Maps, look up the top 10 travel destinations near you, plan your exact route, and save a PDF to your digital device so you’d know exactly where to go and how to get there at each stage of your trip.

A person's hands shown tracing a route on a paper road atlas.

Or you could pull out a physical map and highlight a route. You might not know exactly what to expect when you get there, but you’ll definitely know that you can get there. And regardless of electronic-device failures, you will always have a map in hand.

For use in the car, we like the classic Rand McNally Road Atlas —just make sure to get an updated edition. Its oversize shape makes it simple to read and easy to spread out on the hood or in your lap, and the user-friendly design can’t be beat. This atlas’s arrangement of state and keyhole maps is the best for navigation.

As a test, we used the Rand McNally atlas to complete the first leg of our trip, from Ventura to Joshua Tree, California, with no phones and no GPS, on roads we had never driven before. The Rand McNally atlas was simple, functional, and easy to follow. Most important, it was fun to use.

We did read one complaint from somebody who began using that year’s map early: Some of the roads it listed as passable were still mid-construction at the time. If you’re buying a map in the middle of the year or later, you could play it safe and stick with the current year’s edition.

Garmin DriveSmart 55

The best car gps.

Best-in-class directions, driver alerts, points of interest, and free map updates—combined with the best screen we’ve seen on any GPS unit—set this model apart from the pack.

For most shorter trips, a smartphone can provide all the navigation assistance you need. But should your journey take you off the beaten path (and out of your coverage area), we suggest the Garmin DriveSmart 55 . Like the best GPS units, the DriveSmart 55 can also connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth, which lets you send destinations to the device, get incoming messages on screen, and receive extra trip and traffic info. The DriveSmart 55’s extensive points-of-interest database helps guide you to an area’s best sites and businesses through integrated Tripadvisor ratings, Foursquare listings, a database of sites from the History network, and US national park directories (something that other brands’ models don’t offer). Similar to a smartphone, the DriveSmart 55 allows multi-touch gestures, such as pinching or spreading for easier zooming on a map; this feature is a clear step up from the resistive displays of less-expensive units, which allow only single-finger gestures and require you to tap on the plus and minus buttons to zoom in or out.

A GPS device attached to a car's windshield, showing a navigation screen with traffic information.

The DriveSmart 55 also provides helpful traffic info in many metro areas. It responds to voice commands as effectively as the best GPS units, and like other top models it includes free lifetime map updates—in contrast with the pricey updates you need to buy for many cars’ built-in navigation systems.

Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes

The best body wipes.

Not quite a shower but pretty darn close, these wipes are amazing after a sweaty day in the desert.

Road-trip and backpacking veterans know just how much better a shower can make an adventure after three days and a lot of smelly clothes. When taking a shower is not an option, or even if you just want to tidy up a bit after a long drive, body wipes can provide some much-needed relief.

We considered 22 brands and tested nine different body wipes, including some that were popular on Amazon and others that were recommended on the blogs of seasoned outdoorspeople.

A person opening a pack of Wilderness Wipes.

Cheap, portable, and durable, the Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes were the clear winners.

The wipes come in a resealable package, which helps keep them fresher for longer. You can find them in two sizes, XL (8 by 12 inches, in a pack of eight) and Compact (6 by 8 inches, in a pack of 12). On our trip, we preferred the XL wipes for their extra coverage and longer cleaning power. The fully compostable Wilderness Wipes were among the most lightly scented ones we tested, and their lack of alcohol left our skin feeling clean and moist.

Surface wipes

Clorox Disinfecting Wipes

The best disinfecting wipes.

Effective, EPA-approved, and (usually) easy to find, these pre-soaked wipes need only four minutes of contact time to neutralize the coronavirus—and they’ll kill other nasty bugs you might come across in your travels, too.

Most disinfecting wipes are the same. Although we recommend Clorox Disinfecting Wipes , we advise getting any pack of wipes you can find that contains a disinfectant on the EPA’s List N (most have a bleach or quaternary ammonium base). Clorox’s bleach-free wipes are usually sold in single canisters or in four-packs at a range of retailers. These wipes can eliminate the coronavirus and other pathogens on hard surfaces—countertops, door handles, and bathroom fixtures—in your home, vehicle, or motel room, but not on fabric or other soft materials.

Surface spray

Lysol Disinfectant Spray

The best disinfectant spray.

This aerosol works in 10 minutes and is fabric-safe, but it’s guaranteed to eliminate the coronavirus and other pathogens only on hard surfaces.

Instead of bleach, which can damage car interiors, Lysol Disinfectant Spray uses quaternary ammonium. It’s safe on hard surfaces and most fabrics, and it’s gentler on skin than bleach. It also produces fewer harsh fumes—which is good if you’re disinfecting the same space frequently. The spray eliminates the coronavirus, for instance, on hard surfaces in 10 minutes, but on soft surfaces it only sanitizes (kills most but not all pathogens).

One thing we’ve learned in the past few years is that face masks can be useful whenever you’re sick (with COVID-19, a cold, the flu, whatever) and don’t want to share your misery with fellow passengers, people at rest stops, or anyone else. Fortunately, compared with the situation in early 2020, medical-style N95 and KN95 masks (which many experts recommend as the best protection) are widely available these days. They’re easy to tuck into a bag, which we do now whenever we travel. You can find out where to buy these masks in our guide .

Stain remover

Shout Wipe & Go Instant Stain Remover Wipes

The best stain remover.

By keeping a pack of these in your glove box, you’ll remain tidy through multiple meals at drive-throughs.

In our testing, we’ve found that if you spend five hours a day in the car on a drive-through-fueled cannonball run, there’s no way you’ll get to your final destination without having some kind of condiments disaster. I met my own inevitable conclusion outside an In-N-Out Burger on the last leg of our trip.

When the unavoidable happens, you’ll need something more than a napkin and ice water to clean up the mess. We recommend Shout Wipe & Go Instant Stain Remover Wipes . We tested them against other instant spot removers and assorted DIY methods to see how they handled wine, coffee, lipstick, and mustard stains.

In our tests, the Shout wipes easily outperformed the popular Tide To Go pen , and the Shout option was the only stain remover that erased almost all traces of lipstick on the collar of a shirt. These wipes also did pretty well on the ketchup I spilled.

A person wiping a ketchup stain off of their white shirt.

The single-use towelettes don’t occupy much space; you can throw a dozen into your glove compartment and barely notice they’re there. Plus, by using a single wipe per stain, you don’t risk depositing an old stain on another piece of clothing, as you might with reusable stain-remover sticks.

Hand lotion

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion

The best moisturizing lotion.

Once it’s rubbed in, this moisturizing lotion is lighter and drier-feeling than competitors. It’s better for people with normal to oily skin.

You might find yourself washing your hands a lot on the road, which can result in cracked and dry skin. Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion is thick enough to stay neat in your hand and thin enough to spread quickly and smoothly onto your skin. Unlike its competitors , this moisturizing lotion dries nicely without leaving a greasy film in its wake. And its neutral scent won’t follow you out of the bathroom or into your car.

Can a long road trip be comfortable? I didn’t think so: Long hours of sitting in one position, nights spent camping or sleeping in cheap motel beds, and breaks for indigestible fast food are a terrible combination. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

With a little planning and a few small luxuries, you can keep the enthusiasm of your trip alive. Skip the fast food and instead pack your own snacks and water. Keep off the main highways and pull over when the scenery strikes you (not when you’ve gone a certain number of miles). And stop for as long as you need. The cliché is unavoidable: It’s the journey that’s important, not the destination (though that should be good too!).

A person leaning against the back of a Honda hatchback.

Folding blanket

Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket

Comfortable and easy to carry.

Our favorite picnic blanket travels easily, feels comfortable to sit on, and holds up to wear and tear.

There’s only so much time you can spend in a car without needing to pull over to pause, stretch your legs, and take in the scenery. We stopped dozens of times on our trip, and we were glad every time we were able to take a side road, pull out a blanket, and find a place to sit down and share some food.

A rolled-up Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket.

In 2023, Nemo enlarged the Victory Blanket, which previously fit just two people, to fit four people. At roughly 95 by 95 inches, according to our measurements, the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket is now bigger than most blankets we looked at; it’s well suited for larger groups of people or for two people who want room for more board games and snacks. For those who need even more space, the Victory Blanket is also available in a truly mammoth extra-large version (120 by 120 inches). Both sizes come with two adjustable, clasping straps that keep the blanket rolled up tight, and those clasps can perform double duty as bottle openers.

Travel pillow

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow Cinch

The best travel pillow.

The redesigned-for-2022 Therm-A-Rest pillow remains a firm and supportive choice that packs down to 50% of its expanded size. It now has a sewn-in cable that you can cinch down to make the pillow firmer.

price may vary by color or size

A good travel pillow is hard to find. It shouldn’t take up much space, and it should be able to expand when it needs to. And, ideally, it should allow you to shape it for use as a shoulder or neck pillow when necessary, such as when you’re on a plane or in the passenger seat of a car.

We found that the foam-filled Therm-A-Rest Compressible Pillow Cinch fit all of those criteria exceedingly well. During the day, it can fold in on itself (a loop-and-toggle closure holds it tight), which makes it easy to stow in a backpack or to toss into the backseat. When it’s in this tightly packed configuration, you can also use it as a shoulder and lumbar pillow. The Therm-A-Rest pillow is a bit larger than your typical travel pillow when it’s packed down—about the size of a tissue box—but saving space is less of a priority when you’re driving instead of flying.

A person shown with a red Therm-a-Rest pillow in their lap.

At night, the pillow unrolls and expands into a decent bed pillow, though side-sleepers with larger frames may say it has too little padding. But this is a travel pillow, of course, so it will never feel like your home pillow, which is all part of the fun somehow. I sleep on my side and back, and I found it exceptionally comfortable compared with camping pillows I’d used in the past, although I did have to supplement it with a flannel shirt when I wanted to sleep on my side. In spring 2022, Therm-A-Rest released a slightly redesigned version of the pillow. The “regular” version is roughly the same size and weight as the old “medium” version, but the integrated pocket is now larger (9 inches deep instead of 6), which we found makes the pillow easier to roll up. The pillow also has a cord sewn in a loop into its back; you can tighten the cord and cinch it securely to make the pillow firmer. One other change: A thin layer of polyfill backs the brushed polyester fabric on its face and softens the lumpiness of the foam filling.

The Therm-A-Rest pillow is well reviewed on Amazon and on REI’s site. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes, but we prefer the regular/medium for its mix of portability and support.

Silk sleeper wrap

Sea to Summit Premium Silk Travel Liner

The best sleeping bag liner.

This liner is a lightweight, moisture-wicking, easy-packing fix for scratchy motel sheets.

Not all motels are created equal. Some are fantastic, with their bright neon signs truthfully advertising a cheap, clean, and convenient place to stay. But out there you can stumble across other motels—desperate, last-chance places you wouldn’t wish on anyone, and cursed by all of the bleary-eyed travelers who’ve been forced to stay in them for a night.

The Highlander Motel in Arizona, shown at night.

Sea to Summit’s Premium Silk Travel Liner is the best accessory to bring along for these situations. Inclement weather, unexpected traffic, or poor planning (my personal downfall) may at some point prevent you from reaching your expected destination for the night and force you to stay somewhere you wish you didn’t have to. We can’t help you accept your fate, but we can make that night just a little easier to tolerate.

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

The best sleep mask.

Lightweight and contoured, this mask fits comfortably and blocks light well for a wide variety of face shapes (though it’s best for those who sleep on their back). And the mask’s deep eyecups allow your eyes to flutter during sleep.

Not every bedroom on the road is as dark as some people would like. That’s why we recommend the Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask . Its contoured eyecups rest over your eyes, giving them space to move, which makes this mask comfortable to sleep in—even when you’re sitting upright (as you might in the passenger side of a car). Although the mask is adjustable, with Velcro straps, restless sleepers may want to consider other options in our full guide to sleep masks . If the Nidra mask fits you well, its weightless feel can make you forget you’re wearing a mask at all as you continue to sleep in bright cars or poorly shuttered hotel rooms.

Puffy blanket

Rumpl Down Puffy

The best outdoor blanket.

This blanket offers the greatest warmth and durability for the lowest relative weight, price, and size. It also stuffs away very well when not in use.

The Rumpl Down Puffy blanket, which has a soft yet durable nylon shell that’s stuffed with water-repellent and sustainably sourced down, wards off the cold better for the price than the competition. It helps you to stay warm longer, inside or outside. (A puffy blanket has come in handy for us especially on winter road trips in an EV, when we don’t have the heat of a combustion engine warming the interior of the vehicle.) So far in our testing , the Rumpl blanket has survived four rounds in the washing machine without a snag, and it dries within an hour. And it’s been notably stain resistant after encountering dirt, dew, and even coffee.

Van camping mattress

Hest Sleep System

The best vehicle camping mattress.

Predominantly for van camping or long-term car camping, this blowup mattress takes up a hefty amount of space when stowed away but provides the most comfort of any camping mattress we’ve tested.

Although the size of the Hest Sleep System limits its use to either vans or pickup trucks, we’re including it on this list because of its impressive night-over-night comfort. If your road trips tend to include lots of outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, or climbing, a good night’s sleep is fundamental to having the energy you need to enjoy your days. The Hest mattress takes up about the space of a small cot mattress (78 by 25 inches). Half consists of a dense foam layer, and the other half is a high-pressure inflatable base that needs a pump system to inflate. The Hest mattress is not a small piece of kit when rolled up: It weighs 26 pounds and packs up into a 28-by-16-inch bedroll, including the air pump. If two of you are camping, you can connect two Sleep Systems together, though Hest also makes the Dually two-person foam mattress, which we haven’t had a chance to test yet.

Tinkle Belle Female Urination Device

The best pee funnel.

Sturdy and accommodating yet packable, the Tinkle Belle funnel is easy to use and clean when you’re on the road or hiking a trail.

It’s not always easy to find a secluded spot on the side of the road or a clean-enough public restroom. The Tinkle Belle funnel has a stable, rigid base and a flexible spout, so it won’t collapse under you during use, as Wirecutter senior staff writer Nancy Redd learned while researching the topic. One of the longest and widest of all the single-piece reusable funnels Nancy tested , the Tinkle Belle funnel makes less mess and is easy to use, as the more coverage a funnel has, the lower the risk of leakage or spills. While you’re on the road, a simple rinse works fine for cleaning the funnel. Although the Tinkle Belle funnel is larger than most, it folds up for more-compact storage. You can also buy it with a matching case .

Windshield protector and sunshade

A1 210T Fabric Sunshade

The best windshield shade.

This shade provides effective sun protection and fits a wide variety of windshields. It’s easy to store, too.

If you’re traveling through a sunny area, a sunshade for your windshield is a worthwhile investment. We like the A1 Windshield Sun Shade , which we found to offer the best combination of low cost, decent coverage, and ease of setup. Its pop-up design made it much simpler to install and stow than the accordion-style shades we tested.

Recommending just one sunshade for all cars is difficult because vehicles vary so much in size. But A1 offers several sizing options ranging from 59 by 19 inches to 69 by 36 inches (when the shade is fully expanded). You can compress each of these size options down to fit into a circular carrying case, which you can easily store on the door or underneath the seat. When you take the A1 sunshade out of the case, the compressed plastic arcs inside the sunshade spring open to create a rectangular shape, which you can adjust to fit your car’s windshield. Amazon reviewers mention that the build quality is solid and that the metallic finish does a good job against the sun, particularly in hot Southern states like Florida and Texas. Several reviewers also recommend , however, that you buy a size smaller than you think you need to avoid excessive overhang.

A person outside a car, unfolding an accordion-style windshield sunshade.

Although we prefer the A1 shade’s pop-up design, it’s not completely foolproof. Even with the choice in sizes, you still might have difficulty arranging the two plastic circles (which provide rigidity) within the A1 shade into a shape that hugs both edges of the front window and balances off the rearview mirror. Gaps, loose corners, or overhangs are almost unavoidable. In the end, what you gain in compactness and decent price, you lose in rigidity and reflective power. If you’re uncertain, measure before buying, or look into a custom shade like the WeatherTech shade described below, which is guaranteed to fit.

WeatherTech SunShade

A custom-fitted, maximum-protection shade.

This custom-fitted shade will ensure that no sun gets in, even in the sunniest climates.

If maximum temperature reduction is your goal, invest in a custom-fitted WeatherTech SunShade . Thicker than the A1 shade, WeatherTech’s shade completely blacks out the windshield when you install it. This shade is also notably bulky—about the size of a yoga mat when rolled up—and difficult to store discreetly. But if you frequent sunny climates, it’s well worth the cost, which at this writing starts at $55.

Passenger window UV protector and shade

Britax EZ-Cling Window Shades

The best passenger shade.

This shade sticks easily to car windows and provides great sun protection for passengers.

We researched 14 shade models and tested two finalists before determining that the Britax EZ-Cling Window Sun Shade is the best around. Available in a pack of two, it’s dead simple to install, and it’s effective. The Mylar on the back provides some protection against UV rays, and it acts like a large sheet of cling film that seems drawn to your windows once you pull the shades out of the box; the black mesh on the inner surface blocks a good amount of sunlight while still allowing you to see through the shade. We like the EZ-Cling shade better than film-only shades because the EZ-Cling design has a support ring of firmer material around its perimeter that makes it easier to install without prompting wrinkles and bubbles. I have way more fun than I rightly should when I’m putting these things onto car windows.

Unlike similar models with suction cups, the EZ-Cling shade doesn’t have any secondary or removable parts. Wirecutter’s Dan Frakes tried four other shades of various types and was dissatisfied with all of them, so he brought two EZ-Cling pairs for testing on a four-day road trip with his family. “They clung to the windows well,” Dan said. “They were a lot easier to install than both the suction-cup models and the flimsy film ones we’ve tried. We also removed them and reapplied them many times as our position relative to the sun changed, and it was easy to do so. Our only real complaint is that they’re small—they don’t cover an entire backseat window.” That kind of half-coverage can’t keep the sun off young children for too long, especially when the sun is low on the horizon.

Quick tip: Be sure to wipe your EZ-Cling shades with water when you first get them. A thin film protects the Mylar sheets during production, and it can leave a waxy residue on your car’s windows if you use the shades right out of the box without first wiping them down.

Portable extending shade

Shade extension

This extending shade attaches to a variety of vehicles, whether you have a roof rack or not, and whether you attach it to metal or a composite material such as a pickup-truck bed cover.

Although the MoonShade works best on SUVs and trucks, it’s lightweight and adaptable enough to work with smaller vehicles. When deployed, the MoonShade covers 9 by 7 feet, and its height adjusts from 78 inches to 96 inches. The shade mounts in three ways: directly to a roof rack, with very strong magnets, or with surprisingly robust suction cups for composite materials. We found that all three methods are secure enough for most situations, though as you might imagine, the suction cups are somewhat less stable than a direct mount on a rack. The MoonShade weighs 8 pounds and stows away into a carrying case that measures 28 by 6 inches, which is small enough to fit in the trunk of most cars. The MoonShade is great if you like to pull over in the middle of the day and set up a lunch, or if you tend to do activities outdoors in predominantly shadeless areas, as in the Southwest.

You could cross America with no plan at all and survive solely on fast food as your nourishment, without ever having to leave your car. But we don’t recommend that. Packing your own snacks and bringing your own water is not only healthier but also safer—you never know when you might be stranded somewhere along the way.

We got stranded on our second day of driving, somewhere east of Joshua Tree, California, when we pulled off the side of the road onto a soft, sandy shoulder (we were new in this part of the country). The car’s dash thermometer read 105 degrees Fahrenheit. As we waited, I was thankful that we had full water bottles, more water in the trunk, and plenty of food.

A highway patrol officer drove up, gave us a little lesson about sand, and pushed us out with no trouble. So things turned out fine. The beauty of a road trip is in the unexpected moments. You can be prepared for most of them by having a little food and water on hand.

A person standing with their arms out and their back facing the camera, while looking out at a scenic landscape.

RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 20 Can

Best soft cooler.

This simple lunch-box-style cooler is insulated with thick closed-cell foam and made from a durable coated nylon.

Capable of carrying everything from healthy snacks to emergency ice packs, a cooler is one of those items that can make long trips a lot more enjoyable. After several 500-mile days on the road, having a chilled container filled with cold drinks and body wipes is a gift. We recommend bringing along our favorite soft cooler , the RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 20 Can .

A red and gray RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 20 Can.

The lid of the RTIC cooler is capped by more than 2 inches of closed-cell insulation , and its walls are a touch thicker than those of the far more expensive Yeti Hopper Flip. When we tested them head-to-head, all that extra insulation seemed to give the RTIC cooler an insulating edge. The exterior of the RTIC cooler is made of a durable, thickly coated nylon—waterproof and tough—and the zippers are waterproof, as well. Still, don’t leave the cooler out in the sun, as the light and heat can degrade the material and slowly wear it out.

When the RTIC cooler is open, it stands erect like a grocery bag, providing easy access for loading and unloading.

Coleman 70-Quart Xtreme 5 Marine Hard Ice Chest Cooler

Our hard-cooler pick.

Better insulated and less expensive than the competition, this cooler keeps ice for a week. And its well-designed drain port makes it easier to clean.

If you need extra insulation for longer hauls and don’t mind sacrificing a little extra space, we recommend the Coleman 70-Quart Xtreme 5 Marine Hard Ice Chest Cooler . Our testing shows that a hard cooler will almost always outperform a soft cooler in insulating ability (five-plus days, versus a soft cooler’s two-day average) and durability. So the hard cooler is a great pick for RVs, trailers, or boats. But hard coolers are huge, so you might not have room for one if you’re carrying a bunch of other equipment.

A person looking out at a rocky landscape.

Water bottles

CamelBak Eddy+ (25 ounces)

Great for the car.

A bottle with a straw is the easiest way to quaff water and keep your focus on the road since you don’t have to tilt your head back while drinking.

The 25-ounce CamelBak Eddy+ is the most reliable, most versatile water bottle for road trips that we found. This bottle has an integrated straw in the lid that features a plastic bite valve to keep it sealed (something that anyone who has owned a CamelBak hydration pack will be familiar with). Just bite down to open the straw, and release to seal it shut. That leak-free lid makes this bottle an ideal driving companion—it fits in a cup holder and is easy to sip from while you’re keeping your eyes on the road. The straw lid twists off to reveal a wide mouth that makes adding ice to your drink easy, which is handy if you like to keep your water cold. However, this is a plastic bottle, so adding ice could also make it sweaty; if you want to avoid that, the insulated version should prevent moisture from accumulating on the outside of the bottle.

A large, vintage, metal tank with a Route 66 sign painted on it.

Contigo Autoseal Transit Mug

The best mug for road trips.

Contigo’s Autoseal Transit is a wider mug that may fit better in cup holders than our top travel-mug pick. It doesn’t retain heat as well as our top pick, but some people may find its flat lid easier to drink from and to clean.

The Contigo Autoseal Transit Mug is a very different mug from the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug—our top pick for travel mugs —but it offers several features we like for road trips. The lid has fewer parts, is easier to clean, and prevents spills with its Autoseal button, which you have to hold down to keep the sipping port open. Plus, the flat lid won’t bump your nose or get in your line of sight while you’re drinking, as can happen with the Zojirushi model’s flip-top lid. Although this Contigo mug doesn’t keep drinks nearly as hot as the Zojirushi mug over a long period of time, some people might prefer that (we’ve heard complaints of the Zojirushi model keeping drinks too hot in the past). In addition, the Transit is a little wider than the Zojirushi mug, which is good if you want your mug to fit more snugly in a car cup holder or if you use a device such as an AeroPress, a pour-over dripper, or a tea steeper directly with your mug.

Edward Abbey wrote an entire book about being alone in the desert , long before portable screens, streaming music, and the best and worst of what instant entertainment can bring. He saw incredible things. But then again, Abbey wrote that book before he had kids.

Being in close proximity on a road trip can bond families and friends. Of course, a packed car could also become a pressure cooker. Some games, toys, and electronics can provide welcome relief.

Even more important, on our trip, every 100 miles the scenery around us changed drastically, and being able to charge our cameras allowed us to capture some wonderful personal moments.

A rural road through a landscape of red rocks.

Bestek 300W Power Inverter

The best inverter for simple devices.

More-sensitive gadgets may not function correctly while using this DC-to-AC converter, but a smoother converter costs $100-plus.

Lots of newer cars have USB ports capable of charging plenty of smaller gadgets. But to plug in bigger items, such as a computer, or certain items that have larger batteries, you need an inverter to transform your car’s round-plug, 12-volt direct current (12 V DC) outlet into a three-prong outlet with the same 120-volt alternating current (120 V AC) you have in your home. After sending our three favorites, culled from a list of 18 top-rated inverters, to physicist Jim Shapiro for testing, we recommend the Bestek 300W Power Inverter for simple devices such as water boilers. Not all inverters are equal, however, and you need to know what you’ll want to plug in before deciding which one to buy.

The Bestek unit—like every inverter that sells for less than $100—creates AC power, but in what’s called a “modified” sine wave. Shapiro examined this phenomenon using an oscilloscope. “Although the Bestek and similar units produce voltage at the same 60-hertz frequency as house voltage, the waveform has sharp corners, unlike the smooth, curvy sine-wave signal from your local power company,” Shapiro explained. “Those sharp corners give rise to higher frequency harmonics that are not friendly to electronic devices.”

A graph showing the difference between a pure sine wave and a modified sine wave.

However, because many electronics, including laptop computers, use power supplies to convert AC back into DC before delivering the power to your device, a higher-quality power supply can make the arrangement work—as owner reviews attest. Shapiro was able to charge an iPad without any problems via the AC outlets on the inexpensive Bestek inverter. Charging a Dell Chromebook, on the other hand, caused some problems: “The screen flickered, and I noted that when I asked the computer to display the charging time left, it oscillated between giving that time and ‘calculating,’ indicating that the software was having problems.”

While we were on the road, we realized that the Bestek inverter’s dual USB ports and dual outlets offered a nice benefit, particularly for people traveling in an older car that didn’t have USB ports built in everywhere. You shouldn’t have issues charging USB devices because they charge on DC voltage anyway. And though you can’t see the inverter’s safety features, such as over-voltage and low-voltage shutdown, they’re included as well.

For powering a TV (for tailgating) or any other demanding piece of electronics during a road trip, we used to recommend the Go Power GP-SW150-12 Pure Sine Wave Inverter. It now appears to be out of stock almost everywhere (or discontinued). As an alternative, we recommend looking into a portable power station , which is basically a large battery in a protective box, with AC outlets and other ports built in. They tend to be expensive, so for road-trip purposes we recommend our budget pick, the Jackery Explorer 300 . If you need to power only a laptop during your trip, we have several recommendations for portable laptop chargers . Note that portable power stations and laptop chargers both charge on wall outlets and can’t draw power from a car outlet.

Nekteck PD 45W Type-C Car Charger

The best car charger.

This model can charge phones, tablets, and computers from its USB-C port, plus it has a second port for charging USB-A devices. It adheres to USB-C fast-charging standards and includes a quality cable.

If your electronic gear doesn’t require AC—for instance, you’re charging smartphones or Bluetooth speakers more than laptops or portable TVs—you can save a few bucks and a lot of space by getting a car charger . Compared with the familiar USB-A port, the smaller USB-C port can charge most modern phones faster (if you’re using the right cable) and can even charge tablets and laptops. And the Nekteck PD 45W Type-C Car Charger provides the best of both worlds. When you’re using a USB-C–to–Lightning cable , the charger’s USB-C port can charge an iPhone about three times faster (at 18 watts) than the USB-A wall charger that comes in the box from Apple; your phone can charge from empty to roughly 50% in just half an hour. This Nekteck charger’s 45-watt output and included USB-C–to–C cable also support the maximum charge rate on Android phones (such as the Samsung Galaxy S10), the 2020 iPad Pro, and even many laptops. And you can use the 12-watt USB-A port at the same time to charge a second phone or other device with any USB cable you already have.

Bluetooth kit

Besign BK01 Bluetooth Car Kit

Best bluetooth adapter for cars with an aux-in jack.

The Besign BK01 kit offers great sound quality for music and good sound quality for phone calls. It also lets you pair two phones and access your voice assistant with the press of an easy-to-find button.

If your car lacks Bluetooth support—which you may want for wirelessly listening to music or connecting your phone calls over the car’s stereo system—and you aren’t willing to swap out the stereo for a new one that has such a feature, your best option is a Bluetooth kit. The best and easiest way to add Bluetooth to cars with a line-in jack is to get an aux kit. The Besign BK01 Bluetooth Car Kit provides good sound quality for music, clear-sounding voice audio for hands-free calls, and access to Siri or Google Assistant at the press of a button. It also allows you to connect two phones at once, so you and your passengers don’t have to duke it out for the aux cord.

A sign showing the distance to Joshua Tree.

iPad headrest mount

Depending on the length of your trip and the temperament of your passengers, you may need to find a way to keep folks occupied. Providing their favorite movies or TV shows on a tablet is an option. After testing six top tablet-mount contenders, we determined that Arkon’s Center Extension Car Headrest Tablet Mount is a great pick for viewing by multiple backseat passengers.

Arkon Center Extension Car Headrest Tablet Mount

For multiple viewers.

This model positions a tablet solidly between the front seats for easy viewing by all backseat passengers.

The Arkon mount anchors with a pair of adjustable clamps that tighten around the metal rods that support a front seat’s headrest; the tablet holster is located on the end of an extendable pole that you can move to a position between the front seats, where all three passengers in the backseat can view it.

We had recommended the LilGadgets CarBuddy Universal Headrest Tablet Mount for people who preferred a mount that’s best for just one backseat passenger. It appears to have been discontinued, but it’s a good find if you can get your hands on one.

Instant camera

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12

The best instant camera.

Fun and simple to use, this camera takes good-looking wallet-sized photos for 60¢ per print.

Fujifilm Instax Mini Film (Twin Pack)

Instax mini film.

Buying Instax Mini film in twin packs helps you get the best price.

With a smartphone, showing a photo to hundreds of followers is as easy as pressing the share button. But if you want to create something tangible, an instant-film camera can add a fun and welcome dose of analog charm to your digital world. Our pick is the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 , which provides high-quality, retro-cool prints at a reasonable price.

Also, when your phone is serving as a radio, a map, a restaurant guide, and whatever else, you’ll appreciate having a dedicated tool that does one thing: take instant shots that look great.

Six instant camera photos from a road trip, shown next to each other.

After doing extensive research , we found the Instax Mini 12 to be the best instant-film camera. Its compact body feels durable, and thanks to its minimal controls, anyone can easily learn how to use it. The 3.4-by-2.1-inch prints cost only about 60¢ apiece , so documenting your trip won’t break the bank. Its photos aren’t perfectly sharp, but they are pleasingly colorful and creamy, with a classic look that we love.

A person holding a Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic instant camera up to their eye to snap a photo of something.

Travel game

Chat Pack: Fun Questions to Spark Conversations

The best silence-breaker.

The questions are not always the most thought-provoking, but they sure can spark a conversation.

You can find countless travel games for all ages, from magnetic chess boards to Adult Mad Libs , and we’re not about to review them all here. (You know what kinds of games you like to play.) So instead we’ll tell you about the game we chose, Chat Pack: Fun Questions to Spark Conversations .

I am, as a rule, generally wary of anything designed to prompt conversation. But by day three of our trip, with 1,100 miles behind us and 400 miles ahead, my then girlfriend (now wife) reached for Chat Pack and told me it was time.

It’s hit or miss with Chat Pack. Some of the questions are oddly inspiring, if clunkily written: “What is one item you own that has virtually no monetary value but has such sentimental value that you would not sell it for $1,000?” So, what item do I have that has no value but remains precious? My grandmother’s wire glove stretchers. And that became an hour-long conversation.

A close-up of a person's hand sifting through cards in the Chat Pack card game.

Some of the questions were abrupt duds: “If rain could fall in any scent, what scent would you want it to be?” “Like rain,” we both answered. Who doesn’t love the smell of fresh rain? The feeling of camaraderie in the car was strong; we agreed that it was a dumb question. We were a young couple on an open road in full accordance with each other, and that’s not a moment you take lightly.

So get a Chat Pack. Your mileage may vary. But this pack helped us pass the time, and it takes up barely any space.

Make time in your trip for the detours. If there’s one bit of non-gear-related advice we can give, it’s that the complicated route always proves to be more interesting. There will be times in the car when a sort of tunnel vision can set in, and the destination becomes all-consuming. At my worst, as I pressed down on the accelerator, I found myself mentally calculating the time saved for every increase in miles per hour—as if the scenery I was flying past wasn’t what I’d come to see in the first place.

The first time we pulled over without a plan was on some Bureau of Land Management stretch east of Zion National Park in Utah. We were alone, on an outcropping overlooking a shallow canyon. Someone had built an impromptu fire pit. But somehow it wasn’t until we finished lunch that we realized there was no point in going any farther.

You can find many ways to plan a trip. But once in a while, take a risk and make a left when all the maps and devices are telling you to go right. You won’t know where you’ll end up—and that’s the whole point.

A scenic view of a river rushing through the middle of a wide, semi-forested canyon.

Athlon Optics Midas ED

The best binoculars for nearly everyone.

Amazingly affordable with great optics, these binoculars offer performance comparable to that of many models costing thousands more.

Binoculars might not be a necessity. But when you’re standing on the edge of a trail in Zion National Park and looking for nesting peregrine falcons or lying at the edge of your campsite in Joshua Tree watching a pack of coyotes move under a full moon, will a good pair of binoculars come in handy? Yes. Yes it will.

A person standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon, using binoculars to look at something far away in the canyon.

The waterproof and lightweight Athlon Optics Midas ED binoculars boast a rugged shock-absorbing exterior. And this pair’s optical clarity and extra-wide field of view allow you to see more of the scene, more clearly and accurately. In fact, the professional ornithologist who tested binoculars for us said that things looked every bit as good through the Athlon binoculars as they looked through his $2,500 Leica Ultravid pair.

And the optics of the Midas ED pair aren’t the only strong suit: These are exceptionally durable binoculars that easily withstood the humid, dusty, and hostile environment of the Mexican rain forest and the harsh sun of the Californian desert. Also, their focus dial adjusts reliably and smoothly across a wide range of depths, making it easy for you to focus on what you’re trying to see, no matter where it is.

Stowable tote or daypack

It’s always a good idea to have a bag on hand for spontaneous off-the-road excursions. But anything that will take up space on a trip needs to be functional enough to hold cameras, snacks, jackets, maps, and souvenirs. And it needs to be durable enough to survive beach trips, sightseeing excursions, picnics, and museum tours.

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack

A pack that won’t crowd your trunk.

Toss this lightweight, phone-sized packable bag into your trunk or under your seat, and you’ll never get caught without a spare bag again. If you need something to carry every day, though, you’ll probably prefer one of our more-structured picks.

After researching dozens of packable daypacks across a spectrum of portability, features, and prices, and then packing, unpacking, loading, wearing, and drenching the top-rated finalists during multiple rounds of testing, we’ve found that the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack is the smallest and lightest packable backpack of the bunch. Packed up, it is very discreet, nearly the size of a keychain accessory. The bag itself is a no-frills sack made from a paper-thin siliconized Cordura nylon, so it’s very light and water resistant. The Ultra-Sil bag also has reinforced stitching at stress points, which allows it to carry more weight than you might expect. That said, since this pack is made of such thin, light material, carrying large or awkwardly shaped loads is somewhat uncomfortable, especially in comparison with our more structured picks.

If lightness, waterproofing, comfort, and organization are more important to you, check out the alternative picks in our review of packable daypacks for travel .

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+

An easy-to-spread physical sunscreen.

This physical sunscreen lotion absorbs easily and is free of added fragrance. Though this water-resistant formula can feel greasy, like most physical sunscreens, and leave behind a white cast (especially on darker skin), we’ve found its dependable coverage to be worth the trade-off.

On most road trips you’ll be exposed to the sun, whether it’s your arm out the window or your legs and neck during a pit stop, so we recommend bringing our favorite sunscreens along for everyone to apply. (The one exception: your youngest passengers. Do not put sunscreen on an infant. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends keeping children who are younger than 6 months out of the sun entirely.) Although most sunscreens containing only physical UV blockers are notoriously harder to spread and more visible on skin than sunscreens with chemical UV filters, Blue Lizard’s Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ formula spreads relatively quickly and easily, and it absorbs nicely. Formulated with both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection, from both UVA and UVB rays. Blue Lizard says this formulation, which contains no added fragrance, is sweat resistant and water resistant for 80 minutes (the highest such claim allowed by the FDA). It comes in bottles that uniquely change color, from white to blue, in the presence of harmful UV light.

Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+

A lightweight, oxybenzone-free chemical sunscreen.

Although it contains added fragrance, this easy-to-apply chemical sunscreen lotion doesn’t have an overpowering sunscreen-y scent. It rubs in nearly transparently and appears colorless on most skin tones.

Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ is our favorite chemical sunscreen that doesn’t contain oxybenzone. Fairly runny and lightweight, it blends seamlessly into a variety of skin tones. Although it contains added fragrance, it’s not strongly scented. It’s water resistant for up to the maximum-allowable claim (per FDA guidelines) of 80 minutes, and it costs far less per ounce than our physical-sunscreen pick.

The open trunk of a car, filled with roadtrip gear and supplies.

Having an emergency kit in your car is a great idea for day-to-day driving, but it’s pretty much a necessity for long-distance road trips. Although it’s tempting to buy a preassembled kit and be done with it, we haven’t found a great one yet. Even the most promising options suffer from having jumper cables that are too short, too thin, or both. Basically, if you want a good kit, you have to make it yourself, and we’re here to help.

We spent hours researching and testing each of these essentials to confirm that they’ll be useful in case of an emergency, whether it’s your own or someone else’s.

On a desolate stretch of two-lane highway in northern Arizona, we were driving behind a rental camper van just as it had a rear-tire blowout after hitting a rumble strip. The couple driving the van couldn’t find their jack, didn’t know where the spare tire was, and had come to a stop just past a low dip in the road. It wasn’t a good scene. But it couldn’t have happened at a better time (for them, at least), and it gave us a great opportunity to put our emergency gear to the test.

It’s also wise to get a membership to a roadside assistance program. We don’t have a single best recommendation for everyone, since your options and needs vary depending on what car you have, how you use it, and where you live, but here’s a good guide by Popular Mechanics on what to look for in choosing a plan. Basically, make sure your plan fits your needs. For example, if you live in a city, 3 miles of free towing may be enough. But if you’re going on a road trip across the desert, paying for more range is worthwhile.

First-aid kit

First Aid Only 298 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Kit (FAO-442)

All the basics.

This kit is chock-full of bandages and cleaning supplies that are suitable for minor incidents.

On the road, a first-aid kit is useful for keeping someone comfortable until people with real medical expertise can help. It’s much more important to have a basic kit with you—and to be sure that the bandages haven’t degraded and the disinfectants haven’t expired—than to have a 432-item, war-zone-worthy kit sitting at home.

We like the First Aid Only 298 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Kit . It lacks some of the higher-quality tools that we recommend for a wilderness first-aid kit , but it comes with plenty of bandages, alcohol prep pads, pain relievers, and equipment to treat up to four people’s minor cuts and scrapes on a weekend trip. (For an extensive list and comparison chart, see our full guide .)

Snow shovel

Voilé Telepro Mini Avalanche Shovel

The best car shovel.

This small shovel slices through icy snow and can be disassembled for car storage. It isn’t cheap, but it’s what we’d want to have in a roadside emergency.

After spending two years researching car shovels and testing five contenders, we found that the best one to keep in the trunk for an emergency is the Voilé Telepro Mini Avalanche Shovel .

The tool, popular with ski patrols and people clearing backcountry trails, has a solid metal scoop and a two-piece handle that clicks together to form a sturdy shovel. Our tester keeps the Voilé shovel in her truck every winter, and it has come in handy more times than she can count. Though the Voilé shovel is too short to be a primary shovel, it’s perfect for any kind of fast shoveling. When you aren’t using it, you can tuck its three pieces neatly under a car seat or in the back.

Accu-Gage RRA60X

The best tire gauge we’ve found.

This is the favored tire gauge of all the professionals we interviewed.

May be out of stock

Checking your car’s tire pressure (including that of the spare tire) is like flossing: It’s something that everyone should do but many people don’t do. Proper inflation is vital . Too much, and you’ll feel every bump and have more difficulty stopping your car; too little, and your tires will wear faster. Worse, they’ll also overheat, which can separate the treads and blow the tires, something we saw happen right in front of us in the middle of nowhere in Arizona. Don’t let that happen to you.

A person sitting next to the front tire of a car, using a gauge to check on the tire pressure.

When we asked three different San Francisco Bay Area tire shops which gauge they used, they all pointed to the Accu-Gage 60 PSI gauge with shock protector . After our testing, which included road-tripping with the tool ourselves, the Accu-Gage model has emerged as our favorite tire gauge for several years running. It’s accurate and durable, and unlike a digital gauge, it has no battery to wear out. The Accu-Gage model is available in several different configurations , but the performance is largely the same. We prefer a version with a hose attached and a straight chuck, because that design makes it easier to hold the gauge and check the tire pressure at the same time. The version we tested even comes with a removable rubber bumper in case you drop it.

Portable jump starter

A portable jump starter is essentially a lightweight battery attached to two jumper cables that you use to jump-start your car. It’s easier, safer, and less intimidating than old-fashioned jumper cables that you attach to another car—and it’s something that you can use if you’re alone, instead of waiting for roadside service/a kind stranger/a friend/a relative to show up and bail you out.

Weego Jump Starter 44s

Staff-favorite jump starter.

This jump starter has the right safety features and contains enough juice in a small package to start most cars and SUVs.

Wirecutter has recommended Weego gear since we first published our guide to portable jump starters in 2017. Guide writer Mark Smirniotis researched 40 lithium-ion jump starters and tested 12. Two Weego portable jump starters (both of which are now discontinued) became picks: the Weego 22s (the top pick; about $60) and the Weego 44 (the upgrade pick; about $150). Though we no longer maintain that full guide, many of us at Wirecutter still keep a Weego jump starter in our cars . But now, in many cases, it’s an updated version, namely the affordable Weego 44s , which hovers around the same price as the 22s model, its less powerful predecessor.

Measuring 5.62 by 3.44 by 1.04 inches (LWD), the Weego 44s jump starter is about the same size as a cell phone in length and width. It also weighs less than a pound (around 12 ounces, according to my kitchen scale) and has safety features that help prevent you from hurting your car or yourself: If you incorrectly attach the jump starter to your battery (which can potentially damage the battery or your car’s electrical system), the unit’s reverse-polarity protection feature activates, issuing a red light and an alarm alerting you not to proceed.

The Weego 44s is rated to work with a wide range of vehicles, including gas engines up to 7 liters and diesel engines up to 3.5 liters. It can jump-start pretty much any gas- or diesel-powered passenger-vehicle engine—anything from a Mini Cooper (2 liters or less) to a Dodge Ram (as much as 6.7 liters)—and it fits that power into a package that’s small enough for most glove boxes.

The Weego 44s comes partially charged out of the box and takes about 2.5 hours to charge from zero. A USB-A–to–Micro-USB charging cord is included, but it doesn’t come with a charging cube, so you need to plug the USB-A end into your own USB phone charger that works in regular household outlets or use an outlet with a USB-A port . According to the company, the unit can stay charged for more than a year in storage, though you should make sure to top it off every three to six months. With regular use, it’s rated to last for about three to five years or up to 1,000 recharge cycles. Plus, it can provide multiple jumps before it needs a recharge itself (five lights on the side of the unit indicate its remaining battery life).

The Weego 44s has checks and balances to ensure that you safely jump-start a car, but its lithium-ion polymer battery comes with certain caveats. Though the manufacturer indicates that the unit will operate in temps of -4 °F to 140 °F, leaving it in a car in extremely hot or cold conditions is not a great idea. “Most devices that contain a lithium-ion battery, whether it’s your smartphone or a portable jump starter, should not spend long periods of time in extreme temperatures since it can cause permanent damage to the battery,” says Wirecutter senior staff writer and battery expert Sarah Witman. “You should also keep in mind that car engines need more power to get started in freezing temperatures, so it’s especially important to keep your jump starter fully charged when driving in cold climates.”

Jumper cables

If you’re a die-hard jumper-cable partisan, make sure that the cables you get are long enough for most scenarios and thick enough to carry sufficient current to jump most vehicles.

Lifeline AAA Heavy Duty 16-foot 6 Gauge Booster Cables

The best cable option.

This cable is long and durable enough for any situation, with a current rating that can handle SUVs.

After scrutinizing the specs of dozens of jumper-cable options and having an electrical engineer analyze three top-rated models, we recommend Lifeline’s AAA Heavy Duty 16-foot 6 Gauge Booster Cables . As this image illustrates, these cables are long and thick enough for most situations, and their 400-amp current rating means they can handle most vehicles, even trucks and SUVs. They also come with a surprisingly sturdy and convenient mesh storage bag.

A person using jump starting cables to jump start a car.

One thing that sets these Lifeline cables apart from other cables we found on Amazon is that the 6-gauge description is accurate. For example, Capri sells a 4-gauge, 20-foot cable that reviewers say is closer to 8-gauge. That’s no good, because thinner cables can fail to deliver sufficient current to start trucks, SUVs, and other larger vehicles.

A close-up of jump starter cables connected to the battery of a car.

If you’re unfamiliar with how to use jumper cables, familiarize yourself . But lest you forget, Lifeline includes a handy diagram in the bag. The important thing to keep in mind: Do not attach the black clamp to the black post of the dead battery. Instead, clamp it to an unpainted metal surface under the hood. Also, don’t touch the exposed parts of the clamps together while the cables are hooked up to a battery; they will spark.

Decked x BoxoUSA Tool Bag with Tool Roll

For the at-home mechanic.

This tool roll is designed for off-road emergencies. The handy roll and its mix-and-match tool configurations offer almost everything necessary to keep a vehicle on the road.

If you don’t own any tools for car maintenance, this kit is a great start. With 65 individual tools, the Decked x BoxoUSA Tool Bag with Tool Roll has nearly every tool that a home mechanic (especially those who own a truck) might need to keep their vehicle on the road. As the kit was designed originally for off-roading, bringing the whole thing and all its contents would be overkill for most people (the entire kit weighs 31 pounds). But selecting the necessities—the ratchet and wrench set, for instance—depending on the kind of journey you’re planning is easy and efficient due to the built-in compartmentalization. Included within the kit are combination wrenches, sockets, impact sockets, hex and torx keys, breaker bars, and a family of hammers, pliers, and screwdrivers. The heavy-duty Cordura nylon bag is built to last, too. If you’re at all interested in doing some of your own car maintenance, or if you want to be prepared in case of emergency, this toolkit offers a solid foundation.

A scenery shot of a tall hill made of rocks and a big blue sky in the middle of a desert wilderness environment.

Petzl Actik Core

A rechargeable headlamp.

This headlamp emits bright light with the highest beam quality. And it stays charged for days, whether you charge it via USB or use AAA batteries. It’s the perfect headlamp for backpacking trips.

We’ve been testing headlamps since 2012, including our latest round of research and testing in 2022. For a road trip, we like the Petzl Actik Core because it’s rechargeable, so you won’t ever get caught with a dead battery, as long as you have a USB car charger on hand. Its 450-lumen light ranks among the brightest of all our picks. (As of early 2023, the Actik Core was updated and now has a 600-lumen beam ; we’re currently testing the new version.)

Twice during our trip we pulled into our camping site late, and our headlamp was the first thing we reached for. Knowing that it was always charged meant that we didn’t have to hunt for batteries or use our car lights and disturb neighboring campers.

Right out of the box, the Actik Core was easy to use. It has just one button and three brightness options: low (6 lumens), medium (100 lumens), and high (450 lumens). If you hold down the button for several seconds, the color turns to red; double-pressing lets you access the strobe setting. Compared with some other rechargeable headlamps, which require complicated button-press configurations to reach the desired setting, we found this one to be simpler, though we lamented its lack of a flood beam. We also liked the double-button setup of the Black Diamond Spot 400 and the Vitchelo V800 a bit better than the Actik Core’s single button.

Flare alternative

StonePoint LED Emergency Beacon

The best emergency beacon.

Crushproof and waterproof, this set of three beacons comes with magnets for car mounting. And these are much safer than traditional flares.

To keep yourself safe while your car is parked on the side of the road, we suggest StonePoint LED Emergency Beacon flare alternatives.

We like the StonePoint set because, for the price of one high-intensity model like the PowerFlare device, you get three separate lights that are all crushproof to 20,000 pounds, waterproof, magnetic, and easy to set up and turn on. The magnets are important because they let you mount the beacons on your car, which adds height; having a flare anywhere above the surface of the road greatly increases your visibility. By putting one on the road (preferably elevated on something and located about 100 feet before your car), another on the trunk, and another on the hood, you create a very visible early warning for drivers.

Two people attempting to change the tire of a van parked on the side of the road while a police officer watches nearby.

Traditional magnesium flares will almost always be brighter and more visible. But their hazards—both to your health and to the environment around you—are substantial. (Read the health and environmental hazards section in this report [PDF] for a breakdown of the risks and the potentially harmful chemicals involved.) Combine that with the fact that you can mitigate any differences in visibility simply by elevating an electric flare, and you end up with a compelling argument against using traditional flares.

Of the three beacon models we tested, we couldn’t figure out how to open or turn on the Wagan model. And the Smittybilt U.F.O. safety light, though tough, wasn’t especially effective during the day and came only one to a package. Only the StonePoint beacons were easy to fill with batteries and place on the road exactly when we needed them. They also happened to be the brightest flare alternatives we had with us.

I should take a moment here and repeat what the responding officer told us when he arrived on the scene. Regardless of what safety beacons you have laid out behind you, “Stay off the road, and when in doubt stay in your car.”

Leatherman Skeletool CX

The best multi-tool.

This light, slim multi-tool is easy to carry and built to last.

No emergency kit is complete without a multi-tool. Most minor situations—such as a loose Phillips-head screw or a need to create a rag for checking your oil—are easily fixed as long as you have the right tool. Multi-tools are small enough to carry in a jeans pocket or to attach to a belt, so you can take a set of useful tools almost anywhere. Our choice is the Leatherman Skeletool CX , which comes with pliers, a bit driver, a pocket clip, and a carabiner/bottle opener, in addition to a high-quality, 2.6-inch 154CM carbon-fiber stainless steel blade. The Skeletool CX stood out from the other 22 multi-tools we tested because it focuses on the functionality, ergonomics, and solid construction of a few essential tools, instead of cramming dozens of different tools into a single bulky body that makes it difficult to use. That means it’s easy to carry but still has just about everything you could possibly need (short of a hammer and a socket set) to make an emergency repair in the field and on the road.

Duck Brand Max Strength Duct Tape

The best duct tape.

This tape is super strong and sticky, flexible enough to wrap around corners, and easy to tear in a clean, straight line.

If you can’t duct it, fuhgeddaboudit . We tested the heck out of 11 rolls of duct tape and chose Duck Max Strength tape above the competition for its perfect blend of attributes, namely high material strength, a strong adhesive, and superior overall flexibility for easy wrapping around odd shapes and curved surfaces. Is it an absolute necessity on the road? No. But the moment you need to fix a ripped tent wall or to keep unruly motel shades shut, you’ll be glad you packed some duct tape. It can even handle first-aid duties when the right materials for the job are unavailable. Duct tape is, as any MacGyver fan will tell you, a very useful tool.

Reliance 4-Gallon Aqua-Tainer

The best water jug.

This water jug holds enough water for two people for two days, and it has a spill-proof screw-on vent cap.

The general rule for water in an emergency is that one person needs one gallon of water for one day. But four to five gallons is a good amount to throw into your trunk—enough to get you through being stranded, even with a passenger. You should increase that estimate if you plan to go out in the middle of nowhere, or if your travels take you to a desert region or some other dry place. We found on our trip through the Southwest that we were refilling our water bottles a lot more than we were stopping for gas.

A person getting water from a large container.

After researching 16 different types of water jugs, we recommend the Reliance 4-Gallon Aqua-Tainer for most situations. The Reliance jug has two standout features: a screw-on vent cap and a spigot cap that reverses in on itself when not in use. These features work together to prevent major spills. The screw-on vent cap doesn’t come undone, unlike the pull-top vents on some competitors, which tend to pop open and spill water as soon as you hit anything other than the smoothest roadways. Spigot caps can be a weakness for some jugs, too. In contrast, when not in use, the Reliance jug’s spigot unscrews and drops into the jug itself, sealing up the whole canister nice and tight. On our road trip, we used the 4-Gallon Aqua-Tainer, which can provide water for two people for two days; for more people, consider the 7-Gallon Aqua-Tainer .

The Reliance Aqua-Tainer jug is made from BPA-free molded plastic. It’s easy to pack around in the trunk of a car—certainly easier than large, bladder-type jugs (like the MSR Dromedary Bag ), which, though excellent for camp showers and good for a backpack, are too difficult to pack around in a trunk because of their non-rigid shape. The Aqua-Tainer’s hard sides also make it easier to use for dispensing water from, say, the roof of your car. But be sure to throw a shirt or towel under the Aqua-Tainer before setting it atop your car like this: We learned the hard way that the molded plastic edge can scratch your car’s paint job if you’re not careful.

Before investing in a jug, you should know that water kept in plastic bottles won’t harm you, even if left in a hot car . A 24-pack of Poland Spring is not environmentally kind, but it is safe for a brief trip. Avoid gallon jugs, since they’re typically made out of HDPE plastic, which punctures easily. (Such jugs also have caps that pop off easily.) We wouldn’t buy collapsible jugs, either, since they are prone to leaks and are unruly when pouring.

It takes only a few minutes to get your vehicle checked out for a proper road trip. When in doubt, or when preparing for an especially long trip, see a mechanic first. There are plenty of potential mechanical troubles that a professional can identify—and that you’d rather learn about in their shop than on the side of a highway. Use these tips to determine where to go for help, based on the age of your car and what you need done.

Dealership service departments: newer vehicles covered by factory warranty, or when specialized service is required
Independent mechanics: general maintenance items such as brakes, steering, suspension, exhaust, and fluid changes
Quick oil/lube centers: oil changes only

Getting word-of-mouth advice from family and friends remains a very good way to find reputable mechanics. Sites such as RepairPal and Yelp are also helpful. And don’t forget to check local Facebook community groups.

The vehicle inspection: Six key areas

Under the hood: Check the engine oil, transmission fluid, engine coolant, windshield wipers, washer fluid, and brake fluid.

Four images identifying important car components under the hood.

Tires: Check for proper inflation and good tread that doesn’t show uneven wear. For inflation, consult your owner’s manual to find your tires’ recommended PSI; don’t go by what’s printed on the side of your tire, which is the maximum PSI. For tread wear, stick a penny into the center (not the edge) of each tire’s treads, with Lincoln’s head facing down—if you can still see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tire is worn out. Also, if you have a spare tire, check it and make sure that a jack and a lug-nut wrench still accompany it. If you don’t have a spare, consider getting one from a dealer or a salvage yard. Or invest in an emergency roadside repair and inflation kit—like the Slime 50107 Smart Spair Emergency Tire Repair Kit —which includes sealant for small punctures as well as a small air compressor for reinflating tires. At the very least, bring along a portable sealer kit like Fix-A-Flat , but be aware that these options work only on very small punctures in the tread and could ultimately require you to replace your whole tire. So it’s really better to have a spare, if possible.

A person checking a tire's tread with a penny.

Lights: Check all the bulbs, including the turn signals, headlights (high and low beam), brake lights, parking lamps, reverse lights, and license-plate lights.
Smell test: You can sniff out potential problems in your car by paying attention to its odors.
Sulfur/rotten-egg smell: You have trouble with your exhaust or emission system that could be dangerous. Get your car to a mechanic immediately.
Sweet smell: This scent indicates an engine coolant leak; the smell could be strong when you’re using the heater, and accompanied by fogged-up glass. The coolant is toxic, and when it runs out, your engine will overheat.
Burning carpet/paper smell: Your brakes are hot. Smelling this after you’ve used your brakes hard (such as after coming down a mountain) is not unusual. But if you smell this while you’re driving around normally, it means your brakes might be stuck, which is a serious problem.
Musty/mildew smell: This odor is generally attributable to water getting stuck in the ductwork for your heating and air conditioning. It usually indicates that a drain plug is blocked, which you sometimes can fix just by running your fan on high for a few minutes.
Burning rubber smell: Unless you’re doing burnouts, this smell can be caused by slipping engine belts or a tire rubbing. In these cases, the smell is usually accompanied by a noise, namely squealing (with belts) or grinding (with a tire rubbing).
Noise test: Cars make lots of noises, and the following are some that should get your undivided attention.
Clunking or rattling over bumps: This sound can indicate a variety of problems with the steering or suspension, but it often points to worn plastic or rubber bushings that allow contact between metal components. In extreme cases, these components can fail, causing major damage or even loss of control if the vehicle is moving.
Clicking or groaning sounds when turning: Clicking is a sign of imminent axle shaft failure on front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicles, so get to a mechanic immediately if you hear this sound. Groaning noises are less serious and occur because of a lack of lubrication in steering components or bushings.
Loud humming that increases steadily with speed: This sound almost always points to a bad wheel bearing, especially if the noise gets louder or quieter when the car is turning.
Grinding, squeaking, or squealing when stopping: Squeaking and squealing happen when the brake pads are worn and need replacing. Grinding means the pads are already gone, and you’re pushing metal against metal when you stop.
Feel test: The following are a few situations that should warrant a visit to the shop.
Soft or spongy brake pedal: Brakes should be firm; a soft pedal means something is wrong. Either you have a mechanical problem or the brake fluid is leaking.
Shimmies or vibrations: These sensations usually indicate that a rim is bent or that a tire is out of balance, but they can also be signs of loose steering or suspension parts.

Pre-trip planning

Before heading out, check these commonly taken-for-granted aspects of road-tripping.

Update your GPS system. Factory-installed GPS devices generally receive updates once a year and require CDs, SD cards, or USB thumb drives purchased from the manufacturer for installation through a dealership. Mobile third-party GPS units get updates throughout the year, and you can install the updates via most home PCs through a simple download from the GPS manufacturer’s website.
Make sure that you have maps or a paper atlas. Sometimes technology fails. Having a current map for backup is always a good idea.
Make sure you’re covered by a roadside assistance program. Auto-club programs are the most common source of roadside assistance plans, with companies such as AAA and Good Sam offering coverage to members regardless of what vehicle they drive or its age. Most new cars, however, come with complimentary roadside assistance that lasts a certain number of miles or a certain number of years, whichever happens first. So check your owner’s manual (and read the fine print, since these plans can be very limited). Many auto insurance companies also provide vehicle-specific roadside assistance, usually for a monthly fee. Some credit card companies offer a mix of complimentary and basic fee services, and even cell phone companies are now offering basic services to customers. Verizon’s roadside assistance plan costs $5 per month and covers any vehicle, as long as the phone is present. Most of these plans have limitations and plenty of fine print to study, so carefully review your coverage before hitting the road.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guides

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Wirecutter Staff

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14 Genius Road Trip Organization Hacks for 2024

Planning a road trip? Check out these road trip organization hacks! Tips that will help you pack efficiently & keep everything clean and organized during your adventures!

This post may contain affiliate or sponsored links. That means if you click and buy, I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you). Please see my full disclosure policy for details.

A road trip is a wonderful way to travel! So many amazing places to see and experience.

Road trips have so many benefits! You will probably save money by road-tripping as opposed to other methods of travel. Road trips allow you to be flexible and go with the flow. They provide a great opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones, AND you will often find hidden gems along the way to your desired destinations.

We will be heading out on a 3,000-mile road trip soon with a 1-year-old. We will definitely be implementing these road trip organization tips to maximize space and make our road trip as seamless as possible!

These road trip organization tips will help you to feel more prepared and organized, keep your car from taking a beating, and should help keep everyone happy and entertained during the trip!

15 Genius Road Trip Organization Hacks

Snacks provide entertainment and make everyone happier during a road trip. You will save money and time by packing drinks and snacks instead of buying them at every stop along the way.

Road Trip Snack Organization:

You can use these stackable snack containers
These snack cups for young travelers minimize mess and promote independence
Keep all of the snacks and drinks you will need for the day in one place and easily accessible
This back seat snack organizer or something similar could hold your road trip snacks and drinks and sit on the backseat floor or middle seat for easy access
Keep extra snacks and drinks packed away in the trunk so they are out of the way
Bring a portable cooler or a portable mini fridge (if you want to avoid refilling the cooler with ice constantly) to keep drinks and snacks fresh and cold

Easy On-the-Go Snacks for Kids

Freeze-dried fruit
Applesauce pouches or other food pouches
Cheese stick
Granola Bars
Veggies – carrots, peppers, celery
Fruit – apple slices, bananas

2. Cord Organization

We have soooo many cords and chargers these days! When we travel we have phone cords, watch chargers, computer chargers, sound machine chargers, camera cords, portable fan chargers, and more….and then you have all of the charging blocks that go along with the cords…you get the point.

Use a travel cable organizer like this one to keep all of your cords and charging blocks contained and in one convenient location. You can also use a bigger electronics organizer like this one to keep all of your devices and cords in.

FYY Electronic Organizer, Travel Cable Organizer Bag Pouch Accessories Carry

3. Use Little Containers for Small Items

Contain small items like loose change, hair ties, medication, pens, and more with one of these little container ideas:

travel pill bottles
small pencil pouches
travel Q-tip containers
travel cosmetic jars
clear cosmetic bags
Stax interlocking storage

4. Keep the Front of the Car Organized

Make the glove box and center counsel your control center with all of your important items.

Clear out any items from the glove box and counsel that you will not need for the road trip.

We usually have about 75 napkins, our car manual (which can be accessed online), and a bunch of loose change, old receipts, and other junk that just gets in the way. All of these extra items can be removed or contained.

This visor tissue holder would be a great place to store tissues, napkins, or masks.

Car Tissue Holder, Sun Visor Napkin Holder, Car Visor Tissue

Here are the essentials you will want to keep handy up front:

Cell phones and charging cords (make sure cords are contained – see tip above!)
Wallet with insurance cards, ID, money, credit cards, National Park Pass
Mini kit with wet wipes, kleenex, hand sanitizer, medication (pain reliever, motion sickness, antiacids, etc.)
Ziplock bags/Plastic Grocery Bags/ Reusable Wet Bag – we like to keep these under the passenger seat, which makes them easy to pull out if we need to contain any unexpected messes (soiled clothes, muddy shoes, etc.)
Loose change (make sure this is contained – see tip above!)
Binder or File Folder with important documents (itinerary, lodging info, maps, directions, etc.)
First Aid Kit – we keep this under the passenger seat

Maximize storage space and prevent things from falling in that awkward gap by using these between seat gap filler organizers.

Paffenery Car Seat Gap Filler Organizer Storage Box for Car

Most people access navigation from their phones these days, so a phone mount can make that easier.

5. Keep the Kids Entertained & Organized

What to Have in the Backseat:

Small Cooler
Entertainment
Blankets & Pillows

These seat-back organizers can help keep everyone’s entertainment items accessible and orderly.

Helteko Backseat Car Organizer, Kick Mats Back Seat Protector with

These bag hooks are another backseat organization option.

AMVOYOA Headrest Hooks for Car, Back Seat Organizer Black Leather

Click here for 18 travel entertainment ideas for toddlers and babies that are perfect for road trips

6. Protect Your Seats and Floor

Seat protectors keep your seats from getting torn up or damaged by child car seats and can also help with spill protection. I like that they even have some additional handy storage!

These floor protectors will keep mud, spilled food and drinks, and more from staining your car floors and can be easily taken out to clean.

Motor Trend DeepDish Floor Mats for Cars Full Set, All-Weather

7. Trunk Organization

No matter what type of vehicle you have, it is important to take advantage of your trunk space. Make sure to put the items you will need to access more often on top/toward to door of the trunk.

This organizational caddy with a built-in cooler is perfect for keeping your trunk items organized.

HEYTRIP Sturdy Trunk Organizer With Leakproof Cooler Bag, 2 Adjustable

Items to Keep in the Trunk:

Extra food and drinks
Dirty Laundry – reusable, washable travel laundry bag
Car Maintenance Items

If your vehicle has stow-and-go or storage underneath the main trunk area, keep items there that you want to have on hand just-in-case , but likely won’t need to access, like emergency items or car maintenance items (snow scraper, oil, manual, jumper cables, duct tape, cold weather gear, blankets, etc.).

This hanging trunk organizer is another good option for storing maintenance or emergency items in the trunk area without taking up too much space.

Car Backseat Trunk Organizer, Auto Hanging Back Seat Storage, Car

Speaking of maintenance, make sure to get an oil change if needed, fill up your tires, and make sure everything is in good working order in your vehicle the week before your road trip.

8. Portable Trash Can

Keep the car clean and fresh by keeping trash contained in a portable trash can until you can stop and throw it away.

EPAuto Waterproof Car Trash Can with Lid and Storage Pockets,

9. Bring an Emergency Kit

We keep a small first aid kit in our vehicles. Hopefully, you won’t need it, but it is always good to be prepared. We keep extra blankets in our car as well for “just in case” purposes.

Mini First Aid Kit, 100 Pieces Water-Resistant Hard Shell Small

10. Dryer Sheets to Keep the Car Smelling Fresh

Bounce Free & Gentle Dryer Sheets, 240 Sheets, Unscented Fabric

11. Use Packing Cubes

I love packing cubes, ESPECIALLY on road trips. You are often living out of your bag on a road trip as you go from place to place, as opposed to a vacation where you are in one place and can unpack all of your things.

Shacke Pak - 5 Set Packing Cubes - Travel Organizers

12. Bring a Handheld Vaccum

Tiny, but powerful! Quickly and easily clean up messes with this compact, handy little vacuum .

STARUMENT Portable Hand Vacuum Cleaner for Dust Pet Hair Dirt

13. No Fighting Over Charging Ports

Charge multiple devices at once with this 6-port USB car charger.

Multi Ports USB Car Charger, 96W 6 Port QC3.0 Fast

14. Use a Binder or Filer to Organize Papers

I personally like to bring a binder to keep our itinerary, park maps, directions, lodging info, and other papers organized on our road trips. One of these expandable file folders would work well too.

Sooez Accordion File Organizer with Safe Zipper, 12 Pocket Expanding

Bonus: We love this magnetic license plate game for U.S. road trips. It’s a fun activity for the whole family!

You could also print off a map of the U.S. and let the kids color in each state as you spot the corresponding license plate!

That rounds out our list! I hope these road trip organization tips are useful and help you feel more prepared! Get ready to have fun and make priceless memories on your upcoming road trip!

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42 BEST Road Trip Gifts: Fun, Useful, & Essential [2024]

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Short on time? Our picks for the best road trip gifts are the Tile Car Key Tracker and Nintendo Switch Lite .

BEST road trip gifts to make road trips a breeze and help the hours on the road fly by.

I grew up in the midwest of the United States. That means it took hours by car to get anywhere else in the country.

Road trips were a staple of my childhood – long and short ones.

My family often drove an hour in and out of the city that we lived near. Twice a year, we drove six hours each way to visit family in a nearby state.

The most extensive trip of them all? We took 24-hour road trip adventures from Illinois to Florida for spring break.

I’ve completed some road trips completely alone as well. I know what it’s like to be the backseat passenger as a kid and the adult driver behind the wheel.

What I’m trying to say is, I’m no stranger to this form of travel. So, when it comes to gifts for road trips, I’m your girl.

I’m here to share some of the best gift ideas for road trips based on my personal experience.

Tile Tracker

What’s the single most important item to keep track of? The car keys.

I mean, you can’t go anywhere without them – plain and simple! Therefore, a road trip lover can’t afford to lose them.

Getting road trip lovers a Tile car key tracker will ensure they always have a way to know where their keys are.

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Car Mount Phone Holder

What’s a good gift for someone who travels a lot in a car?

A phone mount.

We use our phones for everything nowadays. On road trips, a driver’s phone is usually their source of music, communication, and most likely their GPS.

Gifting a phone mount like this allows the phone to be placed on the dashboard, as close to eye level as possible. Instead of looking down to check Google Maps, they can quickly glance to the side.

I’m not encouraging phone use while driving by any means, but realistically, people glance at their phones.

Phone mounts make navigation and DJing hands-free, so it’s a little safer.

Nintendo Switch Lite

When I was a kid, one of the best ways to pass time on a long car trip was playing my Nintendo DS.

The Nintendo DS has aged out, and the Nintendo Switch has entered the picture.

For a road trip, I’d recommend the Nintendo Switch Lite. It’s a bit smaller than the regular-sized switch console because it’s primarily for personal play and is more portable.

There are endless games available for purchase, so they’ll never get bored!

I grew up before the era of Kindles. I was always torn between which book to bring on a road trip.

Later, I’d find myself fidgeting with a clip-on reading light after the sun went down and the car was dark.

Kindles help eliminate both those problems. A world of books lives inside a Kindle, meaning they’ll have numerous books with them at one time.

Multiple lighting settings allow them to read at any time of day, in any lighting.

A Kindle is one of the best road trip gadgets, birthday gifts, or holiday gifts to get someone. They’re helpful during the car ride and after.

Car Backseat Organizer

An organizer is the perfect road trip gift for anyone riding in the backseat.

I’ve been in some cars where the seats don’t have back pockets. Even when they do, a single pocket is usually hard to stuff belongings into.

Road trippers don’t have to worry about that with a gift like this.

They simply slip this organizer over the front seat headrest, and ta-da! There’s space for all of their belongings at their fingertips.

Car Window Screens

One time, my whole family was going on a long car journey, so we rented a larger and more equipped car for the trip.

The car had pull-down screens for the windows, which made such a difference in keeping sunlight at bay during the trip.

This pack of window screens comes with both transparent and semi-transparent shade options.

The screens have a no-residue cling design and work when pressed to a car window.

They’re helpful to keep sun rays at bay during any time of the year — especially, during the summer months, to help keep the car cooler.

These are the best road trip gift ideas for road-trippers with babies in the backseat.

Foldable Car Seat Back Portable Tray for Food

My family didn’t eat fast food often during our day-to-day lives, but it was a staple during road trips.

As a backseat rider, you have no idea what I would have given to have something like this foldable tray that attaches to the front seat headrest.

This cuts down on drink or dipping sauce spills, an unfortunate event I know too well!

Of course, my mind went immediately to food, but it also holds a laptop or book.

Any road trip lover who finds themselves in the back seat will appreciate this.

200 Conversation Cards

Consider conversation road trip games if you’re looking for the best road trip gifts for a family.

It can be hard to get the whole family to be interested in the same thing. The prompts on these cards encourage conversations that everyone can partake in.

There are questions like, “What do children know more about than adults?” and “What is the one thing you couldn’t live without?”

My favorite thing about these cards is that they involve the driver, which is important.

It’s easy for all the passengers to plug into their phones or Kindles, but the driver has to keep their eyes on the road.

Do note that some of the cards are not appropriate for kids, so parents might need to sort through the deck beforehand.

50 States 5,000 Ideas Book

As the title states, this book offers insight into the 50 states of the USA. It has valuable travel tips about where to go, what to see, and what to do in each one.

Inclusive travel gifts like these are great road trip gift ideas because they inspire future road trips!

They probably won’t drive through all 50 states in one journey, but as they read, they’ll find places and sights to drive to next time.

Road Trip Journal

I’m sentimental – I love to collect and document everything. If your giftee is anything like me, a journal like this is the perfect great road trip gift idea.

There are two types of pages: open note-taking and easy-to-fill-prompt pages.

They can quickly fill in the answers to questions like the weather, route taken, highlights, and so forth.

This road trip gift idea is suitable for a range of ages, meaning it’ll keep anyone entertained.

Plus, they’ll have something to reflect on in the future.

Rand McNally Road Atlas

Nowadays, we rely on our phones or built-in car systems. But as a kid, I remember my parents opening up physical paper maps for directions.

This spiral notebook contains large-scale maps of highways for every US state.

There are no advertisements inside, which helps you focus on the routes. There are also maps of specific cities and national parks.

A physical road atlas is one of the best gifts for a road tripper who likes things old-school.

Personalized Road Trip Map

Before my family began our road trips, my dad always sketched out our route on a big paper map so my sisters and I could visualize our road trip route.

We loved getting this perspective when we were kids.

If someone you know is heading on a monumental journey (like a cross-country road trip through the national parks or driving the Pacific Coast Highway ), this is the perfect gift to memorialize it.

Know someone who loves National Parks? Read our guides to the best National Park gifts , National Park Passport , National Park scratch-off maps , and the best National Park books .

Hammocking is a universally enjoyable pastime, so hammocks make great road trip gifts for guys and girls alike.

Eno hammocks are popular but pricey. I recommend Wise Owl hammocks as a more affordable alternative. Wise Owl hammocks even come with straps to secure them to trees, which Eno hammocks don’t include.

There are plenty of color options, and you can choose a single or double-person size, making hammocks one of the top road trip gifts for friends heading out on long car rides that may have scenic stops along the way.

They’re a particularly great option for those road-tripping through National Parks.

Ever heard of hammock camping? Read about the best hammocks with mosquito nets and portable hammock stands .

Car Headrest Tablet Holder

This car headrest tablet holder is a great way to entertain anyone in the backseat. Whether they’re using their phone or an iPad, they can stay hands-free and comfortable.

It attaches quickly and easily without disrupting the headrest for the driver. The arm can be bent in a variety of angles and tilted.

This is a great road trip gift for road-tripping friends who are planning on watching movies or binge-watching a new series in the backseat.

Picnic Blanket

A picnic blanket is helpful in so many situations – whether you’re actually using it for a picnic or not. I use my blanket anytime I’m sitting on the ground in an open area.

This is another perfect road trip gift for loved ones heading into nature. A blanket will come in handy, whether they’re going on a day trip or a long-haul journey.

This one is great because it’s waterproof and sand-resistant. Plus, it comes with large handle carry straps, making it easy to transport once it’s rolled up.

Doodle Boards

These kinds of doodle boards will keep kids entertained for hours.

Not going to lie, I’ve also found myself fiddling around with them.

It’s easy to forget how relaxing and fun doodling is. They’re especially on a road trip, when any form of entertainment is welcome.

Compression Socks

I’ve gone road-tripping by myself and driven for 13 hours straight on multiple occasions.

By the end of those long stretches, all I wanted was to put my feet up!

Compression socks are one of those road trip accessories that can help a loved one have a more pleasant experience. They help prevent swelling during any period of prolonged sitting.

I think compression socks are some of the best road trip gear or road trip gift ideas for adults because they’re the ones doing the driving.

Picture this: you’re best friend is rushing out of the house because they really need to get on the road. They have that nagging feeling that they’re forgetting something.

Pretty soon, they’re driving on the highway, blinded by the sun. That’s when it hits… they forgot their sunglasses.

This is why I always keep spare sunglasses in my car glove box. They’re solely my ‘car sunglasses’. My extra sunglasses have saved the day more times than I can count.

If you want to be that lifesaver, consider getting this set of polarized sunglasses for road trip lovers.

Slip On Shoes

I always preferred to be barefoot in the car. It’s just more comfortable and clean.

Of course, whenever it was time to make a pit stop for food, gas, or the bathroom, it became a scramble to find my shoes.

Especially during winter road trips, my boots took too long to lace up and tracked snow or gunk back into the car afterward.

Gift someone special a pair of slip-on shoes. Your giftee can keep them in their car as their ‘road trip shoes’.

This way they’ll always have something to slip on and off during those quick pit stops.

A spare pare of driving shoes is also helpful for anyone who likes wearing heels but not driving in them.

My mom tried to keep our car as clean as possible. It wasn’t easy, and I wish she had a portable vacuum like this.

A mini car vacuum is the best road trip gift for anyone who likes a tidy car.

This handheld vacuum is wireless, rechargeable, and comes with an array of attachments – making it suitable to reach any crevice.

Road trip gifts like these make it a quick and easy way to keep their limited space feeling clean.

Car Trash Can

As backseat riders, my siblings and I always passed our garbage up to my mom in the front seat.

That’s why I think this car trash can would have been one of the best road trip gifts for her.

Instead of making someone in charge of the ‘garbage bag’, they can have a car trash can like this. Everyone knows where to put their garbage (cough cough, not the floor).

Engraved Tumbler

Road trippers don’t have access to heat their drink or add ice while driving. That’s why a tumbler that keeps coffee hot and iced tea cold is an excellent road trip gift idea.

Especially when I’m on a road trip alone, I like preparing my secondary beverage before leaving home.

I take a juice or soda out of the cooler and pour it into a tumbler so it stays cold until I’m ready to drink it.

Tumblers are also a good road trip gift for anyone who appreciates personalization options. You can tailor this gift specifically to your road tripper.

Car Cup Holder Expander

If you want gifts for a road trip that go above and beyond (literally), check out this car cup holder.

I use a large hydroflask water bottle. Because of the big base, it doesn’t fit in a standard car cup holder. I was so excited when I found an enlarged cup holder that could accommodate its size.

You can go a step further with this car cup holder. It has an enlarged cup holder and a standard-size cup holder above.

Next to that is a swiveling tray. This creates a space to put some small, easy-to-grab items for the driver. If there’s a passenger riding, it could also function as a tray for them.

If you’re looking for funny road trip gifts for couples, this is a good choice. It benefits passengers and drivers.

Bendable Pillow

Road trip travelers know the struggle of finding a comfortable position to take a snooze. That’s why one of the best gifts for a road trip is a pillow that bends into any shape.

Molding the pillow to meet their needs makes it much easier to get comfortable in an awkward space like a car.

There are also button snaps on either end of the pillow so that it will hold a standard travel pillow shape.

Great road trip gift ideas involve items that can stay in the car, so they never have to worry about forgetting them.

This blanket is a perfect example.

It’s always nice to have a blanket like this in the car. Even if they’re traveling during warmer months because it zips up into a pillow shape.

Sound Proof Earphones

Road trips put everyone in tight quarters. Sound-cancelling headphones are the best way for your loved one to take a break.

These headphones are budget-friendly, but you could always upgrade by gifting a brand like Bose .

Plus, this is one of those gifts for road trips that will be useful outside of the car, too.

Car Inverter

For the most part, I grew up as a road-tripper without iPhones or tablets. There was minimal electronic usage, and once the battery ran out, that was that.

By the time I was in high school and had a laptop, I always wished there was a way to charge it while in the car.

When I discovered a car inverter, I was sold.

This inverter distributes and maximizes the existing power from the cigarette lighter plug in your car. Once plugged in, your giftee can access regular outlets, USB ports, and a USB C port.

It’s one of the best road trip gifts for a car full of music streamers.

Solar Power Bank

Solar power banks make fantastic gifts for anyone going on an adventure. This power bank charges using the solar panels on the front of the device (don’t leave it in a hot car in direct sunlight, though).

It’s a perfect gift for road-trippers headed through the national parks, where they’ll run their battery down taking pictures.

It’s waterproof and has a built-in flashlight. Portable chargers are a great gift idea that ensures they have a power source no matter what.

Inflatable Car Mattress

Sometimes the best road trip gift ideas focus on getting enough sleep.

Road travelers who sleep in their car know that having the right set-up is essential for feeling rested enough to drive day after day.

Most people I know heading on multi-day trips have a hotel room booked or plan on driving through the night.

But sleeping in the car has grown increasingly popular.

This inflatable car mattress is perfect for overnight road trips. The pump plugs into the car cigarette lighter for quick inflation.

I prefer this style of car mattress over others on the market because it lays across the backseats without emptying the trunk.

Here’s the thing about car air conditioning systems: they’re often not set up well for the backseat riders.

I can’t begin to tell you how many times my sisters and I bickered about the airflow direction from the small vents in the backseat section.

Solve that bickering problem with a gift like this: a car headrest fan.

Whether you purchase one or two for your road tripper, travel gifts like these will make their upcoming trip more peaceful.

Games on the Go

After a while, it can be hard to come up with road trip games on your own.

If your friends are tired of the classics, Games on the Go prompts some of the best road trip games.

It’s a deck of cards full of guessing games, riddles, trivia, and searching games (to name a few).

It’s perfect for the car because Game on the Go states, “The only material you need is your imagination”.

Drop Stop Car Seat-Gap Filler

This gap filler seems like a funny road trip gift, but it’s actually so helpful.

During road trips, my sisters and I constantly passed things up to my mom, who sat in the front seat.

Quite a few times, whatever we were passing would drop into the abyss between the seats.

I can guarantee even seasoned road trippers don’t enjoy crawling around on the car floor with a flashlight looking for dropped M&Ms and toys under the seat.

Eliminate that issue with a car seat gap filler like the Drop Stop.

A road trip lover will make many road trips in their life, and they can use a dash cam to capture all of their incredible adventures.

And for any road trippers turned full-time car travelers, dash cams add a level of security.

A dash cam can attach to the front or rear of a vehicle and record video. Should they ever need evidence of good driving habits or what really happened during an accident, they’ll have it.

Other pros to having a dash cam include deterring theft and potentially lowering their car insurance premium. Dash cams are one of the best gift ideas for road trips when your loved one wants to take every precaution possible.

Fold Out Chairs

You may be looking for road trip gift ideas for someone heading to campgrounds at national forests. If your road tripper needs some outdoor gear, help them out.

These chairs have armrests, pockets, and cupholders. They’re easy to keep tucked in a car trunk because they fold quickly and come in a traveling case.

Grab this road trip gift idea for anyone who likes stopping to enjoy the view.

Ready for the comfiest camp chairs? Read our buying guides for reclining camp chairs and heavy-duty camp chairs .

My family always ran out of space on car trips to and from holiday gatherings. Not only did we have to fit all of our luggage in the trunk, but also gifts to and from family members.

Car travel gifts like roof bags are handy when the car is too full. This bag sits on top of a protective mat and securely attaches to the car’s roof with straps.

It’s made from waterproof material, so belongings inside stay safe.

When it comes to gift ideas for the road, consider getting your favorite road trip travelers a collapsable cooler.

Soft-sided coolers are a good way to keep drinks cold and food temperature regulated on the drive. Road trip lovers will appreciate that this cooler fits in the middle seat and is less bulky than a hard-sided cooler.

This Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag has a five-layer insulation design. The outside even features outer pockets, a bottle-opener key chain, and bungee gridding.

It also comes in a variety of colors, like blue, grey, black, and orange.

Looking for more cooler recommendations? Read our article on the best coolers for camping .

Road Trip Gift Basket

I love unique gift ideas, like anything you assemble or personalize on your own. If you’re the same way, consider making a road trip care package.

This is the same premise as a road trip gift basket – but uses a road trip gift bag like the one pictured.

Throw in some road trip essentials like wet wipes, water bottles, road trip snacks, and so forth.

If your giftee is traveling with children, include some fun road trip gifts like these themed printable road trip games from Etsy.

Roadside Emergency Kit

Roadside kits are one of those gifts you hope they’ll never have to use. I know it sounds a bit backward – not wanting the recipient to use the gift?

A roadside emergency kit is a road trip essential. Thinking back, I would have been so relieved if someone had gifted me one.

This kit comes with survival road trip gear, like jumper cables, a seatbelt cutter, a glass breaker, and a portable air compressor.

This specific option comes with a first aid kit – it hits two birds with one stone.

If you’re gifting it to a new driver or new car owner, there’s a good chance they don’t have an emergency kit like this yet.

Triple AAA Membership

Similar to a first aid kit, roadside assistance is one of those things you hope they’ll never have to use. Regardless, it’s important to have for a road trip.

Triple AAA will help if their car breaks down and has complicated issues beyond a roadside assistance kit.

So, when it comes to road trip gift ideas, consider getting someone an annual membership to Triple AAA.

Pro Tip: Triple AAA offers special coverage for recreational vehicles, horse trailers, and boat trailers.

America the Beautiful Annual Pass

Consider getting a national park pass for road trippers heading to National Parks.

The most popular choice is the America the Beautiful Pass.

Having this with them on their road trip covers park entrance fees for a driver and all passengers in the vehicle (up to 4 adults).

This pass works for national forests and sites managed by the Forest Service, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, and others. Check out the full list here .

Plus, when you purchase from REI, they donate 10% of the proceeds to outdoor beneficiary organizations!

Road Trip Gift Cards

Three REI Gift Cards with various designs.

What do you give someone who is going on a long trip?

What.they.want!

You can never go wrong with a gift card – especially if the other road trip gift ideas aren’t speaking to you.

When it comes to great road trip gifts, a gift card opens doors to so many options. And the best gifts make their life easier.

If you’re making someone a road trip gift basket, it wouldn’t hurt to throw a Starbucks gift card in.

When I was driving halfway across the country solo, audiobooks and music were my best friends. Find out if your friend or family member has Audible or Spotify Premium.

I even had a friend get a gift card to a gas station once. Anything helps!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Monroe Dziersk

Monroe Dziersk is a gift giver by nature and an expert at finding gifts to show the people in your life you care. She comes from a family of designers, adding a unique flair to her gift-giving method.

Monroe was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. After discovering a world outside of Midwest winters, she was quickly drawn to the southeastern coast of the United States. While attending Elon University, she studied abroad in Florence, Italy. A switch was flipped, and she quickly fell in love with European culture and lifestyle. You can often find her accompanied by a good book and her calico cat.

Looking for more gift guides and road trip inspiration? Check out these related posts below!

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Best Gifts for Bourbon Lovers

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California Road Trip E-Book

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

You asked, we answered: Your questions about electric vehicles

Camila Domonoske

Photograph of a person's hand plugging in their electric vehicle to charge with an EV charger. The hand is cut out of the photograph and part of a collage with green rectangles, question marks, and graph paper.

If you're thinking about getting an electric vehicle, you're not alone.

People in the U.S. buy more than a million new cars every month, and as of March, less than 10% of those are electric vehicles. But more than half of car shoppers are at least considering battery-powered cars and SUVs, according to multiple studies .

And shoppers have lots of questions. In January, The Sunday Story, an NPR podcast, asked listeners for their EV questions. More than 60 listeners sent in queries, and The Sunday Story and Life Kit teamed up to answer them. The listener questions have been edited for length and clarity.

Are EVs truly better for the planet, even with mining for batteries and fossil-fuel -based electricity to charge them? (This was the No. 1 question asked by our listeners.)

The answer is yes . Many researchers have confirmed it , and online tools let you compare the impacts for yourself. One of the most recent analyses comes from Corey Cantor with the energy research company BloombergNEF, who headlined his report last month: "No Doubt About It: EVs Really Are Cleaner Than Gas Cars."

"Big picture, moving away from spewing more CO2 into the atmosphere is a good thing for the climate," he says. And the environmental benefits of EVs are getting bigger over time as grids get cleaner.

The Electric Car Race! Vroom, Vroom!

Amazon Alexa

Is it better from an environmental standpoint to buy an electric vehicle now, or keep driving the gas car you have until you need a new car? –Ali Mercural, Portland, Ore.

For the climate, there's a strong case for switching now.

Yes, creating that new EV — getting the materials to build it from scratch — is resource-intensive. But the climate impact of a gas-powered car increases every single day you drive it.

To be precise, more than 85% of a gas-powered vehicle's lifetime emissions come from using the car, not from building the car. That's according to researchers at Argonne National Laboratory. And that means the new EV, despite its manufacturing costs, will be cleaner over time.

Jessika Trancik , a professor at the Institute for Data, Systems and Society at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, suggests taking the long view on decisions like these. Think not just about emissions right now but over the entire time you'll own a vehicle.

"Generally speaking, switching to that electric vehicle is going to provide a benefit over the lifetime of the car," she says.

I'm not proud, but I've run out of gas twice in my life. Luckily, I had friends nearby to bring me a gallon of gas. What would happen if I ran out of charge in an EV? Would a tow truck come to charge me up? How long would that take? And how embarrassing would that be? –Robin Rzechula, Chicago

We can't promise it won't be embarrassing, but a tow truck could tow you to a charger. In some cities, AAA will bring a mobile charger to you.

Overall, charging is a different experience than fueling up. With a combustion engine, you have to regularly make a stop at a gas station to fill up. With an EV, for daily driving, most people charge at home overnight – which drivers frequently cite as a major perk of EV ownership. (This does require the ability to charge at home).

For road trips, on the other hand, many parts of the country still have limited availability of fast chargers, which are high-speed chargers designed for use in the middle of a trip. Charger speeds and reliability at public charging stations vary, and charging takes much longer than filling up at a gas station.

So charging takes less work day-to-day, but more planning on long trips. Map out chargers on your route so you won't find yourself calling AAA.

Does leasing an electric car come with the same perks (like tax rebates) as buying an electric car? –Hallie Andrews, Washington, D.C.

The same or better.

There's a federal $7,500 tax credit for purchasing an EV, now available as an up-front credit toward the cost of the car. But the list of vehicles that qualify is short because of requirements meant to support U.S. jobs and supply chains. Buyers also have to be under an income cap.

Leased electric vehicles all qualify for a $7,500 credit – no matter where they're built, with no income cap. Check your lease paperwork to confirm that the credit is being fully passed along to you.

Efforts underway to make cities more EV-friendly

Wouldn't it be better to design cities around mass transit and use mass transit than get everyone to convert to electric vehicles? – Thomas Guffey, Los Angeles

Yes, designing cities to encourage mass transit – and to make them more walkable and bikeable – has a lower carbon footprint than relying on electric vehicles, in addition to other benefits . Electric bikes also have a fraction of the environmental footprint of EVs.

Switching to EVs is an important part of fighting climate change, but far from the only change that needs to happen.

The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , and sign up for our newsletter .

Life Kit: Sustainability
electric vehicles
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Love Exploring

This Is What A Road Trip Looked Like The Year You Were Born

Posted: January 30, 2024 | Last updated: January 30, 2024

Few travel experiences are more classically American than the road trip. With a sprawling transcontinental highway system linking almost every state, there’s no better way to travel the country, but the activity has changed dramatically throughout the last century. From the first cars, camper vans and RVs to today, here’s what the great American road trip looked like in every decade until the 2000s.

The open road

1910s: a family poses by their car

Although the first car was invented in 1886 , it wasn’t until a couple of decades later that automobiles became more popular and widespread in America. This was thanks to a game-changing invention: Henry Ford’s Model T, which launched in 1908. It ran on gasoline, which made it cheaper and meant it could travel further distances than the electric vehicles that had previously been used. In this photograph from the 1910s, a family poses by their brand new Model T.

<p>You might be surprised to learn that the world’s first recreational vehicle, or RV, was invented back in 1915. The 25-foot (7.6m) long automobile was created by Roland Conklin’s Gas-Electric Motor Bus Company and dubbed the Gypsy Van. It was kitted out with a kitchen, sleeping berths, folding tables, various small appliances, a generator and lighting. It was used by the Conklin family to travel from Huntington, New York to San Francisco, California on a journey that captured the attention of national media. </p> <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/gallerylist/131025/the-amazing-history-of-rving-in-america"><strong>Now discover the fascinating history of RV-ing in America</strong></a></p>

1910s: the first-ever RV

You might be surprised to learn that the world’s first recreational vehicle, or RV, was invented back in 1915. The 25-foot (7.6m) long automobile was created by Roland Conklin’s Gas-Electric Motor Bus Company and dubbed the Gypsy Van. It was kitted out with a kitchen, sleeping berths, folding tables, various small appliances, a generator and lighting. It was used by the Conklin family to travel from Huntington, New York to San Francisco, California on a journey that captured the attention of national media.

<p>Since the first national parks were signed into law in the late 1800s, Americans began to gain a greater appreciation for the natural beauty in their backyard. Then the arrival of cars made it easier to access them – although it was still a privilege available to the wealthy few who were lucky enough to own one. Pictured here is a group of visitors on a guided “Two National Parks in Two Weeks” tour that swept through Rocky Mountain National Park and Yellowstone National Park.</p> <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/loveexploringUK?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=front"><strong>Love this? Follow us on Facebook for more travel inspiration</strong></a></p>

1910s: touring the national parks

Since the first national parks were signed into law in the late 1800s, Americans began to gain a greater appreciation for the natural beauty in their backyard. Then the arrival of cars made it easier to access them – although it was still a privilege available to the wealthy few who were lucky enough to own one. Pictured here is a group of visitors on a guided “Two National Parks in Two Weeks” tour that swept through Rocky Mountain National Park and Yellowstone National Park.

As cars became increasingly efficient and powerful, they began to be used to haul small trailers. In 1919, a group known as the Tin Can Tourists of the World (TCT) was set up by trailer enthusiasts, who wanted to create safe and clean campgrounds for people to visit. It’s thought the name originated from the Ford T Model, or “Tin Lizzie”, which was the preferred set of wheels for many TCT members at the time. This campground in Gainesville, Florida was one of the first to be set up.

1920s: birth of Tin Can Tourism

We wouldn’t dream of cutting a hole in a giant sequoia today, but back in 1881 a tunnel big enough to drive through was carved in the towering Wawona Tree in Yosemite National Park. Intended to be a tourist attraction, the 227-foot (69m) tree certainly drew in plenty of early road trippers such as this family. Sadly, the 2,100-year-old beauty fell in 1969, partly due to the fact the tunnel had weakened its base.

1920s: an unusual attraction in Yosemite

<p>While road trips may have been a way to unwind for many, motorcyclist and car racer Erwin Baker turned these cross-country journeys up a notch – by driving as fast as he could. In fact, he even earned the name “Cannonball”, after a newspaper compared him to a Cannonball Express train during one of his famous cross-country races. Shown here in 1923, in his Oldsmobile 30A surrounded by fans, the racer had just completed a trip from New York to Los Angeles by motocycle in a record-breaking 12-and-a-half days. </p>

1920s: a legendary cross-country race

While road trips may have been a way to unwind for many, motorcyclist and car racer Erwin Baker turned these cross-country journeys up a notch – by driving as fast as he could. In fact, he even earned the name “Cannonball”, after a newspaper compared him to a Cannonball Express train during one of his famous cross-country races. Shown here in 1923, in his Oldsmobile 30A surrounded by fans, the racer had just completed a trip from New York to Los Angeles by motorcycle in a record-breaking 12-and-a-half days.

The Great Depression shook the automobile industry, and sales declined throughout this decade. However, those who could afford to still enjoyed the freedom of the open road, traveling to the coast, the mountains and beyond. Here, road trippers consult a map while passing through the state of Georgia.

1930s: road trippers check their directions

When people began to make longer journeys by car, it became apparent they’d need somewhere to keep their belongings and equipment. Enter the trunk. Early examples were fairly rudimentary, involving a trunk or suitcase attached to the back of the car – hence the name – but from around the 1930s, built-in storage became common in many cars. In this photograph, a couple loads the trunk with luggage for a trip.

1930s: boots allow people to pack luggage

The year 1936 saw the invention of the iconic Airstream Clipper, another mode of transport that would shape the image of the American road trip in decades to come. Despite costing a minimum of $1,465 or $30,300 in today’s money, sales went through the roof and it became popular with celebrities and political figures of the day, who had theirs customized with a variety of luxury finishes.

1930s: the first Airstream arrives

<p>The striated peaks of the Badlands, South Dakota are just as striking in this rudimentary color photograph as they are today. The national park (then a national monument) was located close to US Highways 14 and 6, so when roads were built through it during the 1930s and 1940s there was a significant uptick in visitor numbers.</p> <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/121388/historic-images-of-world-famous-holiday-destinations?page=1"><strong>Next, check out these vintage photographs of world-famous destinations</strong></a></p>

1940s: car drives through Badlands National Park

The striated peaks of the Badlands, South Dakota are just as striking in this rudimentary color photograph as they are today. The national park (then a national monument) was located close to US Highways 14 and 6, so when roads were built through it during the 1930s and 1940s there was a significant uptick in visitor numbers.

Although cars had been on the market for a few decades, the Great Depression and the Second World War had halted automakers’ growth and made most people unable to buy them. But in the postwar years, cars became increasingly affordable and many families were able to own them for the first time, which opened the world of road-tripping up to a wider audience.

1940s: automobile ownership on the rise

The national parks remained popular road trip destinations throughout the decade, as you can see from this black-and-white image of a car driving through Yellowstone in 1941. Parks’ infrastructure began to improve and families’ disposable income rose dramatically, making vacations more accessible for many too.

1940s: car drives through Yellowstone National Park

<p>By the 1950s, the road trip had become an undeniable fixture of American culture. The postwar years saw a continued boom in car ownership across the country and road conditions had improved a great deal too. In 1959, an engineer at Volvo developed the three-point seatbelt (the kind we're familiar with today) which also made hitting the road a whole lot safer. Pictured here, a road-tripping couple check their map.</p>

1950s: road-tripping increases in popularity

By the 1950s, the road trip had become an undeniable fixture of American culture. The postwar years saw a continued boom in car ownership across the country and road conditions had improved a great deal too. In 1959, an engineer at Volvo developed the three-point seatbelt (the kind we're familiar with today) which also made hitting the road a whole lot safer. Pictured here, a road-tripping couple check their map.

<p>Jack Kerouac's 1957 novel <em>On The Road</em> helped cement the dream of traveling through America’s highways and byways in the collective imagination. Celebrities also helped to give road-tripping a glamorous image. Pictured here is Marilyn Monroe and her husband at the time, playwright Arthur Miller (center, with box), with their friend Milton Green (right), a photographer. Captured in New York in 1956, the trio are about to take a trip to Connecticut in a Thunderbird convertible.</p>

1950s: famous stars take to the road

Jack Kerouac's 1957 novel On The Road helped cement the dream of traveling through America’s highways and byways in the collective imagination. Celebrities also helped to give road-tripping a glamorous image. Pictured here is Marilyn Monroe and her husband at the time, playwright Arthur Miller (center, with box), with their friend Milton Green (right), a photographer. Captured in New York in 1956, the trio are about to take a trip to Connecticut in a Thunderbird convertible.

<p>Now that more Americans were taking to the road during their vacation time, they needed a place to stay. So the neon signs of motels and diners became an increasingly common sight along the country’s highways. A classic “mom-and-pop” motel would offer affordable lodgings, a place to park up for the night, and often a diner serving home-style food.</p> <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/114947/your-states-best-motel?page=1"><strong>Find out which is your state's best motel</strong></a></p>

1950s: motels and diners spring up everywhere

Now that more Americans were taking to the road during their vacation time, they needed a place to stay. So the neon signs of motels and diners became an increasingly common sight along the country’s highways. A classic “mom-and-pop” motel would offer affordable lodgings, a place to park up for the night, and often a diner serving home-style food.

<p>The first all-weather road between the Midwest and the Pacific Coast, Route 66 revolutionized the road trip. It shaved some 200 miles (322km) off the journey between Chicago and Los Angeles, making it easier for people in the rural west to get to cities in the midwest and northeast. In 1960, <em>Route 66</em>, an American TV series that followed the escapades of a pair of young men traveling the route, aired on CBS. As the so-called Mother Road continued to crop up in popular culture, America's fascination with her grew.</p>

1960s: Route 66 gains notoriety

The first all-weather road between the Midwest and the Pacific Coast, Route 66 revolutionized the road trip. It shaved some 200 miles (322km) off the journey between Chicago and Los Angeles, making it easier for people in the rural west to get to cities in the midwest and northeast. In 1960, Route 66 , an American TV series that followed the escapades of a pair of young men traveling the route, aired on CBS. As the so-called Mother Road continued to crop up in popular culture, America's fascination with her grew.

In the early 1960s, Aristocrat was the premier manufacturer of RVs in the country and its lo-liner model, which could fit into a standard garage, was especially popular. Although the company was in business for less than two decades, its trailers were so well-made – using aircraft construction methods and high-quality metals – they can still sometimes be seen on the road today.

1960s: Aristocrat is the top trailer maker

Camper vans became a big thing in the 1960s, when they were increasingly associated with the hippie counterculture of the time. Popular models included Volkswagen’s Type 1 and Type 2 Transporters and Dodge & Chevy’s Dodge A100. Seen here is a van parked up by the Teton Range of the Rocky Mountains in Wyoming.

1960s: camper vans make waves

Released in 1967, the Volkswagen Type 2 became a symbol of the hippie trail during the late 1960s and 1970s, since many made the journey in this van. This classic model wasn’t just reserved for bohemian types though – it was also popular with adventurers remaining on home soil. It’s pictured here on the shores of Little Duck Key in the Florida Keys.

1970s: VWs dominate the hippie trail

As motorhome and RV ownership grew, so did the need for more sites in which to park up. The successful management of public land, such as national parks and state parks, also helped to fuel camping’s popularity in this time. Seen here, a group of campers sit around by their trailer.

1970s: more campsites spring up

Trailer ownership waned in the late 1970s due to the recession and gas crisis, so much so that Airstream changed tack and released a motorhome for the first time. But its famous trailers remained in use. In this image from the decade, a couple gaze at New Mexico’s stunning mesa formations on a road trip, their Airstream attached to the back of a classic station wagon.

1970s: trailers experience a fall from grace

The iconic Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985, as newer, faster routes such as the Eisenhower Interstate had made it obsolete. Businesses along the highway, such as the Bel Air drive-in cinema in Mitchell, Illinois, suffered and many fell into disuse. However, 85% of the road remains and many road-trippers looking to revisit its nostalgic past still use it today.

1980s: motels shut their doors on Route 66

Opened in 1959, Daytona International Speedway began to host popular car and motorcycle events from the 1960s, which drew in a huge range of spectators. Pictured here are eager National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) fans – in their cars, camper vans and even rented U-Haul vans – gathered to watch the 1985 Pepsi Firecracker 400 race.

1980s: NASCAR fans gather at Daytona International Speedway

<p>After a lag in the 1970s due to the oil crisis, the RV industry boomed during the 1980s. Popular movies including National Lampoon's Vacation and The Blues Brothers, whose storylines heavily featured the motorhomes, helped to cement RVs’ place in popular culture. The iconic RV of the decade was the Fleetwood Bounder, released in 1985, which was the first of its kind to include basement storage – now a common fixture in these vehicles.</p>

1980s: RVs become more advanced

After a lag in the 1970s due to the oil crisis, the RV industry boomed during the 1980s. Popular movies including National Lampoon's Vacation and The Blues Brothers, whose storylines heavily featured the motorhomes, helped to cement RVs’ place in popular culture. The iconic RV of the decade was the Fleetwood Bounder, released in 1985, which was the first of its kind to include basement storage – now a common fixture in these vehicles.

Alaska has remained at the top of many tourists’ wish lists to this day and it’s easy to see why. In this 1990s photograph, a car travels along the scenic Seward Highway Trail on the Kenai Peninsula. We can bet they stopped a few times to take in the incredible views along the way.

1990s: tourists take in Alaskan scenery

Cute, vintage trailers such as this one came back in vogue in the 1990s and 2000s, alongside the faster and more efficient RVs and motorhomes of the day. Parked up in Shady Dell RV park in Bisbee, Arizona, the 1954 Crown trailer looks like an idyllic (and very cozy) home for two.

1990s: old-school trailers are back

<p>Made popular by the Beat Generation in the 1950s and the hippies of the 1960s, central California’s Big Sur is one of the most popular road trips in the country. Highway 1 is the iconic route which takes travelers along this rugged coastline, with the most visited stretch running between Santa Barbara and Monterey. Here, a classic 1990s compact car drives alongside the sun-splashed cliffs. </p> <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/98482/americas-most-scenic-coastal-drives?page=1"><strong>Now check out America's most scenic coastal drives</strong></a></p>

1990s: Big Sur maintains its magic

Made popular by the Beat Generation in the 1950s and the hippies of the 1960s, central California’s Big Sur is one of the most popular road trips in the country. Highway 1 is the iconic route which takes travelers along this rugged coastline, with the most visited stretch running between Santa Barbara and Monterey. Here, a classic 1990s compact car drives alongside the sun-splashed cliffs.

The Winnebago Adventurer, pictured, became increasingly popular throughout the 2000s and was the top-selling motorhome by 2012, according to data from Statistical Surveys. The Class A gas-powered RV had spacious and comfortable interiors, a well-equipped kitchen and ample storage space, making it a great choice for many families.

2000s: the most popular RV

In the 2000s, drivers didn’t need to worry about packing snacks for their road trip as the era of drive-thru fast-food outlets was in full swing. In fact, you could also find drive-thru pharmacies, grocery stores, liquor stores, coffee shops and banks lining the country’s highways and byways by this point.

2000s: drive-thru in Maryland

<p>By the 2000s, the historic Route 66 had become a tourist attraction in its own right, with plenty of motels, diners and even a museum profiting off its storied past. At this section near Prewitt, New Mexico, photographed in 2003, the road runs parallel to Interstate 40. It seems a fitting visual metaphor, given the road was ultimately surpassed by the high-speed interstate highway system.</p>

2000s: remnants of Route 66

By the 2000s, the historic Route 66 had become a tourist attraction in its own right, with plenty of motels, diners and even a museum profiting off its storied past. At this section near Prewitt, New Mexico, photographed in 2003, the road runs parallel to Interstate 40. It seems a fitting visual metaphor, given the road was ultimately surpassed by the high-speed interstate highway system.

GPS technology became an integral part of many cars in the 2000s and 2010s, meaning many drivers swapped old-school maps for sat-navs. Meanwhile, Google Maps first appeared on a smartphone in 2007, providing even more navigation options – as well as raising some safety concerns, as some people started looking at their phones while driving. Pictured is a car driving through the scenic Monument Valley, Arizona using a sat-nav.

2010s: navigation gets an upgrade

Thankfully, modern technology has helped make road-tripping a little greener. In recent years, Airstream has released models of its classic trailers equipped with PV panels on their roofs, as well as add-on solar packs, allowing campers to harness the sun’s rays and provide off-grid energy. Pictured is an Airstream trailer with a solar kit in Ojo Caliente, New Mexico.

2010s: camper vans powered by solar

<p>Until very recently, long-distance travel in an electric vehicle has felt like a distant dream. But thanks to the rapid improvements in EVs themselves, which mean they can travel for longer distances, as well as the installation of new charging points across the States, electric-powered road trips look like an increasingly viable option. And heading into the 2020s, <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/electric-road-trip-usa">a new cross-country network of EV charging points</a>, running from Los Angeles, California to Washington DC, is making it easier than ever to refuel. Pictured is a motorway sign for a charging point along southern California’s Pacific Coast Highway.</p> <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/130915/incredible-experiences-you-can-only-have-in-the-usa?page=1"><strong>Next, discover the amazing experiences you can only have in the US</strong></a></p>

2010s: road tripping goes electric

Until very recently, long-distance travel in an electric vehicle has felt like a distant dream. But thanks to the rapid improvements in EVs themselves, which mean they can travel for longer distances, as well as the installation of new charging points across the States, electric-powered road trips look like an increasingly viable option. And a new cross-country network of EV charging points , running from Los Angeles, California to Washington DC, is making it easier than ever to refuel. Pictured is a motorway sign for a charging point along southern California’s Pacific Coast Highway.

<p>The start of the 2020s saw a curveball thrown at the travel industry: the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular destinations, such as Las Vegas (pictured), had their income from tourism almost completely slashed overnight, as lockdowns took hold and flights were canceled. However, when Americans were allowed to travel within the USA again, road trips experienced a renaissance: <a href="https://thevacationer.com/summer-travel-survey-2022/">a survey for <em>Vacationer </em>magazine</a> estimated that 80% of Americans planned to take a road trip in 2022. Many were keen to avoid airports and flying for fear of contracting the virus, and the open road offered a safer way to satisfy the wanderlust.</p>

2020s: a pandemic causes problems

The start of the 2020s saw a curveball thrown at the travel industry: the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular destinations, such as Las Vegas (pictured), had their income from tourism almost completely slashed overnight, as lockdowns took hold and flights were canceled. However, when Americans were allowed to travel within the USA again, road trips experienced a renaissance: a survey for Vacationer magazine estimated that 80% of Americans planned to take a road trip in 2022. Many were keen to avoid airports and flying for fear of contracting the virus, and the open road offered a safer way to satisfy the wanderlust.

<p>Another unexpected twist from the pandemic was the rise in remote working, which made long-term 'workations' a genuinely feasible option for many: one <a href="https://www.wsj.com/story/how-these-couples-work-full-time-from-their-rvs-20a0cc21">2022 survey of RV owners</a> revealed that over half had worked while on the road that year. Looking into the future, an increased awareness of the impact of flying on our planet means travelers will be looking for a different kind of trip, and driving through dramatic landscapes with the ability to stop anywhere certainly presents a more ecological and enriching alternative. It seems the freedom of the road will always beckon.</p> <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/130915/incredible-experiences-you-can-only-have-in-the-usa?page=1"><strong>Next, discover the amazing experiences you can only have in the US</strong></a></p>

2020s: remote working on the road

Another unexpected twist from the pandemic was the rise in remote working, which made long-term 'workations' a genuinely feasible option for many: one 2022 survey of RV owners revealed that over half had worked while on the road that year. Looking into the future, an increased awareness of the impact of flying on our planet means travelers will be looking for a different kind of trip, and driving through dramatic landscapes with the ability to stop anywhere certainly presents a more ecological and enriching alternative. It seems the freedom of the road will always beckon.

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Next, discover the amazing experiences you can only have in the US

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Moscow to Ryazan via Elektrostal

Moscow to ryazan road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Moscow to Ryazan. If you're planning a road trip to Ryazan, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am start in Moscow drive for about 1 hour

12:07 pm Elektrostal stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:07 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

3:47 pm arrive in Ryazan

driving ≈ 4 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Elektrostal

What are some things to do in Ryazan?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Ryazan.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Ryazan to Moscow drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Moscow to Ryazan . Or get a full Moscow to Ryazan flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Moscow well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Moscow!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Moscow to Ryazan

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

IMAGES

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One Photographer Turned A 1994 Ram Van Into the Perfect Road Trip Vehicle
The 18 Best Road Trip Cars
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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

Best Road Trip Cars in 2023
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid takes everything that has made this compact SUV popular over the years, like a comfortable ride and plenty of standard high-tech features, and added a fuel-efficient and quick-accelerating hybrid powertrain. It can get up to 41 mpg on the highway, which helps cut road trip costs. It was also a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money award.
The Best Road Trip Cars From Every Category
This versatile vehicle is a gem for road trips and an overall top-tier option. Sporting 26 mpg combined from a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, its ...
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Keep exploring with the Roadtrippers mobile apps. Anything you plan or save automagically syncs with the apps, ready for you when you hit the road! Tall tales, trip guides, and the weird and wonderful. Plan your next trip, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with the #1 trip planner. Every trip is a road trip.
How to Have the Perfect Road Trip, According to an Expert
3. When road tripping, it is important to have a stockpile of playlists, podcasts, and audiobooks to help pass the time. This can help fill any lulls in conversation! 4. A list of pre-planned ...
23 Best Road Trips in the U.S. to Take in 2024
Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock. 10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women's Suffrage Movement. Starting in New York's Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women's suffrage movement.
Top 10 US Road Trip Ideas for 2022
California Highway 1. Taking various names over different stretches including Pacific Coast Highway or Coast Highway, California's Highway One is a scenic road stretching 659 miles (over 1,00 kilometers) mostly along the coast. The road starts in Legget, north of San Francisco, and ends in Dana Point in Orange County.
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Did you know: If you use the Roadtrippers mobile app, your trips will instantly auto-sync over... Ready for navigation and good times! Search. The ultimate road trip planner to help you discover extraordinary places, book hotels, and share itineraries all from the map.
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The Ultimate Road Trip through New Zealand's Underrated North Island. For beaches, vineyards, and volcanoes, take the long way from the top to the bottom of New Zealand's North Island. By Erin ...
15 Genius Ideas for How to Organize a Car for a Road Trip
Check out my family road trip checklist and get ready to organize like a pro. 1. Backseat Organizer. First things first, use every storage compartment provided in the car to stow the appropriate items away in the right places. These include cup holders, backseat jackets, and the doors' side pockets.
The 7 best hybrid cars, SUVs, and minivans for a fuel-efficient road trip
Ranging from SUVs and minivans to crossovers and sports cars, here are a few of the top roadtripping-worthy hybrids on the market today: Subcompact crossover plug-in hybrid: 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. Compact SUV hybrid: 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid. Midsize SUV plug-in hybrid: 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe.
The American Road Trip Planner
USA Trip Ideas. We're discovering the USA from the freedom of the open road, and you're in the driver's seat. There's no better way to experience extraordinary vistas, charming small towns, and hidden gems. Explore these curated trips across the USA, then customize your own trip using the USA Trip Planner.
Road Tripping in the USA
Contents [ hide] 10 Best Family Road Trip Ideas in the USA. 1. The Classic American Road Trip. 2. Disney Magic on the Road. 3. National Park Adventure. 4.
How to Pack for a Road Trip + Packing List (2023)
Here's a list of essential items that you should pack when taking a road trip with a child: 1. Car Seats. When driving long distances, it's important that children are safely and securely strapped into their car seats. Ensure your car restraints are up-to-date and suitable for your child's age and size. 2.
Road Trip Ideas and Driving Guides
On a road trip, oftentimes it's all about the journey and not the final destination. Whether you want to explore the road less traveled, or you're just looking for a way to get home, Enterprise can help. Below you'll find a variety of road trip guides for popular destinations across the U.S. with easy-to-follow itineraries and recommendations.
The Best Gear for Your Road Trips in 2024
The best cargo box. This cargo box offers great aerodynamics, easy mounting and operation, and a lot of storage at a reasonable price. $799 from REI. $799 from Amazon. A cargo box effectively ...
23 Road Trip Hacks For The Perfect American Adventure
Some rental vehicles have a toll transponder box that records when you go through toll booths and adds the charge to your check, though sometimes you have to request it to be activated - and ...
14 Genius Road Trip Organization Hacks for 2024
15 Genius Road Trip Organization Hacks. 1. Snacks! Snacks provide entertainment and make everyone happier during a road trip. You will save money and time by packing drinks and snacks instead of buying them at every stop along the way. Road Trip Snack Organization: You can use these stackable snack containers.
These Are The Most Electric Vehicle-Friendly Road Trips ...
Y ou've invested in an electric vehicle (EV) or are interested in renting one for your next road trip. Fantastic! EVs are the way of the future, as demonstrated by ownership rates of EVs and ...
The 10 Best Cars for Great Sleep on a Road Trip
One of the most highly recommended vehicles on Reddit was the Toyota Sienna. This small minivan offers plenty of room for sleeping and storing your road trip essentials.
42 BEST Road Trip Gifts: Fun, Useful, & Essential [2024]
A mini car vacuum is the best road trip gift for anyone who likes a tidy car. This handheld vacuum is wireless, rechargeable, and comes with an array of attachments - making it suitable to reach any crevice. Road trip gifts like these make it a quick and easy way to keep their limited space feeling clean.
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If you're thinking about getting an electric vehicle, you're not alone. People in the U.S. buy more than a million new cars every month, and as of March, less than 10% of those are electric ...
Elektrostal to Moscow drive
Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Elektrostal to Moscow. If you're planning a road trip to Moscow, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.
Moscow to Elektrostal drive
Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Moscow to Elektrostal. If you're planning a road trip to Elektrostal, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.
This Is What A Road Trip Looked Like The Year You Were Born
You might be surprised to learn that the world's first recreational vehicle, or RV, was invented back in 1915. The 25-foot (7.6m) long automobile was created by Roland Conklin's Gas-Electric ...
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Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Moscow to Kostroma. If you're planning a road trip to Kostroma, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.
Moscow to Ryazan via Elektrostal drive
Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Moscow to Ryazan. If you're planning a road trip to Ryazan, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.