Whether you’re taking a trip with family/friends or working, you must know the five essentials to pack with you for a road trip. And we don’t mean your favorite playlist, books, and other things that could make the trip more fun. We mean the absolute, bare-bones essentials you need for a successful trip. Here are just a few things to take with you.
Snacks
Having snacks on your trip is crucial because you can’t stop every 10 minutes when someone wants a snack, as it just takes time off the road!
Make sure to bring water, coffee, and healthy food to nibble on like nuts, cheese cubes, popcorn, and more. You might also consider bringing just a few sugary snacks to give you a quick energy boost.
Paper Maps
As reliable as your phone carrier can be, you’re not going to get access to GPS in every town you pass through.
Therefore, paper maps are critical to having a successful road trip. You don’t want to be lost in a city you’re not familiar with! Even if you don’t use them, paper maps are great for keeping in your glove box for emergency purposes.
Spare Money
It’s almost too easy to use just our credit cards now; it’s almost like everyone forgot how to use cash. Having spare money in your car is always a good idea, but it’s especially vital when you’re on a road trip.
You might need it for road tolls, parking meters, or even particular stores that don’t accept credit or debit. You never need cash until you need cash!
Phone Charger
Be sure to bring a quality charger that can be used in the car and an outlet. Avoid buying cheap chargers as they’re more susceptible to damage and only charging your phone 2% every 10 minutes—it’s possible and we’ve seen it.
Tools, First Aid, and Extras Kit
Lastly, although this essential is technically a “bundle” of items, you must have a tool kit, first aid, and a box full of extras like:
- Blankets
- Emergency food and chargers
- Snow boots, coats, and gloves
- Flashlight
- Tarp
Having these items on hand is especially important to truck safely through storms and other harsh weather conditions.
These five essentials to pack with you for a road trip will help you have a successful, safe, and fun road trip ahead of you!
