Headed on a road trip? Here is the ultimate road trip packing list to help make sure you have all the essentials for your next adventure.
COVID-19 may have affected some of your 2020 travel plans, but road trips are still very much possible.
Let’s face it – you can’t travel the way you used to in a world that’s fighting a pandemic. But that doesn’t mean you should ditch your travel plans altogether. A road trip is a safe way to travel and ensure that you follow all the preventive measures, and have complete control over your journey ahead.
When planning a road trip, you need to know what to pack and take with you on your next escape. It’s critical to keep your essentials handy to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
So, what should you pack?
To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the most essential items to carry with you on your next road trip.
1. Vehicle Essentials
Some of the most important things to have with you on your next road trip is to ensure that you have all your vehicle documents prior to getting on the road.
Here are the documents that you should be carrying:
- Driver’s License
- Vehicle Registration and Insurance information
- Cross-border cards, if needed
Apart from these, you should also have the following:
- Spare tires
- Extra vehicle key
- Roadside emergency kit
- Car manual
- Jumper cables
- Contact numbers for car insurance
2. Electronic Battery Pack
When you’re going to travel long distances on the road, it helps to have an electronic battery pack handy. Keep it completely charged before you leave for your road trip so that you can use it to charge your phone or other electronic items.
This is especially helpful if you tend to use your device’s maps or navigation system, as they can cause your battery to drain quickly.
Alternatively, having a charging cable with a car adapter handy will ensure that you can charge your phone or device while on the road.
3. First Aid Kit
While first aid kits might be bulky or take up room, they have proved to be an essential health and safety item to keep in the car. When you’re traveling on the road for a long-distance, it’s always advisable to have a basic first aid kit with you. In case of any unforeseen accidents, you can treat yourself or your co-travelers.
It also helps to have some common medication such as antiseptic and aspirin packed with your first aid kit.
4. Hand Sanitizer
When you’re on the go, it might be difficult to come across taps where you can wash your hands. Hand sanitizers or baby wipes can come in as handy substitutes in such conditions. This way, you’ll never need to worry about finding a spot to wash your hands.
Additionally, with the current COVID-19 pandemic, carrying sanitizers is essential for the health and safety of yourself, and others.
5. Cook set and Tents
If you intend to camp as a part of your road trip, be sure to pack large enough tents, a cooking set, and other essentials.
6. Water Container
When traveling for a long-distance, be sure to pack enough water for your trip. For this, we recommend carrying a large container for water. This can ensure that you’ll have enough water for the entire trip, not only for drinking but also for cleaning after meals, and more.
If you’re going camping, we’d recommend that you ensure that your water container has enough capacity to last you for the night.
7. Rain Gear & Bag Covers
To prepare for rain or unsuspecting weather conditions, consider packing rain gear, like a rain jacket or umbrella, for your road trip. You may also want to take a waterproof bag cover or tarp to safeguard all your belongings.
If you intend on carrying a camera or laptop on the trip, a cover can help you save them from potential damage.
8. Hiking Shoes
When you’re headed for a hiking road trip, be sure to pack appropriate shoes. Hiking shoes can help you tread the trails with ease.
Even if you’re not headed for a hiking trip specifically, you should consider carrying them. You may come across a beautiful trail that you’d want to explore, and it’d be a pity if you don’t have the right gear for it.
9. Mosquito/Bug Repellent
If you intend to camp out or sit outside for long periods of time during your road trip, you should carry mosquito or bug repellents. These can help you avoid those unwanted bug or mosquito bites.
10. Toiletries
Long road trips could mean that you may have to make multiple stops along the way. If you don’t intend on staying in a hotel, you should consider carrying toiletries along with you.
While they may not occupy much space, they’re pretty essential. Toiletries to consider packing include: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, razor, shaving cream, sunscreen, eye drops, and any essential medication.
Final Thoughts
Going for a road trip is both a thrilling and fun experience. Whether you’re going for a solo road trip or with your family and friends, you should pack for it carefully.
Missing essential items could cause issues and inconveniences. Be sure to make a list, and pack the necessities prior to your trip.
So, what are you waiting for? Head to any Alon or DK station, fill your tank, grab your snacks, and get on the road.