road trip to do list

89 Road Trip Packing List Essentials for Hitting the Road

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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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One Comment

Outstanding information. Thank you for the great tips!

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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

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

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Home » Packing Lists & Travel Gear » 55 Essential Road Trip Packing List Items [2024] (inc FREE PDF Checklist!)

55 Essential Road Trip Packing List Items [2024] (inc FREE PDF Checklist!)

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: Packed full of road trip essentials to keep the car (and you!) safe, comfortable & entertained on your next road trip.

Click through for tips for personal comfort, safety and car maintenance plus road trip necessities and accessories to make your road trip the best that it can be.

It’s almost Road Trip time, and you’ve started to think about what exactly you need to pack to keep your show on the road.

Whether you are doing a cross-country road trip and driving Coast to Coast road trip across the USA, (or around Las Vegas or Wisconsin !) or road tripping South Africa’s incredible Garden Route (our favorite road trip!), or just taking a few days to explore your own back yard – we’ve put together the Ultimate Road Trip Packing List to guide you through the various road trip essentials.

We’ve also included a heap of road trip tips that will keep the car – and you – running smoothly throughout the trip.

( It’s p erfect for packing light on a USA road trip or anywhere else in the world and based on my personal experience after taking some epic road trips!)

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List – All the Road Trip Essentials You Could Ever Need!

In This Post

• 1 The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: Keep Your Car on the Road with these Road Trip Essentials
• 2.1 And if traveling in winter/road tripping to cold locations
• 3 Stay connected & Entertained on your Road Trip
• 4 Road Trip Packing List – The Comfort Kit
• 5 Road Trip Packing List – Your Personal Care Kit
• 6 Helpful/Miscellaneous Road Trip Items

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: Keep Your Car on the Road with these Road Trip Essentials

• License and registration Obvious. Do NOT leave home without them. They are the ultimate road trip essentials!
• A copy of your car insurance policy and the relevant contact numbers Hopefully, you won’t need to use your insurance, but keep a copy in the car just in case.
• Your car’s manual Because you never know what light might refuse to turn off when you’re out of wifi range!
• Spare tire – and check the one you have is in good condition before you set off.
• Roadside Emergency Kit In case of a flat tire (or other emergency situation) this car emergency kit contains Battery Booster Cables, 2 Light Sticks, Reflective Vest, an Emergency Rain Poncho, Warning triangle, whistle, Tire Pressure Gauge, Window Breaker etc. This all-in-one kit has you covered for any possible eventuality (except an actual battery to jump-start your vehicle with, but we got that covered below).

• HALO Jump Starter & Power Bank This handheld box is the ultimate road trip accessory. Not only can you jumpstart any car (or camper/truck/boat(!) – any vehicle really) as it comes with a built-in battery and jumper cables, but it also doubles as a power outlet (regular plug and USB) to charge your laptop and up to 3 other devices, and has a torch for good measure – among other handy bits! If you are traveling in remote areas and are unlikely to see many vehicles (who could help with a jumpstart) – a portable battery is a must.

Little Road Trip Accessories That Can Make a Big Difference

• Paper maps/Maps.Me App Paper Maps – because there isn’t cell service everywhere (if there was you could easily rely on Google Maps) . Maps.me is a free app allows you to download detailed maps which can be used offline and without cell service and acts as GPS. It helped us drive across South Africa and I tell everyone I know about it!
• Spare money Because cash is still king in some places – and in particular for parking meters and road tolls!
• A notebook or travel journal, pen, and pencil For either jotting down your thoughts or leaving a note of the car you accidentally ‘bumped’.
• First aid kit Basic supplies such a band-aids, bandages, antiseptic and safety pins can be invaluable when the closest town is 100km away!
• Flashlight In case the car battery dies in the dead of the night. Buy two. It means you’ll have a spare.
• Bug Spray Because bugs in the car are not fun and essential on a summer road trip.
• Large Water Bottles If you get stranded, staying hydrated is crucial. Keep a couple of large bottles in the car in case of emergencies. And on warm days on a summer road trip.
• Toilet Roll Don’t get caught short in an un-stocked rest stop!
• Duct Tape Almost everything can be fixed with a bit of duct tape, right?!

And if traveling in winter/road tripping to cold locations

• Snow Shovel
• Ice Scraper
• Umbrella To be honest. Having one of these in the car – regardless of destination – can only be a good thing! And especially this one that collapses inside out specifically to keep your car dry after use and has a looped handle which rests on your arm to keep your hands free! It also comes in a variety of double layer designs and colors to suit your mood (mine is red on the top with navy blue and white spots inside) It’s Perfect for both a summer road trip, a family road trip and for adding some colour to wintery shots!

Stay connected & Entertained on your Road Trip

• Phone charger with USB cord A portable charger / car charger is essential. Even when you are not going on a road trip!
• Bluetooth/Wireless hands free kit for your mobile phone It is illegal to operate a mobile whilst driving in some parts of the world. Play it safe and use a hands-free kit to keep you focused on the road.
• Phone Mount / Car Mount Use a phone mount to secure your phone to the window or the dash to use Google Maps hands-free. (It also satisfies many international laws and so is one of the truly essential road trip travel accessories!)
• An epic road trip playlist or road trip podcasts Think rock and roll classics and sing-a-longs and belt out your favorites at the top of your voice! A playlist full of epic road trip songs is one of my top musthave essentials for a long car ride and you can even throw in some audio books or road trip related podcasts for a bit of variety!
• Your favorite camera + USB chargers My go-to travel camera is the   Panasonic Lumix Fz70 . It should be yours too – click the link to find out why! (and if you want to know which are the best cameras for travel + the best drones for travel )
• Instant Camera Instant Cameras are so much fun and can capture some unusual and quirky shots along the road
• Portable Wifi For those that don’t have great roaming plans/options in the destination you are in, a portable wifi device is a great travel gadget and one that is a necessity if you need to stay connected to the outside world.
• A good book or two Depending on how long your journey is. But not good for those who are susceptible to car sickness.
• Road Trip Games and/or Road Trip Activities Travel games are perfect for family road trips to keep the kids entertained when there is a lot of time in the car!
• Portable Power bank with USB ports To keep multiple devices charged on the go where the in-car USB ports are in use.

Road Trip Packing List – The Comfort Kit

• Sunglasses Driver or Passenger, nobody likes to squint when they’re in the car.
• Blanket For cosying up during a daytime nap, using as a picnic blanket or for extra warmth should you get stranded somewhere after the sun goes down. Warm people = Happy people . And if you’re planning on sleeping in the car, sleeping bags wouldn’t go amiss!
• Travel Pillow On the basis of the above. Comfortable people = Happy people
• Travel Mug Great for hot and cold drinks, and with a seal-able lid, with a travel mug there is less chance of an unnecessary spillage.
• Reusable Water Bottle Sealable vessels stop spillages! And re-using your water bottle is better fro the environment.
• UV Window Shade Driving down the highway with the sun on one side
• Extra Jumper/Wrap Back on the warm and comfortable thing again, but I do hate being cold. And an extra layer doesn’t take up that much room.
• Hand sanitizer Because not everything you touch will be all that hygienic. Keep those germs outta the car.
• Painkiller/Anti-Inflammatory Medication Being in the car with a headache and/or muscle strain/injury is neither fun nor comfortable.
• Reusable Shopping Bag For popping to the shop whilst on the road – avoid using unnecessary plastic bags and pack a reusable one. They fold up small and can be thrown in your handbag after your road trip for everyday use.
• Mints There’s nothing like fresh minty breath for a quick pick me up.
• Travel Towels In case your motel doesn’t provide them, to dry you from the unexpected downpour that you got caught in. The possibilities are endless.
• Flip Flops The perfect slip on shoe.
• Day pack For the times you want to go on a spontaneous walk/hike and need day bags to store your water bottle/sunscreen/extra jumper etc.
• Rain Jacket In case it is throwing it down at gas stations or rest-stops when you need to get out of the car.

Road Trip Packing List – Your Personal Care Kit

• Toiletry Bag A wash bag is essential to put all the below items in and keep everything close to hand in the same place.
• Sun Screen The sun beating through the glass all day can make for some interesting tan lines if you’re not careful.. helllooo truckers arm!
• Body Wipes Wet wipes or Baby wipes are essentially a shower in a pack. For emergencies, or a quick re-fresh.
• Lip balm Cracked lips are never fun. Pop one in the glove box and one in your bag so you don’t get caught out.
• Mini hairbrush The wind in your hair may feel incredible – but the bird nest it creates is not fun to deal with! The Tangle Teezer is great because it comes with it’s own case so you’re not going to end up with stands of hair running loose in your bag after use.
• Hair ties/Grips For the day you don’t want to deal with the windswept look.
• The Three Ts: Toiletries, Toothbrush & ToothPaste

Helpful/Miscellaneous Road Trip Items

These will entirely depend on where you’re headed and for how long: you may need all, or none of them! Don’t forget your personal item and use the following packing checklist for your cross country road trip packing list to help you save money and plan the perfect road trip!

• Plastic/Garbage Bags Because you don’t want you car to resemble a trash can. Plastic bags (or garbage bags) are also good to keep wet clothes away from dry ones if you get caught in the rain.
• Road Trip Snacks Snacks are always good. If you’re prone to being hangry (that’s angry when you’re hungry) it may be best for all parties to keep a stock of energy bars or granola bars in the car for emergencies. Snacks are true car essentials and the perfect road trip food!
• Car Cooler This would be a must for me, as I have a little Coca-Cola addiction and I like my cans cold. But a cooler could also be used store other drinks, juice boxes, sandwiches and food stuffs that don’t do so well in hot weather.
• Tweezers / Swiss Army Knife A multi-tool can be helpful in any number of situations.
• Car Organizer To keep the car – and everything in this list – organized. Car trunk organizers, storage containers or even a large tote bag can also help you save space by having everything neat and tidy when you hit the road.

So there you have it! The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: Packed full of road trip essentials to pack to keep the car (and you!) safe, comfortable & entertained on your next road trip. And if you liked this post, please tweet, pin and share – I’d really appreciate it!

And if you liked this packing guide, take a look at the other packing lists, travel resources and travel guides in this series:

• The Ultimate Travel Gear Packing List – everything you need for a long-term adventure trip.
• The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List – packed full of ski essentials to help you have the best time on the piste
• How to Pack your Carry On Like A Pro – full of travel tips to make the most of those pesky weight and space restrictions!
• The Best Travel Backpacks for Women – because us ladies need a bag that’s built for us and is going to stand up with us for every adventure.
• Best Places to Visit in the USA & Canada featuring Orlando , Miami & Banff
• Best Places to Travel Alone (in USA, Europe, Asia & more!)

Hi There! Thanks for reading my Ultimate Road Trip Packing List Essentials – Packed to the brim with Road Trip Musthaves Essentials, traveltested road trip items (and includes a free printable checklist and road trip checklist). I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full Disclosure here . And Thanks for reading the MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld travel blog which is packed full of useful travel blog posts.

Monday 1st of August 2022

The title says "Free pdf checklist" but you don't have a link for that. Great list, but would be helpful to have the actual printable list. Thanks!

Vicki Garside

The free PDF is sent automatically when you sign up for the mailing list.

Thursday 14th of July 2022

Great list.

I suggest adding to and/or editing the list as follows.

-A rain poncho would be very handy if one didn't have the benefit of a second pair of hands to hold an umbrella (like while changing a tire in the rain, solo). -Regardless of one's position on need or effectiveness, a prepared traveler should consider having a stash of face masks available in the event it is required by someone or someplace along the way. -Again, regardless of one's stance on the issue, circumstances dictate that carrying carry a copy (physical or photo) of one's vaccine records might help eliminate or minimize a hassle on a trip.

Lastly, I know your list is designed to apply to most travelers, but would be nice/fun to add a section of items needed for those travelling with pets (a first for us this summer).

Israel Bender

Tuesday 28th of June 2022

I just like the helpful road trip information you provide in your articles. Thanks!

Barbara L Perkins

Sunday 31st of October 2021

Me and my sister and our cousins in are going on a road trip from Baytown Texas to Midwest Indiana for 1 to 2 weeks. I read your list on what to bring. It Was very useful and helpful. Thank you.

Tuesday 12th of October 2021

This is a great list. I add a 12 cup thermal coffee maker with a reusable brew basket on all road trips. Thermal is the best as I've broken several glass carafes. Add creamer to the small cooler with pastries saves time and money each morning. Can brew water for soup or hot chocolate at night.

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Home » Gear » road trip packing list

Your ESSENTIAL Road Trip Packing List for 2024!

Do you feel that? That energy gathering inside of you? That sensation where you can’t stand still? Sounds like you’re getting excited…

Because it’s road trip season, baby! The open country is calling our names, and we must go because it’s been a rough week at work and things are always better out there in the world.

But knowing what to include in your road trip packing list can be a little daunting. You may have a hard time deciding how many clothes you really need to bring. You might not know what it takes to pack an effective kitchen with you.

Enter our road trip packing list for 2024. We’ve condensed all our experience into this one mega-post to make sure you know what to bring on your next adventure.

If you’ve ever asked yourself “what do I need for a cross country road trip?”, well, we’ve got all the answers below, so let’s crack on!

Form first -aid kits to card games, we’ve listed all of the absolute must-haves that will make your trip a full success.

Let’s get to it!

Why you should prepare for a Road Trip

Best 10 road trip essentials, roadtrip checklist for car care, car camping essentials, essentials for specific road trips, road trip packing list – tips and tricks, road trip faq, faq about the best road trip packing list, final road trip thoughts.

By now you should kind of know what you’ll see in this guide. These are the most important things to bring on a long journey – the absolute road trip necessities that you shouldn’t ever leave the house without. What you pack into your bag is just as important as planning your trip ahead and we’ve got you covered with this list of essentials for a cross-country road trip.

These tools will bail you out of a sticky situation and are practically mandatory to start ANY epic road trip. Whether you want to do a road trip through the USA or check out the amazing roads on the coast of Australia , you need to be prepared. Whatever you do, don’t leave without these top 10 road trip essentials on your packing list!

Right then, let’s get things going on our cross-country road trip checklist.

1. First Aid Kit

Even if you don’t plan on doing any extreme wilderness adventures on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations. If you’re wondering what item you should never forget when you’re considering what to bring on a cross-country road trip, well, the first aid kit might just be the most important.

Our team absolutely swears by packing a good quality first aid kit not just for road trips but for any trip. This pack is rugged enough for multiple trips and frequent use, the gear is excellent quality and comes with a kit list that can be checked off when restocking it.

Unless you know the region you’re driving in very well or intend on just asking for directions, a map is an absolutely necessary thing to bring on a road trip. You may settle for just using digital apps, like Google Maps or Maps.me , but having a physical map will always be best even just as a backup in case you lose GPS. When you’re compiling your packing list for a cross-country road trip, a map is pretty essential!

It might seem old school but our team always carries paper maps on them and they’ve been a lifesaver when mobile phone batteries have died or GPS signals have dropped off. We’ve got first-hand experience of how much of a lifesaver they can be. Our main advice here for both digital and paper maps would be to give them a test run beforehand so you know how they work!

3. Aux Cord

One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxiliary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker.

This humble aux cord might seem like a pretty simple bit of kit, but our team wouldn’t leave for a road trip without one. Not only do they keep the vibes rocking whilst on the road, but on a more serious note they can be a lifesaver when it comes to avoiding falling asleep whilst driving.

4. Phone mount

It’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and whatnot, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view. It might seem like something pretty small, but we think it’s one of the most important cross-country road trip essentials.

Like much of this list, these items so far might seem small and insignificant but trust us when we say, as a team we love the functionality and safety that this phone mount adds to our trips. This particular mount is ideal because it fits all different sizes of phone and easily clips and unclips to the vents in your car.

5. Roadside Emergency Kit

Just like you never know what could happen to yourself , one never knows what can happen to their car . A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch; all that and even more. Make sure you bring an emergency kit for your car on your road trip – most include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties. It would also be smart to inform yourself about how to use each vehicle tool so you don’t depend on other people’s help as much.

Our team swears by this roadside emergency kit and it’s saved their arses a good few times on the road! You just never know when you’re dream roadie is going to go from awesome to being stuck in the middle of nowhere! This thing has everything you need in it and it’s all good quality without being too bulky or heavy too.

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6. Driver’s License

Obviously, you shouldn’t even be driving without one. If you happen to be pulled over without a license, you could face a heavy fine. If you’re on an epic road trip abroad, be sure to check and see which countries require an International Driver’s Permit.

7. Roadside Assistance

Unless you plan on including an auto shop’s worth of tools in your road trip packing list, you can’t be prepared for every disaster. If your car suffers catastrophic damage, you’re going to need roadside assistance for towing and repair. A lot of travel insurances offer roadside assistance .

8. Spare Keys

Take it from someone who’s been in this situation – if you lose your keys in the middle of nowhere, you could be screwed royally. You’ll have to get a special locksmith to come out there or even have your car towed.

If it’s a rental, the fees for either of these could be enormous. Consider a spare set a road trip necessity: just in case. And this one might seem obvious, but keep it separate from your main key! If you’re headed to the beach consider getting a lockbox that uses a code to keep your keys safe.

9. Registration or Rental Agreement:

These documents should be in your car at all times, regardless if you’re packing for a last-minute road trip or just going to the grocery store. Make sure they’re there before you leave. It’s also good to have a digital copy with you too.

10. Water bottle

You’re going to be drinking a lot of water on your journey – therefore you’ll need a water bottle. If you’re just buying plastic bottles, not only will you be wasting money, but you will also be creating clutter in your car (plus the environment and shit, man). Invest in a good quality water bottle and fill it periodically. Now go and get your own water bottle – save the environment, save your wallet and stay hydrated.

Our team are massive fans of this Grayl bottle and take it everywhere with them, and we mean that! This bottle will not only see you right on your roadie but it will keep you hydrated on your other travels, at the gym or even sat next to your laptop whilst working!

It’s easy to forget that your actual means of transport needs its own kit when you’re compiling your cross-country road trip packing list. But, it’s just as important!

Your car itself needs to be given just as much attention as yourself or your road trip packing list. To help maintain your vehicle and to fix minor problems, like a flat tire, consider packing these items.

• Spare Tire: One of the most common issues on the road is a flat tire. Most cars, especially rentals, have a spare hidden in the floor of the trunk, just in case such a situation arises. Check to see if you have one and buy one if you don’t.
• Car Jack and Lug Wrench : To change that flat tire, you’re going to need the proper tools. A car jack and lug wrench are all that is required to do this. Be sure to brush up on how to change a tire, yourself.
• Tire Repair Kit : If you’re up to it, you can not only change that flat but fix it as well. It’ll take a couple of extra tools and some resins, but it can be done. When you’re finished, you can rejoice at your own handiness.
• Extra fluids : Running out of fluids like coolant and oil could lead to disaster – trust me, you don’t want your car running with a lack of either. Keep a bottle or two of these tucked away in the trunk. Maybe have some extra windshield wiper fluid as well.
• Gas Can : If for some reason you run out of gas, you’ll need a spare gas can to run and grab more. This is one of the most important things to bring on long rides into the middle of nowhere because you never know where the next gas station may be.
• Sunshade : Nothing sucks more than getting into a car after it’s been baking in the sun. If you sit on a leather seat after it’s been cooking, it can feel like 2nd-degree burns. Keep your car cool with one of these.
• Cable ties : A useful road trip item to have around in case something needs arresting, like a loose bumper (or a rowdy hitchhiker) . Also handy when tying down stuff on the roof or in the bed of a truck.

Things to Bring on a Road Trip in Winter for Car Care

• Chains: Regular tires cannot handle snowy conditions – they do not have enough tread and often spin out on ice or snow. Chains provide traction and can handle snowy conditions. Always have a pair if snow is a possibility. Note that there are different sized chains for different sized wheels.
• Ice Scraper : Speaking of swerving, you need to be able to see to drive. Before starting up your car, use a scraper to clear the ice from the windshield and make sure the defroster is on. If you don’t have a scraper, a credit card can work to (but you may destroy it).
• Shovel : If it dumped snow and your car is buried, you’re going to have to dig it out. A lightweight, portable snow shovel is obviously the best way to go about this. If you’re in a really hairy situation, you can use this winter road trip essential for digging a snow cave as well.

Hygienic Things to Pack on a Road Trip

Unless you want to return home looking like you just came from a weeklong music festival (then again maybe you are actually doing this…) you have to take care of your hygiene while on a road trip. Forget one of these on your road trip packing list and you’ll never miss it so much.

• Toiletries : Gotta keep those teeth and hair healthy, people! Admittedly, I almost always forget to pack these things on a long trip and immediately regret not having them (toothbrush: number one most forgotten travel item). Nothing feels better than having a fresh mouth after a night of camping.
• Deodorant: No one likes your brand of BO, especially when they’re stuck in a car with you. Wear some deodorant for the sake of everyone else.
• Comb/Brush : Hair gets nappy, especially when you’re on a wild road trip and doing all kinds of cool things. Don’t forget to take care of your luscious locks. Otherwise, your hairdresser is going to throw a shit fit when they try to unravel all of those dreadlocks.
• Tote Bag : Unless you wanna deal with a dozen objects haphazardly rolling around in the car, you need to have a bag for them. A tote bag is one of those items that will help you stay organized and improve your life 100% while on a road trip.
• Hand sanitizer : You may have just used a disgusting rest stop bathroom or you may have gotten your hands dirty while camping; either way a bottle of hand sanitizer is extremely convenient road trip item and cheap to buy as well.
• Tissues: Good for blowing your nose, drying your hands, killing bugs in the car, and a whole lot more. These are a family road trip essential to help clean up the kids.

Skin Care on a Road Trip

• Lotion: Car heaters can raise the aridity of the cab over time, which, in turn, causes dry and cracked skin. Have some lotion with you in case your skin begins to dry out and become uncomfortable. You can also use lotion as your lip balm.
• Sunscreen : If you’re planning on being outdoors a lot while on this road trip, you definitely need sunscreen in your road trip packing. On another note, if you’re the type who likes to drive long hours with the window open, you can even get burned and have an increased risk of skin cancer.
• Wet wipes : Ever heard of the wet wipe shower? It’s possible and it’s actually pretty effective. If you’ve been driving non-stop and haven’t had the chance to stay in a proper hotel with a shower, a quick wet-wipe-rinse-off is great for freshening up.

Which Clothing to Bring on a Road Trip

Don’t overlook what you kind of clothing you’re putting in your road trip checklist – you’re about to be limited to whatever you pack. On the other hand, don’t bring your entire closet with you because you need space for the other road trip essentials.

Choose your clothing wisely and make sure to bring these key pieces:

• Sunglasses: Driving into the sun and being blinded by it is never fun or particularly safe. Keep a pair of good glasses in your car at all times and have a second pair for walking around.
• Sandals : Wearing sandals feels SO good after you’ve been driving or hiking all day. Taking my shoes off and letting my toes breathe as I slip them into my sandals is one of the greatest highlights of my day. They’re small and flexible too, which means they aren’t hard to pack.
• Shoes: Obviously, you’re going to have to wear shoes at some point. Since you may be stuck in them for hours at a time, you need to make sure they’re extra comfy . Bring the right pair and don’t just settle for some old pair of Converses.
• Hat : I prefer a good bucket hat because they keep my ears protected and can take quite a beating. Any kind of hat will be fine though – just so long it gets the job done and looks good.
• Kaffiyeh : A kaffiyeh is one of the most useful things to bring on a road trip. They’re warm, easy, tough, and, most importantly, can serve multiple purposes. When I’m not using mine as a scarf, I’m using it as a blanket, a pack, a headscarf, and a whole lot more.

Winter Road Trip Essential Clothing

• Beanie : They’re cheap, effective, small, and sometimes stylish. I’d take one even if I was packing for a summer road trip because they’re just so damn easy and convenient to have.
• Rain jackets : Rain can quickly ruin your day if you aren’t ready for it. While most First Aid or Emergency Kits have an emergency poncho included, you should still pack your rain jacket .
• Warm Coat : Down jackets are very lightweight and can sometimes take up next to no room. They can be a bit expensive though. Fleece jackets are quite good at keeping out the cold but you’ll have to layer up if you intend on road-tripping in the winter or in the mountains. A down poncho is also great for cold nights in the tent or around the campfire.

Maybe you intend on sleeping in only hotels and Airbnb apartments on your cross country road trip. Regardless, I highly recommend packing some camping gear . You’ll get to enjoy the outdoors and save a lot of money in the process.

• Air mattress : I personally can’t sleep without having something padded underneath me. Luckily there are some very comfortable and compact sleeping pads out there that are great for camping. If you have a truck, you can also invest in a BIG inflatable mattress and then stick it in the bed of the truck for ultimate comfort.
• Tent : It always pays to have a tent wherever you go . With a tent, you can sleep just about anywhere and cheaply too! If you have a rugged 4×4 vehicle, you can also pimp it out and put a tent on top of it, much like these rooftop tents.
• Sleeping bag : They’re warm, light, come in all shapes and sizes, and are relatively durable. I take a sleeping bag with me whenever I travel and have even gotten to the point where I use it even when there’s a blanket on hand. Check out our favorite sleeping bags .
• Blanket : A blanket is not only useful for staying warm at night, but for keeping an area relatively clean. If I want to avoid getting dirty, I lay one of these on the ground and then use it as a rug. I also use blankets to conceal valuables from curious, would-be car thieves.
• Pillows : One of the things I miss the most when I’m backpacking in the wilderness is a good travel pillow . So when I’m car camping and have the means to pack such luxuries, I always take advantage of it. Nothing is better than a fluffy bag full of goose-down feathers – the ultimate in road trip gear!
• Headlamp : You can invest in a good flashlight if you like, but headlamps are much more useful. They’re hands-free, which then allows you to cook, set up camp, or whatever in the dark. You can opt for a good flashlight if you want, but, honestly, I could never go back to one.

Road Trip Packing List – Kitchen Edition

Unless you plan on eating out every night with greasy spoons or snacking the entire way, you’re going to have to cook eventually. Why not invest in a proper kitchen for yourself so you can cook your own food? You can get creative with your cooking and even involve (here’s a road trip idea) the kids.

• Camping stove : You can invest in a monster stove if you feel so inclined. Or you could get by just fine with a portable backpacking stove.
• Pots and pans : We’re not saying you have to bring the latest and greatest Teflon with you, but you gotta have something. Packing one of each for your road trip should accommodate most of your cooking needs. If you can manage it, cast iron works really well outdoors and adds a lot of flavors.
• Cutlery : I eat with my hands all of the time but my guests may not be so keen on this method.
• Plates : They don’t have to be anything special – just a couple plates and/or bowls. You can buy some collapsible ones, which are very useful when you’re backpacking too.  
• A good knife : Not only is one of these essential for preparing food but it’s also quite handy for small tasks, like cutting rope, twigs, tape, etc. It’s one of the most useful tools in human history and an equally useful thing to bring with you on a road trip.
• Cooking utensils : You’re going to need a spatula, a set of tongs, and a large spoon. I generally stick to plastic or silicone when cooking – wood tends to get grimy after a while and metal can ruin Teflon.
• Coffee press : One thing that adults tend to do on road trips is wake up early – either because they need to get the car ready or to rouse their kids awake. It’s moments like this, when perhaps you had a bit too much to drink around the fire, that having some fresh coffee really pays.
• Camping mugs : These are good for holding everything from coffee to water to wine to whiskey. Invest in a good titanium one and it will last a while for you.

Keeping Your Car Clean and Tidy

• Collapsible bins : By now, we’ve featured a lot if things to bring on a road trip (there’s more to come). Collapsible bins are one of the best road trip items for keeping all that stuff orderly in your trunk. They’re light, flexible, and an essential piece of road trip gear once you’ve used them.
• Compression sacks : These are great for dirty clothes and for packing objects tightly. If you plan on going wilderness backpacking, these are also useful for keeping stuff neat in your backpack.
• Campsuds : This is easily one of my favorite things to pack on a road trip. Campsuds can be used for everything: dishes, upholstery, your body, hair, whatever. It’s also biodegradable and smells pretty damn good.
• Towel: We don’t just mean any kind of towel – we mean you need to get a microfiber one. They absorb more liquid, dry quicker, and are way more portable than cotton ones. All important features when considering what to bring on a road trip.
• Garbage bin: Whether you actually have a dedicated bin or just use a regular old garbage bag, you gotta have something for the litter. While on a road trip, you’ll have to be much better about cleaning up, unless you want to be swimming in trash.
• Air freshener: Being cooped up with the same dirty equipment and same smelly friend is going to make the air a bit stagnant at times. Do yourselves a favor and spray some Febreeze every once in a while.

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What Food to Bring on a Road Trip

When you’re considering what to pack for a cross-country road trip, you don’t want to overlook fuel, and by that, we mean for yourself, not just for your car!

• Nuts: These are a good source of protein and fat. Peanuts are the classic road trip snack but I’ll splurge and get some cashews every once in a while. Avoid sunflower seeds and other nuts with pods as they just make a mess.
• Dried fruit: Raisins are obviously the most popular dry fruit and are practically married to peanuts. You can get just about any fruit dehydrated these days though, including kiwis, mangos, and strawberries. Avoid fruits with too much sugar and banana chips fried in palm oil.
• Jerky: Jerky is pretty expensive and sometimes coated in salt, but it’s a great source of protein. Avoid “fake” jerky, like Slim Jims, and get the natural stuff. Jerky should only have spices, water, salt, and one or two preservatives – stay away from anything with more.
• Canned goods: These can actually be really healthy and delicious if you buy the right ones. Canned tomatoes, vegetables, fruits, and beans are great examples. Preserved meats work in a pinch (love SPAM) but often contain an unhealthy amount of salt.
• Grains: Rice, flour, wheat, cereals, and muesli all have a long shelf life and are great foods to bring on a road trip. Just be sure you keep them in well-sealed bags because they can be a real mess.
• Candied-coated sweets: No road trip packing list is really complete without some sort of candy. Try to avoid raw chocolates, like bars or truffles, as they’ll melt easily. Stick to candy-coated items like M&Ms or fruit snacks.

Food Storage for a Road Trip Packing List

• Cooler : You may end up buying some fresh meat, some dairy products, or you might just want to keep your beers cold. Either way you need to have a cooler in case of these situations. When it’s not occupied by perishables, you can also use the cooler as a storage unit.
• Tupperware : Use these for packing leftover food or random bits in pieces in your car. They’re better than plastic bags because… well… duh.
• Water Jug : This is actually one of the most important things to bring on your road trip because you should ALWAYS have water with you. Keep this in the back and fill it up regularly. Make sure it’s a big one too because you’ll end up going through more water than you expect.

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Camping Road Trip Packing List

One of the best things to do on a road trip cross country is to spend a few days in the wilderness . I always organize my road trip necessities around this activity and have my own ideas on what to bring.

• Wheel lock: Being away from your car for days at a time increases the chances of someone coming along and jacking the whole shebang. While it may seem like overkill to use these, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Backpack : If you are planning on going on a multi-day backpacking trip, you’re going to need a good hiking backpack. If you’re just making little day hikes, maybe consider a smaller day pack instead.
• Hiking boots : While you may enjoy wearing a pair of sandals in the car or some trainers in the cities, you need hiking boots for the adventurous stuff . Make sure they’re sturdy and broken in before using them.
• Trekking poles : If you have bad knees, trekking poles will make your life so much easier. They can also be used to prop up a tarp-style tent or to poke people in the back seat.
• Hiking Essentials : A lot of these essentials have already been spoken about in this road trip checklist, but make sure you have them for hiking as well.
• Dry bag : If you’re going to participating in some sort of water sport on your road trip, you should consider investing in a dry bag. These are designed to keep gear safe from water, but NOTE that they are not totally waterproof.
• Mosquito spray : Fuck mosquitoes.

Packing for a Digital Nomad Road Trip

Some people may actually live and work in their car as a way of life i.e. digital nomads . These people need to be both mobile and efficient, which demands a special road trip essential list. Make sure you have all of the following items so you can work and then play.

• Laptop : Just because you’re mobile, doesn’t mean you can’t get shit done. Today’s best laptops are extremely powerful and can do just about anything you could ask for. Bring yours with you to work remotely.
• Camera : You should never travel without a camera! It doesn’t matter if it’s a professional DSLR or disposable point-and-shoot – having one is always useful. Try out one of these fancy travel cameras or consider something more fun, like an Instax.
• Camera accessories : If you’re serious about photography, don’t forget the proper camera accessories either.
• Power inverter : Use one of these docks to charge different devices in your car. They plug into the cigarette lighter and behave just like a regular outlet. A great item to pack for a long drive or if your laptop is about to die on the road.
• Portable Battery : These work really well in a pinch or if your power inverter seems to be on the fritz. When you need to leave your car for an extended period of time – like hiking – these are often good for a couple of days.
• Hard drive : I put all of my essential digital files on a hard drive e.g. movies, photos, etc. Considering how small these are, they shouldn’t take up too much space and make for useful road trip accessories.
• Multi-cord : USB, USB 3.0, Thunderbolt; who can keep up with the different types of cords these days. Buy an all-in-one package and save yourself the clutter.  

Keep that precious laptop safe and all your accessories organized with our favorite laptop protector, the Nomatic Tech Case . Water-resistant and durable this case offers plenty of protection from daily travel life.

Packing for a Fun Road Trip

What’s a road trip packing list without some entertainment?! Pack these items for those long, quiet rides and for when you’re ready to have some fun.

• Notebook : Some people like to keep a journal, some like a day planner for itineraries, and others just like somewhere to take notes. The Nomatic Planner has been my favorite with its mix of calendars, organization and journalling pages. Check out our round up of the best travel journals out there for more options! 
• Deck of cards: No matter what I do, I ALWAYS bring a set of cards with me. Even if I’m packing for a last-minute road trip and have time to grab one thing, I’ll take these over spare underwear. With a deck, I can happily play of my favorite road trip games, like cribbage, rummy, and bullshit. Also, check out the best travel chess sets if that’s your bag.
• Kindle : While it’s hard to replace a physical book with actual pages, Kindles are just too convenient. These devices can literally store thousands of books and weigh no more 12 ounces. Because of their small size, these are one of my favorite road trip packing hacks.
• Road trip book : Boredom can be disastrous on a long ride and can really sour the mood. To avoid these situations, be sure to pack one some sort of special road trip game book. These provide lots of entertainment and are one of the best things for long road trips with kids.
• Portable speaker : I almost always grab one of these when packing for a weekend trip to the lake. Then, we’ll have good drinks, good company, and good tunes. If your car doesn’t support your MP3 player either, you can use this speaker instead.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Whatever you do, don’t hit the road without travel insurance. I’ve claimed my travel insurance three times. If I hadn’t had insurance, I would have been fucked.

Check out this post for plenty of intel on staying safe whilst traveling.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Check out these additional road trip packing hacks and take your game to the next level!

• Make sure you get a system in place FIRST. Trying to reorganize the car halfway through a trip is a nightmare and probably going to be a huge ordeal.
• Use every little piece of space that you can. If a cooler is empty, fill it with something. Use those coat hangers in your car (if they still exist). Check underneath the floorboards for additional space as well.
• Use a road trip planning app like ViaMichelin . Not only will it list all nearby gas stations and their current prices, but it will also alert you of upcoming tolls and bridges. The app even provides rough estimates for the cost of whole road trips.
• Check relocation services, like immova or Cruise America , to see if someone needs a car moved near you. If you’re lucky, you can actually get paid to take the car on a cross country road trip.
• If you have a truck, seriously consider turning the bed into your sleeping space. I know several friends who do this and swear it’s the most comfortable way of car camping. Just make sure you have a plan B for rain.
• If you’re car camping, master the wet wipe shower. Trust us, you’ll be devoid a real shower more often than nought.
• Take your car to the shop and have it checked before going anywhere. You don’t want to be halfway through your road trip and have your car break. That could potentially ruin your hard-earned vacation.
• Overnight oats are my favorite road trip breakfast because they’re super easy to make and delicious. If you don’t have milk, a dehydrated mix or some condensed milk will do just fine.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

What are some things to do on a long car ride by yourself?

That’s tough because you have to dedicate most of your attention to the road. Aside from contemplating your navel or singing along to music, try listening to an audiobook or a podcast.

What are some family road trip ideas when kids are involved?

Try and limit your time in the car as kids get antsy very quick. Have lots of activities planned and limit drive times. Distract them with mobile games (or even packable travel games ) or have everyone listen to that audiobook together.

How much will a road trip cost?

Road trip expenses add up very quickly, especially if you spend frivolously. It’s possible to spend less $100/day, but you need to have extremely strict habits. This means doing things like camping out as much as possible, being fuel-efficient, and cooking your own food. Having a smart road trip packing list goes a long way!

Is it legal to sleep in parking lots?

While it’s technically illegal in most states, camping in certain public areas – like parking lots – is not always enforced. Wal-Marts are a well-known secret among transients as overnight parking is usually allowed at these. Be sure to check the local laws when travelling internationally.

How often should I take a break?

Taking a breather is one thing you should always do on long drives. The official Highway Code recommends taking a 15-minute break every two hours and I completely agree. Step out of the car, do some stretching, whatever you like.

• Epic California Road Trip
• Epic New Zealand Road Trip
• Epic Alaska Road Trip
• Epic New England Road Trip

Still have some questions about the things you need for a cross-country road trip? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What are the three most important things you need on a road trip packing list?

While there are many things that should be on your packing list, these are the essentials: – First Aid Kit – Driver’s License – Spare Keys

What should I bring on a long road car trip?

A waterbottle is a no-brainer when going on a long road trip. That way, you won’t need to spend extra money on plastic bottles. And of course, the Aux Cord and a Phone mount can’t be missing either.

What do you need to pack on a roadtrip with kids?

Snacks and entertainment . Make sure to bring your kids favorite toys, books or maybe even an iPad.

Should you get an extra car insurance for a roadtrip?

Most definitely, especially if it’s a longer one. Having an extra travel insurance during your trip can be a real life-safer.

There it is, folks: our comprehensive road trip packing list. We hope it works well for y’all!

Get packing for a road trip and get out there! There are a lot of good roads to drive with a lot of good views. There’s nothing quite like a good road trip!

With this road trip packing list in hand (printable for your viewing pleasure) you’ll be sailing – uhh, driving – smoothly. Nothing to fear! Except for maybe a warped head gasket. That will fuck everything up; they’re as bad as mosquitoes.

Did we miss anything, like any family road trip essentials, in this list? Tending to the rugrats is not my speciality.

Please leave a comment if you feel like we missed anything or want to add to this guide! What are your must-haves for a cross-country road trip? We love to listen.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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That’s a good idea to make sure to bring some roadside assistance contact info. I wouldn’t want to have a crash or a breakdown or something and be stuck in the middle of nowhere. That would be bad if we got stuck with no civilization in a hundred miles. That way you could have a way to get some help to tow your car.

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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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The Ultimate Packing List for Road Trips (plus Road Trip Checklist)

Published by sarah vaughan on march 6, 2022 march 6, 2022.

As full-time road trippers, we’ve racked up thousands of miles and too many hours to count driving across the country. Each month, we play a game of Tetris to pack all of our belongings into our car and make the trek to our next destination. We don’t have a van, RV, or trailer – just 4 wheels on our Subaru and a trusty car top carrier. We both work full time and our cat, Fitzgerald, travels with us, which means that we’ve become experts in how to pack strategically for a road trip – everything that we need, but nothing that we don’t! In this article, we’ll give you our complete packing list for road trips, including a downloadable road trip checklist to help you prepare for your journey. This carefully curated packing list includes everything that we pack into our car every time we hit the road.

Two Outliers may contain affiliate links – we only recommend products we personally use and love. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Our life on the road

In March of 2021, we got rid of most of our belongings, packed up what was left, subleased our apartment in Virginia and hit the road: California bound! We drove from Virginia to St. Louis in one day, then to Denver the next.

After spending one week in Denver to break up the road trip, we continued to southern California, then to southern Utah, Arizona, northern California, Idaho, South Dakota, Minnesota… eventually we decided we loved life on the road too much to ever give it up and we made this nomadic lifestyle permanent.

We both secured jobs that would allow us to work remotely full-time during the week. We settle into a new “home base” each month with space for us both to work, typically in small towns strategically located near beautiful places with abundant opportunities for outdoor adventuring on the weekends.

P.S: You can read more about us here and check out the top highlights of our Western USA road trip adventures .

Overview | Packing List for Road Trips

Our lifestyle demands lots of road tripping, and over the many miles and hours in the car, packing and unpacking, we’ve crafted the perfect packing list for road trips that we’re excited to share with you!

We’ve learned a ton about what you really need (and don’t need!) on a road trip, and we hope our experiences will save you a little time and frustration.

Every single item that we pack into our mid-sized Subaru Forester for our life on the road is included in this list. As I was writing the list, it was hard to believe all this fits in one car, but believe us, with some strategic packing (plus a car top carrier), it really does!

We want to point out that we do not have children, so our road trip packing list is best for couples, solo travelers, or group road trips.

Be confident you have everything you need with our free road trip checklist!

Our interactive excel road trip checklist is complete with all the essentials you need to pack for your next road trip adventure!

Download our free Road Trip Essentials Checklist

You may also like.

Our Road Trip Camping Essentials (plus Downloadable Checklist)

How to Plan an Epic Alabama Hills Camping Trip

How to Plan an Epic Utah National Parks Road Trip

Texas to California Road Trip: 14 Day Itinerary

Adventurous One Week Arizona to Utah Road Trip

Packing list for road trip essentials.

First on our packing list are key road trip essentials, including tips on keeping your vehicle organized during a road trip, vehicle safety gear, important personal items, and miscellaneous items to keep in the car.

Organization

If you’re going to be spending a significant amount of time on the road, organization is essential. Here are few items we use to keep ourselves organized on the road:

• Plastic drawers | We leave these in our car to hold cooking supplies, camping essentials and hiking gear for easy access on adventures.
• Document organizer |This may seem silly, but when you’re on the road it can be really hard to keep track of important documents (think passports, insurance cards, travel tickets, etc). This organizer is perfect for keeping all our most important documents in one place.

Car top Carrier

Picture this: you’re about to set off on a 12 hour road trip. The car is packed full, car top carrier included. It starts torrentially down-pouring. Everything on top of the car is soaked. Sound like a nightmare? We’ve been there, and trust us, it is.

All that to say, a good quality hardshell rooftop carrier is 100% worth the investment.

Hard shell | Thule Pulse Hardshell, Medium Before switching to our Thule Pulse , we had a cheap softshell carrier and had all sorts of problems with it, from fighting to install it to wind torn straps to wet stuff. Our Thule has been a game changer – lightweight and aerodynamic (better for gas mileage), easy to install, pack and use, built in lock and key, and reliably waterproof.

Roof rack assembly gear | Thule Squarebar Raised Bars & Thule Evo Raised Rail Foot Pack Unfortunately installing a car top carrier isn’t as simple as purchasing the hardshell. Assuming your car already has a basic roof rack (bars that run parallel to the car), you will also need to purchase a set of crossbars (these go perpendicular to the roof rack) and rail feet , to which the carrier will be attached.

Vehicle safety supplies

Perhaps the most important set of items to pack before setting off on a road trip is vehicle safety supplies. You can hope you’ll never need these, but odds are if you are putting a lot of miles under your wheels, at some point they will come in handy:

• Jumper cables | It’s all too easy to accidentally leave a light on in the car overnight, and suddenly the battery is dead. These are always good to have just in case.
• Fix-a-flat | Although just a temporary solution, fix a flat is great to have to avoid having to change a spare tire. However, beware that you can only drive up to 100 miles on it.
• Spare tire | And its always a good idea to brush up on how to change one.
• Tire inflator | A great tool if you are car camping, driving on sandy or dirt roads, or just to avoid scrounging for quarters and waiting in line at a gas station to inflate your tires.
• First-aid-kit | It’s always good to have basic first aid gear in case of an emergency, especially if you are traveling in remote areas.
• Flashlight or headlamps | Again, good to have in case of emergency (also essential for camping while on the road! )
• AAA or roadside assistance card | I’ve had a AAA membership for years and it always pays for itself, especially if you spend a lot of time on the road.

Electronics and navigation

• Cell phone and chargers
• Cell phone car charger | Most of us rely on our phones for navigation these days so it’s important to have a car charger. If you are driving somewhere that you could lose service, it’s also a good idea to start the navigation (GoogleMaps or AppleMaps) before you go.
• Aux cords | To keep yourself entertained with music or podcasts if your vehicle doesn’t have Bluetooth.
• Map | Let’s be real, if you are sticking to major roads and highways in the United States, you probably won’t need to a hardcopy map. But if you are venturing off the grid, driving through national parks, etc you may want a real map for when you inevitably lose service.
• Phone holder | This makes navigating with your phone’s GPS a million times easier. This one is expandable to fit any phone and can be attached to the window, dashboard or vent.
• GPS Device | We primarily use our Garmin InReach Mini for hiking and backpacking, but it’s also great to have in the car on road trips, particularly when traveling in remote areas. It allows you to send texts or an emergency message in areas without cell service.
• Portable chargers | For hikes or excursions along the road, or in case of emergency in the car, we always bring several portable phone chargers – just make sure to charge them before you hit the road!

Personal items/documents

Below are the most important personal items/documents you don’t want to hit the road without !

• Purse/wallet
• Insurance cards
• COVID vaccination records
• Driver’s License

Misc items to bring/keep in the car

The following set of items on our packing list for road trips includes things that we keep in the car at all times to make our lives easier and keep the car tidy (or rather, keep the car from becoming absolutely filthy):

• Vehicle registration | In case you happen to get pulled over. (Tip: pay attention when you cross over state lines – speed limits often change here. Yes, we’ve been burned by an 80mph highway that suddenly drops down to 70mph…)
• Easy pass (or quarters for tolls) | There’s nothing worse than scrambling for cash when you come upon a toll.
• Napkins / Paper towels | Always good to have for the unexpected spill.
• Hand sanitizer | Looking at you, Covid.
• Grocery bags | To reuse for storing trash in the car.
• Pillow and blanket | To keep you comfortable on a long car ride.
• Sunshade | Great for keeping your car cool on a hot day sitting in the sun.

Entertainment

I (Sarah) hate to sit still and long road trips make me very antsy. Packing a variety of ways to keep myself entertained is very important, for the sake of my sanity, as well as Matt’s! Here are our favorite ways to stay busy in the car:

Number one source of road trip entertainment: podcasts! Listening to hours upon hours of music can get boring, and as soon as that happens we switch on a podcast to give us something else to think about. Here are a few our personal favorites – let us know if you have others that you love, we are always looking for new podcasts!

• National Park After Dark | If you love true crime and the outdoors, you will enjoy this podcast. It covers missing person cases, murders, tragic accidents and mysteries that take place in national parks across the country.
• My Favorite Murder | I’m a true crime junkie and this podcast is the perfect mixture of humor and great storytelling.
• Freakonomics | Alright, I may be a bit of a nerd, but Freakonomics puts a relatable twist on economics. It’s a great podcast to get your brain engaged in the car.
• This is Actually Happening | Fair warning, this one can get dark. Personal stories told from the point of view of survivors of tragic experiences of life circumstances, this podcast is intense and totally captivating.

E-books | Kindle

Books are too heavy and bulky to pack in the car, so a Kindle makes the perfect replacement. I always thought I would hate reading on an e-book, but my kindle is lightweight and has a soft light that is easy on the eyes.

Books on tape (eh.. phone) | Amazon Audible

“Books on tape” may be a thing of the past, but Audiobooks (like Audible), are perfect for road trips, especially if you are the one driving.

We use Spotify to listen to music and create our own road trip playlists, and make sure to download them in advance for driving through areas without service. Here are a few of our favorite artists for road tripping:

• Turnpike Troubadours
• Trampled by Turtles
• The National Parks

P.S. If you’re looking for more music inspiration, be sure to check out this list of our favorite songs about adventure and travel and download the Spotify playlist before setting off on your road trip!

Other sources of entertainment

• Computer | If you have an unlimited data phone plan, you can use your phone as a personal hotspot in the car, as long as you have service. We do this a lot to work on planning trips or writing while we travel. We both have 13 inch Macbook Airs and love that they are compact, portable, and have long-lasting battery life.
• Camera /photography gear | One of my favorite things to do in the car is look at photos from the trip and work on editing them in Lightroom .
• Questions card game | If you are road tripping with someone you spend a ton of time with already, you may be looking for some new things to talk about. We love card games, like Thinking and Drinking (without the drinking in this case…) that give you a random topic to prompt new and fun conversations.
• Journaling | When we’re traveling, we love to write about our experiences while they are fresh in our minds and keeping a journal is the perfect way to do so while passing time in the car.
• Portable speakers | Obviously not necessary in the car, but portable speakers are great to have for your final destination or stops along the way. (P.S. we lost our Oontz speakers for over a month and found them outside drenched from many rainstorms – they still work to this day… I’d call that durable!)

Car Camping

Camping while on the road helps save money on accommodations and allows you to stay as close as possible to the places you want to explore.

If you plan to camp along your road trip, you’ll need a whole other set of gear. We’ve compiled a complete list of all our road trip camping essentials to help you pack your car for camping:

In this article, we’ll tell you all our road trip camping essentials, including an excel checklist to help you prepare for your camping trip on the road.

Here’s where the packing list for road trips starts to get tricky. Packing enough clothes that you aren’t doing laundry all the time, but light enough that it fits in the car! Here’s what we pack:

Everyday basics

• Socks | Balega for running and Darn Tough for hiking.
• Underwear | My go-to comfy underwear for exercise and hiking are Sweaty Betty’s .
• T-shirts | Something comfy and versatile (also for running).
• Pants/leggings | Mountain Hardwear leggings are great because they are comfortable for lounging around but also great for hiking!
• Sweatpants | We haven’t found a pair more comfortable than Vuori joggers .
• Pajamas | I live in my Lake Pajamas .

Athletic/hiking gear

The bulk of the clothes on our packing list falls into this category, as most of our road trips are heavily focused on hiking and outdoor adventures:

• Hiking pants | These Athleta Headlands pants are my absolute favorite! Plus all the pockets make them more stylish, so they can double as normal pants. Matt’s go-to hiking pants are his PrAna Stretch Zion Pants .
• Quarter Zips | I have two Smartwool Merino 1/4 Zips and I absolutely love them! Warm, comfortable and stylish, they are the perfect base layer for colder hikes. Matt also has the men’s version of the Smartwool Merino 1/4 Zip.
• Fleece Pullover | The Cotopaxi Abrazo Half-Zip Fleece is so cozy and keeps me warm, from lounging around the house to chilly mornings out camping. Matt loves this pullover from Patagonia!
• Long sleeve base layers | Again, I love my Smartwool long sleeve base layers . They’re a bit pricey but the quality is worth it – they’ll last forever!
• Tanks | I’m obsessed with the Athleta Conscious Crop – a sports bra and tank all in one, and so comfortable for hiking!
• Ballcaps | Perfect for throwing on when your hair starts to look like you’ve been in the car for a few hours (or days…).
• Down Jacket | My Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody Women’s Down Hoodie is lightweight and incredibly warm with 850 fill down. If you hate being cold (like me) this is the jacket for you! The quality is top notch and totally worth the extra warmth. Matt loves his Cotopaxi Fuego Down Jacket.
• Rain Jacket | I pack 2 rain jackets – an ultralight Asics packable jacket (great for running and hiking in warm weather), and my Patagonia Torrentshell 3L with a bit more warmth that makes a great shell over my down jacket. Matt swears by his Outdoor Research Microgravity shell.
• Vest | This WoolX vest is sleek, stylish, and keeps me extra warm!
• Hats | I love this Patagonia hat that matches my down jacket!
• Gloves | Have I mentioned I love Smartwool? My favorite gloves are Smartwool Merino 150 , warm but not too bulky. Matt prefers something with a little more warmth and raves about these Black Diamond gloves .
• Hiking Boots | From long distance backpacking trips to quick day hikes, my Danner Women’s Mountain 600 Waterproof Hiking Boots have never let me down. Matt prefers the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX hiking shoe for their low weight and high durability.
• Running shoes | Hoka One One Bondi – these may not be the most stylish running shoes, but I swear they feel like running on clouds. I’ve trained for 2 marathons with these and I will never buy another running shoe again. For trail running, Matt uses the New Balance Hierro .
• Water shoes | If you plan to be near any body of water, Chacos are essential. I use them all the time for car camping and pack them on hikes that require wading through water to avoid getting wet boots.
• Casual wear | Toms Flats are great for road tripping because they’re small and easy to slip on and off. Matt always packs these super versatile Seavees . They can be worn with jeans for a night out, with shorts around town, or slipped on with sweatpants for a quick run to the grocery store.
• Sandals | I don’t pack a ton of “nice” clothes that aren’t for hiking or running on the road, but these Toms Sicily Sandal are so comfortable and versatile that they’re worth bringing.

Packing accessories

The following list includes everything we use to pack and organize our clothes and toiletry items.

• Packing cubes | We pack all our clothes in packing cubes ! They help you pack more clothes in a smaller space and keep things organized.
• Toiletry organizer | We both use Sea to Summit’s Hanging Toiletry Bag for our toiletries – it’s great for road tripping because it’s compact but big enough to fit the essentials, and also lightweight enough to take backpacking.
• Laundry bag | We always travel with a mesh laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from our clean ones when we don’t have time to do laundry.
• Backpacks | Since we do a lot of outdoor backpacking, Matt & I both pack all our clothes in our two backpacks (HERS: lightweight 40L Osprey Tempest and midweight 65L Osprey Ariel , HIS : 55L REI Co-op Flash )
• Day backpack | Matt uses the CamelBak Rim Runner 22 with Hydration Pack and I use the CamelBak Women’s Helena 20 with Hydration Pack . They’re both great day hiking packs and double for miscellaneous storage when packing the car.
• Suitcase | In addition to our backpacking packs, we also pack one hardshell Away Suitcase (shared between the 2 of us) that we use for work travel and packing nicer clothes that shouldn’t be shoved into packing cubes.

Food + & Kitchen Supplies

Next we’ll cover the most important road-tripping essential: food! We try to pack as much of our food for road trips as possible to save money on eating out. When packing for road trips, we always make sure to pick food that will last over a multi-day trip and not take up too much space.

Kitchen Supplies

We’ve found that there are few kitchen items that are important enough to bring on the road, and also make life easier in the car. Note that we also pack camping kitchen gear that can also be useful in the car and at Airbnbs/hotels along the road – you can read more about our packing list for camping on road trips here .

• Cooler | Before we get into food specifics, it’s absolutely essential to get a good cooler that can keep your food cold for the entire day (or multiple days). We could not road trip without our Yeti Tundra 35 . Its the perfect size – large enough to fit essential food for a few days, but doesn’t take up too much space in the car.
• Coffee mugs | One of the easiest ways to save money on the road is making your own coffee in a mug , at home or from your hotel room or Airbnb, before you set off. A $20 mug pays for itself in just a few days on the road.
• Water bottle | Again, save money on plastic water bottles and invest in a reusable one.
• Extra water | We originally purchased these 2-liter Platypus bottles to carry extra water backpacking in the desert. But, it turns out they serve another perfect function: packing extra water for road tripping. Fill 2 of these up before you hit the road and never buy a $3 water bottle from a gas station again!
• Utensils | A few reusable spoons, forks and knifes (or sporks ) make life so much easier.
• Reusable sandwich bags | Help the environment and save money on plastic bags = win, win!
• Bottle opener | For cracking a cold beer or popping a bottle of wine when you arrive at your destination.
• Cast iron-pan | Kind of a pain to travel with, but since we cook over the campfire so much it’s worth the space it takes up.
• Paper towels

Breakfast | Yogurts, Clif bar , Stroopwafel

Yogurts may be a luxury if you have limited cooler space but it’s our go-to breakfast so we try to make room, or at least pack one on the first day of the trip. If you want to conserve cooler space, try a Clif bar (cool mint is our favorite) or Str o opwafel .

For lunch , you’ll want to pack something that’s easy to put together in the car and that you can have for multiple meals (if you are road tripping for several days). Here are a few ideas:

• PB&J (on an english muffin) | A classic, simple and easy. Just refrigerate the jelly. To spice it up a bit, use an English muffin instead of 2 slices of bread.
• Turkey & Cheese (with ranch or avocado) | Also easy because all you need to keep cold is turkey meat and cheese, and you can make several sandwiches with one pack. Add ranch or fresh slices of avocado to spice it up!

While road tripping, we usually leave dinner as our one meal to eat out. That’s because packing food for dinner is tough, takes up more space in the cooler, often requires re-heating etc. By the end of the day, we typically don’t want to have to think too much about preparing dinner.

Tasty snacks just make a long road trip that much better. Here’s what we don’t hit the road without:

• Cheese-itz | Cheesy. Crunchy. Crispy. The best.
• Hummus and pretzels | For something a little healthier and full of protein to keep you satisfied on the road.
• Peanut M&M’s | Great for road trips because they don’t melt like other chocolate candies do!
• Bottle of red wine | For winding down after a long day of road tripping. Red wine is perfect because you don’t have to keep it cold. Just open and enjoy!

Pet supplies

If you’re road tripping with a cat or dog, your packing list just got a little longer. We don’t have a dog, but we do travel with our cat, Fitzgerald. Below are the essentials to pack if you are traveling with a pet:

Pet road trip packing list

• Food + water bowl
• Carrier/crate | We usually let Fitzgerald roam free in the car, but safety always comes first. If your pet is distracting while driving, you will want to have a way to contain them.
• Toys | Essential for keeping your pet happy and entertained while on the road.
• Collar and leash with name tag | For moving your cat/dog to and from the car, and just in case your they gets loose.
• Treats | But only for after you arrive at your final destination (Fitzgerald’s all time favorites are Temptations Shrimpy Shrimps )
• Anxiety medication | If your pet is particularly anxious in the car, talk to your vet.
• Comfortable bed or blanket | If you are traveling with a fully loaded down car, make sure you have a comfortable spot for your cat or dog to relax.

Cat supplies

Here are a few extra supplies to pack if you are traveling with a cat:

• Litter house (with a door) | So your cat can use the bathroom while in the car if necessary, without spilling litter everywhere.
• Scratching post | At home Fitzgerald loves his scratching post with hammock . Even though it’s a bit bulky, we always bring it with us on road trips because it means he won’t scratch up the furniture at our Airbnb/hotel/short-term rental. 100% worth the space it takes up!

For more tips on road tripping with your feline, check out this post:

Road Trip Tips

11 Proven Tips for Taking a Cat on a Road Trip

In March of 2021, we set off on a cross-country road trip from Virginia to California, taking our beloved cat, Fitzgerald, along with us!

Remote Work Essentials

Our last bucket of packing items for road trips is obviously optional depending on the nature of your trip. Since we are on the road full-time, we also have to bring with us the essentials for working remotely , which unfortunately means a lot of space in the car. Here are the items we can’t work without:

• Portable monitor | When we first started living nomadically, we hauled our massive monitors around the country with us… not exactly space efficient. Now we’ve both invested in a Foowin 15.6 inch portable monitor . It’s lightweight, and compact, plugs right into your laptop, and makes life on the road so much easier!
• Wireless keyboard | No cord means easy setup each time we move and less hassle packing and unpacking.
• Wireless mouse | Again, easy setup and transport makes a world of difference when you’re always on the move.
• Mouse pad | Since we move around a lot, our work surfaces aren’t consistent. Bringing a mouse pad means we don’t have to worry about whether our mouses will work well on rough surfaces.
• Laptop sleeve | I skip the bulky laptop bag and pack my Mac in a compact sleeve . It provides enough protect from scratches in the car, and also double as a raised workspace.
• Folding card table | Okay, again, this is a huge pain the a**! However, it’s often tricky to find Airbnb’s that have two work spaces, so it’s easier to just bring our own. The legs fold down so it slides easily in the car.

Other useful resources

Planning a road trip in the U.S.? We think you may find the following resources helpful in planning your trip:

• Road Trip Tips | 11 Proven Tips for Road Tripping with a Cat
• Road Trip Tips | Our Complete Road Trip Camping Essentials plus Checklist
• Travel Inspiration | 59 Best Songs About Travel & Adventure
• Zion & Bryce | How to Spend 3 Days in Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks
• Arizona | Adventurous One Week Road Trip in Arizona & Southern Utah
• Grand Teton | The Perfect 2-Day Grand Teton Itinerary

What gear would you add to our packing list for road trips? Let us know in the comments section below!

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Sarah Vaughan

Hello! I'm Sarah, one half of the couple behind Two Outliers! In 2023, I quit my job as a Data Scientist to travel around the world on an epic 15-month journey in search of the world's greatest hikes and outdoor adventures. Matt and I started Two Outliers in 2021 as a place for visitors to find concise, accurate, and honest information to plan their own adventures. We hope our experiences inspire you to hit the trail! Happy Hiking! Sarah

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Home » Travel Resources » Travel Gear + Packing Lists

The Essential Road Trip Packing List: 27 Items You’ll Need

Updated on November 16, 2023

Is there anything better than a road trip? What’s not to love? How about…a day in the car with no way to charge your phone…or an achy back from too much sitting…or getting stopped by an officer with no evidence of car insurance? Epic road trips start with being well-prepared for fun and adventure. Here’s my ultimate road trip packing list with everything you need for an unforgettable trip!

Road Trip Packing List

1. packable cooler.

The best thing about a road trip is freedom! And a packable insulated cooler is a big part of food freedom, which is why it’s one of my essentials for a road trip.

In fact, it’s one of the things I bring to Kauai . No need for something bulky. Get one that collapses down so you can stow it away to save on space when it’s empty.

Just be sure to get one that zips so food and drinks stay cold. You’ll save money when you stock it ahead of time, too.

Think picnics in scenic roadside spots instead of expensive lunches out. Just remember to pick up a few cold packs.

I like cold packs that are refillable with water and reusable.

You can find an eco-friendly cooler on Amazon here . And the the cold packs are here .

2. Car Registration and Evidence of Insurance

A road trip is the perfect excuse to ensure all your documents are in order! So be sure to include them when you’re packing for a road trip.

Your driver’s license is, of course, essential. But so is your vehicle registration to prove ownership of your car.

Keep it handy in your glovebox in case you need to show it to an officer if you’re stopped.

Likewise, that police officer will be asking you for proof of insurance.

In fact, it’s illegal to drive without any in the U.S. And finally, don’t forget the owner’s manual for your car.

When that weird dash light starts blinking 1,000 miles from home, you’ll be grateful you can look it up!

Read More on Packing Lists: • The Ultimate Maui Packing List • The Essential Ireland Packing List • Everything You Will Need in Yellowstone

3. Road Tunes

Bring some good vibes to your road trip with your favorite music. Make a playlist on your phone or check out the incredible array of podcasts through Apple.

I can highly recommend the NPR Serial podcasts . Season 1, about the convicted Killer Adnan Syed who has proclaimed his innocence for more than 20 years was so compelling that he was granted an appeal in his case. (Eight hours in the car never went so fast!)

If you love a good story, consider subscribing to Audible.

If you subscribe on Amazon as an Amazon Prime member, your free trial also comes with two free books. You can get your free downloads on Amazon here .

4. Water Bottle or Hydroflask

It’s true you can just buy bottled water when you’re on the road, but reusing those single-use bottles isn’t sanitary.

And our landfills don’t need more plastic so this is a key item on your road trip checklist.

Once you break the habit, you’ll never look back. So fill a large jug for the trunk and then fill a reusable water bottle to keep in the car. I recommend you grab a Camelback on Amazon .

Or…take it to the next level. Go all in with a hydroflask. This souped up thermos has revolutionized road trips and long, hot hikes for Steve.

It keeps cold drinks icy and hot tea and soups steaming hot! Honestly, everyone should own one of these.

I can’t believe we survived so long without one. You can get a hydroflask on Amazon here.

5. First Aid Kit

It’s easy to forget to pack a first aid kit! But it’s such an easy, light addition to your road trip packing list.

And it makes all the difference if you gash yourself on a hike, are struggling with an itchy bug bite, or have some minor accident.

There’s been plenty of times I’ve wished I had a basic first aid kit in the car.

This one is inexpensive and covers you with the basics, including band-aids, ibuprofen, and gauze…although you may want to add some additional items.

Sterile gloves, anti-nause medicine, and antihistamines are also handy.

It just depends how thorough you want to be. This one covers all the basics and takes up minimal space.

You can grab a first aid kit on Amazon here .

6. Trunk Organizer

Can you imagine opening the trunk of your car on a road trip and immediately putting your hands on that thing you need? Instead of pawing through bags?

Add one or two trunk organizers to store small items you may need en route but don’t want to stuff in the back seat.

Think drinks, snacks, books, electronics…even a bag of groceries!

No need to listen to things thump and bump in the trunk every time you round a corner.

This trunk organizer is sturdy, durable, and collapsible to save on space when you don’t need it. You can buy it on Amazon here .

7. Travel Picnic Kit

We have owned this travel picnic kit for almost a decade now, I think.

We’ve carted it all over Europe, New Zealand, and French Polynesia. And I always pack it for a road trip stateside as it makes meals quick and convenient on a long drive.

Here’s why: It’s lightweight, BPA-free, and includes everything we need for a picnic on the road.

Each set comes with a cup, bowl, and dish that lay flat for packing but snap together easily.

Highly recommended. You can get a Fozzils picnic set on Amazon here. (Buy two sets if it’s for a couple.) 

And you’ll probably want to pick up one set of “sporks” (fork + spoon) while you’re there.

8. Car Charger

Be sure you won’t run out of battery on your trip by ensuring you pick up a robust car charger.

After all, between games of Words with Friends and photos of scenic roadside stops, your phone is likely to get some heavy usage.

A good car charger doesn’t have to be expensive either.

The AINOPE Car Charger fits most cigarettes lighters with plenty of juice to charge two compatible devices simultaneously. It also has built-in safeguards to protect against overheating and is compatible with all USB-powered devices.

You can get an AINOPE fast car charger on Amazon here .

9. Backseat Car Organizer

What to pack on a road trip? If you’re traveling with children—or even two adults in the back seat—considering purchasing a back seat organizer to avoid clutter and maximize seat space.

A well-constructed organizer has compartments that conveniently store things like electronics, charging devices, drinks, umbrellas and toys.

Be sure to get one that’s straight forward to install.

You can get an inexpensive pair of backseat car organizers on Amazon here .

10. Packing Cubes

When you’re road tripping, it’s so tempting to overpack.

After all, you have all that trunk and back seat space…It’s not like squeezing into a carry-on for international travel. And that’s why packing cubes are a game changer!

If you ever rifled through your suitcase, leaving all of your belongings looking like a hurricane hit, you are going to love packing cubes.

In fact, if you’re new to the idea, watch this “how to pack with packing cubes” tutorial .

When I’m packing in a suitcase, I’ll typically use two for clothing and one for miscellaneous small items.

For a road trip, consider adding a few extras for other items you want easy access to.

You can get the packing cubes I use on Amazon here.

11. Trash Can

Nobody wants to spend hours in a smelly car or root around in the backseat hoping for a random bag to repurpose for lunch leftovers. So get a dedicated trash can with a lid. Make sure it’s leakproof, too!

This one can attach to the console for easy access or hang from the back of the headrest.

It’s compact and comes with outside packets for small items like hand sanitizer or wipes. Grab one on Amazon here.

12. Travel Mug

So confession: Up until I found this travel mug on Amazon recently, I’d had been drinking out of the same travel mug every morning for probably a decade. Ewwww…I know!

The reason is that I have strong opinions about travel mugs. I have tested many, many mugs.

They either burn your mouth or leak or don’t actually keep your coffee hot the way they promise.

It has been a long and frustrating journey in search of one that meets and exceeds my expectations in the way my well-loved mug does. Until now! When I read the amazing reviews on Amazon recently, I decided to give it one more go and I couldn’t be happier.

Seriously…a travel mug made by someone who actually drinks out of one. I even sent the seller a fawning email to rave (and he wrote me back).

On a road trip, a travel mug is going to get some heavy usage so do yourself a favor and grab this one now.

You can order your very own on Amazon here .

13. Sunglasses

Whatever you do, remember your sunglasses when you’re packing for a road trip! They’re easy to carry in your travel purse .

You’re going to be living in them with all that driving. I love these Kate Spade cat-eye tortoiseshell sunglasses. Get them on Amazon here .

14. Cell Phone Mount

If you don’t already own one of these, you need to! Our car doesn’t have a built-in GPS navigation, so we just use Google Maps on our cell phones

And the best and safest way to do this is to use our handy cell phone mount. Don’t be that person trying to drive while balancing her phone on her lap.

My cell phone mount actually sticks to the windshield (via a removable suction cup) and rides on top of the dashboard. But there are many different mounting options, including mounting to an air vent.

Windshield mounting does not pull your eyes away from the road very much, while dash mounting can position your phone out of the sun.

The iOttie Easy One-Touch Dash and Windshield Phone Holder provides mounting flexibility so you can position your phone exactly where you want it.

You can get an iOttie car phone mount here on Amazon .

15. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

If you’re a bit of an audiophile, you need to know about these headphones!

I purchased them after a loooong flight seated next to unhappy children and have never looked back.

One reason they’re so great is that they’re not bulky to pack or carry like over-the-ear headphones.

But their main draw is the sound quality. A noise-canceling switch delivers crystal clear audio.

These headphones are a great way for passengers to spend a little time with Netflix on a long drive.

There’s a reason Bose is so recognized for sound quality. Check out the noise-cancelling headphones on Amazon here .

16. Lumbar Pillow

Transform your drive time into comfy time with good lumbar support.

As someone who writes for a living, I found that my back issues completely evaporated once I consistently used a support pillow.

Memory foam cushions are the bomb!

This one is not too firm but not too soft—it’s the “Goldilocks” version as one reviewer noted—and is also completely adjustable.

You can grab a lumbar pillow on Amazon here .

17. Roadside Emergency Kit

A roadside emergency kit is something you hope you’ll never need!

And that’s why you need one: for the peace of mind…especially on a long road trip.

The right kit includes a first aid kit as well as all the safety accessories you’d need for any situation.

This one includes a reflective warning triangle (in case you can’t move off the road), a safety vest, a strong tow rope, LED flashlight, tire pressure guage, a screwdriver, jumper cable, and emergency blanket among other things.

You can get your roadside emergency kit on Amazon here.

18. Shoes that You Can Slip On

All those bathroom breaks at gas stations can get tedious if you’re putting on and taking off shoes every time to enter and exit the car.

That’s why, if I’m on a summer road trip, I alway pack my Reef flip flops.

They are the most comfortable flip flops I’ve ever owned! You can get a pair on Amazon here .

For winter road trips, there’s nothing better than a pair of cozy UGG slippers.

There are approximately a gazillion styles to choose from but you can browse UGGS on Amazon here .

19. Rain Gear

Be sure to bring a lightweight rain coat shell for range.

Find one that packs down to nothing but is easy to grab if you find yourself dealing with sudden rain showers…like this one you can get on Amazon .

(And don’t forget a travel umbrella. I like the windproof kind .)

20. Hand Sanitizer, Sunscreen, and Bug Spray

Each of these items is small and easy to toss in your console or glovebox. You’ll be so happy you have them!

Bug spray is here . If you’re like me, you had plenty of experience with hand sanitzer during the pandemic.

My favorite is the EO hand sanitizer .

It smells good and the cap stays on…something I cannot say about another brand that caused my black jacket to leave a stain on a white coverlet at a recent Airbnb.

So I’m willing to spend a bit more for those features.

When it comes to sunscreen, I look for one that is reef safe (important at home in San Diego) and that includes zinc oxide without being greasy.

You can get sunscreen on Amazon here .

21. Travel Pillow and Blanket

No need to get fancy here, but a travel pillow and blanket are essential for car napping!

I recommend an inexpensive, lightweight fleece blanket. You can find one on Amazon here .

When it comes to pillows for the car, you can either use the kind you drape around your neck on flights that provides neck support or just pick up a compact rectangular pillow.

I like this travel pillow with memory foam. See it on Amazon here .

22. Travel Tote or Duffel Bag

It’s perfectly fine to pack a suitcase and toss it in the trunk, but you might find a travel tote or duffel bag more convenient. They’re more compact and work well in a trunk.

I like this one that is lightweight, waterproof and nylon. It comes in plenty of colors. Plus, you can use it as a carryon for flying later! You can buy a travel tote on Amazon here .

23. Toiletry Bag

No matter where I travel, my pack-it-flat toiletry bag is always along for the ride.

This is such a great space saver and with four separate compartments, it’s super easy to find everything you need. It’s in my top 10 list of favorite things to pack.

You can check out this toiletry bag on Amazon here .

24. Travel Games

Looking for some fun ideas to pass the hours while driving?

Travel games are fun things to bring on a road trip. For example, couples should definitely check out Our Moments : 100 Thought-Provoking Conversation Starters for Great Relationships.

And for children, nothing beats Mad Libs! You can get the Best of Mad Libs on Amazon here .

25. Travel Snacks

What will you munch on while you’re on the road? I personally love KIND bars . They’re low sugar and gluten-free but still yummy.

Trail mix and cheese popcorn are always great. If you need a sweet fix, who can resist Haribo gummi goldbears ?

Consider supplementing with some string cheese, apples, and celery sticks to balance out the Haribos gummis, too.

26. Day Pack

On road trips, I always bring my day pack. It makes a convenient carry-all for items I need access to in the car and is perfect if we decide to head out on a hike somewhere.

I’m particular about packs due to some back and neck issues, but I’ve carried this one by Columbia all over the world. It has a padded sleeve for your laptop, too, which is super convenient.

Check out the Columbia day pack on Amazon here.

27. Flashlight

Preparing for a road trip definitely includes ensuring you have a flashlight. Every car should have one handy.

They are indispensable for roadside emergencies and otherwise finding your way around in the dark. I bought this one for Christmas one year for my two young adult kids and they’re still thanking me.

The GearLight LED tactical flashlight is inexpensive for a two-pack and is compact with an adjustable focus.

Three AAA batteries power this flashlight for hours. You can check it out on Amazon here .

Road Trip FAQ

1. How do you survive an all-day road trip?

Be safe by taking plenty of breaks to stretch and swapping drivers every few hours if possible.

Be sure to fill up for gas before you head out on the road and re-fill during bathroom breaks to avoid extra stops that lengthen the trip.

Consider packing sandwiches and snacks for the same reason. Play travel games and listen to music and podcasts.

2. What are other fun things to bring on a long road trip?

How about some bubbles? Or an inflatable mattress to minimize hotels? The Zone Tech car swivel tray makes the perfect way to eat lunch while driving.

3. How can you stay entertained on a road trip?

There are an endless number of free games you can play…from 20 questions to word games with license plates. Download a star chart for nighttime driving or try some car Karaoke.

Pin it for later!

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October 10, 2023 at 11:28 am

Great ideas for travel. Thanks.

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What to Pack for a Road Trip (+FREE Printable PDF Packing List)

Not sure what to pack for a road trip or just don’t want to forget any road trip must haves? I’ve got you covered with the ultimate road trip packing list with a FREE printable pdf checklist of everything you’ll need. This checklist is perfect for any road trip – whether doing a short day trip or a long cross country road trip.

My road trip essentials list includes everything you need for you and your vehicle as well as fun things to bring on a road trip. For anyone traveling with kids and/or pets, I have also included family and pet road trip essentials to keep them healthy and happy.

The Ultimate Road Trip Checklist

Road trip essential items (that should always be in your car!)

• Driver’s license, registration and insurance information
• Pen and paper
• Cash and coins (for tolls, parking meters or places that don’t accept credit cards)
• Paper map (I always like to bring a paper map just in case as a backup to GPS or my phone dies and I can’t access navigation apps)
• Smartphone (loaded with road trip apps like Google Maps)
• Cell phone car charger
• Extra set of car keys in case you get locked out
• Emergency road side assistance kit – this one by AAA is more affordable or splurge on this one
• Jumper cables, flashlight, duct tape , scissors, pocket knife or seat belt cutting tool if not part of your emergency kit
• Tire chains, ice scraper and snow shovel if traveling somewhere cold in the winter
• Extra gas in a can (just in case you run out of gas!)
• Sunglasses for everyone
• Blankets (for those that get cold from the AC or to keep warm if your car breaks down at night or in the winter)

Food, drink and snacks for your road trip

• Lots of water! (Keep some water both in the trunk and inside the car)
• Insulated water bottle (to keep your drinks cool and to fill up at water fountains)
• Food and snacks – Stock up on non-perishable road trip snacks ( granola bars , fruit, turkey jerky, nuts, dry cereal, popcorn, crackers, trail mix) but you can keep some food in the cooler as well.

Entertainment for road trips

• Travel journal and pen
• Books, audio books or kindle
• Music playlist (here is my free Spotify road trip playlist with the top road trip songs of all time)
• Road trip games ( Mad Libs on the Road , License Plate Game )

Health, safety and personal care essentials

• Face mask or other face covering to cover your nose and mouth when going inside a gas station, grocery store, convenience store or other indoor establishment
• First aid kit (band aids, pain reliever, allergy medicine, anti-nausea medicine, antacid tablets, cotton balls, q-tips)
• Antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen because you can get sun damage from UVA rays (make sure to keep sunscreen in the car so that you can reapply)
• Disposable gloves for filling up at gas stations
• Essential medication and prescriptions
• Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss
• Lip balm, lotion and other toiletries
• Scarf and extra sweater or fleece (to keep warm if the A/C is too chilly)
• Bug spray (I like this one because it is pocket sized)
• Body wipes for when you are not feeling fresh

Other recommended items for your road trip packing list

• Cell phone mount
• Car seat back organizer – This one has an insulated main compartment and this is a good one for kids
• Towels – Can be used as a seat cover, picnic blanket, to cleanup spills or dry off in an unexpected downpour.
• Paper towels
• Toilet paper in case you run into bathrooms without any!
• Plastic and trash bags
• Nail clippers & tweezers
• Reusable shopping bag for when you leave the car to buy snacks or souvenirs
• Day pack (tote or small backpack) – Handy for exploring your destination but also to keep inside the car with your personal items
• Camera – Make sure to keep a camera in the car. Also consider a GoPro for videos or instax camera
• Sun shade to keep your car cool while exploring
• Batteries for any devices you bring and external battery to recharge your electronics (this is one of my travel essential items for any trip!)

Family road trip checklist – if traveling with kids

• Tablet for each kid loaded with movies,books, educational apps and games (my nephew loves this kid friendly tablet )
• Headphones for each kid (my niece loves these headphones )
• Notebooks and colored pencils
• Change of clothes for babies younger children – keep in the car so they are easily accessible in case of spills or illness
• Extra formula/baby food/diapers for infants
• Favorite toys or stuffed animals

Pet road trip essentials – if bringing your pet along

• Leash, collar, tags
• Pet food and bowls
• Vaccination records and medication
• Bed or crate for the hotel room

What is on your roadtrip checklist?

Liked this packing list? Check out some of our other helpful travel essentials guides and packing lists:

• Carry On Bag Essentials List
• Beach Essentials Packing List
• Essential Things to Take to a Hostel
• Best Eco Friendly Travel Products & Accessories to Help You Travel Green
• Practical and Useful Travel Gifts That Every Traveler Needs

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10 Comments

This list is a great resource! I take frequent road trips and I always carry a paper map as well. I learned my lesson on a cross country trip and we ran into several areas where our GPS lost satellite service. Crazy. I know. But now I carry an atlas in my minivan everywhere I go.

Before each trip, I think it is very important for us to plan our safe and comfortable road trip especially preparing car for our trip such as checking basic car features, making sure the tires are in good shape, packing first aid kit, tool-box and emergency numbers.

You’ve got some good tips there. I can pack really fast myself because I travel a lot. I just grab things and put them in my suitcase. I leave my ziplock bag ready so I can just grab that and it has everything in it I need.

I will be going on a road trip this weekend this article is perfect right now. Thank you.

Thanks for sharing so much information. Ideas like these are so useful for a travel freak like me. Looking forward to going for a road trip soon! 🙂

Great list. We’re going on a road trip next month around California so it’s really useful. We need to start making our playlist and downloading a few audiobooks to keep us entertained on the journey.

I should use this as my go-to list for my next road trip. This will help so much and prevent me from leaving my essentials.

Fantastic list! I keep forgetting bin bags lately. Definitely downloading the PDF so I remember everything next time! (Btw you should put your blog name on the PDF!)

Thanks that is a great idea. Will do it next time I revise the list.

Oh these are some really good tips, thanks for putting all together 🙂

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Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 60+ Essentials (With a Free Checklist)

In this Article

Nothing says family vacation in the US quite like a road trip. They are an affordable way for American families to transport 3.1 children to the beach, the mountains, or Grandma’s house. So it’s no surprise that nearly 70% of all American family vacations are road trips.

But packing for a road trip can be overwhelming, especially when you are packing for kids and pets in addition to yourself. whether you plan to drive from coast to coast or travel just a few hours to visit family, this road trip packing list will help ensure you don’t forget any of the essentials..

When “ The Bigs ” (my three oldest kids) were little, it was easy for the four of us to pile into the car and take off on a two-week-long road trip at least once a year. We called it our “big adventure,” and we tackled one unanimously selected region of the US at a time.

From Mount Rushmore to the American Southwest to the Land of Lincoln to driving the Pacific Coast Highway, it was nothing but us, the big open road, and an unquenchable sense of adventure.

With The Bigs off at college, road trips today are limited to just Louise (currently 14) and me. While the car is a lot emptier (and quieter) than in years past, our road trip essentials checklist remains constant.

Road Trip Packing List

Put packing for your road trip on auto-pilot with this free packing list.

Please check your email for your copy of the ultimate road trip packing list. 

Do You Love to Road Trip?

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Road Trip Packing List for the Journey

Sage Advice:  If you’re driving a long distance on your road trip, be sure to check out these helpful tips .

Paper Map  – Half the fun of a road trip vacation is all the memories you make along the way. So ensure things go smoothly on the road less traveled even if your digital maps stop working or are out of cell/satellite range. Download your route from Google, pack an atlas , or buy a map for the destinations you’ll be visiting.

Sage Advice:  If you are a AAA member, be sure to take full advantage of the free maps and travel guides that come with your annual membership when packing for a road trip.

Cash and Coins  – While more and more toll roads and parking meters offer a credit card or digital payment option, some places still require old-school cash and coins .  

Notebook and Pen or Pencil  – Whether you want to keep a travel journal or need to exchange insurance information with another driver, toss these pre-Internet communication devices in the glove box so you have them if you need them.P

Trash Bags  – Whether you stash a few plastic grocery store bags or bring a small roll from home, these come in handy for storing everything from wet clothes to, um, trash.

Reusable Shopping Bag  – Great for toting snacks from the car to a picnic table during a pit stop or carting  a few souvenirs to the car.

Flashlight and/or Lantern – Even if your roadside emergency kit contains a flashlight, it’s always a good idea to store at least one more. I keep a  small flashlight  stashed in the glove compartment and at least one  camping lantern-style flashlight in the trunk.

I also pack my BioLite Alpenglow lantern . About the size of a coffee cup, this lightweight portable lantern has been a life saver when the power has gone out in my hotel room. It’s also been a comforting nightlight for my daughter.

Headlamp  – One of my best tips I can share is to pack a few headlamp lights on your road trip. From unloading the car after arriving at your destination after the sun goes down to making s’mores over a campfire, it provides hands free illumination like no flashlight or lantern can.

Sage Advice:   Don’t forget to pack enough AA, AAA, and other batteries needed to power your flashlights and other electronics for the duration of your road trip.

Road Trip Packing List for Your Passengers

Emergency Contact Information – Nothing on this comprehensive list is more important than the passengers who travel with you. I believe that preparing for the worst means that everything will go smoothly. So print out emergency contact information for your parents, siblings, or whoever else you’d want contacted if something horrible were to happen on your journey.

First Aid Kit  – Similar to the roadside emergency kit for your car, this kit is for the people and pets along for the ride. I like  this first aid kit  because it’s fully stocked and in a hard plastic (rather than soft-sided) case. But you can easily make your own first aid kit by filling any container with bandages, pain reliever, burn cream, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, a thermometer, a pair of safety scissors, antacid tablets, and antihistamine. I also keep motion sickness pills in my first aid kit, because my daughter Charlotte tends to throw up at least once every road trip.

Yucky Bucket  – Charlotte, the one who always gets car sick, is now a freshman in college. But we still plan for her to have motion sickness when we travel. (And, yes, we still call it a “yucky bucket” from when she was a toddler.)

Most Essential of Oils  – Because they help clean cuts, heal burns, and keep seasonal allergies at bay, I never travel without  these three essential oils .

Bug Spray and Sunscreen  – Keep your passengers (and their fearless driver) free of bug bites and sunburn during your road trip.

Sunglasses and Hat  – Keep the sun further at bay with these road trip essentials.

Umbrella and Rain Ponchos  – From a spring shower in the  Arizona desert  to a torrential downpour in the Midwest, it’s hard to know what Mother Nature has planned every day of your journey. And without these road trip essentials, it can be a chilly and uncomfortable ride until you can properly dry off.

Blankets and Pillows  – Since I’m always the one behind the wheel, I forget about these road trip necessities. But my kids don’t. I can always count on them to have a full-sized pillow and comfy blanket with them in the car.

Sage Advice:   Get more into each passenger’s suitcase by using  compression packing cubes .

Related Article:    14 Super Easy Ways to Avoid Getting Sick While Traveling

Road trip essentials for four-legged friends.

Spoil your fur baby with treats, toy, and more from

If at least one of your road trip companions is a furry, four-legged friend, then don’t forget to pack:

• A leash, collar, and name tag with your contact information
• Vaccination records, especially proof of a rabies shot
• Pet food and bowls
• Bed or crate
• Seat Belt Harness

Sage Advice:  If you plan on traveling with your dog, be sure to check out this petiquette guide. It details  dog etiquette rules for traveling  with your four-legged best friend to ensure a “pawsitive” experience for all.

Road Trip Packing List for Your Entertainment

Phone Chargers and Car Adapters  – From navigating your journey to capturing photo memories along the way, you need your phone to be fully charged and ready to work hard for you. One of the ways your phone can work hard for you is by leveraging these  road trip planner apps .

External Battery  – What I like most about  this power bank  is that two road trippers can quickly recharge at once.

Road Trip Playlist  – From Katy Perry’s  California Gurls  to Taylor Swift’s  Welcome to New York  and from Blake Shelton ’s  Sunny in Seattle  to Will Smith’s  Miami , the right tunes can help the miles fly by fast.

Tablets Loaded with Movies and Games  – Before you hit the highway, be sure your  Netflix shows and movies are fully downloaded and your digital games are ready for the road. (My current Netflix addiction is  Schitt’s Creek , so…)

Sage Advice:   To help everyone enjoy the movie, music, or game of his or her choice without 100 decibels of distraction circling the driver, be sure to pack a set of headphones for each passenger.

Audio Books  – These digital discoveries are the best thing to happen to road trips since cruise control. No matter who is riding shotgun, there will be a point in your road trip when you need a break from each other. (When I traveled with my teenage daughters, that moment often arrived at the end of our driveway.) Nothing makes endless miles of open road move  faster than an audio book !

When the kids were younger, we loved listening to the adventures of the Cahill family in  The 39 Clues  series together. Now that it’s usually just Louise and me in the car, we both disappear into our own stories via our phones. See, another reason you want to keep your phone charged!

Sage Advice: Here are 20+ of the best audiobooks for family road trips .

Games  – If you want to digitally disconnect, but you’re not up for a rousing chorus of  100 Bottles of Beer on the Wall , then be sure to plan or pack road trip games. If there were an Olympic event for license plate bingo , I’d have a gold medal. At least that’s what I always tell my kids. (And, yes, they usually roll their eyes, just like you’d expect.)

Sage Advice:   Spot the state and color the plate with this  free license plate bingo download .  

For a more traditional game that isn’t too tough to play in a moving vehicle, we love the  Five Second Rule Game . I picked it up for a road trip with my sister and nieces, and it’s harder than you think to come up with three related items in five seconds or less!

Road Trip Packing List for Your Belly

Drinks and Containers  – From a  reusable water bottle  to a travel coffee mug, be sure you are prepared to stay hydrated (and caffeinated) on your journey.

Collapsible Car Cooler  – We keep everything from drinks to snacks to my son’s medication in a collapsible cooler that fits easily around us in the car on road trips.

Food and Snacks  – In the cooler, we pack cut vegetables (like celery and carrot sticks), hard-boiled eggs, and yogurt. Our favorite snacks that don’t have to stay chilled include nuts (like almonds and cashews), apples, bananas, peanut butter (to eat with the celery or fruit), and granola bars.

Related Article: My Favorite (Mostly Healthy) Road Trip Snacks

Sage Advice:   Don’t forget to pack a small paring knife to slice apples, share something with a road trip companion, or open tricky packaging. It’s also a good idea to tuck some paper plates, napkins, and a tablecloth in your vehicle for tailgate and picnic table snack breaks.

Related Article:    8 Ways to Eat Healthy While Traveling

Road trip essentials for winter travel.

While the majority of Americans embark on road trips between Memorial Day and Labor Day when kids are out of school for the summer, there are plenty of road trips tied to Thanksgiving, winter holidays, and the ski slopes. If you’re traveling  during the winter months , be sure to add winter travel necessities to your road trip packing list. Don’t forget tire chains, a small bag of sand or kitty litter, extra blankets, and  warming packs .

Related Article: Winter Road Trip Essentials

What’s on your packing list for road trips.

Do you like to road trip? Is there anything you’d add to this comprehensive list? Share your advice in the comments section below.

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Thank you for sharing!

24 thoughts on “Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 60+ Essentials (With a Free Checklist)”

I can tell these are mom tested and approved. 🙂 I love it. I especially love the practical tips, like an extra set of car keys…so important!

Was it the yucky bucket that gave it away? 🙂

Great advice you cover it all. My favorite is your Sage advice! Very clever.

Thanks so much! (I am pretty proud of my “Sage advice” concept!) 🙂

What a great packing list. Sounds like you are definitely the voice of experience here. I love that you included and linked to your own recipe for hand sanitizer. Happy Trails to you and yours!

Thanks! I love that hand sanitizer recipe!

I love the audiobooks part! A definite necessity since you can’t rely on the radio!

Right?!? The miles just fly by with a good audiobook!

Great list and I appreciate that you included road trip essentials for your car on the list. Sometimes people forget that their car should be included on their check list and packing list for their car to ensure a smooth road trip. Keeping things on the list will allow us to handle the situation better on the road. Another thing that I do for my car before a road trip is by bringing it to my trusted car shop to have it checked for possible repair and maintenance. Doing this will lessen the chances of experiencing an unexpected car breakdown while having a road trip. Also, it will give us peace of mind knowing that our vehicle is in good condition. A few days ago, I also found a similar blog post but this is focus on car’s checking before hitting the road. You might want to check it, here’s the link: https://blog.beepbeep.ph/road-trip-essentials/

What a great travel list! A couple of things I would add for the pup’s list…a harness for extra safety when traveling as some dogs may slip their collars. It is also a good idea to hook them into the seat belt on the back of their harness rather than their collar for neck protection. If you are hiking or doing outside activities in hotter weather, you may want to consider paw protection for your pup. We like MuttLuks, but now there are many boots on the market to choose from. (Something to consider for ice and snow also).

These are great additions to the pet list! I wish I’d known about MuttLuks when my old golden, Kavanaugh, climbed A Mountain in Las Cruces with us a few years back. My poor boy got a cactus needle stuck in his paw. Poor thing!

This surely seems like an extensive list! I always have so much problem packing and always end up forgetting one thing or the other. I feel having a list will definitely be helpful.

Checklists work like a charm for this momma! 🙂

Great list! I’d love to do a long road trip in the near future, so I’ll keep these things in mind!

You KNOW I love my road trips, and this is a fantastic list! I also pack a bucket of homemade trail mix with a few individual-sized containers that we can refill. I also put the grocery bag in a plastic container (cereal or pet food) to keep it from getting trampled on and spilling. Now excuse me while I go plan another adventure.

Outstanding additions to the list from the Road Trippin’ Queen! 🙂

I love roadtrips, especially when I am not the one driving, tee-hee 🙂 Great tips, and if you have roadtrip tips for pre-ados, pretty please make a post about it. My two pre-ados are by far the hardest passengers to entertain XD

How old are your kiddos?

I LOVE road trips, every year my husband and I are sure to take at least one! Now that we have a little one on the way, I’m so glad that I read your post! I’m the person who never forgets a single snack, but definitely forgets all of the essentials. I am especially never prepared for snow. So, the idea of the ice scraper is a must. I should probably always just leave it in my car so I never have to think about it! I like the idea of doing a two week trip to one region of the US. The Southwest is high on my list! Thanks for sharing!

Congrats on your little one on the way! I highly recommend a road trip in the Southwest in the spring. Absolutely gorgeous! Maybe you can sneak one in as a “babymoon” before your wee one arrives?

I love roadtrips and have enjoyed a few in the USA, it’s such a GREAT country to self-drive, with wide open roads, not too much traffic once you’re out of the big cities, and the most wonderful vistas and natural landscapes. We’ve also found some amazing places to stay and eaten well too. The first time I visited was with my parents, and the packing was a big deal, for sure, your list is going to be a huge help for first timers. We definitely missed some things out but of course, we could find and buy them from local stores once we landed.

I’m always exited to find a fellow road tripper. Yes, our roads (and vehicles) are way wider (and bigger) than what I experience in Europe. That’s for sure! 🙂

Food is definitely a priority for us! And entertainment gadgets! These are great checklists for people!

I have a soft spot for fellow travelers who make food a top priority! 🙂

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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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THE BEST ROAD TRIP PACKING LIST: 41 Essentials You Need For a Smooth Ride

The ultimate road trip packing list.

Post Summary: Be prepared with this thorough road trip packing list that includes basic road trip essentials, entertainment for the road, and what to pack for winter road trips.

Are you hitting the open road and wondering about what to put on your road trip packing list ? As a family that has lived on the road for over a year, we’ve learned a lot about what are true road trip travel essentials and what’s just a gigantic waste of space.

Based on our own experiences of driving cross country , we’ve come up with a few road trip packing lists to cover your basic road trip needs, fun entertainment for the road, and what to pack for driving in harsh winter conditions.

Read on to get the full scoop.

Need More Road Trip Tips? Check Out Our Other Road Trip Articles:

Road Trip Trivia To Impress Your Friends With Road Trip Food Inspiration: 50 Delicious Snacks For A Road Trip All The Tips And Tricks To Survive A Road Trip With A Toddler 160 Fun, Deep, and Sometimes Silly Road Trip Questions 17 Boredom Busting Things To Do On A Road Trip 50 Items That Need To Be On Your Camper Must-Haves Packing List

*This post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we truly think are helpful.

Road Trip Essentials: 40 Things To Bring On A Road Trip

Essential Road Trip Items

1. Cooler – Since I’m obsessed with eating at all times of the day, I think a cooler is top on the list for things you need for a road trip. If it’s a short trip and all you need is a small cooler for drinks and snacks, you can opt for a soft-bodied Arctic Zone Cooler .

The above is an affordable option, but we do have a special love for the top-of-the-line coolers from Yeti . Yes, they are a big investment and most will balk at the price. But, you’ll buy a cooler once and be done for life. It’s mainly worth it if you’ll be road tripping or camping a lot and want a durable, high-end cooler that’s guaranteed to keep your stuff ice cold. The Yeti Roadie 24 Hard Cooler is perfect for road trips.

2. Road Trip Food + Snacks – Resist the urge to buy Slim Jims at the gas station by having your car stocked with delicious snacks and beverages. If you’re looking for some snack inspiration, be sure to check out our road trip food list post with 50+ snack ideas.

3. Water Bottle – Having a reusable water bottle is top on the list for road trip must-haves. Staying hydrated keeps you feeling energized and can help ward off those hankerings to buy a coke at the gas station. We are die-hard fans of Hydro Flask and love that they can keep your drinks ice cold or piping hot for over 12 hours.

4. Roadside Emergency Kit – While you can buy roadside emergency kits that come with a surplus of things, the most important thing is having a high-quality set of jumper cables . If you’ll be driving in a remote area where other cars might not be able to help you out, you might want to consider a mobile battery jumper that allows you to jumpstart your car on your own.

5. Flashlight – While we’re on the topic of road trip safety, pack a flashlight. It’s one of those tools that should always be in your glove compartment along with extra batteries. Don’t have one? We like this small portable one here.

6. License and Registration – It goes without saying, but make sure your license is up to date, and your registration is in your glove compartment.

7. Insurance Cards -Most insurance companies have apps now, so download the app for your car insurance so you can have your insurance number and phone numbers easily accessible just in case you need them.

8. Phone Chargers – Make sure to have all your phone chargers, power banks, and any necessary dongles so your phone can hook up to your car. In addition to our basic phone charger that goes into the cigarette lighter, we also bring a splitter so multiple people can plug in their device and a solar power charger, so we’re never left without something to charge our devices. It’s handy when traveling with many people so everyone can have a way to charge a device.

9. Sunglasses – Avoid that harsh late afternoon glare with some stylish sunglasses.

10. Sunblock – While you’re protecting your eyes, don’t forget to protect your skin! Just because you’re inside your car doesn’t mean the sun can’t get through. I like to buy a new sunblock every year and store it in my glove compartment box for when I need it.

11. Lip Moisturizer – The sun plus excessive air conditioning means you’ll want your chapstick with you at all times. I’m in love with Weleda’s moisturizing lip balm and don’t use anything else.

12. Hand Sanitizer – Not all rest stops will have soap, so it’s wise to bring a bottle of hand sanitizer for those times you don’t have access to hand soap. I like this gentle hand sanitizer with a soothing lavender scent.

13. Cash – While credit cards are generally accepted everywhere, there have been times that we’ve been passing through a small town, and cards were not accepted. This happened most often at small family-run restaurants. Be sure to have a little bit of cash for the rare chance you end up in a place that doesn’t accept cards.

14. Umbrella – Rain. It happens. Have an umbrella in your trunk for when the inevitable shift in weather happens.

15. Blanket – A cozy blanket is great when you’re doing a long day of driving, and passengers might want to take a car nap. We have a soft spot for sherpas and think they’re the best napping blankets .

16. Travel Pillow – To go with your cozy blanket, bringing a travel pillow can help to alleviate sore necks. Bring your own pillows from home or buy a specially made travel pillow. The BCOZZY travel pillow is great for kids, and this one here is great for adults .

17. Slip-On Shoes – A pair of easy slip-on shoes like the Teva Reember Shoe are ideal for a road trip, so you can be shoe-free in the car and easily slip them back on when you have to pop out for food or gasoline. If traveling in the summer, flip-flops are the perfect road trip shoe.

18. Cozy Clothes – Along with comfortable shoes, we always wear clothes we can easily move around in and have breathability. Elastic is your friend on a long car ride. Our driving outfits are always a pair of joggers and a soft top. These joggers from Amazon are my go-to driving pants. They’re basically cozy pants that can pass as regular clothes.

19. Garbage Bags – You’ll want to have a designated bag to put your trash into. Old grocery or produce bags are what we bring on the road.

20. First Aid Kit – Having a kit ready for any events that arise on your road trip is always a good idea. You can buy a pre-made kit or make your own. We always have bandaids, antibacterial ointment, ibuprofen, Dramamine, bug spray, itch cream for bug bites, and gauze pads for our basic first aid kit.

21. Tissues, Wipes, Paper Towels – Having something for spills, runny noses, and sticky hands is always a necessary staple for road trip essentials.

22 . Downloaded Maps – Make sure you have all the necessary maps downloaded onto your phone. If you know your route, you can go onto google maps and download the map and the directions, so you don’t have to rely on good cell service to get directions. If you’re going on a long road trip and don’t have a definitive route, it’s a good idea to buy a paper map so you’ll always have something to guide you. The Rand McNally Atlas is considered one of the best road maps and is a great choice if you’re going on a cross-country road trip.

23. Tide Pen – This is a must-have item if you’re on a road trip with young children. Life on the road can mean eating on the go in the car, which inevitably means stains all over their clothes and yours. The Tide Pen has saved me from losing many beloved outfits.

24. Air Freshener – Such a necessary item on your road trip packing list when traveling with kids! When it’s feeling “not so fresh” in the car, I like to use the hand sanitizer spray I mentioned above. I love that it’s fresh smelling and can double up as a hand sanitizer.

25. Sun Shade – If you’re traveling in the summer, you’ll want to get a sunshade for your windshield to keep your car from becoming a scorching hot oven. Anyone who has leather seats knows how uncomfortable it is to get back into a car that’s been baking in the sun. If you’re traveling with a toddler or baby, you’ll want to get sun shades for your side windows so the sun doesn’t irritate them or get in the way of nap time. These sunshades from REACHS are also a great privacy and shading option. We like them because you can still open your back windows for airflow.

26. Phone Holder – If you don’t already have one, make sure to get a proper phone holder like this one here so you can have both hands free for driving.

27. Roadside Assistance Plan – If you’re going on a long road trip and you’re not too confident in your car, buying a roadside assistance plan is a great idea, so you don’t have to worry about being stranded in the middle of nowhere. It’s one of those road trip necessities that you don’t like paying for but are happy to have when you need it. AAA has several different options that should suit different kinds of travel. You can check here for current AAA prices .

28. Spare Tire – Make sure your car is equipped with a spare tire, tire jack, and lug-wrench so you can always be prepared to change your own tire.

29. Day Bag – I like to have a day bag that is easily accessible for packing any road trip items that I want close by to pull out as I need. Any backpack or large purse will do, but I’m partial to Fjallraven and their cute line of colorful backpacks. We also enjoy The Northface backpacks .

30. Travel Gear – Obviously, you’ll need suitcases to pack your belongings in, but depending on what kind of road trip you’ll be taking, you might want to consider duffle bags instead of standard roller luggage. They pack up easier in the car and can fit in tight spaces.

31. Car Organizers – I don’t know about you, but it gets messy in our car. Having an organization system will help to create order amongst all the road trip supplies. There are many different organizers that you can choose from, but we have two that we particularly like. We like this back seat organizer with SO MANY pockets for all your gadgets, notebooks, and snacks. It’s a fantastic option if you’re traveling with young kids. We particularly like that it has a tablet holder. You can put a movie on without them having to hold the device the entire time. We also like this car seat gap organizer that sits in the gap between the console and the passenger or driver’s seat. You know that little bit of space where you always drop your phone, and you’re like “$%^&*!” because it’s so difficult to fit your hand in there. Well, this organizer stops anything from falling in that gap while also providing extra storage. Brilliant!

32. Roof Racks – If you are going on a long road trip and need to create extra space because of all the road trip essentials you’ll be packing into your car, adding a roof rack cargo carrier can be a great way to create extra space. When we took a month to drive through Montana, Wyoming, and Yellowstone National Park , we added roof racks to hold all our camping gear on top of our car. You can browse different varieties here to find the one that will fit your car. We also used a trailer hitch cargo carrier to further maximize space.

Fun Things To Pack For A Road Trip

Now that you’ve got your basic needs met let’s talk about what to bring on a long car trip, so you aren’t bored out of your mind.

33. Travel Games – Have some fun games ready for when you’re looking to pass the time. Pull up our post of 160 road trip questions and 41 road trip trivia questions for hours of fun conversation.

34. Road Trip Playlist – Having a great playlist ready to cue up is EVERYTHING. You can make your own on Spotify. If compiling your own playlist doesn’t sound fun, you can browse through the thousands of playlists already curated by someone else. Make sure to download the playlists before you leave!

35. Notebook – A road trip is a perfect time to journal, write, draw, or dream up your next big adventure. One of our favorite things to do on a road trip together is to pull out a pen and paper and write lists of all the places we want to travel to next.

36. Kindle or Book Reading Device – If you don’t get car sick, having some books or magazines cued up on your Kindle or any book reading device is a great way to catch up on all those books you’ve been meaning to read. You can also try out Kindle Unlimited for free for one month to test out if you want to add the subscription service.

37. Audible – If you do get car sick, you can also opt to do Audible books. A great way for everyone to listen to a book together. Like Kindle Unlimted, you can do a free trial run of Audible to see if it’s a service you would want to subscribe to monthly.

38. Podcasts – Another great source of entertainment is to listen to Podcasts on the drive. Just like with songs, make sure to download the podcasts before you leave so you don’t have to rely on a good signal. My husband loves to listen to Armchair Expert and Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend and I love to listen to On Being.

39. iPad – If you’re doing a road trip with a toddler or kids, a tablet is a necessary item on any family road trip packing list. We like to download kid-friendly movies on Netflix and savor two quiet hours in the car.

40. Headphones – If not everyone wants to watch or listen to the same thing, make sure to bring your headphones so everyone can do their own thing. We like to use these soft headphones for our toddler and our Bose Noise Cancelling headphones for ourselves.

41. Portable Speaker – We bring our portable speaker with us when we travel in our vintage camper since the sound quality is better. Having your own speaker is great for anyone who doesn’t have a high-quality sound system in their car. Even if you have a good sound system, we love our Ultimate Ears speaker since it’s lightweight, waterproof, can fit in the cup holder, and is compatible with Alexa.

READ NEXT : Check out our post on 17 fun things to do on a road trip for ideas on what to do while you’re in the car.

Winter Road Trip Packing List

If you are driving in the winter months or in high elevation areas where cold weather is of concern, you’ll want to be sure you’re comfortable and adequately prepared for any hazardous cold weather conditions that could arise. In addition to everything mentioned above, you’ll want to add the following to your road trip essentials list.

Ice Scraper – An ice scraper is a must-do when making a winter road trip. We got caught in an early snowstorm in Tennessee and tried in vain to use a kitchen spatula. Don’t be like us. Have an ice scraper in your car.

Snow Chains – Snow chains are a must when traveling through mountain towns where snowy weather can become dangerous quickly. Make sure to get the right fit for your car.

Warm Blankets – Blankets can be a literal lifesaver if you get stuck in a snowstorm and need to pull over till the weather passes. While the above-mentioned sherpa blankets can keep you warm, it would be wise to pack a sleeping bag or packable down blanket that can provide excellent insulation and warmth. We always keep this blanket from Horizon Hound in our trunk and love that it packs down to a small size and keeps us super warm

Hand Warmers – I love rechargeable hand warmers. You’ll absolutely want these if you have to wait out a snowstorm and need some warmth.

You’re ready to hit the road and have an epic adventure! Did we miss anything on our road trip packing list? What’s on your road trip essentials list? Let us know in the comments below.

Want Some Inspiration For Where To Road Trip To Next? Check Out Our Travel Guides Below:

17 Amazing National Parks In The West Two Amazing Hot Springs To Discover Near Boise, Idaho How To Spend 36 Hours In Asheville, NC An Adventure Itinerary In Yellowstone National Park

Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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45 Things For Your Road Trip Packing List

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If you have ever been on a road trip, you’ll know that making a road trip packing list is as important as mapping out your itinerary. It doesn’t matter where you’re planning your road trip, from scenic coastal drives to cross-country journeys. or how long you’re planning to go, there are some road trip essentials you need to take with you.

Of course, you can just jump in the car and go (and I’ve done that too!) but why not take all the stress out of your journey and make sure you tick the basic items off your road trip pack list . So make your own road trip checklist or if you’re too lazy, here are some ideas to help you pack.

1- Driving paperwork

2- roadside assistance membership, 3- car manual, 4- spare tire, 6- sunglasses, 7- toilet paper, 8- large water bottles, 9- first aid kit, 10- roadside emergency kit, 12- road trip apps, 13- smartphone charger, 14- bluetooth headphones, 15- battery packs, 16- portable satellite , 17- flashlight, 18- download music, 19- swiss army knife, 21- blanket.

• 22- Travel Games and Toys

23- Travel Mug

24- rain jacket, 25- reusable shopping bag, 26- garbage bags, 27- road trip snacks, 28- hiking boots, 29- daypack.

• 30- Travel Pillow

31- Window Shades

32- insect spray, 33- sun screen, 34- hand sanitizer, 35- body wipes, 36- quickdry towel, 38- swimwear, 39- sandals, 40- car cooler, 41- snow shovel, 42- ice scraper, 43- mittens, 44- lip balm, 45- car seat warmers, road trip packing list guide.

ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS

Always carry your driver’s license in your wallet or purse and do not leave home without it.

Make sure your car registration is current, photocopy your car insurance policy (contact details of your insurance company), and put it in your glove box.

Don’t rely on your smartphone or notebook in case you lose them or the batteries die. Another thing you can do is to take a photo of your paperwork and email it to yourself and to a friend. 

Going on your road trip with friends? Here are some travel with friends quotes to inspire you. 

Having a roadside assistance membership is handy for times you might need help.

For a small fee, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that if you really get stuck somewhere, you’ll have someone to call. 

If you already have a membership, review it before you take off on your trip and consider upgrading your membership to include more services or to cover a wider area. 

Also, read the best 100 inspiring travel quotes to inspire your journey.

Count on that pesky warning light to keep flashing when you just happen to be out of cell phone range.

A car manual might be old school but don’t throw it out, especially if you’re driving an older model vehicle.

Sometimes, these car manuals can have information not available online. 

Check that your spare is in good condition before your trip as there’s nothing worse than getting a puncture in the middle of nowhere and realising that your spare is flat too!

If you’ve never changed a tire before, it’s a great idea to practice changing one before you go, as trying to learn how to change a tire when you’re under stress can be a bit daunting for some. 

Paper maps might be fast going out of style but they can be really useful to help you orientate yourself, especially when you’re in an area with patchy cell service.

Stop at the local tourist offices for free maps of the regions you’re driving around. 

Pack polarized sunglasses for driving or anti-glare sunglasses for clearer night vision.

Actually, it’s a great idea to pack a spare pair of sunglasses as this is one item you’re likely to leave behind. 

Finding the right kind of sunglasses to buy way out in the countryside can be difficult. 

• Click the Maui Jim link above to visit our brand store, where you can find our…
• All Maui Jim sunglasses feature PolarizedPlus2 lens technology that go beyond…
• Enjoy ultimate UV protection combined with premuim style, incredible durability,…
• HCL Bronze lenses feature a warm tint that provides versatility in changing…
• Frames constructed from lightweight, injected nylon, designed for extreme…

A roll of toilet paper is handy for emergencies – you never know when you might need it and where you’ll be. 

If you are road-tripping in South America, India or Asia, make sure you have several rolls of toilet paper as public toilets in many countries don’t have toilet paper at all. 

• Sold as 80 Rolls (1 Carton)
• These toilet paper rolls are designed to fit into universal, cored roll…
• Each roll is individually wrapped.
• 2-Ply White tissue paper.
• Strong and absorbent enough to get the job done.

Staying hydrated is essential during a road trip, especially in summer, so pack more water than you think you’ll need.

Have at least one water bottle for each person in the car and an extra bottle for emergencies.

• Leakproof Design: The water bottle is 100% leak-proof when the lid is…
• BPA-Free Material: Made with premium BPA-free Tritan plastic for odorless and…
• Unique Storage Sleeve: Comes with an insulated sleeve to hold your phone and…
• Motivational Quote: Features inspirational quotes to remind you drink enough…
• Wide Mouth Opening: Designed with a wide mouth opening for easy sipping and…

Pack a first aid kit stocked with band-aids, bandages, antiseptic and painkillers (being in a car with a headache is no fun!) and being forced to stop to look for a band-aid can be a nuisance. 

• Ultimate Peace Of Mind: Our kit includes over 350…
• Perfect For Home Or Business: Ensure everyone’s safety and…
• Includes Mountable Hard Case with Organizers: Sturdy design…
• Quality and Durability: Always be prepared: M2 Basics…
• Note: The kit’s contents are split into several packages to…

You never know when you might have a flat battery or tire and getting the car going on your own sure beats waiting hours for the roadside service to turn up. 

So look for a roadside emergency kit with the essentials for a road trip emergency, such as battery charger cables, window breakers, light sticks and air compressors.

• 🚗98 PCS ORANGE TOOL SET: This set contains 49 first aid…
• 🚗AIR COMPRESSOR: The air compressor equipped with this…
• 🚗 SAFE JUMPER CABLE: The cable surface is covered by PVC…
• 🚗Multipurpose kit: These 14-in-1 multipurpose pliers…
• 🚗PERFECT GIFT: As a practical and necessary tool for easy…

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ROAD TRIP CHECKLIST FOR TECHNO WARRIORS

Update the software on your GPS before you leave or you risk being directed onto older (and longer) routes. These days, having a reliable GPS is one of the essentials for a road trip. 

Download a mapping app, such as Waze or Roadtrippers, and have a paper map as a backup for when there’s no cell service.

If your GPS is new, do a test run before you go to make sure it’s working the way it should. 

• Wireless communication technology, Bluetooth
• Package Dimensions, 8.382 L x 16.51 H x 16.51 W…

Sign up for a few hotel booking sites, such as Bookings.com or Hotelscombined.com and download their booking apps before you leave.

Some days, you might be exhausted and will need to find somewhere to have a good night’s rest.

Trust me, when you’re on the road, it’s much easier to have all your booking apps ready. 

Don’t forget your smartphone charger and take a spare as a backup in case you leave it somewhere unintentionally.

Get one with multiple USB slots to keep your GPS plugged in while you charge your phones and notebooks.

• Ultra High Cell Capacity: Portable phone charger installed…
• High Speed Charging: USB-A1 22.5W and PD 20W USB C output,…
• Bright LED Flashlight: Embedded 4 led beads make uniform…
• Durable Enough: The premium battery has over 1100 recharging…
• What You Get: 1x 30000mAh portable charger, 1x Type-C cable;…

Download a selection of travel games on a tablet and pack a set of Bluetooth headphones if you’re planning a cross-country road trip with the kids.

Keeping the kids calm, quiet and occupied will make a big difference to your stress level. 

• Stereo sound headphones: KVIDIO upgraded bluetooth…
• Unmatched comfortable headphones: Over ear earmuff made by…
• Wide compatibility: Simply press multi-function button 2s…
• Seamless wireless connection:: Updated Bluetooth version…
• Customer Support: Package include a Foldable Deep Bass…

Pack a high-capacity battery pack, which you can charge up before you go. This might be especially handy if you plan on doing some work while on your trip. 

Firing up your notebook to research a new place is a convenience you’ll appreciate while on a road trip. 

Watch live shows as you cruise along the highway with the help of a portable satellite antenna.

While not an essential item to put on your road trip packing list, it’s a fun thing to treat yourself to. 

• NO CONTRACT; Ideal with DISH Pay As You Go HD programming
• PORTABLE; The DISH Tailgater Pro from KING is a premium…
• TV ANYWHERE; This DISH Wally receiver allows you to access…
• AUTO LOCKING; This intelligent satellite antenna…

You’d be surprised at how handy a basic flashlight can be on the road.

Better still, add a rechargeable solar flashlight to your road trip packing list.

There are some really cool models out there, and some also double up as seat belt cutters and glass window breakers.

Some have USB chargers that you can use to charge up your smartphone in an emergency.

• 【MOST PRACTICAL MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SPOTLIGHT】: Our…
• 【LARGE BATTERY CAPACITY & USB OUTPUT FUNCTION】: Durable,…
• 【HIGH POWER BULB & PROFESSIONAL MATERIAL】: The handheld…
• 【DIRECT CHARGING】: It supports usb cable (included) and…
• 【SUITABLE FOR VARIETY OF ENVIRONMENTS】: This spotlight…

Good music should be at the top of your list when packing for a road trip.

Even if the scenery is stunning, there will be long stretches of road where you will enjoy filling the car with the right kind of music.

The last time I went on a road trip, I couldn’t find anything I wanted to listen to on the local radio. 

A Swiss army knife is a multi-purpose tool that may come in handy for several reasons.

I’ve used mine for various purposes, from peeling oranges to fixing the arm on my glasses. 

Technology versions come with USB sticks too.

• A CUT ABOVE THE REST: Compact, agile and ready to face any…
• DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Renown Swiss made stainless steel…
• COMPACT CARRY: Bring this tool with you on your daily…
• FIT FOR ALL TASKS: The idea is simple: always be prepared….
• TRUSTED QUALITY: Made in Switzerland; Victorinox provides a…

Capturing the places you visit on your road trip from the air is fun and will provide a memorable visual journal.

A mini-drone can cost as little as $50 or treat yourself to the top-of-the-range of portable travel drones.

ROAD TRIP PACKING LIST – THE BASICS

A blanket can come in handy when you come across the perfect picnic spot or if you get cold.

A microfleece blanket dries quickly and is light enough to take on your next flight. Make sure you pack at least one blanket and you can’t go wrong with an extra one too. 

• 100% polyester fleece-knit. The smart choice as an airline…
• A good, inexpensive blanket doesn’t need to be a “cheap…
• Lightweight and compact, the World’s Best Microfleece…
• Machine washable & easy to keep clean. Simply toss this…
• Wolf Manufacturing Company is a Texas-based manufacturer and…

22-  Travel Games and Toys

If you’re travelling with kids, pack some road trip games to keep young minds busy.

Don’t forget to pack a few travel toys for toddlers too, especially if you’re embarking on a long journey by road. 

It’s too easy to bring electronic games, which can be somewhat isolating, so take the opportunity to get your kids to have fun the old way and download these printable games or puzzles for your time on the road.   

• 12 EXCITING SMALL BOARD GAMES: The Small Gamie Magnetic game…
• GREAT FOR TRAVEL: These mini board games for kids measure…
• SHARPENS KIDS MINDS: This collection of classic, top rated…
• DURABLE & EASY TO STORE: The popular family board games are…
• MAKES THE PERFECT GIFT: This is the ultimate board game gift…

Choose a travel mug with a leak-proof lid to stop the liquid from spilling.

It’s also handy to have one that fits perfectly in the cup holder in your car, as sometimes the coffee cups or drink bottles from roadside stores might be too large or too small. 

It’s only a trivial thing but I love drinking out of my own travel mug. 

• SEAL IT IN: Leak-proof lid (when closed) for on-the-go…
• FOR THE LONG HAUL: THERMALOCK double-wall stainless steel…
• LEND A HAND: One-handed drinking with no lids or caps to…
• GET A GRIP: Subtly textured grip with fluid movement for a…
• PERFECT FIT: Fits car cup holders and under most…

Add a rain jacket or umbrella to your road trip pack list to keep you dry when you need to get out of the car or walk. 

If you’re visiting places with many national parks and nature hikes, pack a rain jacket. 

• ★FEATURES: long sleeve, hooded with drawstring, elastic…
• ★OCCASION: Functions-windbreaker,Suitable for camping,…
• ★SIZE: Size Chart is not our size. Measurements please…
• ★NOTICE: We promise to our customers to select the real…

They fold up, fit in your handbag, and are useful for popping to the shop while on the road.

As many places are banning plastic bags, a reusable shopping bag is a good item.

You’ll be doing your small part to save the environment and it’ll save you from having to pay for plastic bags. 

• [ECO-FRIENDLY]:Mesh bags are made from pure cotton. With…
• [UNIQUE DESIGN]: Mesh grocery bags with 13 inch longer…
• [PREMIUM QUALITY]:Mesh designed tote carrying bag is made…
• [VERSATILE]: These cotton produce bags are not only for food…
• [STYLE]: These net shopping bags many different colors; so…

Keep your car clean of wrappers and other garbage and if you want to be really organized, get a leak-proof garbage bag to hang behind the seat.

Put a pack of giant garbage bags on your road trip packing list as they are useful and inexpensive. 

While on a road trip, the best snacks to nibble on are healthy snacks that will give you the energy to keep driving.

It’s far cheaper to stock up with a big pack than to buy individual items.

• 12 BARS VARIETY PACK: We’re packing 2 REAL fruit servings…
• HEALTHY SNACKING ON THE GO: 87% of Americans are not getting…
• 2-YEAR SHELF LIFE: An estimated 60% of all produce is wasted…
• 100% NATURAL: Ingredient lists have never been this simple…
• TRY THEM ALL: We make it convenient and fun to get your two…

Even if you aren’t an avid hiker, there will be times when the opportunity to stretch your legs and explore the landscape will present itself.

A sturdy pair of hiking boots can make all the difference to your comfort level, but if you’re buying a new pair, make sure you break them in before you go. 

There will be times when you decide on going for a hike and need a travel daypack to store the items you should carry with you.

Daypacks come in a variety of sizes, so choose a daypack for your travels that you know you will love and you’ll get plenty of use out of it while on your road trip. 

• ★【PREMIUM & DURABLE & SUPER VALUE】: Sinotron…
• ★【22L CAPACITY & CONVENIENT DESIGN】: The main pocket…
• ★【PERFECT SIZE DAY PACK】: Recommendd by a lot…
• ★【LIGHTWEIGHT & PACKABLE】: The packable backpack…
• ★【AFTER-SALES SERVICE】: If anything goes wrong with…

30-  Travel Pillow

Planning on snoozing in the car? A travel pillow is definitely an item for your road trip packing list.

Even if you’ll be sleeping in motels or hotels, if you are a light sleeper, bring your regular pillow for comfort.

A nifty product to get is a microfleece blanket in a bag that you can use as a travel pillow.

• The TUBE combines free extra luggage and travel neck pillow,…
• Pack the TUBE with up to 3 days of clothes and avoid that…
• Ideal for various adventures, including weekend getaways,…
• Constructed with quality material, the TUBE is built to…
• As seen on TV! Experience convenience, and rave reviews of…

SUMMER ROAD TRIP PACKING LIST

A pack of sunshades for the car is extremely useful to stop the sun streaming through the side windows.

The passengers in the back seat will thank you. 

• 【ATTENTION BEFORE ORDER】 – Only design for Steel side…
• 【PRACTICAL SIZE DESIGN】 – Front Seat Curtain measure…
• 【PREMIUM MATERIAL】 – Made of high quality Heating nano…
• 【EASY TO INSTALL】 – Build in 10 movable magnets, Just…
• 【PRIVACY SHELTER】 – This car curtains can block the…

Keep those bugs, sandflies and mosquitoes away by putting a strong insect spray on your road trip pack list. 

Insects and bugs can dent your enjoyment of a destination at certain times of the year. 

• PROTECT AGAINST ELEMENTS: Our Element Defense wipes create a…
• OILY SKIN? NO PROBLEM: Element Defense transcends its…
• VERSATILE OUTDOOR USE:Whether you’re at home or on the go,…
• CONVENIENT PACKAGING: Each pack contains 70 robust wipes,…
• MADE FOR EASY APPLICATION: Our Element Defense wipes are…

Wear sunscreen if you’re driving long distances with the sun on your skin to avoid sunburn. 

You’d be surprised at how easy it is to get burnt, even when it doesn’t look like a particularly hot and sunny day. 

A bottle of hand sanitizer is helpful when you come in contact with germs or can’t find somewhere to wash your hands.

These days, keeping germs at bay is essential for good health and when you’re travelling, you just never know where you might pick up bad germs. 

• Seasonal Change Essential: Help keep your family healthy…
• Fast and Effective: Hand sanitizing on the go just got a lot…
• Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer: This pleasant, fresh-smelling…
• Clear Gel Formula: This USP-grade alcohol-based hand…
• X Germs with Confidence: We make Germ-X products that go…

Body wipes are a great option when you need to freshen up or for emergencies, especially if you have to sleep in your car. 

A pack of body wipes will do the trick when no running water is found. 

• STAY FRESH AND CLEAN – ANYTIME, ANYWHERE – Use as camp…
• DUAL-SIDED, LARGE BODY WASH WIPES – Front side is soft &…
• HYPOALLERGENIC w/ NATURAL INGREDIENTS – Skin-safe hygiene…
• No animal testing. Free from Parabens, Phthalates,…
• FROM THE MAKERS OF SWEATBLOCK SWEAT WIPES – Use FunkBlock…

Have you ever driven past a beach and have been tempted to jump in the ocean for a swim?

You’d be surprised at how much you’ll use a quick-dry towel. 

• ABSORBS 5X THE WATER WITH EASE – No matter how soaked you…
• FAST DRYING DRYING TOWELS! Finally, you never have to worry…
• SAY GOODBYE TO BULKY BEACH TOWELS – The worst thing about…
• GREAT GIFT FOR ADVENTURE SEEKERS – Give the gift that keeps…
• ENJOY OUR “NO ODORS” GUARANTEE – Thanks to the fast-drying…

A visor, hat or cap to keep the sun off your face.

Don’t forget this item and although you can pick up hats while on the road, there’s nothing like a comfortable old friend to take with you on your journey. 

• Made of 90% paper straw and 10 % polyester. Straw material….
• One Size fit most lady women,US Size: 7 – 7.25,UK Size:7 -…
• Foldable and packable:it can be easily carried inside your…
• Cute and lightweight,breathable and comfortable for the hot…
• An essential accessory for your outdoor travel,holiday,beach…

If you’re on a driving trip along the coast, pack your favourite swimwear and a spare pair.

Once you get the taste of plunging into the water, you might want to do it often and there’s nothing worse than pulling on wet swimwear.

• 2 Piece Tankini: The red floral printed two piece tankini…
• The V neck ruched front with functional drawstring tie side…
• The criss cross strappy back is chic and provides good…
• This two piece tummy control tankini bathing suits are…
• Multiple sizes for you to choose from: XS(US 0-2), S(US…

In summer, sandals are great to keep you cool and a neat item for your road trip packing list. 

They’re easy to slip on and versatile to wear in different circumstances, whether you’re wandering around town or going down to the beach.

• Perfect Quick Drying Material:Soft upper with stretch…
• Breathable Insole: Flexible insoles with holes are made of…
• Easy On and Off: The pull tap at the heel allows easy put…
• Safety & Non-slip: Upgraded anti slip rubber sole and soft…
• Occasion: Perfect for beach games, hiking, swimming, pool,…

There’s nothing like an ice-cold drink on a hot summer’s day and a car cooler is also useful to keep sandwiches and other food fresh.

Buying ice-cold soda pop is expensive from roadhouses and you’d be surprised at how much you can save on a road trip by packing your own in a car cooler.

• Swing-up bale handle with comfort grip for easy carrying
• Molded-in side handles for two handed carrying or lifting….
• 8′ long power cord plugs into any 12V DC receptacle (e.g….
• Uses your car’s cigarette lighter to cool without ice,…
• Cools without ice and leaves you more room for food and…

WINTER ROAD TRIP PACKING LIST

Going on a road trip in winter? Pack a snow shovel and look for one that folds up and won’t take up a lot of space.

It’s an item you will be thankful you took the time to put on your packing list for a winter road trip. 

• The shovel head is made of aluminum alloy
• The capacity of the shovel each time depends on the size of…
• It can shovel more objects at a time
• This is a heavy duty shovel
• Not only a snow shovel

Going on a road trip in winter is an adventure but make sure to tick an ice scraper off your packing list. 

There’s nothing more frustrating than scrabbling around to find something to scrape the ice off your windscreen. 

• Paint Protection Design: The bristle head looks lighter in…
• Built to Last: You’ll only need one, the high-strength ABS…
• Push and Scrape: Brush off snow and scrape the ice without…
• Divide and Conquer: Quickly separate the brush and scraper…
• Dimensions: 27” long gives you added reach for cars, 7”…

Yes, if you feel the cold a warm and comfortable pair of mittens is an essential road trip item for your packing list. 

Pack a spare pair in case you get wet. 

• Soft material: magic winter gloves are made of acrylic and…
• Essential winter accessory: knit gloves are practical…
• Simple yet classic style design: our gloves are lightweight…
• Package quantity: there are 4 pairs of stretch gloves in…
• Wide range of uses: winter warm gloves are suitable for…

When the air is dry, especially in winter, a pot or stick of lip balm will soothe cracked lips.

• MEDICATED LIP BALM: Prevent dryness, cracking, and chapping…
• SEALS IN MOISTURE: Ideal for both men and women, this…
• SPF SUN PROTECTION: This lip moisturizer uses SPF 15 to…
• IDEAL DAILY LIP CARE: Crafted with three long-lasting…
• SIMPLE TO USE: Apply this hydrating lip balm liberally 15…

If your car doesn’t already have an inbuilt seat heating function, you can get car seat cushions to keep your seat warm.

If you think of anything else that should be on our road trip packing list, please leave a comment below to let us know.

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100+ Tested Road Trip Pack List Essentials You Will Not Want to Forget

Do you love exploring a country on a road trip in a vehicle of your choice, but sometimes have a hard time knowing exactly what to pack? This post will help you create the perfect road trip pack list for your needs.

Dana and I have spent at least 22,000 miles road-tripping all over the United States on two cross-country road trips with our self-converted camper van . We added several more miles on our journeys along the US east coast with different vehicles.

Since we travel whenever we can, we get sick of thinking about what to pack again and again. To help fasten the packing process, we created our own road trip pack list which makes us get on the road faster.

No matter if you travel for just a few days, a couple of weeks, or several months, take the worry away from making sure you have everything packed by simply reading what to pack on a road trip and downloading our PDF road trip pack list .

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps us create free content for you to enjoy. Learn more about our disclaimer here . Thanks for your support!

Our Other Resources for Road Trips

• 45 Useful Gifts for Road Trips You Didn’t Know You Needed
• 90+ Road Trip Quotes to Excite You to Hit the Road

31 Best Games for Road Trips for Adults to Beat the Boredom

Helpful travel planning tools.

Gas: When going on a road trip, money for gas can quickly disappear. Find the cheapest gas prices and more perks like a trip cost calculator with the GasBuddy app. l GasBuddy

Rental Car: Get out on the road and explore your destination with a rental car at the best price with Discover Cars. l Discover Cars

Campervan: Our favorite way to explore the US National Parks is by campervan. Go to the world’s largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace and find your perfect van. l RVshare

Accommodations: After a day full of adventures, you deserve a good night’s rest. Whether it is a hotel room or a vacation home find a cozy accommodation that will make you feel at home. l Hotels.com  l  Vrbo

Travel Insurance: Feel safe on all your adventures around the world with simple and flexible travel insurance for all occasions. l World Nomad

Experiences: Make unforgettable experiences on your next trip with Get Your Guide, the best company to compare and book Sedona activities, and fun tours. l Get Your Guide

What to Pack: 100+ Tested Road Trip Pack List Essentials You Will Not Want to Forget

Everything You Need on Your Road Trip Pack List

To make it easier to see what to pack for road trips, we categorized all the items for your packing list. Beginning with road trip essentials for your vehicle, we go over the most important personal documents and items, electronics, clothing, toiletries, cooking utensils, and end up with outdoor gear.

Road Trip Essentials for Your Car

These most important essentials for your car should be with you on every road trip to stay safe and be prepared for everything.

Car Registration and Insurance Information You don’t want to be caught driving without these documents in your vehicle. Make sure you have the latest documents with you.

Car Owner Manual When asking yourself what to bring road trip, you might overlook the car owner’s manual. Usually, this is just something that sits in everyone’s glove compartment. No one wants to read this big boring book on what to know about the vehicle you are driving. But, it does come in handy when you come into some trouble. We used this book more than once while on the road.

AAA Membership and/or Phone Number(s) for Roadside Assistance Make sure to check your insurance policy, whether it is a rental vehicle or a personal vehicle, to see if roadside assistance is already included. Most of the time your insurance will just pay for a short towing distance and the rest will come out of your pocket. So it makes sense to pay for an annual AAA membership to be on the safe side. The membership also comes with some other perks like great discounts on attraction tickets and shopping.

Navigation It is important to have some type of navigation with you. Nowadays, most of us use a GPS system, whether it is a navigation system in the car or on our phones. You can even download maps on your phone when you are offline. Nevertheless, a printed road atlas can get super important in case your navigation system fails you. Technology is great but sometimes it does not work and you need to be prepared for that.

Electronic Toll Pass While on a road trip in the USA, U.S. residents might want to bring their electronic toll pass. We used our E-ZPass while traveling in the Midwest and east coast and were, therefore, able to save a decent amount of money.

UV Window Shades One of the most used items on our road trip is sunshades. We never left the van without putting in our sunshades , for our front and side windows. It was great at keeping the sun out and it prevented curious people from looking into our vehicle.

Pr otective Floor Mats We love traveling so much that we don’t care about the weather. In rain or shine, we want to enjoy the outdoors. Our WheaterTech floor mats help us not to leave a muddy mess in our vehicle.

(Trunk) Organizers When you just have a small space to keep all your belongings, you need a well-organized system to find whatever you need. We are huge fans of car organizers in different variations, especially backseat organizers which come with a lot of small pockets for all your miscellaneous items.

Spare Tire Make sure you know where the spare tire and tools in your vehicle are and educate yourself on changing a tire in case of an emergency. YouTube will be your best friend for that. This can be very important when you travel in remote areas or National Parks where roadside assistance is difficult to get and expensive. It is good to have insurance that takes care of you but it is even better when you can help yourself.

Fluids There are 6 essential fluids you should technically put on your road trip pack list. Included are engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windscreen washer fluid. To be honest, we never brought any of those fluids with us. Since our car knowledge just covers the basics, we let the professionals do their job.

Roadside Emergency Kit We purchased an emergency roadside kit that included everything we needed. Before packing this away in your vehicle, make sure to become familiar with each item. Plus it might be a good idea to take the seat belt cutter out of the kit and store it somewhere in the vehicle, like the glove compartment, in case you need it. You don’t want to be in a situation where you can’t get out because your emergency roadside kit is out of reach.

Basic Tool Kit This is especially good to pack for a road trip when you travel in a campervan. We converted our campervan ourselves and had to fix small things on the road from time to time with our basic tool kit .

Bu ngee Cords & Carabiners You can’t even imagine what we used bungee cords and carabiners for. No matter if they helped us to hold things in place while driving in our campervan or mount gear to our backpacks during some of our backpacking adventures, we absolutely love them.

Duct Tape & Waterproof Glue Duct tape and waterproof glue do their jobs when it comes to fixing things inside and outside of your vehicle quickly. These are not our preferred fixing materials but they definitely do their job for a little.

W ater Resistant Flashlight Flashlights are great when you have car trouble at night. They are even better when they are waterproof so that you can use them during the heaviest rain.

What to Pack for a Road Trip in Remote Areas

Our road trips have brought us to some very remote National Parks and other off-the-beaten paths areas in the United States . Especially when spending a couple of days in those areas, you may want to consider adding the following items to your packing list road trip.

Jug of Coolant or Water To prevent engine damage from overheating, it is a great idea to carry a jug of coolant with you, especially when you travel to areas that are not just remote but also hot.

Portable Gas Container with Gas We never ran into issues with running out of gas or finding gas stations. But we do keep a close eye on our gas levels and plan ahead by knowing where we are going. If you don’t want to risk anything, bring a filled portable gas container.

Quart of Oil Most engines will burn a quart of oil in 500-2,000 miles. If you primarily drive in remote areas and you didn’t get an oil change in a while, bring a quart of oil to help your engine’s running parts perform better.

Wiper Fluid Wiper fluid will help you see clearly in every weather condition, no matter if your windshield is dusty or muddy from your backcountry adventures, or from some snow and ice.

Things to Pack for a Road Trip in Winter

A road trip in the winter is very different from driving around during the other seasons. You have to think about what to pack more thoroughly. These must-haves should be a definite on your road trip pack list.

Ice Scraper & Snow Brush One of the main and most important things to pack on a road trip is an ice scraper with an integrated snow brush. Whereas the ice scraper helps you get a clear view, the brush can clear your car from the snow without scraping off the paint.

Shovel A shovel can be a true lifesaver in the winter (and also when you drive on the beach). If it snows overnight, it helps you clear the area around your car. In case you get stuck on a snowbank or ditch of snow, you also might be able to flatten the area in front of your car to continue your ride.

Jug of Coolant or Water Coolant is not just helping you with hot temperatures, it is also great for preventing your engine from freezing, which makes it one of the best things to bring on a road trip.

Things to Keep You Warm You never know if you will get stuck in the snow if you’re waiting for the tow truck, or if there is a huge traffic jam on the highway. Pack some things, like a blanket, winter clothes, and gloves to keep you warm while your engine is not running.

Tire Chains Certain areas in the USA won’t allow you access when you don’t bring tire chains . Do your research beforehand to avoid disappointment when you arrive at your destination.

Personal Must Haves For Road Trips

These documents and items you definitely want to have with you, but not just on road trips. They are travel essentials that help keep your journey safe and smooth.

Identification Make sure to always carry a valid identification document with you. For US residents who travel within their home country, a driver’s license will be enough. When you plan a road trip to a foreign country, don’t forget your passport.

Driver’s License Most countries accept driver’s licenses issued in English. When your regular license is in another language, apply for an international driver’s license in your hometown.

Bank & Credit Cards We suggest bringing at least 2 credit cards. You don’t want to be stuck if one doesn’t work or if you lose one. It is best to use a travel credit card that lets you earn travel rewards points and offers other great benefits. We rely on our Discover Miles and Capital One Venture Card to earn travel points. However, there are a ton of great travel credit card options. It is best to pick a travel credit card that suits your needs best.

Cash (Bills and Coins) Having some cash with you can be a true lifesaver. In some places, you can simply not pay with your card. Small bills or coins can get extremely handy for park meters or laundromats.

Health Insurance Cards No one expects an emergency to happen but in case something does occur you want to be prepared and have all the necessary information with you. That includes your home health insurance card and if you travel abroad your travel insurance document.

Vaccination Documents During times of Covid-19, you want to carry your vaccination card with you to make sure you get granted access to the places you want to visit. It is also a great idea to bring your card or copy of all the other vaccinations you received, in case you need to get sick. We recently purchased a vaccine cardholder to protect our cards from being damaged.

Online (and Hard) Copies of Documents Before you start your trip, make a digital copy (on your mobile device or a cloud) of all your documents. We like to create a folder on the computer and send them to ourselves in an email.

Confirmation Receipts (rental car, accommodations, attractions,…) You may also want to create a digital folder to easily access all the confirmation receipts you will need on your trip.

Emergency Contact Information Having an emergency contact information number with you is always a smart idea. We like to keep it in our wallets since we always carry it with us.

Car & House Keys Keep an extra key handy, but do not keep it on the same key ring. It will do you no good if you lose your keys when they are together. Personally, we don’t like to bring our house or apartment keys with us. Preferably, we give it to a person we trust. When that is not possible, keep them in a safe place, like in a travel safe .

Electronics and Gadgets For Your Road Trip Pack List

Even though we always want to unwind on our travels, our electronics checklist for a road trip is long. Our photography equipment takes up a huge part, but we also don’t want to miss some items to be entertained on the road.

Phone and Phone Mount In case you use the navigation system on your phone, get a phone mount . Trust us, it makes your life so much easier, when you can look at your phone hands-free. We bring our little travel phone mount everywhere. Just make sure that the phone mount can be installed in your car.

Camera, Accessories, and Batteries We don’t go anywhere without our camera, because pictures are our favorite souvenirs. Other accessories for our camera which are on our road trip pack list include the Peak Design capture clip , a camera strap, spare batteries, a small cleaning kit, and a remote control to take pictures of the two of us.

SD Cards in a Waterproof Case We can’t help it. Sometimes we get a little crazy and take more pictures than expected. For that situation, it is good to pack an extra SD card . We highly recommend putting them in a waterproof case . It gives you peace of mind to know that your most valuable souvenirs are protected from water, heavy rain, and also humidity.

Travel Tripod For our personal joy and for our blog, we enjoy taking pictures of the two of us. The easiest (and by far cheapest) way to do that is by using a tripod. We absolutely love our Rollei travel tripod which is light and small enough to fit in all of our backpacks. Another great tripod that is less sturdy but gives you more flexibility is the Gorilla Pod . Peak Design also offers another great travel tripod that works effortlessly with all peak design accessories.

GoPro When you are an adventure seeker, you will want to put a GoPro (and some accessories) on your packing list for a road trip. We use it frequently for our outdoor experiences, like going rafting, caving, biking, and climbing.

Portable Bluetooth Speakers For sunny days at the beach or cozy campfire nights, we like to bring a portable quality Bluetooth speaker . Always make sure that it is just your party who enjoys the music coming out of your speakers. There is nothing more annoying than people who entertain everyone else around them.

Notebook / Tablet & Holder Our Samsung tablet is one of the true must-haves for road trips. We mainly use our loyal companion to do small things for our blog and to watch shows on streaming services. For this, we also bring our tablet holder , one of the greatest inventions ever. No matter which vehicle we use for our road trip, we always find a way to set up our own personal theatre.

Laptop The Apple MacBook Pro is our laptop of choice for traveling. The easy-to-use features, lightweight compact design, and functionality allow us to keep working on our blog or stay up to date with other everyday tasks, like writing emails, while on the road.

USB C Hub Adapter for MacBook Pro This little piece of equipment is essential when traveling with a new Apple MacBook Pro. The USB C Hub Adapter allows us to connect our USB cable devices, SD Cards, and more directly to the laptop.

Laptop Carrying Case Protect your expensive laptop from bumps, scratches, and dents with a Thule Gauntlet carrying sleeve.

USB Car Charger During a road trip, you will spend plenty of time in your car. Why not use that time to charge your electronic devices? Put a USB car charger on your road trip pack list to charge multiple devices at the same time.

Rechargeable (Solar) Power Banks A dying phone is one of the most annoying things while traveling. That is why a power bank should be one of the essentials for road trips. Our rechargeable solar power bank was a true lifesaver on our recent backpacking trips in the middle of nowhere. Charged by the sun, we didn’t have to worry about a useless phone at all.

Outlet Converter / Travel Adapter Don’t forget to put an adapter or converter on your road trip packing list when you travel to a country that has other outlets than your home country. We usually bring this international power adapter travel plug which can be used in more than 200 countries.

Headphones & Headphone Splitter Especially, if you have to travel by plane or public transportation to get to the starting point of your road trip, you might want to bring headphones . We like to go old school and always have our headphone splitter with us, in case we want to watch a movie or listen to music on the same device while in public.

M obile Hotspot Do you need to be connected all the time? Then a mobile hotspot, like Solis WiFI , should be on your road trip packing list. On our cross-country road trips in the USA , we never used a mobile hotspot before, just because we didn’t spend a long time in isolated areas, but we definitely want to purchase one for our future international travels in remote locations.

Tech Pouch Keep your cords from being tangled, or lost, or from falling to the bottom of your bag with an organized Tech Pouch which can accommodate all your gear. Peak Design’s Tech Pouch is one of the best things to pack on a road trip.

Portable Fan You never know when a portable fan can come in handy. Especially when traveling to some extremely hot destinations, you should put it on your packing list for road trips. When packing for road trip, we love bringing a battery-operated fan, so we can use it whenever we need it without being afraid of using a generator or letting the car run.

Fun Things to Pack for a Road Trip

Enjoy your road trip even more with these fun items which will keep you busy for weeks. Try some good old travel games, jam out to your favorite music, dream away with a good book, and document your thrilling adventures on your own journey.

Road Trip Games There are plenty of entertaining games you can play while on the road. We wrote a detailed post on the best road trip games.

If you love good board or card games, also stock up on some travel-sized games. Some of our favorites are Qwinto , Qwirkle , Qwixx , Farkle , and the Deckscape Escape games.

Music Playlists Scrolling through radio stations is fun but what happens when the signal can’t be found or when you just get bored by listening to the same songs all over again? Use Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, or your preferred music app to create a playlist you can listen to wherever you go.

Audiobooks Especially on long drives, Dana loves to listen to Audiobooks. It keeps her entertained and focused, on top of that she never finds another time to read. Become a member of one of the big audiobook clubs, like Audible , download your favorite audiobook and enjoy your ride.

Ebook Reader or Old Fashion Book We prefer holding good old books in our hands but when traveling for a longer period of time, an ebook reader is simply easier to bring. You don’t have to just choose one book, you can download as many as you want for your reading joy. We like to carry our Kindle Paperwhite to enjoy books on the go.

Travel Journal and Pen Keeping a travel journal is a great way to keep track of your experiences. We have created a travel journal for every road trip we have been on. If you don’t like wasting a lot of paper, we recommend using the Rocketbook which allows you to reuse the pages after uploading your notes to your computer.

Comforting Things to Bring on a Road Trip

For us, it is very important to make ourselves feel at home while traveling. That is why we included these items for our safety and comfort in our road trip packing list.

Travel Locks Travel locks are an important road trip pack list gadget to keep all your precious items safe and secure. We never go on a journey without our travel locks. We mainly use them for our luggage and backpacks, but also for our tent when we go camping.

Pacsafe Travelsafe When you travel with a lot of valuables, a Pacsafe Travelsafe is one of the must-haves for road trips. Whenever you have to leave your accommodation or vehicle for an adventure, you can store your laptop, passport, and other important things in there. We even bring our Pacsafe to the beach with us. You just anchor the steel locking cable somewhere and don’t have to worry about someone stealing your personal items.

Eye Mask We never used an eye mask before our road trip in Alaska and it ended up being one of our favorite items we brought from the road trip pack list. Why? Well, when it stays bright for almost 24 hours, it can be quite hard to sleep in your car. But even when there are just lights shining into your vehicle when you try to fall asleep, an eye mask can be a lifesaver to getting some shut-eye.

• Cozy Blanket
• Comfortable Pillow
• Pepper Spray

Clothing and Accessories for Your Road Trip Packing List

We are all about being outdoors, that is why our road trip pack list mainly includes breathable, comfortable clothes. They also come in handy on long drives. When trying to figure out which clothes to pack for your road trip, try to stick to the same color patterns so that most of your clothes match.

Also keep in mind that less can be more, especially when you just have a certain space available which you want to keep organized. Instead of overpacking, we utilized laundromats all over the country to wash our clothes on the road.

Make sure to bring these clothing items and accessories on your next road trip:

Breathable, Comfortable Clothes Expect to sweat a lot on your outdoor adventures, so sweat-absorbing shirts, long sleeves, and pants are essentials for a road trip.

We would recommend clothes out of polyester or nylon. All of these materials move your sweat away from your skin and dry quickly. Also, make sure that you can move freely in your clothes since you will have to be flexible on your hikes.

Warm Mid Layers Wherever we go, we bring a warm layer. Even in the hottest destinations, it can get chilly in the evening and you can always use a thick hoodie/sweater to feel more comfortable on the road or on the plane.

Fa ncy Outfit When we hit some cities along the road, we make sure to bring one or two nice outfits for a fun date night. That includes a nice top with a pair of jeans, and a pretty dress, or skirt.

Hiking Clothes If you plan on doing a lot of hiking or outdoor adventures, you are going to need a good pair of hiking shorts, hiking pants , a T-shirt, a long sleeve, and hiking socks .

Swimwear More essential things to take on a road trip are swimwear and a quick-dry towel . No matter if you want to enjoy a cool dip in some glistening waters in the summer or a cozy hot spring in the winter, swimwear will come in handy.

Rain Coat One thing we have learned on all of our travels is to always bring a raincoat with you. Weather can be unpredictable. For us, the perfect raincoat needs to be lightweight and easily foldable, so that it takes up only a small space in our packs.

Hats/Caps Another essential for a road trip is a lightweight hat for your outdoor adventures, especially when traveling to hotter areas. We would suggest picking a hat that is light, foldable, and dries quickly.

Sunglasses When it comes to sunglasses, we mostly bring two pairs. One fancy pair of sunglasses for our city adventures and one outdoorsy pair of sunglasses. You may even think about purchasing a cheap pair of sunglasses to use when you don’t want to lose or damage your more expensive pairs. Make sure to purchase polarized glasses to best protect your eyes and have the ultimate view without any reflection. Our favorite outdoor sunglasses are Goodr and SunGod .

Buffs Buffs are a great travel item to pack for a road trip because they are so versatile in their use. You can utilize it as a headgear, face mask, or scarf. Check out the 12 ways to style your buff .

Packing Cubes / Plastic Bins with Drawers for clothes Depending on how you are traveling, the best bet for packing your clothes for a road trip is with packing cubes or plastic bins with drawers. When traveling in our campervan we prefer plastic bins for our clothes to stay organized and neat.

Daypack / Backpacks Having the right backpack for every occasion is essential to a successful trip. On our road trip checklists, we have a variety of bags that we use for different adventures. Here are some of our suggestions to add to your road trip pack list:

• Hiking: We really love the Deuter backpacks because of their functionality and slim fit. The absolute best feature is the ‘Deuter Promise’ which means you have lifetime repairs on your bags.
• City Trips: Our preferred bag for hitting the city streets is the Fjallraven Raven 28 backpack. It is trendy but also provides enough space for all of our essentials.
• Photography Gear: We have a few different bags that are great for carrying your camera gear. If you just need to bring your camera, batteries, and a second lens, the Peak Design Sling is perfect. If you need to carry more photography gear the Wandrd Prvke Backpack is our go-to.
• Packable Bag: When we are looking for a quick, easy, and foldable bag we grab our Matador packable backpack.

Don’t forget to pack these very basic essentials:

• Bras & Sports Bras

Footwear You Have to Bring on Your Road Trip

To have the right shoe in the right situation is key to fully appreciating your trip. Even though the list is kind of long, we cannot go without the following footwear:

Sneakers One of the most important things to bring on a road trip is sneakers. We can highly recommend the waterproof Tropicfeel shoes . They come in handy in various situations, when you spend hours driving on the open road, during your outdoor adventures, or whenever you want to feel comfy.

Hiking Boots Hiking is a major part of our journeys, so quality hiking boots are on top of our road trip essentials list. If you are not that much into hiking, but you don’t want to miss out on some incredible trails, a pair of sneakers with good traction might be good enough for you. Do your research about the trails before you pack for road trip.

Sandals/Flip flops Our flip-flops have seen a lot of different countries. Even when you travel to colder areas, it is well worth it to add them to your road trip pack list. They are easy to slip on and great to wear while taking a shower in public places.

Optional: Special Shoes Depending on your planned activities, it might be a great idea to add special shoes to your packing list for the road trip. Those can include but are not limited to, hiking sandals or water shoes. When we visited Havasu Falls we brought our water shoes to be able to cross all the streams on our hikes to the beautiful waterfalls .

Toiletries, Beauty, and Hygiene Products for Your Road Trip Checklist

To be honest, keeping up with your hygiene can be a little tricky on the road depending on where you are staying overnight and in which vehicle you are traveling in.

We have camped in our car in free campsites which didn’t have any facilities several times and very rarely felt dirty (Okay, there was this one time when all the shower facilities around us were closed and we really needed to get some dust off our bodies).

We used the following products to stay neat and clean on the road:

• Shower Essentials: Shampoo & conditioner, body wash, dry shampoo powder
• Solar Shower
• Shaving supplies
• Dental Care: Toothbrush, paste, dental floss, mouth wash
• Camping Mirror
• Make Up and Make Up Remover
• Skin Care: Body lotion with SPF, sunscreen, chapstick
• Feminine hygiene products
• Haircare: Hairbrush, hair products, hair accessories
• Tissues & Q-tips
• Nail file & Clipper
• Quick dry towel

Travel Tip: To keep all your toiletries, beauty, and hygiene products organized and handy, we highly recommend bringing a toiletry bag .

We already mentioned before, that doing laundry prevents you from overpacking. No matter where you go, you will always find laundromats where you can quickly refresh your clothes.

Therefore add these things to bring on a road trip:

• Laundry Bag
• Laundry Detergent and Tide To-Go Pen
• Clothesline/Rope

An item we never want to forget on our packing for a road trip list is our travel clothesline. When you plan on washing your clothes, you need something to hang them on and this is by far the easiest solution.

Health Items to Pack

Looking good and staying clean is one thing but you also want to make sure to have everything you need to stay healthy.

Here is what to pack on your road trip to be safe and stay in good shape even in a pandemic:

• First Aid Kit
• Covid-19 Stay Safe Pack: Hand sanitizer, Sanitizing Wipes, Face Masks
• Basic Medication and Personal Prescribed Medication
• Insect Repellent

Cooking Utensils for Your Road Trip Pack List

Save yourself some money by cooking on your own when road tripping in the USA . Don’t get us wrong, we fully enjoy tasty restaurant food but unfortunately going out for dinner every day sums up. On top of that, you will appreciate restaurant meals, even more, when you don’t get them every day.

Even when you have to take a plane to get to your starting point for your road trip, you can make it work to cook on your own. We brought all of the following products on the plane to Alaska with us or grabbed them at a store when we arrived:

Reusable Water Bottle Reusable water bottles are great for the environment and you spend less money when you don’t have to buy plastic water bottles all the time. That makes them one of the best essentials for road trip. You can get different insulated bottles as well as collapsible bottles which are light and don’t take a lot of space and are therefore great for outdoor activities.

Filtered Water Bottle/System When you want to do some backpacking trips or long day hikes, put a water filtration system on your packing list for road trips. As long as you know there are safe water sources around, give your back a rest by utilizing a water filter instead of gallons of water.

(Foldable) Water Jug One of the greatest essentials for a road trip is a foldable water jug . It guarantees that you always have water in your car and you can easily refill it for cheap at a Walmart.

Insulated Cooler When asking yourself what to bring, an insulated cooler should be one of the top things to pack on a road trip. If you are serious about road tripping, we can highly recommend spending a little more money to get a high-end cooler from Yeti.

In the end, you will actually save some money because you don’t have to replace the ice that often. If you get the chance, purchase block ice instead of ice cubes. It stays cold for a longer time.

Camping Stove and Propane Different occasions need different camping stoves. On our cross-country road trip packing list, we have a standard camping stove for cozy meals around our campervan and a small and lightweight backpacking stove for our outdoor adventures.

Outdoors Kitchen Sets We utilize two different outdoor kitchen sets when we go on a road trip.

• Pots and Pans: This outdoor backpacker cookset for 2 comes with 11 items. Besides a pot and a pan you also get plates, bowls, and mugs. It is stored in a stuff sack which you can use to do your dishes. Such a smart idea!
• Camp Kitchen Set: You will find whatever else you need to cook, in this handy outdoor kitchen set . It even comes with little spice containers, small bottles for liquid for you to individually fill it up, and products to wash your dishes.

Food Storage Containers Pack a variety of different-sized, stackable storage containers and reusable bags to store leftovers or to pack some snacks for a hiking trip or a romantic picnic. We always try to avoid single-use paper or plastic products to produce less waste.

Garbage Can with Lid & Bags Don’t overlook a garbage can. When you eat on a long drive or when you cook at your campsite, you always know where to put your trash. If you don’t want to bring a garbage can with a lid, another great idea to store your trash in is a big container for cereal.

And then, there are these essential items:

• Biodegradable Dish Soap
• Kitchen Towels (and Paper Towels)
• Long Lighter
• Swiss Army Knife
• Aluminum Foil
• Reusable Shopping Bags

Outdoor Gear Not to Forget

If you are an outdoor enthusiast like us, you have to add some outdoor gear to your packing list for a road trip. We are obsessed with exploring beautiful landscapes by going hiking and are in love with a great backpacking trip in the wild. You will know best which gear you normally bring for your favorite outdoor activities.

Here are our must-bring products to hit the hiking trails:

• Backpack/Daypack
• Rain Cover for Backpack
• Hiking poles
• Insulated bottles
• Hiking Boots
• Hiking Socks
• Breathable Clothes

If your road trip includes camping or some backpacking adventures, these are additional things to pack:

• Sleeping Bags
• Silk Sleeping Bag Liner (for hot nights)
• Sleeping Pads or Travel Air Mattress
• Solar Camping Light
• Collapsible Table
• Camping Chairs

Last but not least, we make sure to have these miscellaneous items with us on our road trip adventures:

Travel Pocket Blanket One item we love to pack is our pocket blanket . It is very light and small and you can use it for many different occasions. You can use it at the beach instead of bringing another towel, during your hikes, or when you want to have a picnic in the grass.

Utility Knife/Swiss Card Classic A Swiss Card Classic is a super handy multi-tool for every trip. With the size of a credit card, it is the smallest multi-tool I’ve ever seen. It comes with a nail file, screwdriver, toothpick, tweezers, ballpoint pen, emergency blade, scissors, and even more.

Travel Binoculars Binoculars are one of the things to bring for a road trip that gets overlooked. You never know what you can spot on the side of the road while driving or what you will find on an adventurous hike. Make sure you purchase travel binoculars since they are lightweight and smaller.

General Information to Consider When Planning a Road Trip

When creating your road trip pack list, you always have to consider the following questions to figure out what you need for your specific occasion:

• In which climates will you travel?
• How long are you going for?
• Are you taking your own vehicle or do you have to rent one?
• Where will you sleep?
• What will you be doing (outdoor activities, city trips…)?
• Do you want to cook for yourself?
• What space do you have to pack in?

Knowing your destination, the itinerary, and planned activities will help you a lot to pack the essential items for your trip. Don’t get out of hand too much when packing tons of gear. The more specific and organized you are with your packing, the easier it will be on the road when you are looking for something.

After taking many road trips and testing out different packing techniques, we have found out that no matter how much you bring or how little you bring, you will always forget something. As long as you have your most important personal documents and road trip essentials for your car with you, you should be fine. The other products can be purchased during your trip if you really need them.

Top Tip: If you plan on road tripping around the United States and visiting the beautiful National Parks , we would highly recommend purchasing an America the Beautiful pass .

Which Vehicle to Take on a Road Trip?

Deciding on what vehicle is best for your road trip can be difficult. But it is one of the most important decisions to make. Having the right vehicle for your needs can easily make or break your trip. In general, you have the option between a car, a campervan, or an RV .

There are a few things you will want to consider when trying to make a decision on the best vehicle for your road trip:

• Do you want to sleep in your vehicle?
• How many people are in your party?
• Where do you want to go?
• Do you have to pay for a rental? How much money do you want to spend?
• Do you feel comfortable driving a bigger vehicle?

1. Personal Car or Rental Car

A car is all you need to start an amazing road trip journey. It provides the transportation necessary to hit all your bucket list road trip destinations without the amenities of accommodations. There are a couple of different options for your overnight stay when you travel in a car:

• Hotels or Motels
• Tent camping on campgrounds
• Camping in your car

To save money on accommodation when traveling by car, you could think about giving car camping a try. On Campendium or Dyrt you can find free campsites to make your journey even more affordable.

Top Tip: In need of a bigger car for your road trip? Check out car rental deals to find the best car for your next road trip.

2. Campervan

Using a Campervan is our absolute favorite choice for a road trip. Since Campervans come in many different styles, sizes, and layouts, it makes it a very versatile vehicle for a road trip. Campervans have easily enough room for a solo road tripper, two friends, a couple, and even a family with young children.

Traveling in a Campervan you never have to worry about where the road will take you because you have everything you need with you. It is your transportation and your accommodation in one which gives you the freedom to just enjoy the open road.

Top Tip: I f you don’t have your own campervan, we would recommend renting one from the award-winning Escape Campervans rental company.

An RV is the biggest vehicle you can choose for your road trip. It is much larger than a campervan and gives you the luxury of having more space to travel and stay in. In our opinion, RVs are best for growing families, elderly couples, or individuals who need to have more space.

Unfortunately, they come with some big disadvantages. Some of the larger RVs are hard to maneuver in cities and windy backroads, and you won’t be able to access certain sections in National Parks. Also expect to spend more money on gas and for the rental, in case you don’t have your own vehicle.

Top Tip: If you want to rent an RV from private parties for your next road trip, check out RVShare .

The Best Road Trip Tips

1 . Utilize Reusable Kitchenware Protect the environment by not using throw-away utensils, dishes, and plates. Instead buy travel outdoor kitchen sets which come with everything you need to prepare and enjoy a delicious meal.

2. Bring a Water Jug Have lots of water with you at all times. You would be surprised how quickly you will use up water to drink, cook, wash dishes, brush your teeth, and do a variety of other things.

Depending on the length of our road trip, we either bring one or two 2.5 gallon plastic water jugs or collapsible water jugs.

3. Invest in a Good Cooler Having the right cooler with you on a road trip can make all the difference. Stopping for ice can get pretty annoying and add up quickly. Don’t waste your time and money searching for ice bags. Spend more time enjoying the road by putting the money upfront and investing in a quality insulated cooler.

4. Ask Locals for Tips Who knows the area better than a local, right? If you can, it is always a great idea to get a local perspective. This is especially true when you are looking to find some hidden gems. Almost on every road trip, we have talked with locals to find the best places to eat, camping destinations, unusual attractions nearby, and more.

Locals can be some of the best and most helpful resources you can find on the road. So don’t be afraid to ask for advice.

5. Download Whatever You Need Before Your Departure Depending on where you are road tripping, service can be spotty, especially in the U.S. National Parks . Don’t forget to download music, TV shows, or even tickets for your activities in advance. Before we start any journey, we like to download a bunch of shows from Netflix or Hulu on our tablet. We don’t like to miss out on watching our favorite show because of poor service.

6. Get Your Car Ready Your vehicle is the most important thing to prepare for a road trip. Do not forget to get the vehicle checked out before you leave on your journey. Take it to a garage for a quick inspection to make sure everything is in good working condition to prevent any mishaps on the road.

Here is a quick list of things to check on your vehicle before heading out on the road:

• Windshield wiper fluid
• Tire pressure
• Tire wear and tear

7. Find the Best Apps These apps can be extremely useful while road tripping:

Map Apps: Of course, there are a bunch of different apps out there you could use for navigation. The apps we tend to stick to and which work well for us are Apple Maps, Google Maps, and Maps.Me.

Traffic Apps: If you hate sitting in traffic, use apps like Waze or Google Maps to help you avoid any unnecessary traffic jams.

Camping Apps: Doing a little camping on your road trip? We use a variety of apps to find free and cheap camping areas throughout the United States.

• iOverlander

Gas Apps: Gas can really add up on a road trip. Keep your road trip going longer by finding the cheapest gas around using apps like GasBuddy.

Hiking Apps: Never get lost on the trails by using Alltrails Pro’s downloadable offline hiking trail maps.

7. Travel Partner Having the right travel partner is probably one of the most useful road trip tips that no one thinks about. Why would it be important? Well, you don’t want to be stuck in a small space for long periods of time with someone who gets on your nerves. Road trips can test even the best of relationships.

On the flip side, road trips can also help build a relationship because it allows you to reconnect and work with one another. We have found on our road trips across the United States, traveling together has made us a stronger couple because you never know what challenges might come your way on the road.

FAQ: Packing for a Road Trip

When should you start packing?

A rough idea on when to start creating your packing list for road trips would be 3-4 weeks before you start your trip. You want to make sure to give yourself ample time to see and order what you still need to get for your trip. The longer the road trip, the earlier you should begin.

Start the actual packing process a couple of days prior to your departure. We suggest laying out items into different categories to stay organized.

Top Tip: As you pack, make sure to use our downloadable PDF road trip packing list to check off items as you go.

What should you not forget?

Of course, you would love not to forget anything, but unfortunately, we all know this will probably never happen no matter how well you prepare your road trip pack list.

Items you definitely will not want to forget are the items you can’t just pick up anywhere like:

• Driver’s license and ID
• Car/travel/medical insurance
• Car registration
• Credit cards
• Other documentation

What is the best time to take a road trip?

Anytime. Right? I mean road trips are great any time of the year. If you can find the time, then hit the road. However, if you happen to be road tripping around the United States, then here are some suggestions when to go where:

• Winter – Pacific Coast Highway, The Florida Keys, Million Dollar Highway (Colorado), The Seward Highway, Utah’s National Parks
• Spring – The American Southwest, Columbia River Scenic Highway, Oregon Coast
• Summer – Route 66, The Olympic Peninsula
• Fall – Blue Ridge Parkway, Kancamagus Highway, New England, New York Finger Lakes, Vermont Route 100

What are some good road trip snacks?

Who doesn’t get hungry on a long drive? Everyone loves to munch on some snacks while hitting the road. Here is a quick list of easy snack items to pack for a road trip:

Healthy Snacks:

• Granola and Energy Bars
• Dried Fruit
• Fresh Fruit & Veggies

Fun Snacks:

• Pretzels/Popcorn/Chips

Quick Lunch:

• Sliced Bread
• Sliced Meat
• Cheese Sticks
• Canned Tuna (…with an easy-open can)
• Hard-Boiled Eggs
• Peanut/Almond/Sunflower Butter

How do you pass time on the road?

This usually ends up being people’s top worry before heading out on the road. But you tend to find out quickly how beautiful, calming, and relaxing it is to be out on the road. Time actually goes faster than you think.

Now don’t get us wrong, as soon as you hit those treacherous and unavoidable traffic jams time begins to move ever so slowly. So when you are feeling like time is standing still, keep yourself entertained with some unique road trip games.

How should I pack my car for a road trip?

All the big items you don’t need at a moment’s notice can be packed in the far part of your truck. Utilize the other space for those smaller, more pliable items to fill the gaps.

The most important car packing tip is to keep the bag of essentials in the back seat within an arm’s reach for easy access.

We also like to utilize a back seat organizer to store all those small items we use frequently.

Where can I sleep?

We like to save our money on sleeping accommodations when road tripping. Our camping essentials are things to pack for a road trip since they let us be more flexible with our accommodations.

To find cheap and free camping across the United States, we use apps like Campendium , iOverlander , The Dyrt , Hipcamp , and Freecampsite.net . You can usually find the best free camping destinations on BLM lands which are more frequently found in the western part of the U.S.

We have also found ourselves sleeping at Walmart, Cracker Barrel, truck stops, travel centers, rest areas, and other outdoor/camping stores. Although these places are not ideal, they do provide a free place to sleep on the road.

How do you shower?

On our first road trip, showering was a major concern for us because we knew we would be staying overnight in a lot of spots without any amenities. However, we found out that finding shower options were much easier than we anticipated.

Some great places to shower while on the road are actually at truck stops, such as Pilot Flying J and Love’s. Shockingly the shower amenities are very nice but do come at a price.

We also brought along a solar shower for the days we spent out in the middle of nowhere and could shower right out the back of our campervan.

If you stay in hotels/motels or regular campsites, you won’t have any issues finding shower facilities.

How do I get on the Internet?

Getting the internet on the road can sometimes be spotty. There are different ways to make sure to go online:

• Having a decent data plan with unlimited wifi so you can always use your phone when there is not free wifi
• Using a Wifi Hotspot device to have internet access which (it is a little pricy)
• Stopping in a coffee shop, Panera, or other shops to access their wifi

How m uch does a road trip cost?

Ahhh, the question everyone wants to know! The cost of a road trip is dependent on so many things. Here are some things to consider when determining your road trip budget:

• Do I have to rent a vehicle, campervan, or RV?
• How long is the road trip?
• How many miles will I be traveling?
• What is the price of gas?
• How many times will I eat out or go to the grocery store?
• What kind of activities will I be doing?
• Where will I sleep?
• What do I need to buy for my road trip?

Now, there may be a few more things that can contribute to road trip costs but these are pretty much the heavy hitters. We have found numerous ways to cut costs on our road trips which enables us to stay on the road for longer.

All in all, Road trips do not have to cost a lot of money. We find it to be one of the cheapest ways to travel.

What is Your Favourite Road Trip Packing List Item? Did We Forget Anything?

Let us know in the comments below!

Road Trip Across the United States: 9 Week Itinerary

• Explore Utahs National Parks in One Unforgettable Road Trip
• Plan a Trip from Zion to Bryce Canyon: 2 Utah National Parks

40 Perfect Road Trips from New York City to Take

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Ultimate Road Trip Packing List w/Printable Checklist

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• Printable Packing Lists

Knowing what to bring on a road trip is essential for a successful journey. But with so many potential items to bring, what should you include on your road trip packing list?

To help you out, we’ve compiled 75 road trip essentials and created a convenient road trip checklist PDF that you can download below:

Click here for our free printable PDF

Ready to start packing? Here's a breakdown by category of the items you'll likely need and a brief explanation of why they're essential for any road trip list:

Important Road Trip Items

The below items should be top priorities for any road trip:

1) Valid Driver's License

Before you hit the road, double-check that your license is still valid and up-to-date.

2) Vehicle Registration

Along with a valid driver's license, you'll also need to make sure your vehicle registration is up-to-date. Keep it in your glove compartment in case you need to grab it quickly.

3) Car Insurance Information

No road trip packing list is complete without car insurance information! If your provider has an app, download it so you always have a convenient way of accessing your policy details. 

4) Maintenance Checkup

Ensure that all necessary maintenance is up to date before you embark on your road trip. This includes checking the oil level, examining brakes and tires, ensuring the car battery is in good condition, and topping off any other necessary fluids.

5) Extra Car Key

Keep an extra key to your car with you in case you're locked out or lose your primary key.

6) Car Manual

When available, keep the car manual with you in case of any issues. You may be able to troubleshoot some minor issues by referring to it. 

7) Toll Transponder

When wondering what to take on a road trip, chances are a toll transponder doesn't always come to mind! But if your route includes any toll roads, make sure to order the necessary transponders in advance, as this can help you save time and money at the tolls.

Cash is an essential road trip item that can't be overlooked or understated. Even though you may have access to a debit or credit card, it's best to carry between $150 and $250 in cash for any emergencies. 

9) Roadside Assistance Phone Number

If your car breaks down, the last thing you want is to be stranded without a way out. Keep the number for your roadside assistance provider in your wallet or phone, so you know who to call if the need arises. You can also contact triple A at 1-800-400-4222.

Road Trip Essentials

The following items are must-haves for any road trip packing list:

10) First Aid Kit

A first aid kit can help in emergencies or minor accidents, so make sure to include one in your road trip checklist.

11) Spare Tire

It's probably there already but just give it a check before you hit the road.

12) Car Jack

This road trip essential is the jam to your spare tire's peanut butter. Make sure it's nestled in the trunk alongside your spare.

13) Jumper Cables

If you ever run out of juice while on the road, jumper cables are a lifesaver. Keep them in your vehicle at all times and you'll be good to go. 

14) Road Atlas

GPS and navigation apps don't always work, especially when you're in rural or remote areas. If you plan on taking a scenic route, make sure to bring an old-fashioned yet updated road atlas as a backup.

15) Wiper Fluid

You'll be glad for wiper fluid when the elements don't cooperate, including dust, dirt, rain, and bugs! Keep the container in the car and top off as needed.

16) Basic Tool Kit

You don't need to be a mechanic, but having some basic tools with you is always helpful in case you need to repair something (think screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, etc.). 

17) Mechanics Gloves

One of the best road trip essentials is a pair of mechanics gloves. These come in handy when making minor repairs on the road, such as changing a tire or adding wiper fluid.

18) Tire Pressure Gauge

A tire pressure gauge is another essential item to have in your car, as it will help keep your tires in good shape.

19) Ice Scraper

If you're planning on venturing in the wintertime, make sure to bring an ice scraper. You'll thank yourself later when you don't have to use your credit card to scrape off ice from the windshield!

20) Duct Tape

One of our favorite road trip must-haves is duct tape. It has a dozen uses on the road, like fixing minor issues with the car or mending a broken suitcase. 

21) Flashlight

Because let's face it: Your phone's flashlight feature can only do so much!

Snacks are classic road trip necessities that can't be overlooked. Pack some healthy options like nuts, granola bars, and fruit to get you through those long drives.

23) Reusable Water Bottle

Hydration is key, so don't forget to bring your reusable water bottle and fill it up at rest stops or restaurants along the way.

Road Trip Basics

Now for the fun stuff! These road trip basics can keep you comfy and looking cool.

24) Sunglasses

By sunglasses, we mean more than one pair. After all, you never know when they'll get lost or broken! 

25) Sunglass Visor Holder

We highly recommend a visor holder like this one for any road trip packing list. It makes it easy to store your sunglasses and reach them quickly without any fuss.

26) Hand Sanitizer

An essential road trip item, the hand sanitizer is the unofficial soap you wish you had after using a restroom at the gas station where there never seems to be any soap! 

27) Painkillers

You never know when a headache or other minor ache may come along, so make sure to pack some painkillers just in case.

28) Travel Mug

You can never go wrong with a travel mug. Bring yours and fill it up at the local coffee shop during rest stops for an extra pick-me-up.

Wipes can be used to clean surfaces, wipe down hands, and even freshen up on the go.

No judgment here—but mints are a road trip must-have. They'll help freshen your breath after all those snacks, and they make a great pick-me-up during long drives.

31) Umbrella

You'd be surprised at how quickly the weather can change, so don't forget to add an umbrella to your road trip checklist.

No more guzzling down your beverages before they get too hot. Instead, just add some ice to your car cooler and enjoy cold drinks at your leisure.

33) Microfiber Towels

There are so many uses for microfiber towels: wiping up spills, cleaning glasses, drying off your car after a wash, and more. Make sure to add a few to your road trip list and you'll be good to go. 

34) Swiss Army Knife

A Swiss army knife is one of the best multi-purpose tools ever made. It comes with multiple blades, a corkscrew, scissors, and more in case you need it. The best part? It can fit in your pocket!

35) Bug Spray

Mosquitos and other bugs may be out in full force, so don't forget to pack some bug spray.

36) Travel Blanket

A travel blanket is a great item to have in your car for those long road trips. Not only will it keep you warm, but it can also double as a makeshift picnic blanket or pillow.

37) Travel Notebook

If you're a planner or like to take notes while traveling, then make sure to bring a notebook with you. It's a great way to keep track of all the places you've been and jot down a few memories along the way.

38) Pen and pencils

You can never have too many of these. Stash a few in your glove compartment for filling out paperwork or taking notes.

Road Trip Personal Items

These road trip items are essential for your comfort and enjoyment:

A hat is great for keeping the sun out of your eyes and hair away from your face. It's a small item, but it can go a long way in making your road trip more comfortable.

A scarf is a great way to stay warm in the early mornings and at night. Plus, it will keep your neck from getting sunburned.

We all know how chilly it can get on road trips sometimes, especially in the evenings. A hoodie will keep you warm and is also a great way to show off your style.

42) Earplugs

Earplugs are key for sleeping comfortably on the road. Whether you're in a hotel or camping, make sure to check these off your road trip packing list.

43) Sunscreen

No road trip checklist is complete without sunscreen. Make sure to use at least 40 SPF and apply it regularly to protect your skin from sun damage. (Don't forget to dab some on your ears, too!)

44) Toothbrush

Good oral hygiene is important, even on the road. Make sure to bring a toothbrush and some travel-sized toothpaste with you.

45) Lip Balm

Chapped lips are no fun! Stock up on some lip balm and keep your lips from getting dry and cracked. 

46) Lint Roller

Lint rollers are some of the most underrated road trip essentials. They can help keep your clothes looking neat during long drives, and they're especially helpful for pet owners with furry friends in tow.

47) Hair Brush

Keep your locks looking neat and tangle-free while on the road.

48) Hair Ties

Hair ties (or headbands if you prefer) are great for keeping your hair out of your face when needed. They'll also come in handy if you're planning on going for a swim or doing any other outdoor activities.

49) Duffel Bag

Of all the things to bring on a road trip, a duffel bag is one of the most versatile items you can have. It's great for keeping your clothes and essentials organized, gaining quick access to your belongings, and providing extra storage when needed.

50) Laundry Bag

We love a proper laundry bag designed for travel so much that we dedicated a whole blog post to it! Check it out .

51) Packing Cubes

If you're looking for a neat and efficient way to store and access your items, we highly recommend packing cubes.

52) Tide-To-Go Pen

Tide-To-Go pens are essential for removing those pesky food stains that can build up during long road trips. Make sure to have one handy so you can keep your clothes looking their best.

53) Liquid Detergent Packets

Another thing to include on your road trip checklist is liquid detergent packets. They're great for hand-washing clothes if you don't have access to a washing machine or need to do a quick spot clean.

Road Trip Tech

Having the right tech gear can make your road trip much more convenient, enjoyable, and comfortable. Here are some top picks:

54) Camera / GoPro

Invest in a good camera or GoPro to capture all the great places you'll be visiting.

55) USB Cable

USB cables will come in handy when you need to charge your phone or other devices on the go.

56) Powerbank

Powerbanks are essential for charging your devices when you don't have access to a power outlet. Make sure to bring one along with you!

57) Car Charger

Car chargers fit into your car's cigarette lighter and can be used to charge your phone or other devices. We recommend getting one with multiple ports so you can charge several devices at once.

58) Phone Mount

If your vehicle doesn't have a built-in navigation system or Apple CarPlay, then you might want to add a phone mount to your road trip checklist. This will help you keep your phone secure and easily accessible while on the road. 

59) Headphones

Headphones are another road trip essential if you're planning on listening to music or streaming while riding as a passenger. Invest in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones to ensure that you won't be disturbed by any outside noises, and consider a headphone splitter if you're the sharing kind!

60) Power Inverter

If your car doesn't have enough outlets for charging all of your devices, then consider getting a power inverter. These devices convert DC power from your car's battery into AC power, which can then be used to charge or use multiple devices at once.

61) Gas Buddy App

You've already thought about what to bring on a road trip, but have you thought about what you might need to download? The Gas Buddy app is a great way to quickly find the best gas prices in your area.

62) SpotHero App

SpotHero is another must-have app for road trips. It will help you find and book parking spots with ease, so you can reach your destination hassle-free.

63) Podcasts App

A selection of podcasts is key for those long drives. Download one of the many available and explore the amazing content out there.

Road Trip Extras

Need some more suggestions for the ultimate road trip packing list? These extras will take your experience to the next level.

64) Trunk Organizer

Trunk organizers can help maximize the storage space in your car, so you can arrange all of your road trip essentials neatly and avoid clutter.

65) Extra Batteries

Depending on the type of tech gear you're bringing with you, you'll probably need some extra batteries. Check your device to see what type of batteries you need and stock up on some spares.

66) Titanium Toothpick

Titanium toothpicks are the pro traveler's best-kept secret. They're great for anyone who wants to travel more sustainably, reduce their carbon footprint , or simply have them on hand after a crunchy meal.

67) Coin Pouch w/Quarters

A coin pouch with quarters is a classic item to include in your road trip packing list. It comes in handy when you need to do laundry on the road, use a vending machine, or pay a toll.

68) Car Vacuum Cleaner

Car vacuum cleaners are lightweight and easy to set up, so you can quickly clean your vehicle in between destinations.

69) Car Trash Can

A car trash can will help you keep your vehicle tidy and organized. Look for one that's leak-proof, has a built-in lid, and is easy to empty.

70) UV Window Shades

UV window shades can keep your car cool and reduce the glare of direct sunlight, especially during long summer trips. Choose a set that's easy to install and remove, so you can quickly adjust them as needed. 

71) Reusable Shopping Bag

Reusable shopping bags are great for packing snacks on the go, carrying items from the store to the car, and reducing your single-use plastic consumption.

72) Sling Belt or Day Pack

A sling belt or day pack is essential for carrying your valuables while you explore new areas. Get one with several compartments and try complementing it with a carabiner or some other locking mechanism. 

73) Apple AirTag

Apple AirTags are great if you want to keep track of all your items while on the road, including your car! They're small, lightweight, and water-resistant. Plus, they work with the Find My App so you can see their location at any time.

Additional Items for Your Ultimate Road Trip Checklist

We promised you 75 items for the ultimate road trip experience, which leaves just two more:

74) Road Trip Playlist and Adventure Songs

No road trip list is complete without your favorite songs and albums to accompany you throughout the trip. If you need some ideas, check out our "Songs About Adventure" post.

75) Road Trip Trivia

Trivia games are a great way to pass the time while you're on the road. They'll keep you and your passengers entertained, all while learning something new. Check out our curated list of road trip trivia questions and answers for some inspiration.

Ready To Hit the Road?

We hope this road trip packing list helps you plan your next journey, whether it's a weekend adventure in the desert or an epic cross-country odyssey.

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The ultimate road trip packing list (+ free checklist)

The sun is shining, the wind blowing through your hair, the tunes are jammin’. It’s road trip season, and it’s time for new horizons! Don’t be caught off guard and be prepared for anything that could happen with this essential road trip packing list.

Car care essentials to store in your trunk:

Essentials to store in your glove box:, tech to make road trips easier, in-car essentials, comfort kit, personal care, planning on sleeping in your car, best road trip apps, road trip songs to jam to, best podcasts for road trips, best audio books for road trips.

NOTE: Travel is not recommended at this time. These posts are here to serve as inspiration when we can explore again. Hey there – this post likely contains affiliate links, which means I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase from them. This helps me earn a few dollars to run this website.

Road trips are the freaking best. I mean, not only do you get to arrive at your destination ready for adventure, but you also get to explore along the way. Who else wants to stop at every GIANT roadside attraction!?

I’ve road tripped across Canada 11 times, and I haven’t taken the same route twice! We have a freaking big country, and there are so many places to stop and explore. Each time, I think, oh next time I’ll bring (blank) to add to my road trip enjoyment. So, I’ve compiled this list of EVERYTHING you need so you’ve got an idea of what to pack for your next road trip.

Car care essentials that you hope you’ll never need to use

Let’s first talk about the absolute essentials. You might think that you can get away without some of these things, but trust me, you’ll smack yourself if you end up needing them and didn’t bring them.

I am the QUEEN of being prepared for emergencies. When I learned how to change a tire, my dad taught me in the worst possible conditions, using only the tools that came with the car (rather than the using super easy compressor drill). Why? Because he said when I’m going to need to change a tire on the roadside, it might be raining and you might not have the easy tools on hand.

Well, it turns out he was right. The first time I blew a tire, it started pouring buckets. And I mean POURED. The next time a nail pierced my tire, and it was in the middle of a snowstorm. So yeah, he was right.

All of these items can be stored in a box in your trunk or your glove box. Hopefully, you’ll never have to use them, but at least you’ll be prepared.

• Jumper cables
• Work gloves
• Multipurpose tool or pocket knife
• First aid kit
• Roadside emergency kit (it’s got everything you need!)
• Car fluids like windshield washer fluid
• Flashlight and batteries
• License and registration
• Your insurance policy
• Car Escape Tool (this one can go right on your key chain)

RELATED: 10 places you must stop between Jasper and Banff, Alberta

There’s nothing like listening to the best playlist or taking fun photos and videos as you wiz by. So, don’t forget to include these tech essentials on your road trip packing list.

Cell phone holder : Bring this along if you’re using your phone as a GPS. If you’re not, then put your phone away. Distracted driving is dangerous and using your phone while driving is illegal in Canada.

Personal hotspot : Stay connected on the road with a personal hotspot.

Chargers and batteries : Gotta stay juiced up!

Kick ass play list : See below for suggestions.

Camera : I don’t go anywhere without my camera and road trips are prime places for pictures.

A book or audiobooks : I love listening to audiobooks while driving, like the Harry Potter series narrated by Steven Fry, but Audible is a great place to start. See below for more suggestions.

Four-port charger : This makes it easy to make sure everyone is charged up!

Stopping at a store to get change for a toll, stopping every hour for food and stopping to ask for directions are counterintuitive for a SUPER FLY road trip. That’s why these in-car essentials should absolutely be on your road trip packing list.

Printed map : Physical maps serve two purposes, one to tell you how to get somewhere the old-fashioned way, but also a neat souvenir. Passengers can keep track of your route with a highlighter. Later, you can take those pages and make a fun road trip memory craft.

Printed copies of your confirmation numbers : You might need them for campsites, hotels, motels, ferries, etc. You can keep it all in this amazing travel document holder .

Cash and coins for tolls : Canada doesn’t have too many places where you have to pay a toll; however, many other countries do. It’s best to keep some coins and small bills on hand for when the time comes. Just keep them hidden to deter theft, but in an easy to reach spot for the driver.

Toilet paper rolls : Look, not all rest stops have all the amenities. You might want to bring along a roll as a just in case option.

Garbage bags : You’re not going to want to stop every hour to throw out a banana peel or wrapper. So set up a garbage bag that you can use to throw out at the end of the day. You can line a slim container with a bag and stick it behind the passenger side seat for the perfect location. Or use a cereal container with a lid to keep the smell contained!

Car cooler : These are the best inventions. They plug into the car and run while you drive. Once you’re parked for the night, you can bring it with you and plug it in in a motel or stick some ice in it if you’re camping. It works like a charm!

Snacks : Probably the most crucial aspect of a road trip is the snacks. There’s an unwritten rule that the role of the passenger is to guide the driver and select the tunes, but it’s the role of the person in the backseat to be in charge of snacks! While unhealthy snacks like chocolate and chips are more alluring, healthier ones like homemade muffins, sliced veggies and hummus, rice crackers and more are better options, mainly because the driver won’t “crash” after eating the unhealthy foods.

Large reusable water bottles : Not only do you have to keep hydrated for obvious reasons, but water bottles are also useful if you need water to wash something off your hands or off the car. Keep ‘em filled and keep ‘em cool.

RELATED: Epic road trips in Canada you need to take

Road trips mean you’ll be sitting for long periods. The car becomes like this little home on wheels where you can’t move out of your “chair” and everything from the “kitchen” to the “living room” to the “bedroom” all have to be within arm’s reach.

That means when you’re coming up with your road trip packing list, you need to think about the items that will make your trip the most comfortable.

Sunglasses : You can’t (and shouldn’t) drive without wearing sunglasses. Look for polarized ones to protect your eyes from the sun!

Blanket and pillow : Whether you want to curl up in your seat or wrap yourself if you’re cold, a blanket and pillow for every passenger is just smart thinking.

Travel mug : I’m a huge tea fan. I’ll drink a cup at any time of the day. But I hate using single serve cups at the drive-thru. That’s why I use a Yeti. These things are seriously the BEST. They keep your drink hot for hours.

Hand sanitizer : Again, not all rest stops have all the amenities, so you’ll want back up. Plus you can prevent your hands from getting clammy after gripping the steering wheel for hours.

Reusable shopping bag : These can be used for so many things. Bring a couple and stick them under the seat.

Towel : Not only are PacTowel super functional and versatile, but they also fold small, so bringing along a towel is no biggie. You might need it to sop up a spilt drink!

Road trip games : Even if you’re listening to Carley Rae Jepsen on repeat or you’ve breezed through an audiobook or stellar podcasts (recommendations below), sometimes you need something to occupy your mind. That’s why road trip games are essential. Why not try HYPERtheicals or one of these silly road trip games to get your brain working.

Day pack : You’ve got your wallet, your phone, your keys, maps, and other important stuff. So when you jump out of the car, you don’t want to go rummaging through the mess to find all your things. Keep it all in a day pack. I love the ones that are packable too, so they don’t take up a lot of room.

Outdoor blanket : When it’s time to pull over to stretch your legs or take a break from driving, an outdoor blanket is exactly what you need. You can lay it down and have a picnic or just lay down and snooze in the sunshine.

You’ve got your comfort taken care of and all your car care essentials, now it’s time to think about the things you’re going to need that you might not have thought about. Definitely add these items to your road trip packing list!

Sunscreen : Yes, you can absolutely get sunburned from a car window and the sunroof. So slather it on and protect your skin from those harmful rays. I like Aveeno because it feels like I’ve put on moisturizer, not sticky sunscreen.

Body wipes : For wiping your face, hands, you name it. Spills happen, sweat happens, might as well be prepared.

Lip balm : nothing drives me more insane than dry lips. I keep my lip balm in my driver side door, so it’s easily accessible when I need it.

Hairbrush, hair ties and a hat : It might feel good now when the wind is blowing through your hair, but not so much when you try to comb it. So don’t forget to bring a hairbrush and some hair ties to limit the tears from trying to detangle. Better yet, wear a hat!

Toothbrush and toothpaste : I’m in LOVE with my Toob toothbrush , which is a brush and paste all in one. It’s super easy to pack, and you can leave it in your day pack for quick access.

Mints/gum : tasty food sometimes leaves a bad taste in your mouth, so be prepared with mints and gum.

Tissues : Bringing a Kleenex box is always a good idea!

Slippers : Slippers are the best part of being a passenger. You can kick off your shoes and get comfy! I like these ones because they have a hard bottom, so I don’t mind getting out of the car with them.

Dryer sheets : keep your car smelling fresh without the strong smell of car scents, use dryer sheets! Plus they double as keeping things static free.

Gap filler : I hate finding bits of fries and crumbs under my seat when I do my semi-annual car clean. That’s why the gap filler is such a great invention; it stops things from falling into THE VOID. It’s super helpful on car trips, where you’re more likely to eat on the go.

RELATED: 52 day trips from Toronto for every traveller

When I hit the road to explore Canada’s Maritimes, I slept in my car at provincial parks. It was the perfect set up. I had excellent facilities in the campground, I could set up a fire and cook over the flames, and I could get cozy in the back of my hatchback.

It was GREAT.

To make it successful, I had a couple of items that made sleeping in the car so much easier.

Inflatable air bed : Yes, they totally make these. I considered these for my first option of sleeping in my car for a road trip, but I wanted to be able to stretch out. But for shorter people, this bed would work perfectly.

Trifold mattress : Okay, I hit the jackpot with this thing. Not only does it fold up into a square, but it also is super comfortable. I slept the entire 10 days on this thing, super soundly and now use it for guests because it is easily storable and the lining can be removed and washed. I absolutely recommend getting one of these for your next road trip.

Blankets, pillows, etc. : You’ll want to bring your sleeping gear, whether that’s a sleeping bag or blankets, but it might get chilly at night, so might as well keep warm.

Window screens : these window screens made sleeping in my car perfection. Not only did they add a sense of privacy, but I could keep my windows down entirely to let in a breeze without letting in bugs. Since I was staying at provincial parks, I wasn’t worried about my safety. I don’t suggest rolling your windows down completely if you’re not in a park.

These are just some of the best apps to make your next road trip a breeze, because throwing caution to the wind and going with the flow are not good enough excuses not to show up to work the next Monday. Don’t get lost!

Google Maps : the best of the best when it comes to navigation. ( Apple | Android )

Spotify : For all your listening needs, songs, artists and playlists. ( Apple | Android )

Audible : Home to thousands of great audiobooks ( Apple | Android )

Roadtrippers : Built for people who love road trips. It tells you all the things you can do along the way. ( Apple | Android )

GasBuddy : For finding the cheapest fuel nearby ( Apple | Android )

ParkMe : For finding the cheapest place to park nearby ( Apple | Android )

First off, if you want amazing songs by amazing women, then you need to download all songs by Carley Rae Jepsen (She is a Queen) and all songs by Maggie Rogers. Perfect driving music!

Here are some great throwback tunes that everyone loves:

Here are some 90s and early 2000s hits that are just ready for jamming!

And you can’t forget about those wonderful songs about travelling. Hit it!

RELATED: Travel to Dark Sky Preserves in Canada and see the stars without light pollution

Lore : One of the best podcasts out there. Host Aaron Mahnke tells rich and well-paced stories about the frightening history behind common folklore.

Criminal : Host, Phoebe Judge, takes you through all aspect of crime in short stories and interviews. It is incredibly well done and it really makes you think about the criminal world differently. The tag line is “Stories of people who’ve done wrong, been wronged, or gotten caught somewhere in the middle.”

My Favourite Murder : This is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstarkare, two hilarious comedians. The subject matter is gruesome, but true crime is definitely trendy and will keep you thinking.

The Secret Life of Canada : I love listening to hosts Leah-Simone Bowen and Falen Johnson in their banter about the history of Canada that you won’t find in mainstream history books.

2050: Degrees of change : This podcast only has seven episodes and is no longer running, but the storytelling and research gone into it is something to experience. Johanna Wagstaffe guides the journey to our future to explore how our world and lives will adapt to climate change by 2050.

I LOVE audiobooks, they really help you stay alert while driving and it can be a great adventure to have on your road trip. Both fiction and non-fiction books are great for this. Audible or Google Play Store are the perfect place to start.

Here are my recommendations for great listens for an extended road trip:

Harry Potter series by JK Rowling : Come on, a book list without the mention of Harry Potter? Please! They are my favourite books after all. The ones narrated by Steven Fry are my go to. Plus, since the whole series is 128 hours, you won’t run out of material!

Crazy Rich Asians series by Kevin Kwan : these books are wild from start to finish. They are upbeat and fast-paced, so it’s perfect for those long stretches in the car.

Any book by Neil Gaiman : Honestly some of the best fantasy books are written by Neil Gaiman. I recommend Neverwhere, Stardust and American Gods.

American Fires by Monica Hesse : This creative non-fiction book on an arsonist in rural Virginia is an incredible listen – Highly recommended.

Road trips can create some of the best summer memories, so you don’t want to ruin that by forgetting something important. With this road trip packing list, you’ll know exactly what to bring so you won’t have to worry and you can just have a great time.

Olivia Rutt

Olivia Rutt is the travel writer and photographer behind My Wandering Voyage, a travel website helping working millennials find time to travel. She shares insight in trip planning, travel inspiration and photography tips. Olivia hails from southern Ontario, Canada where she works in the media industry between travels. Follow Olivia on Instagram where she shares her travel photos, or catch up with her on Facebook or Twitter.

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Road Trip Essentials: My Packing Checklist (with Printable PDF)

Don’t forget anything on your next road trip. Get organized with my road trip packing list with a printable checklist that you can download to your phone.

Road-tripping is my favorite way to travel. With two dogs and now a baby, I’d much prefer to drive somewhere than fly. Also, there is an undeniable magic to a good road trip: the freedom of the open road, the opportunity to get off the beaten path, and the surprises that you stumble upon along the way.

However, packing for a road trip can be super stressful. While I consider myself a packing pro these days, I’ve definitely made the mistake of forgetting something really important, like the time I left my hiking shoes behind. I can’t tell you what a huge bummer it was to have to stop and spend $150 on new hiking shoes when I have so many pairs at home.

So, to help myself (and you!) stay organized, I created a road trip packing checklist that has all of the essentials you need for a successful road trip. I keep a condensed, printable version of this packing checklist on my phone to make sure I don’t forget anything.

Download a PDF version of my road trip packing checklist !

In this post, I’m excited to share all of the details of what I bring on my road trips, including safety gear, clothing, food, and other gear.

Vehicle Road Trip Essentials

This is the basic safety gear that I always pack on all of my road trips.

• Driver’s License, Registration, and Proof of Insurance
• Car Operation Manual : Your car manual will come in handy if your check engine light comes on or you need to change your tire.
• Spare Tire and Tools : If you get a flat, you’ll need a lug wrench, a jack, and a portable compressor that you can use to pump up your tire.
• Jumper cables : If your battery dies, you can save yourself a call to roadside assistance by having jumper cables, or even better, a self-starting battery jumper
• 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. 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. I once had a dead battery in my Sprinter Van and no cell sevice, and I used the Garmin InReach to text my dad who was then able to call a tow truck.

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 my recommendations.

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

Road Trip Apps

Before you hit the road, download these apps. These are the apps I rely on daily when I’m on a road trip for finding camping and other services.

• Gas Buddy App : This 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.
• The Dyrt App : The Dyrt is one of my favorite campsite finder apps that has reviews and photos, and you can even use it to make reservations at some campgrounds. Sign up for the Dyrt Pro and try it for free for 30 days.
• iOverlander : Another one of my go-to apps for finding free dispersed camping on public land. For details on how to use it, see my iOverlander review .
• AllTrails : The most popular trail finder app for hiking trails on your road trip. If you upgrade to AllTrails+ you can download trail maps for offline use which I find to be super handy when I’m are visiting remote areas.

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

What to Wear on a Road Trip

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. The key is to not overpack, otherwise, your luggage will be overflowing and your car will get messy quickly.

I like to pack 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 is a list of the types of clothes I bring on a road trip. If you click on the links it will take you to my blog posts with female-specific suggestions.

• Quick dry shirts (short and long-sleeve)
• Leggings / Hiking Pants
• Hiking Shorts
• Warm Jacket
• Wool Socks – Darn Tough are my favorite!
• Hiking Shoes

Road Trip Entertainment

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? Load up your phone with plenty of tunes ahead of time in case you’ll be driving through areas with limited service.
• Podcasts and 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 podcast. For suggestions, check out my favorite outdoor podcasts . The Libby App and Audible are also great resources for downloading audiobooks.
• Book : A book or two is always nice to have along on a road trip so you can read in your downtime. I prefer a Kindle since I can load it up with a few different books just in case I get bored with one.
• 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 for entertainment in the evenings.
• Headphones : A set of headphones or AirPods are nice to bring on a road trip in case you need a little alone time.
• Camera : I like to bring a camera to capture the memories on my trip. Of course, you can always use your phone too.
• Notebook : If you like to journal or make notes about the places you travel to, pack a small weatherproof notebook .
• iPad or 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.

Packing Food on your Road Trip

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. If you are camping, check out my car camping packing checklist which has additional gear like a stove, cookset, etc. Here is the food and cooking essentials I pack on a road trip.

• Cooler : A cooler will keep your fruit, veggies, dips, dand other snacks cold so you can eat fresh on the road.
• Reusable Water Bottle : An insulated water bottle will keep your water cold in the hot car and is key for staying hydrated. You can fill it up at gas station soda fountains, which will also save you money on having to buy water.
• Water Jug : Having a full 5-gallon water jug makes it easy to fill up your water bottle on the go and is also important in case your car breaks down or you run out of gas.
• Coffee Mug : Consider bringing an insulated coffee mug for keeping coffee and tea hot on sunrise drives.
• Multi-tool : 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 at the end of the day.
• Utensil set : This To-Go Ware Bamboo Utensil Set comes in a handy holder and is perfect for on-the-go meals when you’re road-tripping.
• 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.
• Reusable Bag : A reusable bag will come in handy for those grocery store stops along the way and once you arrive at your destination.

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 my favorite road trip snacks are:

Staying Organized on your Road Trip

Nothing drives me more crazy when I’m road tripping is a trunk full of clutter. I like being able to quickly find things that I need without having to pull everything out of my car. Here are some of the things I use to keep organized.

• Luggage : Try to fit all of your clothing in a carry-on sized piece of luggage. That will make it easy to carry it in and out of your hotel (or tent), and it also wont’ take up too much room in your trunk. I love the REI Co-op Roadtripper Duffel .
• Packing Cubes : I use packing cubes to keep all of my clothing organized inside my duffel. Underwear in one. Socks in another. Pants. Shirts. Each category of clothing gets it’s own cube. That way it’s easy to pull out a new shirt without unfolding all of my clothes.
• Toiletry Bag : Having all your toiletries and smaller essentials in a toiletry bag makes it easy to find them when you need them.
• Day pack : I love this comfy 30 liter hiking pack that has lots of pockets and straps that I can adjust for the perfect fit. I keep all of the stuff I need for my hikes and other activities in my pack so it’s ready to go.
• Plastic Bins : I always organize the rest of my gear by category in plastic bins that are easy to stack and pull out of my car. I’ll put all of my food and kitchen stuff in one and any camping gear in another.

Personal Items

Getting out of your normal routine can make it a bit more of a challenge to keep up with personal care, but if you can pare it down to the necessities, you won’t have to pack as much.

• Sunscreen : 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.
• Lip Balm : Lip balm is always nice to have along in case your lips get extra dry. I prefer lip balm with SPF for sun protection.
• 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.
• Other Toiletries : Bring the toiletries you need from home, like soap, shampoo, and conditioner, in these refillable 2.5 oz  humangear GoToob+ Medium Squeeze Bottles that help save room in your bag.
• Kula Cloth : This is a reusable pee rag that I bring on every hike and road trip. That way if I have to pop a squat, I’m not having to drip dry.
• Hair Brush : A small, travel-size hair brush for taming that windswept hair
• Body Wipes : Sometimes it’s nice to freshen up with a body wipe after a long drive, or maybe you’re hiking and camping on your road trip as well.
• Electrolytes : I like to pack electrolytes that are easy to throw into my water when I need an extra boost.
• Hand sanitizer : I keep hand sanitizer in my center console so I can sanitize after filling up my gas tank or using a pit toilet at a trailhead.
• First aid kit : 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.

Other Road Trip Essentials

If you have extra room in your car, these are some additional things I like to pack on my road trips.

• Pillow : Ideally I’m bringing my pillow from home since hotel pillows often suck! But if I don’t have room, I bring a lightweight, compressible camping pillow that makes riding in the passenger seat just a bit more comfortable.
• Headlamp : I always pack a rechargeable headlamp . It makes rummaging around in your car at night so much easier.
• Blanket : 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. I 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.
• Large quick-dry towel : Be ready for those impromptu swimming hole dips or beach hangs with a lightweight, quick-dry towel
• Phone charger : 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.
• Cash : 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.
• Camp Chair : It’s nice to have a small, packable camp chair so you can have somewhere to sit when you’re enjoying a snack or a nice view.

I 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?

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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!

Road Trip Packing List: 75+ Essential Items (+ Printable Checklist)

Hands up if you love a road trip ? They’re one of my favourite types of trips . You can go at your own pace, stop at small restaurants to get a feel for a town and reflect on life while you’re cruising down the open road. But, like every trip, some planning is required to make it go from good to great. Which is where this road trip packing list comes in.

I’ve collated my years of road tripping experience – through the U.S., Argentina , Mexico, Uruguay and Spain , to name just a few countries – and prepared a list of road trip essentials that will make the journey safer, more comfortable and super fun. There are the obvious items, but also some things that you may not have thought about. I’ve also got some handy tips to help you before you even get on the road.

So, grab your keys and let’s go ! PS. You can download this as a road trip packing list printable .

If you want to keep this road trip packing list for later, simply click the “Save” button on one of the images below to save it to Pinterest.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

Tips for road trip planning

I’m a type A planner. I love lists, I love checking things off lists. I even make lists of the lists I need. But even if you don’t have the same personality as me, I guarantee that taking time to plan your road trip will make it even more epic.

Tune up your car before you go

The first thing on your road trip checklist should be making sure your vehicle is ready for the road.

Around 1-2 weeks before your road trip, check your car . Check your oil, make sure the water levels are good, pump up the tyres if needed, and check your spare tyre is where it should be – and that it’s in good condition. Preparing your car for a road trip is essential.

If you’re going on a long road trip, take it to a mechanic to get a full service . We did this with our F150 truck before we ventured off on our 4.5-month USA road trip.

When you’re renting a car , you’re relying on the rental company to ensure the car is up to scratch. But it doesn’t hurt to check the oil and water levels yourself before you drive off. Take photos of the car , including close-ups of any previous damage, however minor it may seem.

How to pack for your road trip

If you haven’t already guessed yet, I’m very thorough when it comes to making packing lists and packing in the most efficient and effective way. That applies to what to pack for a road trip , as well as how to pack.

Packing for a road trip may seem like a no-brainer, but trust me, there are a few tricks. I always have three different road trip bags :

• A suitcase or large duffel bag – this is for all our clothes (which are always packed inside packing cubes , too! Sometimes we’ve even used compressor bags with a small portable pump to save space for bulkier items like jackets). Depending on how long we’re going for, my husband and I will either share or have a bag each . If this bag is on wheels, even better. I find that a soft-sided bag is better than a hardshell suitcase for road trips, because you can stuff it in to spaces.
• An overnight bag – if we’re staying somewhere for only a night or two, I pull out only what I need from the suitcase and put it in the overnight bag. This means I don’t need to lug a suitcase with stuff I don’t need.
• A daypack – into this goes all the stuff I’ll need easily accessible in the car – our camera, notebook and pens, wallet, hand sanitiser and so on. If we’re hiking in a national park, all that stuff gets dumped out and in goes my water bladder , sunscreen, snacks etc. You’ll need one of these for each person.

Anything else that’s not clothes goes into one or two clear stackable containers . I’ve also seen some people organise their road trip essentials in small drawers that stay in their boot/trunk. They simply pull out the drawer with the stuff they need for that night. Trunk organisers are also very handy.

For toiletries, I prefer a hanging toiletry bag because it’s easier to hang over the back of a door or off a sink rather than putting it on a dirty petrol station toilet floor. I love this one that we took on our U.S. road trip – it’s quite big but it fit everything the two of us needed for 4.5 months.

Whatever you choose to use, spend some time thinking about it in advance – it will help organise your space and you won’t end up rifling through everything just to find one item.

Download some apps

Make sure you have the apps that you’ll need downloaded before you get on the road. A few I like:

• Roadtrippers : Great app for U.S. road trips with plenty of recs for what to see along the way, where to eat and where to stay. Includes a road trip planner so you can save points of interest.
• Google Maps : This is my preferred mapping tool. I spend some time saving places of interest and plotting our route before we go. Maps.me is another recommended app that allows you to download maps offline. I’ve never used it, but I know a lot of others like it.
• Booking.com : If you’re after a last-minute hotel, this is a good app to jump on. It’s the site I use to book most of my accommodation when travelling.

Now that you’ve got your planning done, let’s get stuck into what should be on your road trip packing list .

Documents to take on a road trip

First up, the documents you don’t want to leave home without. Here are the things to bring on a road trip so you don’t get caught out.

• License: A no-brainer, this is probably already in your wallet or purse. But check again before you hit the open road. If you’re road tripping internationally, then do a quick Google search to check if you need an International Driver’s License. These are usually fairly easy to obtain through your national or state motoring association (i.e. AAA in the United States or RACV or NRMA in Australia).
• Car insurance documents: It’s handy to know what your car is covered for if you’re in an accident. In some countries (like the U.S.) you need to have your car insurance documents in your vehicle at all times.
• Car manual: Wondering what that dinging noise is? What’s the red light flashing on your dash? What’s the required PSI for your tyres? Your car manual can answer all those and more. Don’t rely on being able to Google an issue when you’re out on the road – Murphy’s Law suggests the problem will probably crop up when you’re in an area with no coverage!
• Travel insurance documents: If you’ve purchased travel insurance for your trip, make sure you can access your insurance documents, whether that’s in print or digitally. World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance.

Road trip safety essentials

There are a few road trip essentials you should pack to keep you safe . Here are the items I never road trip without, plus a few extras for peace of mind.  

• Roadside emergency kit : If you break down on the side of the road or need to change a tyre, a kit like this will help other drivers to see you. They usually include a reflective triangle, jumper cables, rope or a bungee cord and gloves.
• Spare tyre: Before you head out, make sure that your spare tyre is actually where it should be and is in good condition. Plenty of people have left for a road trip, gotten a flat tyre and then realised that they forgot to repair the last flat they had, so the spare tyre in their car is useless. And make sure you actually know how to change a tyre! This reminds me that I should learn how to do this – my husband is the one who has saved us in the past, including when our rental car got a flat on the last day of our North Argentina road trip .
• Car safety hammer :  These nifty little tools can cut through a seatbelt and smash a window, so they’re essential in the event of an accident.
• Spare car fluids: It doesn’t hurt to pack a litre or so of oil, coolant and windshield wiper fluid. If you’re going off the beaten path, consider a jerry can so you have some extra fuel should you not see a petrol station for a while.
• Roadside assistance: Breaking down ain’t fun – and tow trucks ain’t cheap. Cover yourself with roadside assistance. They can also help with other issues like locking your keys inside the car.
• Paper maps : In more remote areas, paper road maps could be your saviour if there’s no mobile phone coverage. Rand McNally makes good maps and road atlases. Having a map was very helpful on our Deep South road trip when we went through a few areas with no coverage.

• First aid kit : I’d suggest a good first aid kit should be in your car at all times. Pick a good one like this that has plenty of Bandaids, scissors, burn gel, a cold pack and painkillers.
• Torch/flashlight or headlamp : Useful if you’re camping but also if you need to check under your car or draw attention if you’ve got car problems in the dark. I prefer a headlamp so I’m handsfree for whatever I’m doing.
• Mobile phone mount or hands-free kit : If your car doesn’t have a whizzy screen for directions, a mobile phone mount will be super useful for driving directions. It’s also illegal in many countries (should be illegal in all countries IMHO!) to use a mobile phone while driving, so if you do need to make a call, this is a far safer way to do it.
• Leatherman or multi-tool : Super handy gadget that can screw, cut, saw and tweeze, to name a few uses.
• Duct tape : What can’t duct tape fix?
• Magnetic car key holder and spare key : If you head out hiking or camping, you may want the safety of knowing you have a spare key somewhere, just in case it goes missing. You can get a magnetic car key holder that you can hide in the car’s wheel cavity or somewhere else inconspicuous.
• Dash cam : We don’t have one of these, but they are very handy if you ever do get into an accident and need proof that it wasn’t your fault. You could even use the footage to create a fun road trip video!
• Steering wheel lock : For extra peace of mind, a steering wheel lock makes your car less of a target for would-be car thieves.

Personal items to bring on a road trip

Now that we’ve gone through the stuff you need to pack for your car, here’s the stuff you need to pack for yourself and your fellow roadtrippers.

• Comfy clothes: Think through what you’re packing and make sure you’ve got plenty of comfy stuff that won’t dig into/constrict you while you’re on the road for hours on end. I’m a fan of leggings and skirts, and I avoid jeans for long trips.
• Jumper/wrap/scarf: If it’s cold, pack something to keep you warm and cosy. Even in hotter months, you may want to pack something warm to compensate if you and your fellow roadtrippers have differing views about temperature control! A scarf is good because it’s so versatile – it can keep you warm, accesorise an outfit or provide some shade from the sun.
• Blanket : For those who really get cold on road trips. Also handy as a picnic blanket.
• Travel pillow : There have been more than a few times where my husband has filmed me with my head lolling around as a I take a nap on a road trip. But a pillow like this one keeps my head in place and means I don’t wake up with a sore neck.
• Flip flops/thongs: I prefer to be barefoot on long drives. A pair of flip flops or sandals that are easy to slip into are essential for when you stop at petrol stations or for toilet breaks.
• Hat: Depending on the weather, it could be a baseball cap or a beanie or even a stylish hat like this . Whatever your choice, a hat is a road trip essential to keep windswept hair under control, your head warm or provide some shade.
• Sunglasses: Don’t even consider getting in the car without some sunnies to protect your eyes! We usually have a spare pair in the glove box just in case ours break or go missing.

• Extra roll of toilet paper: Ever arrived at a dodgy petrol station toilet to find it lacking some toilet paper? No? Well, consider yourself lucky. And avoid it  ever happening by packing some loo paper.
• Hand sanitiser: Get rid of the germs after those toilet breaks.
• Sunscreen : A windshield can’t always protect you from the power of the sun. Pack some good SPF50+ (at least) to avoid sunburn and trucker’s arm.
• Body wipes : Being on the road for a few days can get sweaty, so pack some body wipes for a quick “shower”. I like these biodegradable ones .
• Painkillers: Have some painkillers on hand in case you get a headache while driving.
• Tissues: For cleaning up messes, wiping your nose etc – or just use the toilet paper you packed already.
• Towel: Some motels provide thin towels that barely dry you off after a shower. I like to pack my own fluffy towel, and then hang it out to dry out on the car while we’re packing.
• Hair ties, hair pins and a hairbrush: My husband hates that I don’t drive with the window down, but I really can’t stand my hair blowing everywhere. So I pack plenty of spare hair ties and pins so that I can indulge him once in a while without hair whipping in my eyes. A brush or comb is good for brushing out the knots later.
• Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss: Keep that breath fresh! No one wants to breathe in smelly breath in a car.
• Chewing gum or mints: As above!
• Bug spray: Zap mozzies or flies if they get stuck inside your car. (Don’t spray while people are in the car, though!)
• Umbrella and/or rain jacket : Avoid becoming a sopping mess when you make a run for the hotel front door. I always have a small packable rain jacket in the car and sometimes an umbrella as well.

Entertainment essentials

Now let’s get into the fun stuff that should be on your road trip packing list! Road trips can be long so you’ll need a few things to keep you entertained.

• Kickass playlist: It’s always my husband’s job to prepare the music for parties, having guests over, any occasion, really – including road trips. He does an awesome job at pulling together the right mix of road trip classics, belt-em-out ballads and hits from our teenage years. The best road trips have an accompanying soundtrack, so spend some time perfecting it before you hit the road!
• Podcasts or audiobooks: For our U.S. road trip, we ended up listening to a tonne of interesting podcasts, particularly a lot of crime ones. Download a few before you leave on your road trip so you’re not scrambling to download them in areas with limited coverage. I’m not an audiobook listener, but that could be another option.
• Phone chargers and cords : Bring along the cords you need to charge your phones. And if you’re renting a car, pack an auxiliary cable so that you can plug your phone in. Got a few in your crew? Pack a multi-port charger so you’re not fighting over who gets to charge next.
• Electronics organiser : Depending on how many cords and chargers you’ve got with you, you might consider keeping everything neat and tidy in an electronics organiser. I pack one of these every time I travel. I know where to find every cord and don’t need to go hunting at the bottom of my bag or under the seat to find something – and my cords don’t end up tangled.
• Camera : A camera is a must for every road trip so you can capture your memories. I’m a fan of the Sony A6300 . You might even want to bring an Instant camera for some retro images! I’m still considering getting a drone – those epic landscape shots make for great photos or video footage.
• Books: If you don’t get carsick, then pack a few books to pass the time.
• Travel games: If you’re planning a road trip with kids, some travel games are going to be a sanity saver. Download some on iPads or buy some old-school games. Or play the classics like “I Spy”.

Road trip food

One of the worst things that can happen on a road trip is running out of food.  H angry road trippers do not make for a good road trip.

Before hitting the road, think about where you’re going to eat along the way. This will determine what you need to pack. If you’re eating at restaurants, then a small cooler bag is probably sufficient to keep snacks and drinks cold. If you’re making your own meals or car camping, then pack an Esky or larger cooler and fill it with ice.

Make sure you’ve also packed environmentally-friendly utensils like this plate set , a bamboo cutlery set and metal straws . Collapsible food containers are good for leftovers and don’t take up a lot of space when they’re not being used. These reusable bags are great for storing snacks. A corkscrew and can opener may be handy.

Take a reusable water bottle per person and fill them up at petrol stations. If there’s nowhere to get drinking water, then buy large bottles of water rather than the small 500ml bottles to save on plastic. A travel mug is handy for coffee drinkers. If you’re packing soup or a lot of coffee, then a thermos is a good item to bring – of course, it can also keep liquids cold.

When it comes to road trip snacks , it’s always best to stock up in advance . Stopping at gas stations every time you get hungry can get expensive.

While you shouldn’t deprive yourself of chips and chocolates, pack some healthy road trip snacks , too, like:

• Energy bars or protein bars like RXBARs
• Cut up carrots or apples, grapes, blueberries, cherry tomatoes
• Crackers and cheese
• Homemade sandwiches
• Pretzels or popcorn
• Dried fruit
• Sliced meats
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Peanut or other nut butters

Extra things to pack for a road trip

As we near the end of this road trip essentials list, here are a few things that you might not have thought about.

• Cash: Don’t forget cold, hard cash (coins and notes). This will be handy for things like parking meters, tolls, launderettes and vending machines. Credit cards aren’t accepted everywhere.
• Notebook and pen : For recording your road trip memories.
• UV window shade: The sun can be a killer, so it’s handy to pack a window shade – one for the side windows while you’re driving, as well as a larger one for the front windshield to keep your car cooler when you stop.
• Reusable shopping bag : I never leave home without a reusable shopping bag in my handbag.
• Garbage bags : You don’t want rubbish floating through your car on your road trip. You could pack a few garbage bags from home, but I like these reusable bags that hang over the seat head rest. They’re washable just in case you get some gunk in them.
• Camping chairs : For real comfort when you stop for lunch, pack a couple of camping chairs.
• Colourful blanket: On our recent road trips, we’ve packed the colourful blanket that we bought in Oaxaca . It really brightens up a picnic table. We also use it as a picnic blanket, but if you want something far smaller, this pocket size picnic blanket is great (although challenging to put back in its bag!).

• Car air freshener : Sweaty bodies in a car for hours equals smell. So buy a lovely-smelling air freshener to get rid of the stale air.
• Seat organisers : If you’ve got people in the back seat, seat organisers are a great way to keep iPads, phones, toys, drink bottles, books and games in place and easily accessible.
• Clothes steamer or anti-wrinkle spray : While you shouldn’t pack clothes that wrinkle easily, a clothes steamer or anti-wrinkle spray can keep your clothes neat. Clothes spray is also useful for freshening up clothes that may have been at the bottom of a bag for a while.
• Laundry bag : Pack a spare bag to separate your dirty clothes from your clean clothes.

Road trips with pets

One final section for those who are road tripping with pets . We took our pup Diego on our U.S. road trip and he had an absolute ball! Here are the essential items that we couldn’t have gone without.

• Car seat : Not all dogs will need this, but because Diego is small, we brought along this car seat to keep him safe. He slept in it and it also allowed him to be up higher to see out the window. It’s now in our living room and he still sleeps in it! For larger dogs, this hammock-style seat cover is also good for keeping your seats free of fur and also covers the whole back area so your little furball doesn’t fall off the seat. Or you can simply buy a lead that locks into the seatbelt .

• Waste bags : Most road stops have an area for dogs, but make sure you pick up after them. A stash of biodegradable waste bags is essential.
• Food containers: Make sure you’ve got enough food to last for the road trip, and pack it in sealable containers. Don’t forget a water bowl. We have a collapsible water bowl as well as this water bottle that has an attachable bowl and mist sprayer for hot days.
• Treats: Bring along their favourite treats to keep them happy.
• Towels: For when your dog inevitably jumps into that pretty little lake you’re picnicking beside.
• Collar or harness and lead: Fido will need to stretch his legs, too. Pack a lead so you can take him for a walk at road stops.
• Toys: Dogs get bored too, so pack a couple of their favourite toys to keep them entertained.
• Brush: If your dog sheds, pack their brush to keep them groomed on the journey and get rid of the excess hair that will end up on your car seats.
• Lint roller : This isn’t for the dog, of course – it’s to keep your clothes and car seats free of dog hair.

I know this list is long, but you can whittle it down to what’s necessary for your road trip. Don’t forget that you can download and print this road trip essentials list for yourself. Happy road tripping!

What else would you add to this road trip packing list? Let me know in the comments below!

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

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2024 Ultimate Family Road Trip Packing List (+Free Printable Checklists)

Packed for Life contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Disclosure policy for more info.

Planning a family road trip can be exciting but also overwhelming, not knowing exactly what to pack. That’s where our experience road tripping comes in handy.

We’ve created the ultimate family road trip packing list and FREE printable checklists to make things easier for you on the open road. Drawing on our years of experience from countless road trips with our kids from babies to teens. Including cross country adventures, and week long road trips, to everything in between.

This guide covers everything. From road trip essentials for the whole family, to car and safety gear, plus tips on what to leave behind. Which you can easily adapt for wherever you’re traveling to.

With our travel-tested advice, and free printable checklists, you’ll be perfectly prepared for your adventure, making packing stress-free, straightforward, and do we dare say even fun!

Table of Contents

ROAD TRIP PACKING LIST FOR FAMILIES

Road Trip Essentials for the Car

When heading out on a long road trip, there are a few car essentials we think are important to add to your family road trip checklist.

We’ve found this road trip planning App , to be a fantastic tool for planning our routes & collaborating with others on the road.

• Driver’s License, Car registration and roadside assistance info – Check your glove compartment box before leaving your house to make sure you have any (and all) information you may need in a very worst case scenario.
• Extra Set of Car Keys – make sure to store it somewhere you won’t lose it, or give it to another family member. One of my fears is losing our car keys in the middle of no where, so having an extra set is peace of mind for me.
• Rental Car Agreement – If you are renting a car for your road trip, make sure to bring the agreement with you in the glove box.
• Sun Shades for the Windows – The sun can get a bit overwhelming, especially if you have really young children in the car. We’ve found Sun Shades like these super helpful.
• Cell phone holder – Especially when using GPS, having a Cell phone holder can be a game changer for your road trip.
• Car Seat or booster seat – Choose one that’s suitable for the ages of your kids, and somewhat comfortable for a long drive. We’ve found that stopping every two hours max keeps everyone happier.

Emergency Vehicle Kit

A Roadside Emergency Kit is one of the most important things we bring. It’s better to be safe than sorry and be prepared to handle the unexpected, like a flat tire is our motto.

It always gives us peace of mind knowing we have the basics, and think it will for you too.

Plus I don’t know how many times it has come in handy for helping other travelers out along the way during our own trips. It should include:

• Jumper cables
• Tire Pressure Gauge
• Flashlight & batteries ( we prefer head lamps)
• Jack & Tools
• Food / Energy Bars
• Matches / Lighter

What to pack “Just in Case”

Accidents happen. But, how you handle them can be completely different if you are prepared. Not to mention there are certain things you just don’t want to forget for a long car ride. 

Add these to your road trip with kids checklist:

• Map  – You may not ever need it, but make sure you have a paper or book road map. In case your phone dies, google maps steers you wrong, or anything else happens, you will be glad you have it.
• Paper Towel & Toilet Paper – Keep these handy for unexpected bathroom stops, or unexpected spills. Well with kids you can expect a mess!
• Wet wipes –  Whether you have a baby or not, we think baby wipes are life savers & road trip necessities.  You can clean up spills, hands, and even clothing with a few baby wipes. My daughter is 10 and we still use baby wipes for all our travels. Not just for kids!
• Small trash can – To keep your car clean, and organized with a small spill-proof car garbage can. Don’t forget the trash bags.
• Plastic bags – No one wants to talk about this, but you need to have extra bags in case anyone gets car sick. We also like to have a designated car garbage bag we empty out every day. That way the mess stays somewhat in check.
• Towels – As a safety precaution, it never hurts to add a few towels to your packing road trip. This can help in various situations of spills, sickness, and comfort.
• Licenses & wallets – Just as a reminder, make sure you have everyone’s licenses, wallets and debit / credit cards before you even walk out your front door.
• Health Care Cards / Medical Insurance Info – Also make sure to have your health care cards or medical insurance info handy.
• Extra food, water & games – In case you get stuck somewhere unexpectedly. Water is also good in case of overheating.
• Family First Aid Kit

Family First Aid Kit Essentials

If you are traveling anywhere, I highly recommend keeping a First Aid Kit in your car, and a smaller one in your backpack if you are off on hikes for the day.

Besides, if your kids are anything like mine, they go through bandaids like they are going outta style.

Here are some items we include in our family first aid kit, in addition to the usual suspects:

• Extra Band aids
• Blister Band Aids
• Disinfectant
• Polysporin / Antibiotic cream
• Acetaminophen & Ibuprofen (Kids & Adults)
• Prescription Meds
• Gravol / Motion Sickness meds
• Allergy Meds
• Rehydration Tablets
• Medical Tape
• Mosquito Repellent
• Hand Warmers
• CPR pocket mask
• Small Flashlight
• Small Pocket Knife
• Hand Sanitizer
• Plastic Gloves

PRO TIP : Buy a small cloth first aid kit, or toiletries bag and fill or switch out with your preferred Family First Aid Kit items. Keep First Aid Kit and medications handy and within reach.

Family Road Trip Essentials

When packing for your entire family, you may find that you don’t need (or want) as much as others. Or, on the flip side, you may find that you like to bring everything but the kitchen sink, just in case. No judgment here!

Do you have to bring everything we recommend on this list? Absolutely not! Specific items you pack for your family road trip will vary based on preference and destination.

Here are some family road trip essentials that can useful supplies for your next trip:

• America the Beautiful Park Pass – If you are planning on visiting USA National Parks, then a park pass will save you $$.
• Mouthwash – If you plan on bringing snacks, or even stopping to eat, having mouthwash is a must. Between having fresh breath and smelling fresh breath, you don’t want to forget this. Mints or minty gum also does in a pinch.
• Portable Charger / Power Bank   – Save yourself trouble with a pre-charged battery pack. If you have teens, a portable power bank is a must for a successful family road trip. Or in our case keeping a device addicted adult happy.
• Car Chargers  – Not only should you have a portable power bank, but bringing extra chargers that can be plugged directly into your car are a good idea. Don’t forget your device cables too for when you are in the hotel room. (Kindles, cells, tablets, gaming devices, laptops etc.)
• Camera / Go Pro – While you are out creating memories, be sure to document the fun, silly and sometimes ridiculous and unexpected moments along the way.
• Walkie Talkies – When traveling with friends and family in a convoy, we find walkie talkies are a great way to stay in touch.

Entertainment Essentials

The thought of packing for a road trip with kids can be overwhelming. But, it doesn’t have to be.

Keep in mind that you want to be including items for them to keep your trip stress-free as well. Road trip activities to keep them entertained.

• Tablet – For those moments when you just can’t take hearing another “are we there yet?”
• Headphones -You do not want to hear everything everyone is listening to on your road. A symphonic cacophony is not the most relaxing of sounds. So, save yourself the trouble, and pack headphones for everyone. If you are bringing wireless headphones , make sure to charge them before the trip.
• Books – If no one is prone to getting car sick, pack a few books or a Kindle for your family members to enjoy on your road trip. You can include learning books, entertainment, or even coloring books.

PRO TIPS: Make sure you charge any devices before you leave. Also, you will want to download any games, music, or apps beforehand.

PRO TIP : We’ve found it helpful to make sure each kidlet (and adult) has their own small travel backpack or bag with their own activities, devices, snacks, waterbottle & a change of clothes. Keep it beside them so they can easily reach it.

Kids Road Trip Essentials: Road Trip Activities for Kids

• Road Trip Bingo
• Coloring Book & Activity Pages
• Road Trip Kit
• Travel Magnetic Tangram Puzzles
• Entertaining Questions to Spark Conversations
• Paper/ journal – If you have creative kids, I recommend packing some journals, a sketchbook or paper to practice art, writing, and crafting with. Let your kids keep their own memories of their trip, with a kids road trip journal.
• Crayons / Pencil Crayons : Pack a few different crayons / pencil crayons and let them go at it! You can also add markers or pens in your overnight bags, so they can “fill-in” later if you’re worried about felt pen marks in the car.

PRO TIP: We’ve found these twistable pencil crayons are perfect, so you don’t have little bits of shavings all over your car.

• Road Trip Activities – Bring a variety of age appropriate activities. Especially if you are traveling with toddlers & preschoolers.
• Outdoor Games – Bring a few outdoor activities like a frisbee, or bubbles. We’ve found this really helps to get the wiggles out at rest stops and provides entertainment at campsites along the way.
• Road Trip Playlist – While you could just listen to the radio, making and playing a road trip playlist will up your parent cred, and make groovin’ in the car a hit. Don’t forget to embaress your kids by singing at the top of your lungs. We do 😉
• Audio Books or Audible – Perfect for keeping everyone from young kids to the older kids entertained on long trips. 

PRO TIP : Use a Back seat organizer that fits over the front seats keeps all the snacks, electronic devices, books, small toys contained and in reach of the kids.

Comfort Items

• Change of clothes – The last thing you want to happen is to have a mess with all of the extra clothes packed deep in your luggage. To alleviate the chance of this happening, pack an extra outfit in one small bag that stays on top of everything else.
• Pillows for Kids – A little comfort during your road trip can make all the difference. You don’t have to pack king size pillows, but letting each child bring a neck pillow (at minimum) is a great start! My daughter loves this bcozzy travel pillow.
• Travel Pillow for the adults – Just like for your children, the passenger also needs to be comfortable. Don’t forget to pack a pillow for you and/or your partner!
• Blankets – Kids love them & you’ll be happy to have them in winter months, or if you are driving overnight.
• Diaper bag –  Include an extra in car diaper bag for  easy access with young’uns. Fill with extra diapers, wipes, a plastic bag or a resuable wet bag, a couple of changes of clothes that is easy to grab and carry at rest stops.

Bring Road Trip Snacks & Meals

Packing road trip snacks and meals will save you time and money while heading to your final destination.

Avoid the nasty gas station food and have healthy travel snacks on the go. Making a family vacation meal plan will make your meals easier.

• Cooler – If you have extra room in your car, or you are trying to save money on food costs, you can’t go wrong with packing a cooler. Just make grocery store stops along the way to pick up supplies.
• Road trip meals: Check out our Easy Road Trip Meal ideas
• Snacks – Healthy snacks are a must. This will save you hangry kid and partner moments and money. The best road trip snacks to pack are things like nuts, granola bars, sandwiches, beef jerky, protein bars, and string cheese. Avoid packing sticky and messy snacks.
• Drinks – Just like snacks, you need to pack some of the drinks your children like. We use resuable water bottles, and refill them as needed.

⭐️ Grab some easy travel snack recipes here for your next trip.

PRO TIP: Freeze a water bottle or two full of water, then you can have cold water as it melts. It can also double as an ice pack in your cooler.

🚙 Check out our delicious road trip snack ideas .

Road Trip Packing List: Clothing

I will highlight a few key pieces of clothing for family road trips.

• Rain jackets – Instead of carrying an umbrella, pack some light rain jackets for everyone. Keep everyone warm & dry. We like this one for kids , this one for men and this one for women .
• Footwear – Bring a few options. Walking / hiking shoes, easy slip on sandals for the car and warm weather, then boots for rainy and winter season. I admit I love my Crocs for road trip travel days. Easy to slip on and of and comfortable for walking around all day if needed.
• Sunglasses – Sunglasses will cut the glare, protect your eyes, and keep you in the height of fashion.
• Hats – Sunhats, ball caps, garden straw hats, water hats. The possibilities are endless to keep the sun off your face.
• Seasonal Gear – Depending on the time of year you road trip, you may want to bring ski equipment, bikes, boogie boards, kayaks etc. What you bring will depend a lot on the size and type of vehicle you are traveling in.
• Packing Cubes – For keeping your clothes organized
• Swimwear, suits, coverups – Check out our full Beach Vacation Packing list here

PRO TIP : If you are moving around a lot on your road trip, pack each days clothes into a ziploc bag or in a packing cube . Then you can just bring into the hotel with you, rather than bringing all the bags in and out each time.

What NOT To Pack for A Family Road Trip

Now that we have our road trip essentials list, let’s get into some things we think you don’t need to pack on a family road trip

• Everything but the kitchen sink – Once you pack in the kids, cooler, dog, clothes, road trip activities you may not have as much room as you think. Consider if you can rent gear, & what’s absolutely necessary for your families enjoyment, comfort, and safety.
• Lots of toys – Inevitably with too many toys, pieces get lost, favourite toys get left behind, or there are fights amongst siblings. Pack a few car games, and maybe one small toy, but leaving most of them home.
• Too many sweets – While it is fun to have some treats, too many sweets can bring everyone’s mood high and then low. A bad combo in a confined space! Balance it out with combo of whole fruit, and protein (nuts, jerky, trail mix).
• Avoid large & hard shell suitcases – Because they’re space hogs. We much prefer small duffels, or backpacks. I have even been known to just bring my clothes in a reusable shopping bag. You can pack them in tight around stuff.
• Messy car snacks – need I say more?

Road Trip Destinations:

• Big Sur Road Trip: Epic Places to Visit & Hike
• 7 Day Family Friendly Zion, Bryce, Grand Canyon Itinerary
• Yosemite National Park, Awesome 2 Day Itinerary
• Vancouver Island Canada Bucket List
• Boston to Bar Harbor & Acadia Road Trip

✅ Kids travel backpacks are perfect for holding their road trip activities, snacks & water

Free Road Trip Checklists for Families

FINAL THOUGHTS: What to Pack for A Family Road Trip

There you have our list of what to bring on a road trip. Although you may need to be a bit more mindful when packing for a road trip with your family, it doesn’t have to be too complicated.

When making your packing list, ask yourself:

• How long will we be in the car?
• What necessities can my children not live without during this time?
• What will provide the most comfort for my family on this road trip?

Once you answer those questions, you will have a solid road trip packing list for your family.

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

• Stunning coastal views and charming towns make the Pacific Coast Highway a bucket-list-worthy road trip in California. (100 characters)
• Route 66 is perfect for history buffs, connecting small towns and offering iconic landmarks along the way. (102 characters)
• The Great River Road, spanning 10 states, provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River for an ultimate bucket list road trip. (129 characters)

There's something inherently alluring about the open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to explore new destinations and experiences. From adventures on the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the stunning vistas of the Southwest, the United States is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking road trip routes in the world. This article lists some of the best bucket-list-worthy road trips to take in the USA for a memorable adventure. So, grab those keys, buckle up, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime on one of America's most scenic roads .

UPDATE: 2023/12/07 11:27 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Even More Great Road Trips To Take In The United States

The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48). This list was expanded to include even more excellent road trip ideas to explore the nation.

Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Byways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Staggering sheer drops and coastal views are what make this pacific coast adventure stand out.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous road trips in the US , stretching along the California coastline between Orange County and Mendocino County, covering a distance of approximately 655 miles. The highway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

Some of the must-see spots along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, the Hearst Castle, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. The drive also takes you through the spectacular Big Sur region, overlooking the coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

• Length: 655 miles
• When To Go: September through October
• Bucket List Stop: Pfeiffer Beach to see the falls

Route 66, Illinois to California

Perfect for history buffs, route 66 tells stories of america's midwestern glory days.

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica in California, covering a distance of approximately 2,448 miles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the US and offers plenty of places to visit along the way. The highway is a popular route for travelers, as it connects many small towns and rural areas in the Midwest and the Southwest.

Some of the must-see attractions and landmarks along the highway include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas; the Grand Canyon in Arizona; and the Santa Monica Pier in California.

• Length: 2,448 miles
• When To Go: May and September
• Bucket List Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa to add a quirky, famed landmark to the trip

Great River Road, Mississippi River

This route covers 10 states in total, making it an ultimate bucket list road trip.

The Great River Road is a national scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 miles.

Some of the highlights of the Great River Road include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri; the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi; and the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The road also passes through several national and state parks, such as Itasca State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Natchez Trace State Park.

• Length: 3,000 miles
• When To Go: During the fall months , September through November
• Bucket List Stop: The French Quarter in New Orleans for an authentic Crescent City experience

Related: 10 Bucket List Road Trips To Take In The US This Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Known for being the most scenic mountain road in the south, the blue ridge scenery is unparalleled.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive, spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The road is among the best road trips US states have to offer, especially due to the fact it provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and various opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering visitors a variety of attractions, including overlooks with panoramic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Some of the most popular stops along the parkway include the Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

• Length: 469 miles
• When To Go: Mid-May through Mid-September
• Bucket List Stop: Shenandoah National Park to take in the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains

Discover the best stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway when planning a road trip adventure along this road.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Seven mile bridge connects travelers to bahia honda state park, making it perfect for nature lovers.

The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile scenic road that connects mainland Florida with the Florida Keys , a chain of islands stretching southward into the Gulf of Mexico. The highway, which is easily among the best road trips in the US in terms of ocean scenery, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean - thereby also providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching en route.

Some of the highlights of the Overseas Highway include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, which features hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds. Other popular stops along the highway include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Dolphin Research Center, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

• Length: 113 miles
• When To Go: Between January and April
• Bucket List Stop: Bahia Honda State Park to appreciate the untouched beauty of this Florida Keys landscape, and any spring season festivals

The Pacific Northwest

In stark contrast to other pacific roads, the northwest scenic byway offers dense woods, mountain views, and scenic waterways.

The Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway, also known as the Cascade Loop, is another one of the most beautiful road trips in the US. It's a 440-mile scenic route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, allowing travelers to enjoy various outdoor recreation and cultural exploration along the way.

The Scenic Byway is dotted with charming mountain towns such as Leavenworth, and Winthrop, offering a Wild West vibe with wooden sidewalks and historic buildings. Other highlights of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway include North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning river canyon, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall viewing.

• Length: 440 miles
• When To Go: During the spring or summer months
• Bucket List Stop: North Casades National park, where travelers can cross off bucket list hikes, wildflower viewing, and scenic waterfalls off their list

Related: A Road Trip To Remember: The 10 Most Scenic Drives For Your Spring Vacation In The U.S.

The Grand Circle, Southwest USA

This route takes travelers through scenic rocky canyons between utah, arizona, new mexico, colorado, and nevada.

The Grand Circle is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the most iconic national parks and monuments in the American Southwest. The route includes the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada, stretching over 1,400 miles of stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and geological wonders.

The Grand Circle route typically starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, passing through iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands, known for their towering red rock formations, stunning canyons, and unique geological features. Other highlights of the Grand Circle route include Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Hoover Dam.

• Length: 1,400 miles
• When To Go: April to May, or September to early November
• Bucket List Stop: Monument Valley to explore hoodoos and other unique geological formations

The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Perfect for small town lovers and scenic lakeside views, this route promises all the beauty of the great lakes.

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a scenic road trip taking visitors around the five Great Lakes. The route is approximately 6,500 miles long and passes through eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of landscapes, from urban areas to small towns and rural countryside.

Along the way, visitors can explore national parks like Isle Royale, Pictured Rocks, and Niagara Falls, with various historic lighthouses, beaches, and scenic overlooks. One of the highlights of the tour is the Great Lakes Seaway Trail and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands, known for its charming waterfront towns.

• Length: 6,500 miles
• When To Go: During the summer months , between June and August
• Bucket List Stop: Niagara Falls for those who have never been, or Pictured Rocks for those who have

The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

Early america can be seen on this route, in the form of several landmarks and even a former midwest mining town.

The Black Hills and Badlands route is a scenic driving route passing through some of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Dakota. The route covers approximately 150 miles, taking visitors through a variety of landscapes, including the rugged badlands, towering granite peaks, and pristine forests, including several iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.

Some other notable stops along the route include Custer State Park, Deadwood gold-mining town, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of motorcycle enthusiasts.

• Length: 150 miles
• Bucket List Stop: Badlands National park to witness some of the most famous landmarks in American history

Related: Hit The Road: 10 Unforgettable Adventures Await With These U.S. Road Trip Ideas

The Texas Hill Country

Small towns and country that span for miles exude the true charm of the texas hill country route, offering the best views in the state.

The Texas Hill Country route offers picturesque views of beautiful rolling hills and charming small towns of central Texas. The route is approximately 200 miles long, extending between Austin and San Antonio. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural attractions. The road through Texas Hill Country takes visitors through several scenic small towns, such as Fredericksburg, Gruene, and Luckenbach. These are some of the best towns in the Texas Hill Country , each particularly known for its charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

One of the highlights of the route is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the landscape from the many lookout points and scenic overlooks along the way.

• Length: 200 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Fredericksburg, which is a bucket list destination for small town lovers

The Dalton Highway, Alaska

With this route being the only one that crosses the arctic circle, the dalton highway is the definition of "bucket list".

The Dalton Highway is the northernmost highway in the United States and the only road trip in this list that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway is an all-weather road but also incredibly remote and one that requires extensive planning (be prepared for breaking down in the remote Alaskan wilderness).

The Dalton Highway runs from Fairbanks (the main city in Interior Alaska) and ends at Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay (near the Arctic Ocean).

• Length: 414 miles
• When To Go: June to mid-July , when the highway is usually dry
• Bucket List Stop: Finger Mountain Wayside, which also has an interpretive half-mile hiking trail for those seeking more scenic overlooks

Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive

While hawaii might seem out of the way, the big island circuit drive is worth the flight to see active volcanoes and stunning coastal landscape views.

The Big Island of Hawaii is by far the largest island in the Hawaiian Island Chain and is home to some of the world's most active volcanoes and some of the most stunning landscapes. One of the epic drives to consider is to drive around the Big Island. The two main roads on the Big Island are Highways 11 and 19 and taken together they create one big loop around the whole island.

• Length: 300 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, August, September, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Pepe'ekeo Scenic Drive is at the start of Highway 19, just north of Hilo

Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive

It wouldn't be a bucket list trip if it didn't have a unique route, and the drive from seattle to washington and fairbanks, alaska, also brings travelers through canada.

This suggested road trip from Seattle in Washington to Fairbanks in Alaska is the only American road trip to also pass through Canada. This is a mammoth 2,150-mile road trip passing through some of the remotest landscapes of North America (including British Columbia and the Yukon Territory). Alternatively, to keep it an all-American 'road trip', consider taking the Alaska Marine Highway - a ferry network that is part of the American highway system that bypasses Canada.

• Length: 2,150 miles
• When To Go: During summer months, preferably early June and July
• Bucket List Stop: While Fairbanks is the ultimate bucket list stop, saving some time to explore Canada can also add a unique aspect to this road trip

Google unveils new updates to make trip planning easier for travelers

Google Maps is launching new updates that are intended to make finding travel inspiration and local recommendations in your destination easier. Users will start seeing these lists of suggestions popping up in Google Maps in more than 40 cities across the U.S. and Canada this week. These updates will also be rolled out globally on Android and iOS mobile platforms later this month.

With this trio of updates, users can discover curated lists of local recommendations from other users and esteemed websites, customize their own lists and access key insights, making vacation planning a breeze and ensuring a seamless on-the-go experience. To access the new features, simply search for a city in Google Maps and and swipe up to see curated lists of places from people who know the city inside and out. You’ll also see lists from such reputable sources as Lonely Planet, the New York Times and OpenTable.

And, when away from home, the question of where to eat is always top of mind. Now, whether you’re a traveler or just want to find a trendy spot in town, you can use new restaurant lists created by Google Maps. These lists will spotlight the eateries people are showing interest in or rating highly on Maps at the time. Google has sorted restaurants into three separate lists based on various criteria, creating indices for trending, top-rated, and hidden gem locations.

The Trending list is updated weekly to spotlight places that experienced a recent spike in popularity on Maps, making it ideal for discovering the latest hot spots.

The Top list showcases the places that the Maps community has consistently shown love for. Use this list to find a neighborhood’s longstanding favorites.

The Gems list is for places that are considered an area's best-kept secrets, highlighting great restaurants that still fly under the radar.

Creating Maps lists allows you to organize places you’d like to visit and places you’ve already been that you might wish to revisit. With the new lists format, users will also be able to more easily arrange their selections for easy reference, as they can now choose the order in which places appear. Simply move them up or down in whatever order you prefer to have them displayed. Users can also link in content from their social media streams, such as their own reviews of a certain venue.

Similarly, to give users a good sense of each place at a glance, Google’s AI pulls key insights to display from the Maps community. When you search a spot, you’ll see select photos and reviews that encapsulate what patrons love about it. The AI function can even help you identify the name of a particular dish and display helpful information based on a restaurant’s menu.

New design updates are also set to give Google Maps a fresh look, including a simplified home screen and new pin colors that make places on the map easier to find.

Trip-planning AI

Google has also just announced an update that’s coming to its Search Generative Experience (SGE), which will enable users to create travel itineraries and compile trip ideas using AI. This means that Google will be taking on other companies that are already applying the generative AI’s capabilities to help travelers plan their trips, such as Mindtrip and Layla.

To come up with its travel recommendations, Google’s AI engine relies upon information from sites across the internet, as well as photos, reviews and other specifics users have submitted about any given place. Conversationally, users can ask the AI something like “plan me a five-day trip to New York City that focuses on entertainment” and receive a sample itinerary that includes local restaurants, attractions and points of interest. Once you’ve constructed your ideal itinerary, you can export it to Gmail, or Google Docs or Maps.

This new capability is currently available only in the U.S. (in English) to those who are signed up for Google’s Search Labs program, which invites users to experiment with early-phase Google Search functions. The company has not stated if or when this function will become more widely available. According to TechCrunch, Google is not only testing out new realms for using generative AI, it’s also gathering data about consumers’ travel purchasing intent, which would support its wider ad business.

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Singer-songwriter Taylor Swift released her 11th album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” on April 19, and the response to it just about broke the internet (along with a streaming record).

During all of the excitement, we unearthed a trove of Press Herald photos of Swift from when she visited Kennebunkport in 2010 for a special outdoor performance.

Check out these sensational images from staff photographer Derek Davis and then try your luck at our Taylor Swift quiz!

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