Getting ready for a road trip? Whether you’re planning a short drive or a cross-country adventure, having the right items can make your journey smoother and more fun. Here’s a list of 10 must-have items to bring along on your next road trip.
Overview
- Maps are essential for navigation, even in the age of GPS.
- Travel apps can help you find the best routes, gas stations, and attractions.
- A good playlist keeps everyone entertained and makes the drive enjoyable.
- Pack plenty of snacks to keep hunger at bay and energy levels up.
- Don’t forget toiletries to stay fresh and comfortable throughout the trip.
1. Maps
When embarking on a road trip, having reliable maps is crucial. While you might start with a planned route, it’s always wise to carry physical maps of the areas you’ll be driving through. This way, if you need to take a detour to avoid traffic or simply want to explore, you’ll be prepared. Offline maps are a great feature offered by Google, allowing you to download specific areas over Wi-Fi, ensuring you have access even in low-service zones.
Consider these options for your trip:
- Road atlas or paper maps: These are essential in case you find yourself in an area without service. Benchmark Maps Road Atlases are a popular choice, and AAA members can pick up free paper maps at their locations.
- Custom maps: Websites like Google Maps or Mapquest Route Planner allow you to print custom maps tailored to your journey.
Always having a physical map on hand can be a lifesaver, especially when technology fails. It’s one of those top 10 travel tips for 2025 that you shouldn’t ignore.
Don’t forget to download offline maps before you hit the road. This simple step can make a huge difference in your navigation system, ensuring you stay on track no matter where your adventure takes you.
2. Travel Apps
When you’re on a road trip, having the right travel apps can make all the difference. These apps can help you find everything from the best hotels to the nearest gas stations.
- GasBuddy: This app helps you locate gas stations and compare prices, so you can save money on fuel.
- Maps.me: A favorite for offline maps, ensuring you never get lost even without cell service.
- Roadtrippers: Discover the open road and the great outdoors with ease. This app helps you find attractions, campgrounds, and even RV parks.
- Daypass: Perfect for finding activities when you need a break from driving.
Having these apps on your smartphone can turn a good trip into a great one. They offer convenience and peace of mind, making sure you have all the information you need at your fingertips.
Don’t forget to download these apps before you hit the road to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
3. Road-worthy Playlist
A road trip isn’t complete without a music playlist that keeps everyone entertained. Whether you prefer classic hits or modern tunes, having a mix of songs can make the journey more enjoyable. It’s a good idea to download your favorite songs for offline use, especially if you might drive through areas with poor radio signals.
- Create a playlist that includes a variety of genres to suit different moods.
- Consider adding some throwback songs for a nostalgic touch.
- Don’t forget to include some upbeat tracks to keep the energy high.
A well-curated playlist can turn a long drive into a fun and memorable experience. So, take the time to prepare your ultimate road trip soundtrack before you hit the road.
Additionally, using travel apps that provide traffic updates and finding rest stops can enhance your trip. This way, you can focus on enjoying the music and the journey.
4. Snacks
Snacks are a must-have for any road trip. They keep everyone happy and prevent those grumpy moments when someone gets hungry. Packing a variety of snacks can also save you money by avoiding frequent stops at gas stations or restaurants. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mixed nuts
- Dried fruits
- Fresh fruit like apples, bananas, and oranges
- Fresh vggies such as carrots and radishes
- Potato chips
- Pretzels
- Individually packaged cheese
- Jerky
- Mochi nuggets
- Sour gummy worms
Bringing a mix of healthy and fun snacks ensures everyone has something they like. Plus, having snacks on hand means you can keep driving without needing to stop for food as often.
5. Toiletries
Packing the right toiletries can make your road trip much more comfortable. Feeling fresh will make the journey more pleasant.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
- Lotion
- Body wash or soap
- Wet wipes: These will come in handy in case you need a quick “bath” on the road.
- 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.
Make sure your car is stocked with some easy-to-reach toiletries, such as tissues, paper towels, cleaning wipes, hand sanitizer, and a roll of toilet paper, in case the rest stop isn’t well-stocked. Take any prescription medicines you need, as well as basics like pain relievers, antacids, and remedies for motion sickness.
Don’t forget to apply and reapply sunscreen during your trip to prevent sunburn.
6. Comfy Clothing
When planning a road trip, packing comfy clothing is essential. Comfort and versatility should be your main focus. Depending on the weather forecast, you might need different types of clothing. For instance, if it’s going to be warm, pack short sleeve tops or tanks, and if it’s cooler, bring along long sleeve tops and a warm jacket or sweater.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you pack:
- Underwear
- Socks
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hiking shoes, if necessary
- Swimsuit
- Hat (sun hat/warm beanie)
- Activity-specific items (rashguard, water shoes, etc)
- Sleepwear
Additionally, shoes that are easy to slip on and off can be very practical. This way, you can wiggle your feet in the car and quickly put your shoes back on when you stop for a break. Don’t forget to pack a rain jacket or windbreaker if the weather might be unpredictable.
Remember, 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.
7. Camera
A camera is a must-have for any road trip. Whether you’re capturing the beauty of a sunset over a small lake or the fun moments with your travel buddies, having a camera handy is essential. Smartphones have made it easier than ever to take high-quality photos, but if you consider yourself a photographer, a professional camera is a road trip must-have.
Here are some top choices for travel cameras:
- OM System OM-5 – Best Overall
- Ricoh GR III – Best Compact
- Nikon Z FC – Best for Style
Don’t forget to pack a charger for your digital camera! You’ll want to keep it powered up to capture all those unforgettable moments.
Having a camera ensures you can relive your adventures and share them with others. So, make sure it’s on your packing list!
8. Power Inverter
A power inverter is a must-have for any road trip. It converts your car’s 12V DC power into 110V AC power, allowing you to charge and use various electronic devices. This is especially useful for keeping gadgets like laptops and cameras charged. A 300W car power inverter can easily plug into your car’s cigarette lighter and provide enough power for most small devices.
Why You Need a Power Inverter
- Keeps your devices charged
- Allows you to use AC-powered gadgets
- Essential for long trips with kids or teens
Choosing the Right Power Inverter
When selecting a power inverter, consider the number of USB ports and the total wattage. Some models come with 2×2.1A USB ports, which are suitable for charging multiple devices at once. Compact designs are ideal for road trips, camping, and emergency situations.
Having a power inverter can make your road trip more enjoyable and less stressful by ensuring all your devices stay powered up.
9. Spare Keys
When you’re on a road trip, having a spare set of keys can be a lifesaver. A spare key can work wonders when you’re in a tight spot. Whether you’ve locked your keys in the car or lost them, it saves the day. It offers peace of mind, knowing you have a backup plan.
Here are some tips for managing your spare keys:
- Give a set to your travel buddy or pack a set in your luggage for safekeeping.
- Consider a keyless entry code if your car has one, so you can’t be locked out unless the battery is also dead.
Always keep your spare keys in a safe and accessible place. This simple step can save you a lot of trouble on your adventure.
Don’t let the thrill of the trip keep you from making sure your car is in tip-top condition. Have your oil checked, your tires inspected and filled with air, and test the air conditioning and wiper blades to make sure they’re working correctly. Have your driver’s license, insurance card and contact numbers for roadside assistance readily accessible.
10. First Aid Kit
Safety comes first, so don’t leave home without a well-stocked first aid kit. Include items like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers, and any prescription medications you might need. You never know when a small mishap might occur, and being prepared can prevent a minor inconvenience from turning into a major setback.
Packing some bandages and antibiotic ointment is always a good idea when heading out on a road trip. There’s plenty of great kits available online or you can inventory your at-home first aid and take the essentials.
A simple first-aid kit will do. Make sure to keep it in your car, even on short weekend trips!
Road Trip First Aid Essentials
- Bandages / Gauze
- Bandaids
- Antibiotic Ointment (cuts & scrapes)
- Tourniquet (serious injuries)
- Ibuprofen (inflammation)
- Acetaminophen (headaches)
- Moleskin (blisters)
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Alcohol Wipes
For peace of mind, many travelers recommend an all-purpose roadside emergency kit. These kits are typically equipped with a tire pressure gauge, a utility knife, safety gloves, cable ties, a tow rope, tire repair tools, first-aid supplies, rain ponchos and other useful items.
Conclusion
Getting ready for a road trip can be just as exciting as the journey itself. By packing these 10 essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever the road throws your way. From navigation tools to comfy pillows, each item on this list is designed to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. So, gather your gear, grab your friends or family, and set off on an adventure you’ll never forget. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I bring maps if I have a GPS?
While GPS is handy, having physical maps can be a lifesaver if you lose signal or your device runs out of battery.
What are some good travel apps for road trips?
Apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Roadtrippers can help with navigation, finding attractions, and planning your route.
Why is a road-worthy playlist important?
A good playlist keeps you entertained and alert during long stretches of driving. It can also make the trip more fun.
What are some healthy snack options for a road trip?
Healthy snacks include fruits, nuts, granola bars, and veggies. These keep you energized without the sugar crash.
What toiletries should I pack for a road trip?
Pack basics like toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer. These keep you fresh on the go.
Why do I need comfy clothing for a road trip?
Comfortable clothes make long hours in the car more bearable. Think soft fabrics and loose-fitting outfits.
Is a camera necessary if I have a smartphone?
Smartphones are great, but a camera can offer better quality photos and more storage for all your memories.
What should be in a road trip first aid kit?
Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications. It’s better to be prepared for minor injuries.