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41 road trip essentials: what you need on your next road trip.

Add these items to your road trip packing list to help you travel more comfortably.

Road Trip Essentials

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A road trip is a great way to see the country. Consider stocking up on these accessories before you go.

If you're planning a road trip, you're going to have a lot of work to do before you pack the car and head out of town. You'll need to map out a general itinerary, plan your overnight stops and create a list of must-see sights along the way. And don't forget about all the stuff you need to pack to ensure your family is safe, comfortable and entertained.

While you don't necessarily need a lot of things to make a road trip a success, U.S. News searched far and wide to find the best gadgets and gear that will make your time in the car the highlight of your trip. These are all items you'll want to consider adding to your road trip packing list.

As you pack your bags and get ready for an epic road trip, here are a few last-minute road trip essentials you might want to add to your arsenal, organized by category.

Personal care and hygiene

Entertainment, comfort and convenience.

Keeping a reliable flashlight stored in your car is a good rule of thumb for all drivers heading out on a road trip. In roadside emergencies, the Anker Rechargeable Bolder LC90 LED Flashlight can illuminate a distance of nearly 1,000 feet with a battery life of up to six hours. Its durable design makes it ideal for use in inclement weather, and its five settings include an SOS signal and a strobe light. Meanwhile, the Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp – which features a 400-lumen beam and red LED night vision – is ideal for when you find yourself changing a tire in the middle of the night. Both products earn rave reviews from consumers for their powerful light.

Portable power bank

Goal Zero's Sherpa 100AC power bank is a portable power bank you can use to recharge tablets, phones, cameras and laptops on the go. It features two USB ports, plus four cables are included and it's lightweight at just 2 pounds. Recent customers loved the power bank's versatility, but recommend charging it every two to three days for the best results.

Jumper cables

Jumper cables from AUTOGEN can easily fit in your trunk and could save the day if your battery dies and you're unable to start your car while out on the road. Many travelers also say you can't go wrong with these heavy-duty cables from Energizer. These 25-foot-long cables are perfect for any car type and come with a travel bag for easy storage – they're a must for any road trip packing list.

Portable tire inflator

A portable tire inflator can be a lifesaver if you find your tires have a slow leak during your trip. The AstroAl Air Compressor Tire Inflator is compact, so it won't take up much space among the other gear in your trunk, and it includes an LED flashlight with independent switch control. It is programmed to stop automatically once it hits the preset tire pressure and it comes with a 36-month warranty. Other travelers prefer the ViAir 88P - 00088 Portable Compressor Kit , noting it works well with a wide variety of vehicles. In addition to a 12-foot air hose and 9-foot power cord, the kit comes with alligator clamps that power your air compressor by attaching to your car's battery.

Jump starter

Picture this: You're having the time of your life on your road trip when your car battery dies in the middle of nowhere. Luckily, a high-quality jump starter is all you need to avoid this disastrous scenario. In addition to being water-resistant and compact, the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 comes with a built-in flashlight and a USB port for charging devices like smartphones and tablets. The Hulkman Alpha 85 2000A Jump Starter also comes highly recommended by travelers thanks to its easy-to-use design and powerful battery life (a single charge can hold up to 60 jump starts).

Waking up in the morning to an icy windshield isn't a pretty sight. Prestone AS244 Windshield De-Icer instantly melts ice upon contact, so you don't have to worry about waiting for your car to defrost when you're in a rush. As an added bonus, the can comes with a built-in scraper tool for easy ice removal. Recent customers have called this product a lifesaver during harsh winters.

Bringing a trusty multi-tool on your road trip is a simple way to make sure you're prepared no matter what situation you run into. Leatherman products impress consumers time and time again thanks to the company's high-quality and lightweight multi-tool designs. Customer-favorites include the Leatherman Bond and the Leatherman Wave+ , which offers 18 powerful tools like pliers and wire cutters.

Car charger

Frequent car travelers recommend always staying connected with the TECKNET USB Car Charger . Featuring four fast-charging ports, this adaptor can be used to charge smartphones, tablets and more. If you're hitting the road with the whole family in tow, or you simply want to charge more than one device at a time, travelers say this powerful charging adaptor is a must-buy. Pair it with an extra-long charging cable that can easily reach everyone in the back seat.

Dashboard phone mount

Keep your eyes on the road by installing a dashboard phone mount before your journey starts. The iOttie Easy One Touch 5 comes with a telescopic arm, a magnetic cord organizer and a strong-hold suction cup. Plus, its easy one-touch lock-and-release mechanism (a feature that is much appreciated among recent customers) makes taking your phone on and off the holder a breeze. If you don't like the rigidity of traditional dashboard phone mounts, consider choosing a phone mount with a flexible arm instead.

Document holder

Whenever you're hitting the open road, you want to prepare for the worst. In the event that you get into a car accident or are pulled over by the police, having easy access to your car's registration, insurance information and owner's manual is crucial. Recent travelers say that this Samsill car registration holder is great for keeping all your important documents organized.

Roadside emergency kit

To give yourself peace of mind while you're on the road, travelers recommend this STDY car roadside emergency kit from Amazon. Equipped with a tire pressure gauge, a utility knife, safety gloves, cable ties, a tow rope, tire repair tools, a raincoat and more, this compact kit has everything you need when life throws you an unexpected curve ball.

Extra-large body wipes

Extra-large body wipes from Busy Co make it easy to wash up when you can't take a shower. Cloths are suitable for dry, oily and combination skin types, and address a variety of skincare needs, including clarifying, toning, soothing and nourishing. Recent customers appreciated the large size of the wipes and said using them made them feel refreshed while traveling.

Lysol wipes

Disinfecting Lysol wipes are a must-have on your travel packing list. These cleaning wipes kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, so you can feel protected while on the road.

Disposable toilet seat covers

Disposable toilet seat covers from Amazon will help you avoid germs and stay clean when you stop for restroom breaks at gas stations, port-a-potties and campgrounds.

First-aid kit

A comprehensive first-aid kit can't be overlooked when packing up the car for your next road trip. Recent customers say this 298-piece kit from Amazon will get you the most bang for your buck, with bandages, antibiotic ointment, gauze, Band-Aids, pain reliever and much more. Although this will arm you with the basics of what you may need in a medical emergency, it's always a good idea to personalize your kit according to your needs.

Nausea Relief

Long hours in the car might sound daunting to anyone prone to motion sickness. In those cases, having preventative nausea medicine like Dramamine can be a lifesaver. If you prefer a drug-free alternative, Sea-Bands are anti-nausea wristbands that use acupuncture as a natural remedy to reduce motion sickness. Travelers say these bands are highly effective at reducing nausea.

Hand sanitizer

From gas pumps to ATMs, you never know what germs you may encounter on a road trip. Protect yourself against viruses like the cold and flu by adding a travel-size hand sanitizer to your road trip packing list and keeping it in the car during your trip.

If you'll be spending long hours in the car, it's important to remember to wear sunscreen. Sun Bum's SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray is broad spectrum, moisturizing and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. And if you'll be heading for the ocean on your trip, make sure you pack a reef-safe sunscreen like this one from Reef Repair to protect marine life and coral reefs from harmful chemicals. Although some customers reported a white cast upon application (due to the zinc oxide), many reviewers thought the trade-off was worth it to maintain healthy ocean environments.

Toiletry bag

This chic Sonia Kashuk Weekender Makeup Bag features two zipper compartments, a center organizer and carrying handles that make it perfect for transport. Customers particularly love that the bag is compact without sacrificing storage space. For durable, leak-proof travel bottles, check out this Getaway Travel Kit from Ban.do . It comes with four pearlescent bottles, two jars, a spatula, a funnel and a zippered pouch for storage. Plus, it includes a fun set of sticker labels so you can organize your toiletries in style.

[Read:  The Top Travel Toiletry Bags .]

Sitting in the car for hours can be painfully boring at times, but there are plenty of ways you can enjoy your time while road tripping. With the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite , you have access to thousands of books at your fingertips. The device boasts up to 10 weeks of battery life, adjustable warm light and a glare-free display, which recent reviewers said made marathon reading sessions a breeze. Meanwhile, kids can enjoy the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids , which offers a special font for children with dyslexia and comes with a two-year warranty.

Carefully curated Spotify playlist

Whether you prefer jamming out to tunes or listening to thought-provoking podcasts, having a Spotify playlist ready to go before you get on the road is a must. Take some time before your trip to curate a playlist or two so you can keep your eyes on the road and your hands off your phone while road tripping.

Audible subscription

Long drives call for catching up on all those books you've been saying you were going to read this year. With an Audible subscription, you can make the most out of traffic jams by enjoying some words by your favorite authors.

Choose a reliable duffel bag like the Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel for your next road trip. This bag is water-resistant, strength-bearing and perfect for when you need your luggage to fit in a small space. It also comes with lockable zippers and can be worn as a backpack or carried as a tote, a top feature according to recent reviewers. And if you're planning on hiking during your trip, travelers say the Daylite Duffel 30 from Osprey can fit everything you need with room to spare. This bag can be worn comfortably all day long and comes with a mesh water bottle pocket and functional harness straps.

[Read: The Top Rolling Duffel Bags .]

This YETI Hopper Soft Sided Backpack Cooler makes it easy to bring drinks anywhere without worrying about leaks. The cooler, which comes with a dryhide shell and a magnetic closure, can hold up to 18 cans (or 26 pounds of ice), and comes highly recommended by travelers thanks to its durable design. It's ideal for road trippers who plan to get out and explore, and need to stay hydrated or keep food fresh.

Rooftop Cargo Carrier

Save some space inside your vehicle by opting for a car roof cargo carrier. With an anti-slip mat and reinforced adjustable straps, the waterproof FIVKLEMNZ 15 Cubic Car Roof Bag Cargo Carrier from Amazon is suitable for any car type. Recent customers say that they had no problem getting it to stay in place even on high-speed roads.

Car organizer

A car seatback organizer lets you arrange road trip essentials on the back of the driver's or passenger's side seat, where they're within reach of small hands. Many buyers said this seatback organizer from Amazon.com took some of the stress out of traveling with kids, thanks to its multipurpose storage compartments, including a place for a tablet and plenty of other spots to store key items for your trip. You can also maximize your space by stashing your essentials in a trunk organizer. This one from Drive Auto comes with multiple storage compartments, waterproof lining and tie-down straps to keep items in place while you're driving.

Car trash can

There's no doubt about it – road trips can generate a lot of trash. Keep your car clean on your next adventure with this Hotor car trash can from Amazon. Complete with an adjustable strap, mesh side panels for storage and a leak-proof interior lining, this useful accessory comes highly recommended by travelers who find themselves frequently on the road.

Reusable bags

Whether you're stopping for snacks at a gas station or running into the grocery store for those last-minute essentials, a reusable bag is an easy way to reduce your plastic consumption. Recent reviewers said these versatile and water-resistant reusable bags can even be used as laundry bags, garbage bags or beach bags in a pinch.

Electric car blankets

Electric car blankets allow you to stay warm on the road no matter the temperature outside. This Stalwart electric car blanket takes up very little space, is surprisingly lightweight and plugs into any vehicle with a 96-inch-long cord. While some travelers noted that this blanket alone won't be enough to keep you warm in extremely cold weather, many say it was a welcome addition nonetheless.

SleepPhones soft headband headphones let you enjoy the open road while listening to music, audiobooks, meditation, white noise or talk radio. These headphones are expertly padded, which reviewers say makes them more comfortable for long-term wear than earbuds. You can buy the classic version or a wireless version at SleepPhones.com.

Travel pillow

Pick up an ergonomic travel pillow from Cabeau if you need extra neck and shoulder support when you ride in the passenger seat. The pillow features supportive memory foam, a front clasp to ensure it stays put and a removable cover that you can wash. Recent customers also loved that the pillow comes with straps that can be attached to any headrest, making sure you don't fall forward while catching some shut-eye. For kids, this Cloudz plush animal neck pillow comes in a variety of colorful animal options, such as a unicorn, a ladybug, a dinosaur and more.

[Read:  The Top Travel Neck Pillows .]

A battery-operated mini fan from SkyGenius can help you stay cool and comfortable. This fan comes with a rechargeable and replaceable battery, and is ideal for the car and for camping. For even more cooling capacity, opt for a fan with dual heads like the XOOL Electric Car Fan from Amazon. Both mini fans earn glowing reviews from travelers thanks to their powerful airflow capabilities.

Shield your eyes from the sun by picking up a good pair of sunglasses before your trip. Choose sunglasses that protect against the sun's UVA and UVB rays, and are polarized to block glare. Travelers love that these Ray-Ban Aviator Classic sunglasses come in a variety of tints and can even be customized to fit your needs. For a more budget-friendly option, check out these SUNGAIT Ultra Lightweight Rectangular Polarized Sunglasses from Amazon, which recent customers say are very comfortable and perfect for road tripping.

Window shade

The sun beating down on your car all day can heat it up quickly. To keep your car cool, travelers recommend the EcoNour Car Windshield Sun Shade , which protects your vehicle from UV rays and helps maintain your car's interior temperature at a comfortable level. Pair it with these car window shades to protect your backseat drivers from UVA and UVB rays while you're on the road. The shades come in two different sizes and transparency levels, and previous buyers say they are very easy to install.

Travel towel

A travel towel is one of the most versatile accessories you can bring on a road trip. Whether you are cleaning up a spill or want to go for an impromptu beach day, having a spare towel on hand is always a good idea. This odor-resistant and quick-drying 4Monster travel towel from Amazon comes in several sizes and includes a compact EVA box, which recent reviewers say makes it perfect for travel.

Reusable water bottles

Skip the plastic bottles and opt for a high-quality reusable water bottle on your next trip. This 40-ounce bottle from Hydro Flask keeps drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for a full day. It also comes with a lid with a built-in straw, which consumers say makes it convenient for driving. For kids, a durable water bottle like this 12-ounce YETI rambler fits the bill – its stainless steel bottle is dishwasher safe and shatter-resistant, a feature that parents love.

Cubcoats are two-in-one stuffed animals that transform into hoodies. Your child's furry friend (think bunnies, sloths and puppies) doubles as a soft, zip-up sweatshirt, and you get to save some space in your suitcase.

Inflatable car booster seat

If you're flying to another destination to pick up a rental car for your road trip, consider bringing inflatable car booster seats along. This BubbleBum backless inflatable booster is suitable for kids 4 to 11, and comes with a seat belt positioning clip for optimal comfort and safety. Recent buyers said it was portable and extremely easy to use.

Kids travel journal

A kids travel journal makes it easy for your child to document their road trip and all the fun things they see and do. This one from Peter Pauper Press includes world maps, puzzles, fun facts and more, and many parents said it made their kids' time in the car fly by.

Activity books

A family road trip means long hours in the car, and bored children are every parent's worst nightmare. Activity books can keep your kids occupied for long periods of time while you catch up on some much-needed quiet time.

Backseat travel tray for kids

If your co-pilot is constantly turning around to pick up toys or pass out snacks, a backseat travel tray is in order. The LUSSO Gear Kids Travel Tray comes with a safety strap that can be secured to any car seat, and includes a dry erase board table, a cup holder, a storage compartment for toys and a no-drop tablet viewing stand. Reviewers loved the tray's whiteboard area and said it was a great way to keep kids entertained on long car rides.

Shop in bulk

Check out Boxed.com for specially curated bulk items that are perfect for road trips and other types of travel. From sunscreen, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to Fruit Roll-Ups and snack-size packs of Pringles, Boxed.com is a convenient site to order bulk hygiene and snack items in one place.

Bring spare cash

Debit cards, credit cards and mobile phone payments may be the way of the world nowadays, but you may still run into a few places on your journey that are cash-only (for example, some national and state park entrance fees must be paid in cash). Be on the safe side by keeping some spare cash on hand in case of emergencies.

Save on gas

It's no secret that sky-high gas prices can put a damper on your vacation. Save some money on fuel by using apps like GasBuddy , which will show you the cheapest gas prices in your area. Go the extra mile by signing up for a gas rewards credit card to get the most bang for your buck.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Travel Backpacks
• The Top Sleeping Bags
• The Top East Coast Road Trips
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• The Best Cheap Travel Insurance Companies

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

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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89 Road Trip Packing List Essentials for Hitting the Road

This post may contain affiliate links.

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

Written in partnership with Toyota

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

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

Before you go…

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

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

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

Quick Home Maintenance Check: 

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

Clean your car

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

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

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

Vehicle essentials

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

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

In the glove box

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

Organization

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

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

Navigation and electronics

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

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

Entertainment

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

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

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

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

Comfort essentials for road trips

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

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

Toiletries and personal items

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

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

What to wear on a road trip

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

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

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

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

Basic road trip packing list

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

Camping basics

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

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

Essential road trip planning tips

Route planning.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Make a budget

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

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

Where to sleep

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

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

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

What to eat

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to shower on a road trip

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

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

What are the best road trips in the USA?

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

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

Made possible by Toyota

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

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

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Outstanding information. Thank you for the great tips!

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what to pack for a road trip!

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

Table of Contents

The Most Important Road Trip Essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jeremy usually opts for shorts and a t-shirt.

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About Kate Storm

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

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

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

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

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Home » Blog » EPIC USA Road Trip Bucket List and Packing Guide

EPIC USA Road Trip Bucket List and Packing Guide

Road trips are just honestly one of my favorite ways to travel. I mean, being on the open road, traveling to and through all sorts of new places, exploring nature… What’s not to love about them? America’s passion for road trips has existed for centuries now. And this romance doesn’t seem to be in trouble anytime soon. 53% of American families have embarked on their interpretation of The Great American Road Trip in recent years! Road trips can be budget-friendly , long or short, full of adventure, and safe or low-key for the first-time road tripper.

A road trip is the perfect way to explore all of the beauty the United States has to offer. From mountain ranges and breathtaking sunsets to crystal-clear lakes and sandy beaches, there’s so much to see that no amount of road trips might ever be enough! Because I love road trips so much, today’s post is all about America’s favorite way to travel. I’m sharing my ultimate US road trip bucket list! Some of the road trips below are still on my bucket list to check off! While others I’ve done in the past and have full itineraries linked for you guys! Enjoy!

Disclaimer : This blog post is in collaboration with  Backcountry.com and features some affiliate links. This means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Use code RENEE15 to get 15% off your first Backcountry order (some exclusions apply). You can also learn more about my affiliate policy  here . Thank you for the support!

USA Road Trip Bucket List

1. Oregon 7 Day Road Trip

It’s no secret that Oregon is one of my favorite places in the entire United States! I just fall in love over and over again with everything that it has to offer. After all, it has some of the country’s most beautiful hot springs, waterfalls, coastlines, mountains, and lakes. This week-long Oregon road trip is perfect for the summer and early fall, though you can also do it during spring or winter. Just know you might risk a few trails and roads being closed due to the weather!

The trip starts and ends in Portland, a vibrant city with a scenic river and epic foodie scene. So feel free to add another day here to explore downtown! On the second day, you’ll travel from Hood River to Bend, stopping at Trillium Lake and Smith Rock State Park. Then day three is for the journey to the famous Crater Lake, where you will be spending the entire fourth day of the trip. On day five you’ll head to Cape Kiwanda, and then on to Cannon Beach for day six. Finally, you’ll journey back to Portland!  Click here for our Oregon 7 day road trip itinerary .

2. Utah National Parks Road Trip

On this trip, you’ll have the pleasure of exploring Utah’s Mighty Five. Utah’s ‘Mighty 5’ is made up of five absolutely incredible national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. Each park has so much natural beauty to enjoy and tons of things to do. You can do this trip in either 7 or 10 days depending on how much time you want to spend in each park. 

For the route, things to do, where to stay, and my tips for really getting the most out of this trip, I definitely recommend you take a look at my Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary . I share tons of info on the different seasons, the vehicle you’ll need, and more. This is definitely one of my favorite road trips in the USA so definitely add it to your bucket list! 

3. Kenai Peninsula Road Trip

If you’ve been dying to get to know Alaska, this road trip should be at the very top of your bucket list! This week-long road trip gives you the chance to marvel at the settings of Southcentral Alaska. Because you’ll be traveling very much north, this trip is best taken while you won’t spend the whole time freezing. So aim for mid-March to September as potential travel dates! 

You’ll arrive in Anchorage and travel to Girdwood during the first day, enjoying a scenic drive to introduce yourself to this region. For the second day, you’ll head to Seward and spend two nights there. Be sure to visit the Alaska SeaLife Center ! On the fourth day, you’ll drive from Seward to Homer, the capital of halibut fishing . Spend a second night there exploring the nearby areas and the majestic Kenai Fjords National Park .  On day six, drive to Cooper Landing, where you’ll be surrounded by mountains and deep forests. Finally, go back to Anchorage on day seven! 

4. The Grand Circle Arid Deserts Road Trip

This is one of the most well-known National parks road trips in the United States. So you better give it a try! You’ll visit six National Parks and travel across 2 states, Utah and Arizona. You can easily do this road trip in two weeks. But I recommend giving yourself a little wiggle room to explore the deserts and everything these areas have to offer! You can start at the Hualapai Indian Reservation if you want to explore that area, or even from Las Vegas if you feel like partying to kick off your trip! That part is up to you. 

On this road trip, you’ll see Zion National Park , Bryce Canyon National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Parks, and Grand Canyon National Park. In each one of them, you can experience scenic drives, hiking trails, and ranger-guided tours. You’ll actually find the guides to some of these parks in the National park’s section of the blog ! Take at least two days per park while doing this grand circle across the open road.

5. Winter California Road Trip

I know that not all of you restrict your traveling to summer, plus not everyone can travel during that time of the year. So I created the perfect California road trip for winter ! This road trip is all about visiting two of my favorite California parks: Redwoods National Park and Yosemite National Park . Ideally, you’ll spend at least five days exploring these two parks and enjoy more than one scenic drive!

At Redwoods National Park , be sure not to miss the following hikes and drives:

• Fern Canyon Trail
• Prairie Creek Trail – Foothill Trail Loop
• Tall Trees Grove Trail
• Boy Scout Trail
• Gould Grove Nature Loop Trail
• Bald Hills Road
• Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
• Howland Hill Road
• Avenue of the Giants

And if you visit Yosemite , these are your must-do:

• Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
• Bridalveil Fall Trail
• Mirror Lake
• Artist Point
• Inspiration Point
• The Mist Trail
• Four-mile Trail
• Tunnel View
• Valley View
• Cathedral Beach
• Firefall at Horsetail Falls
• Yosemite Falls

6. US Route 93 Road Trip

This border-to-border road trip is the perfect way to explore the Westcentral of the United States! You’ll get to visit two nearby countries as well, Mexico and Canada. The historic Route 93 is almost 2,245 miles and I suggest taking 10 days to make the most out of it. Though feel free to add more days if you can. It’s always good to let yourself wander! As for the season, this trip is best made during spring and fall if you want to avoid scorching heat or freezing cold. But you can go whenever you want if you don’t mind extreme weather! 

The trip starts at Jasper National Park, located within Alberta, Canada. And it ends in Nogales Square, Mexico. So get ready for an International adventure! On this 10 day trip, you’ll explore Alberta, Montana, Idaho, Nevada, Sin City, Arizona, and Nogales. There are several National parks along the road, so make sure to visit them all! 

7. Great North Road Trip

Get ready to venture into US Highway 2 for this cross-country road trip that goes across 3,318 miles. So you should give yourself at least ten days to really enjoy the north and all its wonders. Since you’ll be up North, I suggest not doing this itinerary during winter to avoid very low temperatures and lots of snow on the open roads. 

You’ll start at Seattle, Washington, and finish up in Acadia National Park, Maine. During your 10 days on the road, you’ll visit these highlights and more: Glacier National Park, Devils Lake, the Roadside Giants, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and The Big Nickel. 

8. Route 66 Road Trip

Talk about a classic, right Route 66 should be on all US road trip bucket lists out there! The famous Route 66 extends across 2,400 miles and crosses 8 different states, finishing up in California. Some would even say it’s the ultimate American road trip! So, please, give it at least two weeks to really soak in everything from this experience. 

The trip starts in Chicago, Illinois, and ends in Santa Monica, California. So if you’re flying and renting a car for your drive, I suggest flying to O’ Hare or Midway in Illinois to avoid a rocky start. In the span of 14 days, you’ll visit: Chicago, Springfield, Sullivan, Carthage, Tulsa, Clinton, Amarillo, Tumuncari, Albuquerque, Gallup, Flagstaff, Seligman, Needless, and San Bernardino. 

9. Skyline Drive Road Trip

If you prefer a quieter trip, then Skyline Drive is for you! This trip is all about connecting with nature and enjoying the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains across Shenandoah National Park . You’ll take the National Scenic Byway, which spans 105 quiet miles within the park. It’s the perfect easy weekend getaway! Take two days to enjoy this scenic drive and feel as relaxed as possible. 

You’ll drive from Front Royal to Waynesboro, stopping along the way to take pictures, hike around nature, go on a picnic, and more. I suggest you camp in the park for the ultimate recharging-around-nature experience. There are three campgrounds on-site, so you have plenty of options! Though make sure to visit between March and October to see this place fully come to life.  

10. California 10 Day Road Trip

If you want a gorgeous West Coast road trip filled with sandy beaches and rocky mountains, this 10 day California road trip is for you! You’ll drive across 1,247 miles and see a variety of scenic sites. You can shorten this trip, but I recommend taking 10 days to explore each destination at its maximum. And because of Sunny California’s weather, you can take this trip during any time of the year! 

You’ll start at Alabama Hills, then you’ll move onto Mammoth Lakes and Glacier Point. The next day you’ll reach Yosemite National Park , where you’ll spend two nights. Once you’re done exploring everything this beautiful park has to offer, you’ll begin the drive to San Francisco . Spend a night in this bustling city and take the Pacific Highway to Big Sur. Explore this quiet spot and its nearby areas before heading out for Santa Barbara the next morning. You’ll spend a night in this famous beach town and then drive to Los Angeles. Two nights don’t do this city justice but it’ll do for this trip.

The next stop is Sequoia National Forest, where you’ll spend your final night on the road before reaching your final destination: Death Valley National Park . Once you’re here, stay at least for a night! Bonus day or so you can add San Diego or Orange County to your trip! And keep in mind that Tijuanna is just south of San Diego if you want to take things International!

11. Yellowstone To Grand Teton

Two of this country’s best National Parks are super close together. They’re even joined at the south border of Yellowstone and the northern border of Grand Teton . But they both offer unique natural settings. Yellowstone is for wildlife and breath-taking geothermal sites. Grand Teton is for epic mountain views. So why not make a road trip out of them? It’s a quick 5-day road trip you’ll never forget! Ready to cross this one off your bucket lists? 

Your Yellowstone to Grand Teton itinerary begins at Bozeman, Montana. From there you’ll finish 5 days later in Grand Teton National Park ! Some of the best spots you’ll visit along the way are Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Lower Geyser Basin, Old Faithful Geyser, Jackson Lake, Colter Bay Village, Oxbow Bend, Jenny Lake, and Teton Park Road. 

12. Bold Coast Scenic Road Trip

This weekend-long or speedy day trip extends across 125 miles alongside Maine’s scenic byways. Welcome to the Bold Coast! You’ll visit Downeast Maine and Coastal Washington County on this relaxing trip up North. It’s a must for those looking to add day trips to their US road trip bucket lists. I recommend taking this road trip during spring, summer, or fall. It can become too snowy during winter! 

The trip starts at Millbridge, a quiet coastal fishing community. Then you’ll drive to Lubec, which is actually the easternmost town in the entire United States ! The final part of the journey takes you from Cobscook Bay to Eastport. Enjoy this brief but wonderful open road trip to nature! 

13. Kentucky Bourbon Trail Road Trip

This 3-day trip will take you across a bourbon-filled path within Kentucky! This is the trip to take if you enjoy a good drive and a drink afterward. We all know Kentucky is the place where bourbon is historically produced. And with reason! This Bourbon Trail will show you some of the best distilleries in the country. 

You’ll start off in Louisville spending a fun night in this city. I recommend the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience to kick off your adventure. And be sure to visit the Louisville Slugger Museum! The next stop is The Woodford Reserve Distillery, a National Historic Landmark worthy of all bucket lists out there. Drive to Lexington and spend the night there. For your final night, drive to Bardstown and pour yourself a drink to celebrate! 

14. New England Fall Road Trip

The Northeast US is one of the top places to visit during the fall. And this New England fall road trip itinerary suits all kinds of road trippers! So I’ve made 3, 5, and 7-day itineraries for you to choose from. For now, I’ll share a bit more about the quick 3-day road trip. 

Just so you’re prepared, the Northeast is quite busy during fall. Alright, let’s start. The trip begins in Boston, but you could drive from New York City if you want to spend a few days in the Big Apple beforehand. From there, drive to Dixville Notch and explore the area and all its fall-themed wonder. On day two you’ll head to Stowe, Vermont, where you’ll spend the night. Day three is a busy one as you’ll head to Smuggler’s Notch and then to Pomfret, Vermont. Finally, you’ll head back to New Hampshire where you can spend your final night in Lincoln. 

15. Hana Highway Road Trip

Time to head to Hawaii! The scenic Road to Hana on Maui is the most famous scenic drive in this entire US territory. This path is located on the northeast coastline of Maui and is beautiful all year round. So feel free to cross this one off your US road trip bucket list during any season!

You’ll take the Hana Highway the whole drive, so you can relax and enjoy the ride. I recommend following a two-day itinerary to really soak in the beauty of Hawaii’s Hana Highway. Start in Hana Town and drive all the way to Halfway To Hana. Here, you can spend the night near the Upper Waikani Falls at Wailua. The next day, continue all the way to Kahului and spend the night there if you can! 

Interested in exploring more of Hawaii? I have guides to Kauai , Oahu , and the Big Island .

16. Rocky Mountain Road Trip

Ready to drive across 4,600+ miles through the mountains? Then add the Rocky Mountains to your US road trip bucket list! You’ll venture into Colorado, through Wyoming, Montana, and all the way up to Canada. This trip is best done in summer or spring to avoid extremely cold temperatures. But you do you if you can stand the cold! 

This is a two-week road trip from Boulder, Colorado, to Jasper National Park, Canada. You can make this a round trip as well if you don’t mind spending a month on the open road! Some of the highlights are the Wind River Range, Grand Teton National Park , Missoula, Glacier National Park, and Lake Louise. I recommend camping if the weather is nice since it’ll give you the opportunity to further explore nature. So here are my car camping essentials to give you the courage to camp while on the road! 

17. Atlantic Coast Road Trip

I couldn’t leave the Eastern Seaboard out of this bucket list! From New England to Florida, the ultimate Atlantic Coast road trip takes approximately 1,600 miles and at least 8 days to complete. Bear in mind that this coast is quite busy all year long, so avoid embarking on this journey during peak seasons. 

You’ll start off in Boston! Spend a day and night here, then head out to New York City the next morning. I know you could spend weeks exploring the Big Apple, but one or two days is the most you can spend here without turning this road trip into a 10+ days adventure.

The third stop is Atlantic City! Spend a night filled with fun and ocean beaches here before heading out for Hatteras Island, North Carolina. There, take the chance to relax and connect with nature. Drive to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, then onto Savannah, Georgia. For your seventh day, you should be in vibrant Miami! After a night in the city, head south for the famous Florida Keys. And that’s the end of your trip!

18. US 80 Road Trip

This is the one and only Southern road trip! It should be on everyone’s bucket lists. It’s a cross-country adventure across the Southern Pacific. Give this itinerary two weeks to enjoy the ride without rushing or feeling like you missed out on many highlights. It extends along 3,000 miles and 8 different states, so get ready for some serious cultural and scenic variety! 

The trip starts in Los Angeles California and ends in Savannah, Georgia. This leaves plenty of beautiful places to visit in the middle of this journey. Some of the top spots are: Carlsbad Cavern, Mount Roswell, Fort Worth, the Civil Rights Movement National Historic Trail, New Orleans, Nashville, Dallas, and Tybee Island. 

19. Florida Keys Road Trip

Everyone loves clear waters and sandy beaches. That’s why a road trip across the Florida Keys is the best way to relax and go on an adventure at the same time! It’s a short but scenic drive across 112 miles down south on the US-1 N. You can experience the magic of driving right above the ocean and swimming in tropical waters once you’ve reached your destination. Some recommend doing it strictly during winter to avoid crowds and extreme heat. But I’d say go whenever you want, it’s gorgeous all year long! 

You’ll start the journey in Miami and go back there after visiting the Keys. The must-see spots include: Key Largo, Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, Key West, and Dry Tortugas National Park. You could spend as little as one day exploring the Florida Keys. Though I suggest giving this trip at least two to three days to be able to see all the spots! 

20. Bluebonnet Trail Road Trip

This road trip is perfect for all the road trip newbies out there! It has a much slower pace than most famous US road trips. So here we go! You’ll stay in Texas the entire time, and this trip can easily be done in just one night or over a long weekend if you prefer it. Needless to say, this road trip is perfect for spring! If you want to get the most out of those bluebonnet flowers, then schedule your trip no earlier than March and no later than September. 

You’ll start at Burnet and end in Marble Falls. After departing from “ Official Bluebonnet Co-Capital of Texas .”, you’ll stop at the other Bluebonnet Co-Capital: Lanno. The third destination is Willow City, where you can choose to spend the night if you’re sleepy. Then, you’ll travel to Fredericksburg, where the countryside and flowers will be absolutely beautiful. After exploring nature, head to Johnson City for a more urban setting. Your final stop is Marble Falls! You can stay here for a night amidst nature or return to Burnet. 

21. Every US National Park Road Trip

Alright, we’re going out with a bang! This US road trip bucket list wouldn’t be complete without this epic cross-country road trip to every single national park . This is for expert wanderers only, or those willing to be on the road for 7 months straight. It’s a little crazy, I know. But it’s a life-changing journey! 

You’ll drive across  25,000 miles, take over two dozen flights, and visit 39 states + 2 US territories. And you’ll get to see every US National park in one go! Head over to our guide on how we pulled this off to see the exact steps you should take to complete this amazing road trip. 

Usa Road Trip Packing Guide

There are some must-have items to consider when packing for your USA road trip! I will list each one below, including relevant links to purchase. I also have numerous other blog posts about gear required for car camping, hiking, and backpacking, in case you plan to do any of those things while road tripping:

• Top Tips for Sleeping In Your Car on Road Trips
• Car Camping Basics: How To Plan Your First Car Camping Trip
• Car Camping Essentials List: Ultimate Printable Checklist!
• How To Prepare for Hiking and Backpacking Trips
• What To Wear Hiking As A Woman
• The Best Hiking Shoes for Women and Men in 2021
• Must-Know Backpacking Tips For Women
• 9 Backpacking Mistakes to Avoid: Must Know Beginner Backpacking Tips

Backcountry.com is my go-to retailer for all things outdoors, including road trip adventures. You can use code RENEE15 to get 15% off your first order! (some exclusions apply).

Road Trip Essentials

Before we cover less urgent items, below are road trip ESSENTIALS that you should have on every single trip:

• You car insurance policy
• License and registration information
• Your vehicle’s manual
• A spare tire + required tools to change a flat tire
• Roadside emergency kit
• First aid kit
• Emergency roadside assistance (e.g. AAA)
• Passport (if going to Canada or Mexico) + case
• Park passes, hiking permits, etc.
• Personal sanitizing kit : face masks, hand sanitizer, gloves
• Vaccination record card + waterproof pouch
• Medications

If you’re traveling in winter you should also consider packing a snow shovel and ice scraper .

More Things To Pack for a Road Trip

• Reusable bottle and water jug
• Reuseable shopping bag / tote
• Flash light or headlamp
• Travel toilet kit
• Camera + charger
• Car charger + USB cable
• Portable phone charger
• Toiletries + dopp kit

Practical Road Trip Clothing Items

• Insulated jacket
• Wind breaker
• Rain jacket
• Moisture whicking t-shirt
• Moisture whicking long-sleeve
• Fleece or sweater
• Stretchy leggings
• Hiking pants
• Hiking shorts
• Quick-drying socks
• Hiking shoes
• Casual sandals

Comfort Road Trip Items

• Travel pillow
• Window shades
• Window bug nets
• Mini car vacuum
• Car trash can
• Travel pour over coffee
• Water filter

The last thing for your list is some road trip playlists, podcasts, and/or audiobooks! I have a road trip Spotify playlist if you want to check it out – Road Trip Vibes

What is your favorite itinerary from this US Road Trip bucket list? 

Those are the US road trip itineraries on my bucket list! These road trips are my favorite and the ones that allow you to see as much of America’s beauty as possible. If you’re planning to get to the open road, I recommend you pick your next destination out of this list! And head over to the Road Trip section of my blog if you want to read the rest of my tips and tricks for traveling on the road. That’s all for now, travelers. Good luck with those road trip itineraries! 

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Related Guides

Arctic Expedition on the Seabourn Venture – Greenland and Canada

The ULTIMATE New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Oregon 7 Day Road Trip Exploring the Coast, Mountains, Lakes, and Waterfalls!

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I am found of traveller through out my childhood. I found your article worth reading in this concern. Keep sharing such stuff.

It’s informational and so many tips about road trips, thanks.

Wonderful post that proves ideal for mine…specially music playlist part.

I’m driving to Alden, New York, to visit a friend in a week. Instead of the highway I’m planning on driving on rt. 20 from either Boston or where it starts in New York. I’m in Maine. I was hoping you included that rd. I’ve traveled many of the roads you listed. As a 73-yr-old woman I still enjoy road trips (on my own). Thanks for the great info.

So much info, so many trips. I’d better get started on these road trips. Thanks Renee

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

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

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

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

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

Download our PDF road trip packing list

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

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

Entertainment

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

Download a printable version here

Road Trip Navigational Tools

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

Here are our recommendations for road trip maps and apps:

Paper Map or Atlas

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

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

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

Shop Benchmark Road and Recreation Atlases at:

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

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

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

Road Trip Apps

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

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

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

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

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

Road Trip Clothing, Footwear, & Accessories

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

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

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

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

Road Trip Packing Lists

Road trip entertainment packing list.

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

Music Playlists

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

Podcasts & Audiobooks

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

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

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

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

Travel Games

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shop Rite in the Rain Notebook at:

iPad/Laptop

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

Road Trip Snacks & Kitchen Packing List

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

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

Here are our road trip snack and kitchen essentials:

Healthy Snacks

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

Some of our favorite road trip snacks are:

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

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

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

Shop REI Cool Haul 23 Soft Cooler at:

Reusable Water Bottle

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

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

Shop Hydro Flask Insulated Water Bottles at:

Read next: How to Reduce Waste on Road Trips

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

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

Shop the GSI Water Cube at:

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

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

Shop the Hydro Flask 20 oz Tumbler at:

Muli Tool/ Swiss Army Knife

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

Shop the Swiss Army Camper Knife at:

Utensil Set

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

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

Shop the To-Go Ware Bamboo Utensil Set at:

Quick-Dry Towels

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

Shop the REI Quick-Dry Towel Set at:

Reusable Bag

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

Shop the REI Stuff Travel Tote at:

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

Packing & Organizing Road Trip Essentials

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

Suitcase, Backpack, or Duffel Bag

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

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

Shop the REI Roadtripper Duffel at:

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

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

Shop the Osprey Tempest Pack at:

Packing Cubes

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

Shop REI Packing Cubes at:

Toiletry Bag

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

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

Shop the REI Shower Roll Bag at:

Road Trip Packing List for Personal Care

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

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

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

Shop Sun Bum Sunscreen at:

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

Shop Sun Bum Lip Balm at:

Toothpaste & Toothbrush

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

Shop Hello Toothpaste Bites at:

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

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

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

Shop Humangear GoToob+ Bottles at:

Tissues or Toilet Paper

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

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

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

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

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

Shop travel-sized hairbrush at:

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

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

Shop the Nomadix Bandana Towel at:

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

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

Shop Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes at:

Vitamin C/Immune Boosting Tablets

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

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

Shop Nuun Immunity Hydration Tablets at:

Hand Sanitizer

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

Shop Dr. Bronner’s Hand Sanitizer at:

Advil/Ibuprofen

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

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

Miscellaneous Road Trip Essentials

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

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

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

Shop the NEMO Fillo Pillow at:

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

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

Shop the BioLite 325 Headlamp at:

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

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

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

Shop Rumpl Blankets at:

Quick-dry towel

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

Shop Nomadix Towels at:

First-Aid Kit

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

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

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

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

Shop the My Medic MyFAK at:

Phone Charger & USB Cord

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

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

GPS Communication Device

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

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

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

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

Shop the Garmin inReach Mini at:

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

Vehicle Road Trip Essentials

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

These include:

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

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

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

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

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

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16 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

That’s a great tip, thanks Tom!

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

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

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

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

thank you, it was very helpful.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

54 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials + Packing Checklist

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

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

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

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

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

Ready? Let’s get into it.

Road Trip Essentials & Packing List

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

Food & Drink Must-Haves

Music, entertainment & relaxation, clothing & comfort items.

• Camping & Outdoors Gear

Family Essentials

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

What Exactly Should You Bring on a Road Trip?

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

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

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

Safety Gear & Repair Accessories

Alarm System & Remote Start: Viper 5906v

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

VIEW ON AMAZON

Car Jack Kit: Big Red Scissor Lift

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

Power Bank Jumper Kit: Hulkman Alpha85

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

12-Volt Air Digital Compressor: Fortem

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

One Gallon Gas Container: Garage Boss

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

Versatile 196-Piece Tool Set: DEKOPRO

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

DIY Windshield Chip Repair Kit: RainX

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

Duct Tape: Duck Tape Brand

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

First-Aid Kit: Surviveware

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

United States Atlas: National Geographic

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

Tech Gadgets & Navigation Accessories

High-Capacity Power Bank: Anker PowerCore

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

Magnetic Phone Mount: Neckteck

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

4-Port Car Charger: Amazon Basics

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

Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker: JBL Charge 4

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

Digital Camera: Olympus OM-D E-M10

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

Powerful Travel Stove: Camp Chef Ranger II

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

Backpack Picnic Kit: Sunflora

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

12-Volt Fridge/Freezer: Alpicool

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

Portable Espresso Maker: WACACO Nanospresso

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

Rapid Water Boiling Stove: Jetboil Flash

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

Insulated Thermos: Hydro Flask

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

Folding Table & Chairs: REDCAMP

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

Audio Book Subscription: Audible.com

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

Streaming Music Subscription: Amazon Music | Spotify

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

Inflatable 2-Person Kayak: Intex Explorer K2

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

Frisbee: Innova Big Kahuna

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

Hammock: ENO DoubleNest

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

VIEW ON REI

Waterproof Playing Cards: Kovot

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

Cornhole Set: GoSports Portable PVC

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

Polarized Sunglasses: Knockaround Fast Lanes

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

VIEW ON KNOCKAROUND

Travel Pillow: Casper

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

Packable Travel Blanket: BlueHills

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

Earplugs: Howard Leight by Honeywell

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

Sandals: Montbell Aqua Gripper

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

Portable Clothes Washing Kit: Scrubba

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

Camping & Outdoor Gear

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

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

Sleeping Bag: Hyke and Byke Eulos

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

VIEW ON HYKE AND BYKE

Lightweight Sleeping Pad: Sleepingo

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

Pressure Camp Shower: Nemo Helio

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

Packable Day Pack: 4Monster

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

Camping Chairs: Moon Lence

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

Water Filter: LifeStraw Flex with Gravity Bag

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

Collapsible Water Bottles: Platypus

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

Multitool: Leatherman Wingman

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

Portable Trash Bins: EPAuto

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

Wet Wipes: Amazon Elements

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

Tablet: Kindle Fire HD 10

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

Volume-Controlled Headphones: JBL for Kids

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

Family-Friendly Card Game: Kids Against Maturity

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

Sun-Blocking Window Shades: Enovoe

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

Helpful Organization & Storage Systems

Rooftop Cargo Storage: Yakima Skybox

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

Trunk Organizer Tote: JACO CargoPro

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

World Map Laundry Bag: Kikkerland

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

Road Trip Packing List + Interactive Checklist

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

Roadside Emergency Kit

First-Aid Kit

Gas Container

Car Jack Kit

Jumper Cables

Air Compressor

Windshield Chip Repair

Car Charger

Charging Cables

Battery Bank

Lantern/Light

Bluetooth Speaker

Camera Lenses

Camera Batteries

Camping Stove

Cutting Board

Bottle Opener

Coffee Maker

Cooking Oil

Cooler/Refrigerator

Long Sleeve Shirts

Button-Up Shirts

Rain Jacket

Light Jacket

Winter Jacket

Athletic Shorts

Skirts/Dresses

Bathing Suit

Long Underwear

Hiking Boots

Baseball Hat

Soap/Laundry Detergent

Laundry Bag

Clothing Line

Safety Pins

Toiletries Bag

Conditioner

Hair-Styling Product

Dental Floss

Contact Solution/Case

Ear Cleaner/Swabs

Nail Clippers

Advil/Aspirin

Multivitamins

Playing Cards

Sporting Equipment

Journal/Pen

Sleeping Pad

Sleeping Bag

Travel Pillow

Water Filter

Water Bottles

Camping Shower

Folding Table

Camping Chairs

Packing Cubes

Reusable Grocery Bags

Storage Totes

Window Shades

Water Storage

Toilet Paper

Garbage Bin

Lighter/Matches

Windshield Scraper

Medical Insurance

Car Registration

Car Insurance

Helpful Road Trip Resources

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

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

Essential Gear + Packing List = Perfect Road Trip 

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

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

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

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

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

Noel Krasomil

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

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Road Trip Essentials to Pack for a Long Drive

By Karthika Gupta and Madison Flager

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There is certainly something to be said about the magic of an open road no matter where in the world you are. Near or far, long or short, road trips offer a sense of freedom and adventure and are often the most satisfying of journeys. While technically you just need keys, a driver's license, and a set of wheels, these road trip essentials—from the best car organizer to comfortable shoes and coffee kits to keep you caffeinated on the go—will make your journey that much more enjoyable, whether you're heading to a national park , cruising along Route 66 , or taking in fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway .

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Organization and luggage

No matter how big or small your vehicle is, being organized is key to maintaining your sanity as you travel, especially during a long road trip, or one with kiddos in the back seat.

The Duluth Trading Seat Back Bunker neatly organizes all your essentials, from road trip games, snacks, and Kindles to emergency preparedness kits, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, repair tools, and more. It has three tiers of storage including mesh pouches, see-through zippered pockets, and a full-width zip pocket. Collapsible aluminum poles provide a strong-yet-lightweight framework and keep the organizer secure as you drive.

A good duffel bag is worth its weight in gold, especially on road trips where space may be limited, depending on the vehicle and the number of passengers. Filson’s versatile, lightweight bag pulls double-duty as a duffel or a backpack for hands-free carry. The zippered lid is U-shaped so you'll have easy access to its contents. It has one exterior zippered pocket with an internal zip pocket to keep small gear and accessories like keys or a wallet easily accessible. The other nylon-coated pocket expands into the main compartment to keep shoes or wet or muddy gear separated from the rest of your load.

If a roller bag is more your choice of luggage, Yeti’s Crossroads 22-inch suitcase is perfect for road trips. It is made with rugged nylon material that can take any adventure thrown its way. It has removable modular compression straps that can be used internally to pack down gear or externally to compress the luggage overall, making it fit neatly in small spaces like car trunks or overhead car racks.

Packing cubes are just as helpful in keeping your backseat or trunk organized as they are your suitcase. Get a few different sizes with this Paravel quad, and assign each one a different purpose to store supplies, tech accessories, bug spray and sunscreen, toiletries, or anything else you don’t want rolling around. 

Tech and roadside emergency

Whether you are driving cross-country or just across the state line, there are certain tools, gadgets, and tech items that are absolutely required to make sure you get where you are going safely and on time, whether you're in your own wheels or a rental car .

Rule number one of any road trip is to always be prepared for any emergency that could happen and derail even the most well-prepared travel plans. The Always Prepared Roadside Emergency Kit will ease your mind when it comes to any potential car troubles. It contains more than 100 useful (and neatly organized) items, including jumper cables, a reflective safety vest and warning triangle to keep you safer if you have to pull over at night, a self-powered flashlight, two light sticks, an emergency rain poncho and mylar blanket, a full first-aid kit, a tire pressure gauge, and more. If there's one thing you add to your road trip packing list, make it this kit.

For something a little smaller and more compact, Leatherman’s Free P4 multi-tool is perfect for all the little things that need to be fixed. With over 20 tools all packed into one, the Free P4 is a must have for any road trip. Whether it’s used to replace a dim headlight, fix a broken antenna, or even cut open a snack packet without having everything spill onto the seat, the P4 rises to the challenge.

Whether you’re embarking on a solo road trip or have a travel companion who’d rather not dictate directions, a phone mount is a key road trip packing list item that makes it easier to keep an eye on your route safely. And since doing so can quickly drain your battery, we recommend one that doubles as a phone charger (this one has two USB charging ports, so you can charge it and other devices simultaneously). This one has an adjustable width to fit most cell phones, and a flexible gooseneck to angle it however you prefer.

In the interest of safety, you may want a dash cam in your car, should you get into an accident or pulled over. This one records clear, crisp video that syncs to your phone through the Nextbase app, allows for voice control commands thanks to connected Alexa technology, and offers a unique Emergency SOS service, which detects serious collisions and alerts emergency services of your location if you are unresponsive. You'll need to buy a Nextbase U3 microSD card to use with it, and use the included charger to keep it juiced up. The camera records continuously when it is plugged in and the car is on, and has an optional intelligent parking mode that automatically records any bump or physical movement on the vehicle when left unattended using the camera's internal battery.

If you're driving more than a few hours and have a car full of fellow travelers, keep a  headphone  splitter in the glove compartment. This one has five jacks, which means everyone can pull up a movie, music, podcast, or an audiobook on the same device—and when you're tired of the road trip playlist , you don't have to hear a thing.

Comfort and seating

Long hours of sitting upright can do a number on your back. Do yourself a favor and add a seat cushion or some lumbar support to your car setup. Plus, a few more creature comforts you might want to have on hand.

Just as handy for sitting on an uncomfortable dining room chair  while working from home  as it is on long car rides, this gridded seat cushion will make sitting for extended periods of time comfier—plus the design leaves room for air circulation. It comes with a zippered case for easy transport, too. The Simple cushion should be plenty for your average road trip, but if you’re heading cross-country or planning to make very few stops, pick up the more supportive  Ultimate cushion , designed specifically for truckers and long-haul drives.

Several hours behind the wheel can leave your back feeling less than stellar. Strap one of these lumbar support shells around your seat to make your ride more comfortable: It cradles your back, helping to improve your posture and keep you from sinking into the seat, with the added bonus of a mesh fabric to keep your back cool.

If you’re not too tight on space, consider adding a compact, foldable chair to slide into your trunk. You never know when you'll find yourself in need of a dry, comfortable chair on the fly—be it for extra seating at a roadside picnic table or to enjoy a secluded viewpoint at sunset. REI’s Camp X chair is made of quick-dry mono-mesh and polyester material and comes with a carrying case and two cup holders for impromptu lunch breaks.

If you’re not the only driver in the car, you’ll be happy to have a  neck pillow  while napping during your off shifts. OstrichPillow makes all kinds of interesting contraptions to help you get some sleep wherever you are, but we like the memory foam, velcro-close OstrichPillow Go travel pillow best for car rides.

If you still have a Little Trees Black Ice hanging from your rearview mirror, it's about time you elevate your air freshener game. Pop this inconspicuous diffuser onto one of your car's vents to make the space smell just like a Diptyque 34 Boulevard Saint-Germain candle. Another fresh-smelling option: this under-$20 essential oil diffuser , which  Traveler  editor Rebecca Misner is a fan of.

A lightweight towel comes in handy during any number of road trip situations: Use it for spontaneous swims, roadside picnics, or as a buffer between the hot leather seat and your legs in the car. This extra-smooth Turkish cotton towel is as absorbent as a standard bath towel but much more compact.

Clothing and accessories

When dressing for a road trip, you want clothing that is comfy, breathable, and works in various climates. Bonus points for pieces that are stylish, too.

We love a good pair of compression socks for long travel days . And during pandemic-era road trips, when stops might be less frequent than usual, they work well at keeping the blood flowing and reducing swelling during long seated stretches in the car. Our favorite brand, Comrad, makes knee-high socks that come in 10 different colors and can be worn three to four times before washing, so you can throw 'em on more than once during multi-day trips.

No matter the excursion, Viev’s Gemma Mid Jacket is a great outer layer. It is lightweight and made with durable Gore-Tex fabric. Its design optimizes breathability to the torso and softness in the arms, back, and hood, making it extremely comfortable to wear even when you are driving. Plus, there are multiple pockets to securely store keys, a wallet, or phone, so your hands can rest comfortably in the outside pocket when you step out to take a break and stretch your legs at rest stops. The rain jacket's bonus is the storm hood brim, which maintains its shape when activated and lays flat when down without being overly rigid.

Along with a good pair of socks, a versatile boot that offers all-day comfort and durability is another must for long road trips. Red Wing Heritage boots are comfortable enough to keep on during long car rides and easy to pair with any outfit or climate, no matter where the road takes you. The Classic Moc is made with soft leather and a polyurethane traction tread outsole for faster break-in and comfort. Wear them in and out of the car, in all kinds of weather.

Drinks, snacks, and hydration

Another must on our list of road trip necessities: food and drinks. And while road travel is often synonymous with gas station coffee and oversized sodas, it doesn’t have to be so. There are plenty of healthy hydration options that change the relationship between road trips and caffeinated drinks.

You've got your insulated reusable water bottle , but if you want to keep your coffee hot, you're going to need a reusable thermos. Zojirushi’s stainless steel travel mug keeps hot drinks warm for up to six hours, and it has a slim design that allows it to easily fit in your car's cup holder. (And if you need to throw it in your bag, it won't leak either.)

The Pakt Travel Mug is in the running for perfect travel mug, too: It is a leak-proof vacuum-insulated double-walled mug that keeps beverages securely sealed and the perfect temperature (8 hours for hot and 24 hours for cold), making it an ideal travel companion. Plus it is sized to fit into most any cup holder.

If you are tired of terrible coffee on the go, the Pakt Coffee Kit has everything you need to make quality coffee in one sleek, portable package. All you need is water and electricity, so you can use this with an adaptor in your car’s charge port, at a rest stop, or at your accommodation. The pour over kit comes with an electric kettle, travel mug and lid, coffee grounds container, and collapsible stainless-steel dripper that packs down into a compact carrying case. All you need is to bring your favorite beans .

It is crucial to stay hydrated on the road, especially when you’re sitting still for hours at a time. Nuun offers a potent blend of electrolytes, vitamins, and botanicals that help with blood flow and support everyday health. The drink tablets are fizzy, tasty, and loaded with electrolytes that keep you healthy and hydrated. Plus, they are certified vegan and gluten-free and have a net-zero carbon emission footprint—good for you and for the environment.

Ritual coffee, based out of San Francisco , sources sweet, clean, single-origin coffees that are simply delicious. They have an ever-changing seasonal espresso blend, the best decaf around, and a single serve instant coffee mix for those times when the cup of gas station coffee just won’t do.

For something to carry, store, and keep all your drink options cool on your next road trip: the soft-shell Yeti Hooper Flip 12 cooler tote. It is leakproof with a wide mouth opening that makes it easy to access food and drinks. It even has a hitch point grid on its sides to help attach it to other gear for more compact packing options in the car.

While most of our favorite  road trip snacks  come in pre-packaged containers, for anything fresh or homemade (like trail mix, sliced fruit, or overnight oats), we turn to containers like S’well’s spill-resistant snack bowls. For those embarking on family road trips, there are plenty of kid-friendly patterns , decorated with Disney characters, dogs, pretzels, and more, all of which have a pull-out handle. For adults, there are  neutral colors like teak wood and marbled patterns available in 16- and 21-ounce sizes.

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Road Trip Packing List

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

The Road Trip Essentials: Gear for An Epic Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Standalone Bags & Organizers

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

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

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

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

Clothing & Accessories

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

• Men's Focused
• Women's Focused

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also, make sure to pack:

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

Productivity & Tech

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Headphones (noise canceling is clutch)

Toiletries & Personal Care

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sleeping & Camping

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miscellaneous

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ready, Set, Drive.

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

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

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Road trip essentials and packing list – 40+ must-haves for an epic road trip

Posted on February 22, 2021 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on October 22, 2021

Dreaming of freedom, endless landscapes, and adventures? A road trip gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want, and to stay there as long as you want. That’s what I love about road trips, especially right now that we need to social distance. I’ve put together this road trip packing list to help you plan your trip, listing all the road trip essentials and must-haves you shouldn’t forget to pack.

If you are still looking for inspiration for your next road trip, check out this epic list I’ve put together of the best USA road trips.

You probably won’t need everything listed below and should adapt this list whether you’re planning a long road trip or a quick weekend road trip, whether you’re traveling with kids or not, and if you’re starting from home or flying then renting a car.

If you are planning a road trip abroad, make sure you get travel insurance and check if the country you’re traveling to accepts your driver’s license or if you need an international one.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Tech gadget and entertainment – Road trip packing list

With hours spent in the car, you’ll need to figure out things to do so you don’t get bored, especially if you travel with kids. Here are a couple of road trip essentials you definitely should pack:

• First things first, make sure to pack a battery pack to charge all your electronic devices, it is a life savior and you won’t have to worry about your phone or tablet dying on you;
• Smartphone, tablets, and chargers ;
• If traveling with kids, MP3 player, something to watch movies on, maybe a game console too, whatever keeps them busy. For a screen-free alternative, you can try out to download a couple of audiobooks before the trip. You can sign up for Audible , you get a 30-day free trial, and you get access to thousands of audiobooks and podcasts. (and don’t forget the chargers for each device);
• Your favorite playlist, make sure you have music to listen to, and don’t rely on 4G as you might not get it everywhere;
• Games, games, games … There are plenty of road trip games you can play while in the car, for families as well as for adults. It will help kill time, have fun, and start conversations – make sure you also plan a couple of road trip activities to keep kids busy .
• GPS or an off-line map , I use Maps.Me, I found it to be easier to download maps on there than on Google Maps, but both usually work well, just make sure to download the map beforehand;
• Camera and a GoPro , you’ll want to take photos of all of your adventures so make sure to pack a good camera (I highly recommend the Sony RX100 VII , it’s the one I use, and you won’t find a better compact camera for this price and level of quality). Having a GoPro can be a good idea too, it makes amazing videos, and they are waterproof, so you can take tons of shots you couldn’t with a regular camera. Don’t forget to pack extra batteries and memory cards . You could also pack a tripod and wireless remote control for your camera.
• Headphones – if you are traveling with kids, as a group, or don’t listen to the same type of music as the people on the trip, bring headphones, if you really want peace and quiet, consider getting noise-canceling ones. I have the Sony WH-1000XM4 , and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.

Car essentials to make your road trip more comfortable

• Foldable Car Wastebasket – if you’re like me and you like things to stay clean and organized, you’ll need a trash can in the car, especially if you are going to eat snacks and meals inside the car.
• Backseat Organizer with Tablet Holder – if you are traveling with kids, you’ll definitely want one of these to keep all their things organized and within reach.
• Cooler – it’s always nice to enjoy a fresh drink or to be able to pack things such as fruits, yogurts, or sandwiches knowing they’ll stay fresh the whole ride. If you already have a regular cooler make sure to bring it with you or you could get the Wagan 12V Cooler/Warmer especially for car use. It fits well on the back seat or on the floor, and when plugged in it will keep everything fresh, or warm (there are two temperature settings to choose from).
• Car Headrest Pillow and Car Seat – when you are going to be in the car for hours the first thing you want is to feel comfortable, don’t hesitate to take a pillow or buy one made for cars , and if your car seats are not extra comfy get something to help you with that, like this one , made of memory foam that can also be used on a regular chair. You can also pack a couple of blankets, especially for a winter road trip.
• Portable Car Vacuum and Car Air Purifier – for the cleaning freak, make sure to pack these two items to keep your car clean and smelling fresh at all times, they are good things to have on long road trips or when traveling with kids.
• If you are planning to spend a night or two in your car, check out the air mattresses for cars , they’ll fit most models and will turn your back seats into a comfy bed.

Road trip essentials you should always have in your car

Make sure to pack the items listed below, and most of all keep them within reach, you’ll probably need them during the ride and there’s nothing worse than having to stop and go through luggage to find what you need. You’ll also be prepared when you make stops along the way and have already everything ready for the excursions.

• Car emergency kit and a Swiss knife – make sure you have all the safety and emergency essentials for your car if not, you can get a bundle that comes with everything you’ll need. Having a swiss knife is always a good idea and can be a life savior. You can also pack a “survival” kit , especially if you’re often outdoors or are going on a camping trip.
• Emergency blankets – it’s always a good idea to pack emergency blankets, even if you don’t need them, you can use them for picnics, to put on the ground, or just to keep warm if you’re on a winter road trip.
• Binoculars – if you are planning to explore the wilderness, binoculars will help you see better and spot wildlife.
• Paper maps and travel guides – paper maps allow you to fin secondary roads and less traveled paths so you can go on a true adventure. Make sure to also pack the travel guide for the destination you’re visiting so you don’t miss anything and find some inspiration.
• First-aid kit – you never know when you might need it, so make sure to pack at least bandaids, a disinfectant spray, and some sort of pain reliever.
• Tissues and wet wipes – tissues will always come in handy in a car, road trip or not. Wet wipes will keep you clean and fresh when you don’t have access to a sink. Wet wipes are not eco-friendly so I tend to avoid them, for the car you could get a wet wipe dispenser and reusable wipes , and make your own wet wipes with micellar water (the containers will keep the wipes moist).
• Raincoats – be prepared for bad weather, more practical than umbrellas, raincoats are a road-trip must-have.
• Pair of trekking shoes + flip flops – always have those easily accessible so you can change shoes if needed without having to go through all of your stuff.
• Hat, swimwear, and fast-drying towels
• Sunscreen and mosquito repellent – you’ll always need sunscreen , no matter the time of the year, it’s a good idea to keep it within reach so you can reapply it during the day. If you are traveling during spring/summer and are planning an outdoorsy road trip, mosquito repellent is a must, I always choose one with citronella , I found it to work better than the ones with DEET, and it’s a more eco-friendly and healthy option.
• Sunglasses – even if you are not driving, sunglasses are a road trip essential, it’s always a good idea to have a pair in the car, even in winter.
• Snacks – choose carefully the type of snack you’re going to take, for example, avoid anything with chocolate or things that might be hard to eat without making a mess. I always pack dried fruits and nuts, it’s healthy, won’t turn bad, and is mess-free.
• Water – if you don’t already have one, get a refillable water bottle , it takes less space and is more eco-friendly. If you are visiting a country where the tap water is not refillable, you could get a LifeStraw bottle , that will filter out chemicals and bacterias so that any water is safe to drink.

Best bags for road trips

You can pretty much use anything you already have as long as it fits into your trunk. Try to not over-pack and bring only what you’ll really need (read my tips for lightweight packing ).

• Duffel bags – your best option, especially if you know your trunk is going to be full, it makes fitting everything inside the car much easier than with a hard-shell suitcase. They also tend to be smaller so it makes it easier to pack light. You can get duffel bags with wheels so it’s easier to carry them around (but they’ll take more space in the trunk and be less flexible).
• Day pack and rain cover – if you are planning to trek during your road trip, make sure to pack a comfortable day pack either one that already comes with a rain cover, or you can buy a universal one . For trekking, I recommend the Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack . If you are visiting cities you can bring a nicer backpack or handbag if it’s comfortable for you.

What should I bring on a long road car trip?

For a long road car trip, you need to pack things that will help you be comfortable (blankets, travel pillows, memory foam car seats…). Wear clothes you feel good in and pack a sweater just in case. Don’t forget to pack healthy snacks and plenty of water, having a cooler can be a good option for long road car trips.

What should I pack for a road trip by myself?

For a road trip for yourself make sure to bring things to keep you entertained (playlist, podcast, audiobooks…), snacks and a water bottle you can easily open while driving in case you get angry and thirsty during the ride. Don’t forget to pack an emergency kit as well as first-aid essentials. Make sure you also have a GPS or off-line maps, and a car charger for all your electronics.

What are fun things to take on a road trip?

With many hours spent in the car, you’ll need things to entertain yourselves and fun things to do. There are plenty of games you can play in the car, think of card games or things like Trivias, magnetic board games, blind tests… If you don’t get car sick, you can bring sudokus, crosswords puzzles and such, as well as a couple of books. You can also bring a tablet and watch movies or your favorite TV shows, just make sure to download them beforehand.

Did we miss anything? What about you? What are your road trip essentials / things you can’t travel without?

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41 Things You Need for Your Next Road Trip

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

Related To:

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

ESSENTIAL GADGETS

Adjustable Car Cup Holder Expander

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

Phone Mount

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

Car Power Strip

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

Tablet Headrest Mount

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

Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

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

Flexible Phone Tripod

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

Portable Phone Charger

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

Emergency Car Kit

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

Fire Starter

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

First Aid Kit

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

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

Travel Pillow

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

Travel Throw

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

Travel Hammock

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

Microfiber Towel

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

Air Freshener

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

Car Window Shades

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

HEALTH + HYGIENE

Car Diffuser

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

Nausea-Relief Wristbands

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

Foaming Hand Sanitizer

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

Essential Oil Towelettes

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

Tissue Holder

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

Insect Repellent

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

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

ORGANIZATION

Car Seat Headrest Hook

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

Car Ceiling Cargo Net Pocket

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

Car Trash Bin

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

Packable Daypack

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

Laundry Bag

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

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

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

FOOD + DRINK

Saucemoto Dip Clip

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

YETI Cooler Bag

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

Car Seat Organizer

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

Reusable Water Bottle

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

Portable Coffee Press

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

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

Collapsible Storage Containers

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

Kitchen Utensil Set

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

BioLite CampStove 2

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

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

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

ENTERTAINMENT

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

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

Scrabble To-Go Board Game

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

Kindle Paperwhite

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

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25 essential drives for a U.S. road trip

From foodie meccas to otherworldly sites and historic treasures, these journeys will get your motor running.

Nothing beats the thrill of piling into a car and hitting the open road, whether it’s an hours-long jaunt or an epic weeklong adventure. But where to go?

These compelling U.S. drives will enhance any road trip across the lower 48 states. From the best highways for foodies to scenic landscapes and the nation’s most historic roads, a dream drive awaits. Here are 25 of our favorites.

1. Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway, New Mexico

Not to be confused with the national byway of the same name, this nearly 600-mile trail celebrates New Mexico ’s Native American heritage as it weaves through Navajo Nation and Zuni land . Short on time? Go directly to Chaco Culture National Historical Park , a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates its earliest occupation to A.D. 850.

2. Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway, South Dakota

This 39-mile ride through Badlands National Park in South Dakota transports travelers to an out-of-this-world landscape of twisted canyons, striped rock walls, native grasslands, and fantastic spires.

3. Zydeco-Cajun Prairie Scenic Byway, Louisiana

This byway takes you 283 miles through Acadiana country in south Louisiana , where French-speaking Cajuns meet wide open prairies in a fascinating mix of cultures. With three main routes (plus one short branch), there’s lots to discover, including the homey Cajun Music Hall of Fame and Museum preserving memorabilia and the Louisiana State Arboretum , where you can stretch your legs before getting back behind the wheel.

4. East Narragansett Bay, East Providence to Newport, Rhode Island

Ease into Rhode Island ’s historic Newport from points north on RI 114, a more local and scenic alternative to I-95 or I-195. On the 30-mile drive , visit Bristol’s Colt State Park to walk the bayside trails and experience 18th-century farm life at Coggeshall Farm Museum . In Middletown, try the Portuguese fish chowder at Anthony’s Seafood and tour Newport Vineyards’ winery .

5. UFO Stopover Loop, Las Vegas to Tonopah-Pahrump, Nevada

Go full “X-Files” with Travel Nevada ’s tongue-in-cheek itinerary for intergalactic visitors. All life-forms are welcome to make the 487-mile (or 8.284e-11 light-year) trip in the Silver State , which includes driving Lincoln County’s Extraterrestrial Highway north of Area 51 (the off-limits military base at the center of many UFO conspiracies) and hiking the Mars-like landscape at Valley of Fire State Park in Overton.

6. Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, Colorado

On this 75-mile drive , take in Colorado ’s famed towering Rocky Mountain peaks, blue alpine lakes, and two crossings of the Continental Divide . Stop for pizza at High Mountain Pies in Leadville (elevation 10,200 feet), a former hub for silver mining.

7. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

Open late June to October, the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road offers stunning views of Glacier National Park . Stop by McDonald Creek Overlook to gaze at the water as it rushes through the narrow rocks. At Lunch Creek , view the waterfall and wildflowers—but stay in the paved parking area, as there are no formal trails in this sensitive zone. If you’re looking for a longer break from driving, the park offers a free shuttle along parts of the road as well.

8. Farmlandia Loop, Oregon

Just south of foodie favorite Portland , this savory trail visits 18 homegrown stops in Oregon , including U-pick farms , vineyards and wineries, and farm stands and farmers markets. One must: A tour of Bob’s Red Mill World Headquarters , in Milwaukie, Oregon.

9. Snowy Range Scenic Byway, Wyoming

Dubbed the “ Great Skyroad ” when it opened in 1926, the 95-mile alternative to I-80 (open late May to mid-November) is a sky-high feast for the eyes. The east-to-west drive provides the more scenic first glimpse of 12,013-foot Medicine Bow Peak rising above Lake Marie. Overnight at Saratoga’s historic Hotel Wolf , a former stagecoach stop, then go for a dip in the public hot springs.

10. Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

In Virginia ’s Shenandoah National Park , the 105-mile Skyline Drive gets you hiking to waterfalls, climbing Old Rag Mountain, and savoring the house specialty at Skyland : mile-high blackberry ice-cream pie.

11. Life and Times of Lincoln Loop, Illinois

Celebrate Illinois ’ favorite son on a 200-mile round-trip loop designed by Looking for Lincoln , coordinators of the 42-county Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area . Top stops along the loop include Springfield’s Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (pictured above) and Bicentennial Plaza opened on August 26, 2018.

12. Northwest Passage Scenic Byway, Idaho

Follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark on a 202-mile photographer’s dream drive through the rugged heart of north-central Idaho . The route   leads through wilderness areas, follows multiple branches of two Wild & Scenic Rivers , crosses the Nez Perce reservation, and ends at the forested and meandering 5,233-foot-high Lolo Pass at the Montana border.

13. Forgotten Coast, St. Marks to Mexico Beach, Florida

Blissfully off the tourist path, the roughly 100-mile “forgotten” Gulf Coast is laid back and altogether memorable. Stop by Apalachicola’s Hole in the Wall restaurant for fresh-shucked local oysters and then head over to T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park , where the beaches remain unspoiled. For a different perspective, climb the 100-step Cape St. George Light .

14. Bourbon Trail, Kentucky

This bluegrass-and-bourbon trail in Kentucky features 18 distilleries in cities from Louisville to Lexington. Plan a multiday drive to bourbon makers, such as Jim Beam and Woodford Reserve, and to watch a free morning training session at Keeneland racetrack.

15. Civil Rights Trail, Alabama

Remember Martin Luther King Jr. ’s legacy by exploring places important to the Civil Rights Movement. Stops on this roughly 175-mile route (part of the 14-state U.S. Civil Rights Trail launched in January 2018) include Selma’s infamous Edmund Winston Pettus Bridge , site of 1965’s “ Bloody Sunday ” attack on unarmed voting rights marchers.

16. North Shore Scenic Drive, Minnesota

Follow the Lake Superior shoreline roughly 150 idyllic miles north from Duluth, Minnesota , to the Canadian border. Along the way, explore eight state parks, like Gooseberry Falls , a favorite of Minnesotan Tim Kojetin. “There are beautiful waterfalls throughout the park, and coastal cliffs that make for excellent hiking,” Kojetin says. “You can even catch the Northern Lights if your timing is right.”

17. Music Pathways, Tennessee

In 2018, Tennessee launched a 1,200-mile road trip to highlight a wide range of music events, venues, and stories important to the soul of the state. Now, a podcast brings these sites to life, from the birthplace of country music in Bristol to the dawn of rock n’ roll in Memphis.

18. Roadside Attractions Gallery, Florida to Oklahoma

This multistate drive from Tulsa to Miami follows Route 66 roadside attractions, like Florida’s giant yellow bird at Waylan’s Ku-Ku Burger and Oklahoma’s Blue Whale of Catoosa , 90-foot-tall totem pole in Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park, and the Golden Driller, a 76-foot-tall concrete-and-plaster oilman. If you just have to see the towering (66 feet) pop bottle   at the original Pops, detour 87 miles east to Arcadia.

19. Bridges to Butties Byway, Nebraska

If the name of this 197-mile byway doesn’t entice the kids, the big-fun Nebraska adventures will. Real and replica fossils and skeletons of 20-million-year-old mammals surface at Harrison’s Agate Fossil Beds National Monument . Roam the otherworldly rock formations at Toadstool Geologic Park , north of Crawford, then spot bison, deer, elk, and prairie dogs at Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge in Valentine.

20. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway; Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania

Abolitionist Harriet Tubman was born a slave on Maryland ’s rural Eastern Shore. This roughly 125-mile route begins in Cambridge at the Dorchester County Visitor Center for background before stopping by 35 sites connected to the railroad, among them the Harriet Tubman Museum , Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park (pictured above), and Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge . Continue another 98 miles through sites in Delaware , and then into Philadelphia , Pennsylvania, where the trail ends at Independence Hall and William Stills Last Residence , just a mile away.

21. Historic Route 66, California to Arizona

Although I-40 replaced much of the original Mother Road , the 170-mile stretch from Topock, California , to Ash Fork, Arizona , is intact. Alternate between I-40 and Route 66 for a retro road trip and spend the night at Wigwam Village Motel #6 , in Holbrook. Bonus: Hike the “ Wave ” (Coyote Buttes North, pictured above) near the Utah border. But plan ahead, as only 20 people per day can visit.

22. Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, Maine

Maine is more than lobsters, lighthouses, and rocky coasts. Starting at Smalls Falls, head west (near where the state meets Canada and New Hampshire ) on this 36-mile byway to discover gorgeous mountains and lakes and look for moose and loons at sunset. Don’t miss the top photo stop, the Height of Land overlook on Spruce Mountain, with views of tongue-twister Mooselookmeguntic Lake and its wild Toothaker Island .

23. Maple Trail, Vermont

In winter and spring, follow the Randolph to Montpelier Maple Trail in central Vermont for sweet tastings at a sugarhouse, spirited sips at a distillery, and a cozy stay at a historic inn.

24. Lighthouse Tour, New Jersey

Follow the light—houses, that is—for a historic look at New Jersey ’s 130-mile shore. Start the seven-lighthouse route at Sandy Hook , the shore’s northernmost lighthouse and the nation’s oldest (operating since 1764). End on a high note at Cape May Lighthouse , where climbing up 199 steps earns you sweeping ocean and Delaware Bay views.

25. Cheese Tour, Southwestern Route, Wisconsin

The 167-mile tasting and factory-tour loop of Wisconsin ’s Cheese Tour begins (and ends) at Madison’s artisanal Fromagination shop. Drive southwest to Monroe’s famous Emmi Roth factory , then on to Darlington’s Brunkow Cheese . Top off the taste tour at Sauk City’s Carr Valley Cheese shop.

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The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 60+ Essentials For Your Next Adventure

OnlyInYourState Staff

Researched and written by our staff writer who enjoys contributing about their state for our site.

More by this Author

Ah, the Great American Road Trip, how we love you so. According to our Spring 2022 Travel Study, 9 out of 10 OnlyInYourState readers prefer to travel by car, and we certainly don’t blame them. The beauty of the road trip is it is as much about the journey as it is about the destination – it forces you to slow down and enjoy the scenery. Another benefit of the humble road trip is your ability to pack anything and everything you might need while away – without being constricted by carry-on bag allowances or baggage policies.

There is little better than hitting the open road, and a little pre-planning goes a long way when it comes to safely enjoying a road trip. Our editorial staff has driven hundreds of thousands of miles collectively across the USA, and we know just what to bring on a road trip for maximum adventure. Whether you are an avid road tripper or are embarking on a family road trip with your children or dog for the first time in a rental car, we’ve got you covered with a list of road trip essentials.

Carefully curated by our team of local travel experts based on their personal experiences, these products help us embrace the open road. For more incredible product recommendations in your inbox each week, sign up for our Hand-Picked email .

What To Bring On A Road Trip: Must-Haves

What to pack for a road trip: things you may not think of, things to bring on a road trip: fun extras.

There are some things you simply shouldn’t overlook when packing for a road trip of any length – from important documentation and car essentials to a robust first-aid kit and any necessary weather supplies. No matter where you’re going or how long, these products are non-negotiable.

Documentation: Road Trip Checklist

• Driver’s License
• Car Registration
• Insurance Information

Car Emergency Kit

• Quart of Oil
• Wiper Fluid
• Portable Gas Container

Technology Items Needed For A Road Trip

• Car Charger : You’ll need a USB cord either way, but if your car doesn’t have USB ports, a car lighter phone charger is the way to go.
• Power Inverter : with USB ports and AC outlets.
• Hands-Free Phone Mount : If your car doesn’t have a plug-in display, a phone mount is a hands-free way to easily see your map.
• Portable Charger : for when you’re exploring outside of the car or there are more devices than USB ports.
• Personal Safety Alarm : because you never know when you need it, especially if you’re traveling alone, plus travel pepper spray.

Winter Road Trip Packing List

First-Aid Kit

When packing for a road trip, some things are obvious – like your car insurance and jumper cables – but there are other supplies for a road trip you might not think of immediately. For example, did you remember to bring your electronic toll pass, a credit card, and paper money and coins for parking meters or cash-only establishments?

Road Trip Food Packing List

• Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key on a long drive, which is why having a reusable water bottle you’ll actually use is key. Whether you enjoy sipping from glass, metal, or plastic, the perfect reusable water bottle is easy to find. Just make sure it fits in your cup holder first! Sr. Editor Megan Shute loves these leakproof Simple Modern bottles for everyone in the family.
• Coffee Thermos: Whether you’re trying to stay awake or stay warm, coffee – or tea – is a must. And a good travel mug is even more important. Opt for something like this Hydroflask that stays hot for hours.
• Cooler. If you want to keep things cold for a lot of time, you’ll want to bring a cooler. This Yeti cooler is fantastic, but a soft-sided cooler like this one from REI can squeeze into smaller spaces.
• Reusable Straws & Utensils : for all of your eating needs.

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Comfort items.

• Travel Pillow & Blanket: opt for an easily rolled blanket that can be used for an impromptu picnic and a travel neck pillow . This sherpa fleece blanket is perfect for traveling in colder weather. A sleeping bag is also an important road trip necessity – if you’re camping or just in case of emergency.
• Chapstick & Hand Lotion: We love Poppy & Pout for 100% natural and untinted lip balm that comes in an eco-friendly cardboard tube!
• Microfiber Towels: Whether you make a spontaneous jump in the lake or experience a sudden downpour, a lightweight, absorbent towel is a must. These towels come with both a bath and hand towel and a carrying case.
• Air Freshener: These Yankee Candle Sidekicks clip to your air vent or visor and fill your car with fragrance for up to 30 days. The refills come in a variety of enticing scents, too, like Sparkling Cinnamon, Leather, and Coconut Beach.
• Eye Mask & UV Window Shades

Road Trip Accessories & Clothing

• Sunglasses: 40,000 people love these affordable unisex Amazon shades .
• An Extra Layer: Any sweatshirt will do just fine most of the year, but during the winter, we love a lightweight, packable puffer jacket for added warmth while hiking or when unexpected temperature changes occur.
• A Small Daypack: Easy to grab and run into a gas station or on a short hike, we love the viral Lululemon belt bag , but any small, zippered bag will suffice.

Organizational Items

• Car Organizer: Whether you opt for a trunk organizer or a seatback organizer that easily manages all of your kids’ things, organizational products are key to knowing where everything is when you need it – we hate having to search for a bandaid or snack when we need it urgently!
• Trash Can : A garbage bag will also do just fine, but a mini can will protect against leaks!
• Reusable Shopping Bag : A tote is a necessity for taking an assortment of random extras into your hotel room or a trip to the grocery store.

If you have a little extra space in your car, you should always consider adding a few entertainment items to your packing list – especially if you are traveling with kids of any age. Reading material, music, games, and a travel hammock round out our list of road trip essentials.

We hope this list helps you pack for your next road trip. After all, being prepared is truly the key to a successful and fun road trip. We know everyone has individual needs, though, so please, tell us in the comments: w hat else do you add to your road trip packing list?

Where are you planning to go on your next United States Road Trip? If you’d like some inspiration, consider one of these iconic American road trips – from California’s Pacific Coast Highway to The Great River Road that runs from Minnesota to Louisiana, adventure awaits. Follow our packing list, hop in the car, and enjoy the journey.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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• Day Trips and Sightseeing

Road Trip Essentials: Packing and Planning for Your USA Adventure

• November 30, 2023 in Activities , Day Trips and Sightseeing , Discover , Experience

As of  2021, 22.1 million tourists visited the USA; since then, the numbers have only grown. Because of the dynamic locations in the USA, international tourists and residents find it alluring to explore the place. And of all, they are mostly fond of road trips! From leaf-peeping in New England to park hopping through the Southwest, road trips are hands down the best way to explore the States. You can venture out to unique and unknown spaces, make new friends, and cross territories with amazing stories. 

But you must always be prepared and ensure every minute essential is rightfully packed in your car’s trunk by the time you leave your place. This blog will help you with all the essentials you must include in your USA road trip packing list. Also, book OYO hotels in the USA to enjoy a comfortable stay while or after completing your road trip.    

101 Guide: USA Road Trip Essentials  

Road-tripping in the USA is different from other countries. There are well-maintained highways, and you can travel to any space within the US via road. Though the distances can be long, even temperatures can fluctuate at an extreme rate. But we definitely want you to be prepared. To make it happen, here is a complete list of essentials that will keep you and your car free running smoothly through the entire road trip. 

Road Trip Essentials to Pack in the Car

Because a road trip is never possible without a car, consider accommodating these things in your car while you plan to hit the road in the US.

A Travel Map

Travel maps are practical and the easiest solution to refer to while traveling via road. In areas where you do not have access to the network, a map will save your day. No more awkward conversations with tourists or trying to find a way through deserted regions on highways.  

Car Phone Mount

A car phone mount is a useful object, yet the most underrated! If your car lacks a built-in GPS, you can use your phone for directions. Install the phone mount on your car’s dashboard. And navigate through the roads easily!   

Car Powerbank/Charger

You will travel with so many gadgets; for the rest of the days, it is your car, you, and the road ahead. Travel with a USB charger or a power bank to ensure your phone’s battery does not die or the laptop can connect to the internet. 

Emergency Kit (Road Trip Edition)

An emergency kit is a must-have for you to incorporate! Get one with jumper cables, a first aid kit with essential medicines, and a flashlight. It is always better to be prepared rather than be clueless. 

Road Trip Essentials to Include in Your Backpack 

The essentials mentioned apply to both local and international tourists traveling via road in the US:

Identity Card, Passport And Travel Insurance

In the USA, there are 63 national parks and 350+ national monuments. While some are free to visit, others require you to pay for the entrance. Getting a National Park Pass is economical if you plan to visit the parks on your road trip. Also, do not forget to carry an identity card, passport (applicable for foreigners in the USA), and travel insurance. 

Portable Wifi

There are free Wi-Fi zones available all around the USA. But you should always carry your own Wi-fi. Foreigners have to complete a lot of paperwork to get a SIM card in the USA. If you are traveling with a local SIM, things are always great!  

Travel-Friendly Clothing

A road trip is all about constant exposure to the Sun, fluctuating weather conditions, and evident pollution levels. So make sure you pack weather-appropriate clothes and all the essential accessories. Do a quick rain check and jot down the possible weather conditions of the areas you plan to drive through. If you are traveling with your pet, pack all their essentials. For example, if you are passing over Jackson, MS USA, and want to take a break from driving, search for pet friendly hotels in Jackson Ms . There are several top OYO properties in Jackson, US, that will help you with the most convenient stay.  

A Comfort Kit With  Regular Essentials 

Road trips are one of a kind! It is the most adventurous way to explore the amazing wonders of the USA. But you should be prepared for the unknown in every way. So, pack your comfort kit with regular essentials. Add pillows, blankets, reusable water bottles, and hand sanitizers. Also, for the fluctuating weather, carry an umbrella, a rain jacket, and windcheaters.   

How to Find the Best Hotels in the USA?

In the USA, you can book into OYO hotels & homes with minimal documentation and opt for a budget-friendly stay.  

You will find OYO hotels in the most prominent parts of the country, along with the off-bit places. We believe in consistency and assure the best accommodation wherever you stay. The OYO rooms come completely furnished, with all the basic amenities intact. You get an attached bathroom, bed with linen, appropriate room heating and cooling technology, and TV.  

If you are traveling during the peak seasons, it is always recommended to get a pre-booking. Otherwise, you can also search online using the phrase “ OYO hotel near by me ” and check out some of the convenient properties that suit your budget. We have property-specific pages on the website and the app. You can browse through them for reviews and other exact details.     

Thanks to the school holidays and the warm weather, most families plan a road trip during the summer days. Then again, people seek to take a road trip with their families and friends during the winter holidays. Overall, spring and fall make for the shoulder seasons when most parts of the USA experience high crowds, all traveling via cars, living their bucket list out of the diary. To amp up your travel experience, you can choose OYO rooms always, 

Also, for hotel booking-related inquiries in the USA, call us at +1 6282027586. Whether traveling solo, with a family, or with friends, there are unique OYO properties to book and enjoy.

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Budget Travel Buff

The Ultimate Road Trip Essentials You Shouldn’t Travel Without in 2023

Looking for the ultimate road trip essentials which ensure a safe, fun, and manageable road adventure? Voila! You have landed on the right page.

Road trips have become more popular nowadays. Although it varies from person to person, as an adventure lover I would say a road trip is more fun, more adventurous, more flexible that will offer you the pure essence of travel and an opportunity to explore the hidden gems of the country which you’ll never get to see if you fly.

Now the most important question is what to include in a road trip packing list ? Actually, it depends on the destination, the number of days you’re traveling, the time of the year and, many other things.

So here in this road trip packing guide, we have listed certain essential things you must remember to pack for your next trip. We have kept this road trip checklist as minimal as possible while keeping comfort and enjoyment in mind.

You can also read our ultimate camping packing list if you are a die-hard camper.

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This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.

Road Trip Essentials for Cars

Whether you’re driving your own car or a rental car , you must remember to bring the following road trip car essentials with you.

• Driving license(The most important car trip essential)
• Car registration
• Insurance paperwork
• An extra set of car key(don’t keep it on the same key ring)
• Spare tires and tire jack
• AAA membership card and phone numbers for roadside assistance
• Emergency roadside toolkit
• Phone holder
• Car chain and snow kit(for a winter road trip)

Must-Have Road Trip Essentials for Self Care

Besides these road trip car accessories, you should have an emergency and basic things for yourself and other co-passengers. You will always want to be prepared for whatever obstacles you may face on your road trip.

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

It is one of the most important road trip necessities that will keep you hydrated on a long drive. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps cold drinks icy cold and hot drinks piping hot any time, anywhere. Don’t waste money on packaged drinking water. Save Money, Save the Planet. You can fill this reusable hydro flask bottle whenever you get a chance.

Check out the best buying guide for travel water filters if you are planning to buy a water filter for travel.

First Aid Kit

Another must-keep long road trip essential is the first aid kit. You should carry this for a medical emergency. Sometimes you may get scraped up on a hike or feel car sick on a winding road when the closest town is 100km away. In such a case, a travel first aid kit plays a vital role. It came with great help when my hand got scraped against the rock during my Yosemite trip .

Your first aid box should have basic things like band-aids, bandages, antiseptic, gauze pads, Neosporin (antibiotic), pain killers(ie: Advil or Tylenol), and anti-motion sickness tablets(ie: Dramamine). Don’t forget to buy travel insurance before you leave.

Toiletry Bag with Hook

One item that must be added to your road trip packing list for families is a toiletry bag . A toiletry bag is essential to put all body hygiene and toiletry supplies. Pick up a few of these toiletry bags to keep everything close to hand in the same place.

Comfort is the key in a long road trip and packing versatile, durable clothing is highly recommended as a cross country road trip essential item. Make sure to dress in layers to adjust to any kind of weather. Sweatpants, leggings, tee shirts, and sweatshirts are highly recommended for a comfortable road journey.

A high-quality rain jacket made a huge difference while I was enjoying a short hike in Switzerland and suddenly it started raining.

Related Post : 10 Super Useful Hiking Shorts for Men and Women

Hiking Boots/Shoes

It is a popular road trip accessory for people who love hiking. While shopping for hiking boots and shoes, make sure it is water-resistant, light, breathable, and comfortable. I used Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge waterproof hiking shoe in most of the popular hikes in southern California .

You can also read our ultimate list of best and cheap hiking boots with a comprehensive buying guide .

Hand Sanitizer

One of the most important items to add to your road trip packing list is hand sanitizer . It becomes a common thing after the 2020 pandemic. Make it a habit to sanitize your hand before eating anything. It will also help you when you are in touch with dirty shoes, baby wipes, or food rubbish.

Because you never know when you might see a lake, beach, or spring. I recommend packing some plastic bags to keep wet clothes separate from other items.

Read Next : 10 Best Beach Coolers to Enjoy Beach Vacation

Sunglass & Hat

Driving into the sunset can be pretty difficult when you’re staring straight into the bright sun lights for hours. Polarized Sunglasses with UV protection can save your vision and add a cool look to your outfit. Just think you are in a romantic getaway in the US  and driving along the pacific coast highway with your partner sit beside you. LOL! 😛

Similarly, hats are also stylish and fashionable and protect you on an extra sunny day. You must add sunglasses and hats as long drive essentials.

During a road trip, a power nap is very very necessary to make yourself refreshed and relaxed for the long hours. Hence a travel pillow is an essential road trip item for those times when you are not driving. Your road trip will be more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.

Sunscreen & Lip Balm

When putting together your road trip packing list, bring a sunscreen spray to protect your skin from getting tanned. You will not want to drive for hours with cracked lips. Bring a lip balm as well to protect your lips from dry weather.

Who loves messy hair? And, it is pretty common when you enjoy the wind but it creates the bird’s nest which is not fun at all. Include a mini hairbrush in your list of road trip essential for adult.

Essential Road Trip Food

Snacks are always good for a long road trip. I always keep a stock of energy bars or granola bars in the car. Bring some healthy foods like popcorn, apples, nuts, and crackers. It not only helps me in emergencies but also saves money on food while traveling .

Check Road Trip Food Strategy:

• I will recommend buying a  cooler bag  that is easy to carry and keep your stuff fresh.
• If you are on a long road trip and need more food storage for meals, consider a  larger cooler  and refill with food and ice at local grocery stores.

Here’s a list of road trip snacks that are delicious, healthy, and nutritious.

• Granola Bars
• String cheese
• Protein/Energy Bars
• Jelly sandwiches
• Dried Fruit and nuts
• Chocolate bars
• Fresh Fruit & Veggies
• Hard-Boiled Eggs
• Sliced Bread

Road Trip Packing List for Entertainment

Entertainment is very important on a road trip. Otherwise, you may end up with a boring road trip. Luckily, we have included some fun ideas in this list of road trip essentials.

Offline Music Playlist

Another necessary road trip essential is an awesome playlist for music. Trust me, it can make a whole lot of difference. Amazon Music Unlimited and Spotify offer millions of songs that can be grouped to create the best road trip playlist. Make sure to download your playlist onto your device to listen without an internet connection anywhere.

Bluetooth Speaker

If you are a true music lover, you shouldn’t rely only on your car music player. I always prefer to carry a portable Bluetooth speaker. Be it a hotel room or around the campfire, a good soundtrack can change the ambiance of the place immediately. This JBL Clip  is affordable, durable, loud, and most importantly waterproof.

Your road trip playlist may not be liked by others. You can buy a noise-canceling headphone of Bose to have a little bit of space for yourself.  It is a little bit pricey, but worth it for peace and quiet.

Frustrated with your headphones for getting tangled? Buy  wireless ones , that can be carried easily and take up very little space.

Related Post: 10 Best Headphones for Teens: The Ultimate Buying Guide

Kindle and Audiobooks

If you’d prefer audio stories, you can give a try to  Audible  that has massive libraries with free books as part of a free trial. Just buy a  Kindle  and  purchase a few books  or  try Kindle Unlimited free .

Travel Games

The youngest member of your family may get bored on a long trip. Here are some travel games , best road trip essentials for kids. This will keep your kids entertained.

DSLR Camera & Portable USB chargers

Want to cherish the moments you spent on your road trip. Purchase a good DSLR camera and store all of your fun memory. I personally use Nikon D5600 with an 18-140 mm VR lens, an ideal travel camera for beginners. A portable USB charger can be a necessity to charge your laptop and phone in emergencies.

Read Also: 10 Best Lightweight Travel Laptops

Miscellaneous Road Trip Essentials

Road trips can be more adventurous if you plan to stay in tents instead of hotels and Airbnbs. Check out these family tents from Coleman which offer plenty of spaces. A Hybrid Carabiner Clip is also recommended to bring with your tent to hang things up or to clip your water bottles.

Battery Powered Heater

If you have a plan for camping or pitching your tent, a battery-powered heater can be very helpful in cooler months. Whether you are into van life or RVing, it is a very useful device in winter.

Flexite Camp Dreamer Chair

This  compact folding camping chair is light, takes less space, and allows you to bring some home comfort out into nature. You can use it to relax after a long day hike or just enjoy the surrounding views sitting around a fire pit.

Essential Road Trip Apps

One of the most important items needed for a road trip is a navigation app, especially one with offline features. Google Maps, Maps.me, Weather, The Dyrt are very helpful travel apps you must download  before any trip.

Cooking Set

Cooking your own food is a great way to stay healthy and stretch your budget. Don’t overfill your trunk with unnecessary items. Here is my recommendation to include in road trip cooking essentials – tea kettle, nesting bowl, fuel cylinder, propane stove, coffee maker, reusable silicon bags, multi towels, and a Swiss knife.

Spare Money

Don’t act like fools. Keep enough cash with you while going on a road trip. Cash is still necessary for some places where the network is poor. You can quickly deal with parking meters and road tolls if you have cash in hand.

Road Trip Essentials for winter

If you are road tripping in winter, make sure your car(own/rental) is suitable for winter road conditions. You need to replace winter tires in countries like Canada. Include the following items in your winter road trip packing list.

• Snow Shovel
• Ice Scraper
• Boot with string grip

Road trips are awesome, it gives you freedom, fun, adventure, and flexibility. I hope you found this road trip essential guide helpful. Now, you know what to add to your road trip packing list. Let me know in the comments below if you found any other items that should be on this list.

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This is my official ultimate guide when going for road trips. Very informative!

Thank you Lillie. Hope it will help you on your next road trip.

Wow! So thorough! You took some great pictures, too!

I am glad that you liked the post. BTW, some pictures are taken from Flickr.

Such a great list of road trip essentials. Thanks for all the info.

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The Mandagies

30 Absolute Crucial Road Trip Essentials You Need To Be Packing

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

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

But what the heck do you need to pack?

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

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

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

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

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

20 Brilliant Car Camping Hacks For Your Next Road Trip

How To Find Free Camping In The USA

101 Fun And Random Road Trip Questions To Ask Your Friends

15 Essential Road Trip Planning Apps To Use

30 Necessary Road Trip Essentials You Must Be Packing

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

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

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

2. Good Navigation Apps

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

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

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

3. Kleenex / Hankerchief

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

4. Emergen-C / Vitamin C Tablets

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

5. Chapstick

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

6. Car games/cards for delays or waits

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

7. Headache Medication

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

8. Sunglasses

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

9. Car Chargers

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

10. Slippers

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

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

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

12. Headphones

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

13. Clothes/Shoes

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

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

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

Entertainment is one of the most important road trip necessities!

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

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

16. Little Bluetooth Speakers

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

17. A Cozy Blanket

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

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

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

20. Paper Directions/ Road Trip Apps

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

21. Water Bottle

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

22. Thermos

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

23. Empty Tote

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

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

24. Duct Tape

Duct Tape seems to be the fix for everything.

25. Flashlight /Headlamps

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

26. First Aid Kit

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

27. Batteries

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

28. Proof of Insurance/ID

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

29. Jumper Cables

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

30. Car Fluids

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

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

Read road trip essential tips.

9 Ways To Keep Your Tech Safe While Traveling

10 Strategies for Finding Discounted Outdoor Gear

8 Vital Reasons To Travel With Your Friends

How To Travel on A Budget In The Pacific Northwest

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

It's National Park Week! Here's everything you need for a road trip

Make the car ride more enjoyable with these essentials.

Updated April 25, 2024

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

When is National Park Week 2024?

National Park Week is held annually. This year, National Park Week is observed from Saturday, April 20 through Sunday, April 28 .

What is National Park Week?

1. a trending travel cup that's totally worth it.

Stay hydrated in style.

Sometimes a company gets its design perfect. Made from recycled stainless steel and featuring double wall vacuum insulation, this travel cup keeps your hot stuff hot for seven hours or your cold stuff cold for 11 hours. The “FlowState” lid is spill-proof and allows for sipping either straight out of the lid or out of a plastic reusable straw in a perfect-fit straw opening.

Perfectly sized to fit your car's cup holder, this cup is essential for keeping you hydrated, caffeinated—or whatever liquid needs may be.

2. A collapsible cooler for drinks and snacks

Eat your snacks on the road with our favorite soft-sided cooler.

3. A portable battery pack that will juice up all your devices

Charge your devices quickly with our favorite power bank

What we're saying is: If you're on the cusp of draining your battery because you've been desperately trying to track down a gas station, this little power pack will be a lifesaver.

4. Lots and lots of audiobooks

Listen to an audiobook to pass the time.

5. A car vacuum to clean up crumbs

Keep your car nice and clean during your road trip.

You’d be surprised at how dirty the car can get when you’re spending so much time in it. A small vacuum is just the thing to keep stashed under the seat or in the trunk for cleaning quick messes, whether they’re crumbs from little passengers or a quick deep clean on the carpets.

6. Dramamine for when you get the winding road woozies

Keep motion sickness at bay.

Those long and winding National Park roads and your probable compulsion to look at your phone—either to follow maps or to page through your photos—are a recipe for disaster.

7. An affordable dashcam to capture the views

Capture beautiful scenes with a dash cam.

8. A customizable car mattress

Nap in this comfortable air mattress.

9. A fast-charging car charger for two

Use a car charger with USB-A

10. An instant camera for classic trip pics

Take beautiful, hassle-free pictures with our favorite instant camera.

Wherever you go, it’s always nice to have a camera on hand. As good as phone cameras have gotten, there’s still something magical about using a real handheld camera to catalogue your journey.

11. An essential organizer for every cord

Keep all your cords organized.

Has anyone seen that cord? Your camera takes a micro-B, your Kindle takes a mini-B your iPhone either takes lightning or USB-C depending on when you last upgraded, there’s the aux cord, and don’t get us started on the 30-pin. Don't let your lap turn into a sea of mismatched charging cords and 2% phone batteries.

12. A fully stocked first aid kit

Prepare for the unexpected with our favorite first aid kit.

13. A water filter to clean out funky water

Stay hydrated no matter where you find yourself on your trip.

With claims to remove 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria, 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites and up to 0.2 microns, this little tool is super handy to have on hand when thirst hits and there is only funky water to be found!

14. The best headlamp for hands-free illumination

Brighten the night with this hands-free flashlight.

15. A portable jumper kit

You can jumpstart your car without the help of a buddy.

It can be tough to wait for a jump when you're miles from civilization. Luckily, this pre-charged jumper kit allows you to jump your car even without a buddy around. It's the fallback safety tool you need whenever you're driving in unpredictable areas.

Reviewers like this jumper kit for being super compact, offering a rapid charge and for its accompanying floodlight.

16. A roadside safety kit

Keep this packed in your trunk in-case you have extensive car troubles.

17. Travel pillow

We love this neck pillow.

18. A weighted blanket to stay cozy and calm

De-stress with our favorite weighted blanket.

19. A portable tire inflator in case of a roadside emergency

Get this best-selling portable air compressor for peace of mind on the road.

20. Bluetooth headphones for long rides

Block out sound during your trip.

They are comfortable, have a battery that lasts 24 hours, and are made of pillow-soft fleece. You might wonder how SleepPhones weren’t invented sooner.

21. A portable hotspot for long trips

Stay connected with a mobile router.

Netgear’s Nighthawk provides internet for up to 20 devices, so you’ll be able to connect all the devices you’ll need.

22. Mad Libs for restless kiddos

Pass the time with a couple rounds of Madlibs.

Plus, it helps kids learn their grammar while having fun, which is just an added benefit to this boredom-busting game.

23. A water bottle to stay hydrated on the go

Stay hydrated with our favorite water bottle

The bottle comes with a Brita filter insert, so even if you fill it up in a rest-stop sink, it will still taste great. It comes in a variety of colors, so you can get a couple for the family before you set off on your trip.

24. A porta-potty for a moving car

When you have to go, you have to go.

These are the things you don't want to think about, but they are so necessary. When you're off on the open road—or driving from the Grand Canyon's North Rim to the South Rim—there aren't a whole lot of clean opportunities for quick bladder relief.

25. A portable bidet

Keep your tush clean.

26. An annual park pass

Get an annual park pass from REI.

What are the 2024 National Park Week themes? function ga4_link181() { window.dataLayer.push(JSON.parse('{"event":"default_event"}')) }

Each day during National Park Week is associated with a different theme to help people learn more about specific aspects of our national parks.

• April 20: Discovery
• April 21: Volunteers
• April 22: Earth Day
• April 23: Innovation
• April 24: Workforce Wednesday
• April 25: Youth Engagement
• April 26: Community Connections
• April 27: Junior Ranger Day
• April 28: Arts in Parks

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

Taking a Road Trip This Summer? 27 Essentials to Bring

Posted: April 23, 2024 | Last updated: April 23, 2024

Hitting the highway for a road trip may be one of the best ways to see the country . Plus, it can be more affordable than flying , and certainly cheaper than international travel. If you already have travel plans in mind, it's smart to prepare accordingly with some road trip essentials.

Whether it's a long car ride by yourself, with family members, a significant other, or a close friend, there's something on this packing list for everyone, no matter where you're going. Below, see our top musts for what to bring on a road trip, before shopping some specific items in each category.

A spacious backpack to travel light and maximize trunk space.

A portable garbage can to keep your car tidy.

A cooler for snacks and drinks.

A travel pillow to snooze when you're in the passenger seat.

A raincoat for unexpected weather.

An air mattress, if you plan on camping.

A physical map in case you lose service or your phone runs out of battery.

Perhaps most importantly, a car emergency kit.

Ready to join your fellow wanderlusts on the road, traveling the coast, visiting national parks, and sightseeing? We promise this checklist will make your journey more comfortable. Shop our road trip selections ahead.

- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano and Emily Co

Portable Camping Air Mattress

FBSPORT Bed Car Mattress ($33, originally $40)

Some road trips include camping out, and if you don't have the particular time or energy to set up a full campsite, then try this air mattress that fits perfectly in the backseat. The mattress also comes with two inflatable pillows and a storage bag to fold it back up when ready to move on to your next destination.

Note that the mattress is inflated by an electric pump, so you'll either need to find a power source or buy the power inverter in this list below.

Travel Backpack

Taygeer Carry On Backpack ($34, originally $51)

With a variety of compartments, this backpack fits far more than you think. Plus, it'll take up less space than a suitcase, and makes for easy disembarking once you arrive at your destination.

Cocoon CoolMax Blanket ($35)

A travel blanket is one of the best items to get cozy with, and this one comes with a storage bag so it won't take up too much space. Plus, its breathable fabric is lightweight enough for any hot summer nights on the road.

ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner ($38, originally $40)

We all know how messy cars can get, and if you can't stand the dirt, clean up with a car vacuum. Despite its small size, this particular kit comes with various attachments for vacuuming those hard-to-reach spots, like beneath seats.

Kimkoo Cotton Sleep Mask ($10, originally $15)

Block sunlight from getting in the way of your afternoon nap with a sleep mask. This soft option is a great deal, and comes with a travel pouch.

Car Power Inverter

Foval Car Power Inverter ($20, originally $26)

Let's face it: traveling with multiple people can be tough when there's only one carport to charge your phone with. Luckily, this car power converter - complete with two sockets and four USB charging ports - gives everyone's phone the ability to juice up at once.

Canvas Grocery Bags

Organic Cotton Mart Canvas Grocery Shopping Bags ($28)

You never know when you'll need to restock on food, and these canvas bags make grocery shopping easy. You can buy three for $28, but if you're just taking a quick trip, then these bags are also individually sold.

Car Emergency Kit

First Secure 90-Piece Car Emergency Roadside and First Aid Kit ($90)

Keep this roadside kit in the car in case of emergency. The thorough, 90-piece purchase includes jumper cables, tire repair tools, a flashlight, and a first aid safety kit, which is also smart to have with you during your travels.

Car Mount Phone Holder

iOttie Easy One Touch 4 Dash & Windshield Car Mount Phone Holder ($20)

Raise your hand if your phone doubles as your GPS! If this is the case, then a phone holder makes navigating a breeze.

A Card Game

Our Moments Road Trip Bundle ($50)

If you and your passenger need a little something to pass the time, try a card game. This particular conversation game includes over 300 thought-provoking questions, with dedicated packs for couples, families, or kids.

Travel Pillow

MLVOC Travel Pillow ($25)

All that driving will likely tie you out. If you're a passenger in need of a nap before your next driving shift, get comfortable and rest your head on this travel pillow. Better yet, it already comes with earplugs and a contoured sleep mask.

Window Shade

Enovoe Car Window Shade ($15, originally $16)

For peak comfort while driving, snag this window shade, which will prevent intense sun rays from affecting your vision and making the car too warm. Plus, it couldn't be easier to install: just place it in the window of your choosing, and run your hand across the shade.

Car Garbage Can

Farasla All-in-One Car Trash Can ($21)

When you're spending a lot of time in the car, the last thing you want it to be is messy. This car garbage can gives your trash a home and comes with a tissue holder for wiping up any spills or crumbs.

Diamond Candy Waterproof Rain Jacket ($43)

Sure, you might plan for pleasant weather along your journey, but unexpected summer showers may come up. For those moments, it helps to have a sturdy rain jacket so you can keep exploring as planned. This one is better than your average poncho because it has zippered compartments and a removable hood.

Wet Brush Original Detangling Hair Brush ($6, originally $10)

Long road trips tend to take a toll on hair. Clean up tangles and knots with this classic detangling hair brush.

Dry Shampoo

Bumble and Bumble Prêt-à-Powder Post Workout Dry Shampoo Mist ($12, originally $16)

If your hair is feeling greasy after a long car ride, then freshen it up with dry shampoo. We're a fan of this Bumble and Bumble mist , which is available in a handy travel size, but browse the other best dry shampoos on the market.

Editor Quote: "It's safe to say this is my new go-to dry shampoo any time I'm looking to extend the time in between washes. I think this product is perfect for anyone who frequently has sweaty hair but still wants to skip out on wash day without the entire world knowing." - Renee Rodriguez, staff writer and social producer

Showerless Body Wipes

DRMTLGY Body Shower Wipes ($13)

If you haven't had time to shower (don't worry, we won't tell), body wipes are the next best thing. These are biodegradable, and unscented, which is helpful for folks with sensitive skin.

Female Urination Device

Sunany Female Urination Device ($13)

When you've got to go, you've got to go, and this reusable funnel allows you to do so anywhere. This kit comes with a waterproof bag and a nylon bag for storing, but just make sure to wash in between uses.

The Get Out Cooler Bag ($150, originally $260)

Store your snacks and drinks in a cooler to keep them from overheating in the car. Better yet, this cooler bag has straps so it can be worn as a backpack once you arrive at your picnic destination.

Travel Utensils

To Go Ware Bamboo Travel Utensils ($14)

Being on the road doesn't mean you can't eat! These travel utensils are reusable so that your car can stay extra clean without all of the excess waste and trash.

Motion-Sickness Cures

Simply Gum Natural Chewing Gum 6-Pack ($15)

Get some motion-sickness essentials for the road just in case you start feeling unwell from the ride. There are all-natural cures, like this ginger gum, that people swear by, so you might want to check it out if Dramamine isn't for you.

Water Bottle

BrüMate Era 40-Ounce Tumbler ($45)

Sitting in a car can make you really dehydrated. Make sure you're constantly drinking water; packing it and other beverages in the car before leaving home will make it much easier. If you're looking for an alternative to plastic water bottles, try a reusable one like this editor-approved BrüMate water bottle .

Editor Quote: "I took my BrüMate to the desert for a weekend getaway and it kept my water icy cold despite the temperature being over 100°F." - Jordan Shalhoub, lead social producer

StreetSmart USA Interstate Road Map ($9)

Don't totally rely on your GPS. Carry a real map with you so that even if your navigator breaks down, you'll at least have a physical map to fall back on.

Walkie Talkies

Retevis RT38 Walkie Talkies ($21)

If you're driving with other cars, then walkie-talkies would be a smart purchase. There will be times when you drive through areas without cell phone service, so it's always good to have an alternative. It's also much easier to pick up the walkie talkie and start chatting with someone, rather than constantly redialing their number and waiting by your phone.

IRON °FLASK Thermos for Hot Food ($10, originally $21)

Keep soups and drinks warm for hours on end in an insulated thermos. This one even comes with a foldable spoon.

Trunk Organizer

HOTOR Trunk Organizer ($13, originally $20)

Place extra snacks and clutter in a trunk organizer. This large-capacity option has two compartments and six pockets total. It's also collapsible and easy to store when you don't need it.

Seatbelt Headrest

Seatbelt Protector Headrest ($16)

Protect your skin from rubbing against the seat belt with a cushiony headrest that'll make your ride more comfortable even when you're not snoozing.

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