Woah, hold your horses! We know you’re excited to rush onto the road to begin your exciting road trip, but before you step foot into the car, you need to make sure you’ve got all the essentials packed. After all, preparation is key! To help you avoid any bumps in the road, we’ve created your go-to list of 20 must-bring items as you get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. 

1. Navigation Tools

Whether it’s an old-school paper map, a GPS device, or your trusty smartphone, you’ll definitely need something to guide you along your journey. We’re big fans of the scenic route, but let’s be real, no one likes being hopelessly lost. Certain areas might not have the best cell service, so having a backup is utterly crucial. Try downloading offline maps or investing in a detailed atlas so you’re prepared no matter what happens. 

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2. First-Aid Kit

Road trips can sometimes lead to minor accidents, whether it’s a scraped knee from a hike or a headache from staring too long into the sun. A well-stocked first-aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and basic medication. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so always be ready for the unexpected!

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3. Water Bottles

Stay hydrated friends! Water is vital, especially when you’re on the road for a long time. Make sure you pack refillable water bottles for each person on the trip. Not only are you doing your bit for the environment, but it will also save you money on constantly having to buy disposable ones. If you want to keep the good vibes coming, remember to drink your water!

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4. Healthy Snacks

Sometimes, when the hunger starts creeping in, you’re still miles away from the next best diner. Keep your hunger pangs at bay with a selection of tasty, nutritious snacks. Opt for items that won’t spoil easily, like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars. Choose healthy options that’ll satisfy your hunger and keep you feeling good. You don’t want to feel lazy and sluggish because you munched on too many potato chips!Photo by Rachael Gorjestani on Unsplash

5. Car Maintenance Kit

Don’t let car trouble throw a wrench in your plans when you’re trying to have the best trip ever. Include a basic car kit with items such as a spare tire, jumper cables, and motor oil. While yes, it’ll take up space in your storage, you definitely won’t regret bringing them along when a problem arises. Familiarize yourself with basic car maintenance before your trip to prevent any minor issues from becoming major problems.

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6. Clothes for All Weather

No matter what your destination might be, always pack for varying weather conditions. Think layers, rain gear, swimwear, and a warm jacket. This ensures that you’ll be prepared for whatever Mother Nature decides to throw your way. After all, a little rain shouldn’t dampen your road trip fun.

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7. Sunscreen

It’s always a good idea to protect your skin, even if the sun isn’t especially blazing outside. But if you find it hot out, sunburns can happen quickly, especially during those epic car-window-photo sessions. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a least SPF 30 to protect yourself, and don’t forget to reapply it regularly.

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8. Comfortable Footwear

Trust us on this one, comfortable shoes can really make or break your road trip. Whether you’re doing a quick roadside stretch or a day-long hike, your feet will thank you. There’s nothing more annoying than walking for hours on end in uncomfortable shoes. Remember, your choice of footwear should cater to the activities you plan to do. 

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9. Multifunctional Tools

From opening canned goods to fixing a loose screw, a great multi-tool is indispensable. Showing up when you least expect it to, they can really come in handy. Look for one that includes a knife, a can open, a screwdriver, and perhaps a bottle opener. You never know when a situation might call for one of these items! 

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10. Camping Gear

If you’re planning to sleep under the stars, make sure you’re well-equipped with everything you need. A tent, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, and a reliable flashlight are the absolute essentials. Don’t forget to double-check if your chosen camping spots require advance booking.

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11. Travel Pillows and Blankets

Restful sleep is very important, especially if you’re expecting long days on the road. Travel pillows and blankets can provide extra comfort during those long travels or overnight stops. Plus, a blanket also works double as a picnic blanket if you decide to do an impromptu lunch stop at a park. 

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12. Entertainment

Books, portable board games, and downloaded movies or music can make those long stretches of road far more enjoyable. For a fun nostalgic twist, consider packing a deck of cards or travel-sized versions of your favourite childhood games. It’s the best way to keep the good vibes rolling and the boredom from kicking in.

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13. Camera

To remember this incredible trip, don’t forget to capture all the magic with a great camera. You’ll definitely want your adventure recorded, so whether it’s a high-end camera or your smartphone, don’t forget to pack it. Bring along some spare batteries too or a portable charger so you’ll never run out of battery. 

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14. Portable Power Bank

Speaking of charging, a portable power bank is a life-saver on the road, especially since we carry along so many electronic devices. It’s not just for your phone or camera, but it’s also for any other tech gadgets you bring along. Look for one that has multiple USB ports to make things convenient. 

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15. Travel Documents

As you excitedly pack all your belongings, don’t forget the basics - bring your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of car insurance. If you’re crossing state or country lines, you especially don’t want to forget your passport. Always check if you need additional paperwork too! If you forget any of these items, it’ll definitely put a dent in your dream trip.

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16. Toiletries

Travel-sized toiletries are ideal for road trips. Include all the essentials: a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and any personal hygiene products you may need. It’s also always handy to have a set of wet wipes and hand sanitizer in the car - you never know when things might get a little dirty, whether from eating or outdoor activities. 

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17. Cooler

A cooler is a great way to keep your drinks and perishables fresh, especially if you’re traveling in hot weather. It’s perfect for storing your snacks, sandwiches, and fruits. Pack plenty of ice packs to ensure things stay cool and refreshing. 

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18. Trash Bags

Help keep our world clean by packing a few trash bags. They’re great for storing rubbish until you get a chance to properly dispose of it. It’ll also come in handy when you need to store wet clothes or dirty shoes.

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19. Spare Keys

This might seem a bit over-the-top, but having a spare set of car keys can save you from a world of stress. It’s easy to misplace things when you’re on the road, and your car keys are no exception. You can easily store them someplace safe from your main set, or give them to someone you trust.

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20. A Sense of Adventure

Last but certainly not least, pack your sense of adventure. A road trip is all about experiencing new things, exploring new places, and making unforgettable memories with the people you love. Stay flexible, be open to the unexpected, and enjoy every step of the journey.

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And there you go - 20 essential items all necessary for your road trip adventure. Preparation is key to having the best experience, but don’t stress over the small stuff. The most important part of the road trip isn’t the destination after all, it’s the entire journey and process. So get packed because it’s time to go!