What To Pack For A Road Trip: The Ultimate List (2024)

Knowing what to pack for a road trip can be overwhelming…there are so many things to remember! And if you forget something, that’s money out of your road trip budget to replace it, and no one wants to have to do that!

No time to read? No problem!
get the printable version of this post below!

While there are road trip necessities that you should consider packing for every journey, your destination and type of road trip will also determine what additional items you’ll need to bring with you.

If you are camping or heading to a winter destination, you’ll need additional gear and supplies.

But if you’re planning a summer road trip to the beach or a lake, you’ll have to pack a completely separate collection of items.

And if you have kids or pets, there are even more packing list items you won’t want to forget.

That’s where this post comes to the rescue! I’ve compiled the ultimate packing list for every kind of adventure, and to help you out even more, you can download a FREE printable version of the checklist so you’ll never forget any road trip supplies again!

Ready to get started? Keep reading for everything you need to bring on a road trip!

What To Pack For A Road Trip: General items

There are a lot of essential items that are good to bring with you on every journey or any type of vacation. Here’s a list of things you should consider packing on every road trip.

NOTE: I’m not including common sense personal items such as underwear, toothbrush, shoes, etc. since I’m sure you already know to pack those. However, I may mention some specific clothes, shoes, toiletries, etc. that I think are special or have a particular purpose that you can keep in mind while road trip planning.

Packing

Duffel bag/hiking backpack

In my opinion, duffel bags and hiking backpacks are the best luggage option for a successful road trip because they are soft-sided and are easier to pack into a car. You can shove those babies into some pretty tight spots if you need to!

This is obviously a personal preference, and I do use my suitcase too depending on where we are going, but overall, I think soft-sided luggage is easier to pack into a vehicle, especially when you need to be able to fit a lot of other things as well.

Packing cubes

Some people love them and some people hate them, but I’m a big fan. I like that I can organize the clothing and items in my luggage, and it allows me to pack a lot more into my bag than if I didn’t have them.

The compression type is especially nice because you can fit even more, but I have non-compression ones and they suit me just fine.

Empty tote/bag

Let’s be real, you’ll probably buy some souvenirs or bottles of wine on your epic road trip, and it’s nice to be able to store these things in a separate bag in your car instead of having to leave enough room for them in your suitcase or leave them scattered all over the back seat.

In Your Wallet

Driver’s license/ID

This may seem like an obvious one, but if you are transferring some items from your wallet into a separate travel one or are taking some items out that you don’t need on vacation, you might forget it without realizing it. You’ll want to double-check that you have your license or ID before you pull out of the driveway.

Cash + credit cards

Even if I am traveling domestically, I always like to carry some cash in my wallet along with my credit cards so I’m prepared. Sometimes places like farmer’s markets or food trucks don’t take cards (or the machines are not working), and you don’t want to miss out on those delicious tacos because you don’t have any cash on hand.

Health insurance cards

No one wants to think about having to go to the hospital while on a long road trip, but if it happens, you want to make sure you have your insurance cards with you so that is one less thing you need to worry about when things are already stressful enough.

Printed itinerary details

Even in the age of technology where you can access just about everything on your phone, tablet, or computer, it’s still a good idea to have all your hotel details, ticket numbers, addresses, and other trip-planning documents printed out and kept with you just in case.

If you lose or break your phone, you’ll still want to be able to get all the information you need when you need it.

I’ve even got a complete road trip planning workbook for you so you can print out the pages that apply to your vacation and keep all your important details with you.

Electronics & Such

Phone

Another obvious one, but phones these days can do so much, and while you shouldn’t spend your entire trip playing on them and missing out on the experiences, they can make your vacation much easier by helping you navigate, finding cheap gas and places to eat, keeping track of your itinerary details, taking photos, and tons more.

Phone charger

If you bring your phone, don’t forget the charger! I tend to bring at least two with me just in case I forget one in the hotel room (guilty) or one stops working or breaks.

Camera

Phones can take great photos these days, but I’m still an advocate for packing an actual camera to get those pictures that you simply can’t on your handheld devices, like wildlife and anything you want to zoom in on.

I shoot with a Canon Rebel T5i (the T8i is the most current model) with an 18-135mm lens and have for years. It’s a great starter DSLR and lens for those who want to learn how to shoot manually and work on their photography game.

However, if you are thinking of purchasing a point-and-shoot camera for your travels, I’d recommend the Canon PowerShot Elph 180. It’s a great beginner option at a good price and it’s perfect for travel because it’s small and lightweight.

Entertainment

Whether you want to keep yourself occupied while you’re in the car or you would like something to do when you are relaxing in your hotel room, having some entertainment items and travel games is always a good idea when you are on a road trip.

I LOVE my Kindle Fire for when I travel so I can read whatever I’d like, but you could also bring card and board games, puzzles, paint supplies, or whatever else strikes your fancy.

Power bank

When you bring lots of electronics on a cross-country road trip, you’ll need to keep them charged when you’re exploring throughout the day.

A power bank is one of the best things to have in case you need to charge your phone or camera but you are out on a hike in remote areas or away from any other power sources.

Flashlight/headlamp

Sam and I do a lot of camping and hiking, and I always keep a headlamp in my day pack in case we end up hiking after dark or need to run to the campground bathroom in the middle of the night.

Even if you aren’t much of a hiker or camper, having a flashlight or headlamp with you is always a great addition. You never know when you might need it.

Walkie-talkies

If you are road-tripping with multiple vehicles or have a lot of people in your group, walkie-talkies are useful items to have on hand. It’s so much quicker and easier to keep in touch, and they get service anywhere, even when your phone doesn’t.

Check out my post on the best walkie-talkies for a road trip here.

Extra batteries

If you have any items that take batteries that are not rechargeable, like flashlights or walkie-talkies, bring along an extra set. It’s so much easier than trying to find a place to buy them when you are on the road.

Hygiene & Toiletries

Paper towels/wet wipes

Whether you are having a picnic or you spill something in the car (or on yourself), having something to wipe up your mess is going to save you a headache.

Toilet paper/tissues

When you gotta go, you gotta go…even if it’s along the side of the road in the middle of nowhere.

Just make sure if you do use toilet paper or tissues to do your business, you put it in a bag and take it with you…don’t leave it on the ground!

Hand sanitizer

This can come in handy in lots of situations, like using the bathroom outside or in a place where there is no sink to wash your hands before eating.

Hand lotion

I don’t know about you, but my hands get dry from washing them constantly or using sanitizer when I’m on the road. I like to have hand lotion quickly available (meaning outside of my suitcase) for when they need a little lovin’.

Chapstick

Just like my hands, my lips get chapped a lot when I travel, whether it’s from being outside all day in the sun or from the dry air in an airplane. I like to keep a tube of chapstick on my person all the time for whenever I need it.

Food Items

Food/drinks

Whether you plan to cook any meals on your vacation or not, having some healthy snacks and cold drinks in your car is always a good idea to fight the hanger that may occur on your trip (not that I would know anything about being hangry…).

Plus, you never know what food options will be available on the road, so having something you can eat in a pinch is also a good plan. My go-to’s include granola bars, jerky, popcorn, cheese, and crackers.

Cooler

If you do decide to cook meals on your long trip and want to bring your own food that needs to be refrigerated, you should bring a cooler.

The size is going to depend on how much space you have and what you plan to bring, but I’d suggest checking out these options to find what suits your situation the best.

Water bottle

I always carry a reusable water bottle with me everywhere I go and a road trip is no exception. Everyone in your group should have their own so you can fill them up as you go and always have some water available.

If you aren’t comfortable drinking the tap water from hotels and rest stops, use a bottle with a built-in filter so you can fill it up anywhere. This is a much better option than buying bottled water at every rest stop.

Gum/mints

Who wants to deal with someone’s bad breath when you are cooped up in the car with them for hours? I like to carry gum and mints with me for situations like this, and also for right after a meal when I can’t brush my teeth.

Plastic bags

There are so many uses for plastic bags! Not only can you use them for dividing up food and storing leftovers, but you can also use them for trash, keeping items dry, storing your toiletries, and much more.

If you don’t want to use single-use, there are reusable options you can purchase.

For Your Clothing

Laundry sheets

I never travel without throwing a few laundry sheets in my bag so that I can wash clothes anywhere, even in the sink if there’s no washer available. This allows me to pack less too since I can do a load of laundry on my trip instead of having to pack enough socks and underwear for the entire vacation.

These are also great to fly with because they aren’t liquid, weigh basically nothing, and take up very little room in your bag. Add laundry sheets to your list of road trip essentials!

Tide To-Go pen

I’m always spilling food on myself, probably because I’m always trying to eat on the go or in the car. These are super nice to have on hand for when (not if) this happens.

Laundry bag

I personally like to designate a specific bag for my dirty laundry so I don’t have to try to remember what needs to be washed and what’s clean.

I actually designate a packing cube for this, but my husband just uses a plastic grocery bag. They both get the job done, so whatever works for you.

Compression socks

While lots of people know that wearing compression socks can help when you are flying, most don’t know that they also are great for when you are driving long hours.

If your legs swell up or get super stiff from sitting in the car all day, give compression socks a try.

Comfort Items

Blanket/pillows

Blankets are a great item to add to your road trip list. Not only are they useful for sleeping in the car (I’m so jealous of people who can do that!) but it’s also nice to have them for campfires, car camping, or just keeping warm when your partner likes the vehicle to be an icebox and you can’t feel your hands.

Earplugs & eye mask

I’m a terrible sleeper, so I always travel with earplugs and an eye mask so I can actually get some quality sleep when I’m away from home.

I’d recommend everyone pack these along even if you normally sleep well because you never know what you might experience at your accommodations. Maybe there’s a super noisy street just outside your window, or the hotel room next to yours decides they want to party all night.

Throw a pack in your bag, and believe me, you’ll be glad you have them if you need them.

Quick-dry towel

I like to travel with a quick-dry towel even if I plan to stay in hotels every night. These can come in handy in case you get caught in a downpour or you want to dip your feet into the lake. They are also compact and lightweight so they won’t take up much room at all.

Everything Else

Travel journal + pen

If you are anything like me and can never seem to remember the name of that one restaurant you went to that had the best mac and cheese you’ve ever had in your life, pack a travel journal. That way, you can record the details of your vacation and keep track of the things you want to make sure to remember.

My 35-page road trip planning workbook has journal pages included so you can print out as many as you need for your vacation. That way, you’ll never run out!

And don’t forget a pen!

Multi-tool/Swiss Army knife

These come in handy in so many situations. This is another item that is better to pack for the “just in case” situations and one that you’ll be glad you have if you need it.

Just remember that if you are flying to your destination before your road trip, you can’t have this in a carry-on! You will need to check your bag in order to pack this.

Medications

Obviously, make sure you pack any prescription medications you need, but also don’t forget some over-the-counter ones that might come in handy, like ones for pain/fever, stomachache, diarrhea, motion sickness, etc.

Again, it’s a good idea to have them just in case you need them instead of having to try to find them when you are on the road.

Duct tape

So many uses. This is another great item to have that can solve lots of problems in pinch.

Umbrella/poncho

I’ll be honest, I don’t even own an umbrella anymore, but I really should have one for road trips. You can even get the little compact kind that can fit in your purse.

I tend to throw a little packable poncho in my bag instead so that if I would get caught in a rainstorm, I don’t get completely soaked.

Spare car key

This is an item not many people think about packing, but it’s a great idea to keep a spare key in a separate location just in case you lose a set or lock them in the car.

What To Pack For A Road Trip: For The Car

Before you set out on any road trip, there are some packing list items you should always keep in your car so you are prepared for anything that may happen on your journey, and also some things to keep your car clean and organized.

Jumper cables/portable battery jumper

Having your battery die while on a road trip is no fun, but you can help alleviate the stress by keeping jumper cables or a portable battery jumper in your vehicle.

One of my favorite road trip tips is if you have the budget, get a portable battery jumper. We use it a lot here in MN when our batteries crap out in the sub-zero temperatures, and it’s so much nicer to be able to jump your battery without needing another car, especially if it happens in the middle of nowhere.

Plus, even in freezing temperatures, this one keeps its charge FOREVER. It’s a great buy that’s well worth the price.

Spare tire & jack/tire iron

It’s always a good idea to confirm that you have a spare tire in your vehicle and that the tire iron and jack are also there.

Portable air compressor

A portable air compressor is another amazing gadget that is well worth the extra cost for peace of mind. If you notice a leak in your tire, you can pump it up wherever you are until you are able to get it patched. It’s so much quicker and easier than putting on the spare!

Car manual

I keep my car manual in the glove compartment, but if you haven’t looked in there for a while, double-check to see if you have it. You never know when you might need to look up something!

Car registration & proof of insurance

You should always have your vehicle registration and proof of insurance in your car, but it’s especially important when you are on a road trip because if you do get pulled over outside your home state, you don’t want to make things more complicated than they need to be.

And make sure you have the most recent cards and paperwork! I accidentally had an expired registration card in my car once and couldn’t find the current one, so I had to pay to get a copy. Take a few minutes and confirm everything is squared away before your trip.

Rental car agreement (if applicable)

If you are renting a vehicle for your road trip, you’ll probably receive a copy of the rental agreement. Make sure you keep this in the car so that in case you get stopped, you can show this to prove you have the authorization to drive the vehicle.

Empty gas can

Just in case you run out of gas, it’s a good idea to have an empty fuel can in the car so you can walk (or call an Uber) to the nearest gas station.

Trash can

Anyone else a bit of neat freak? I hate not having a place to dispose of my wrappers and garbage when I’m in the car on a long drive.

Consider purchasing a car trash can so you always have a place to store your trash while on the road. Or you can do what I like to do and have a grocery bag hanging from the glove box. Either way, as long as I don’t have to throw anything on the floor, I’m happy.

Car charger

I mentioned packing a phone charger in the General Items section above, but I mention it again because I personally like to keep a separate charging cable and USB charging station in the console of my car at all times.

A car power converter is a great choice because you can also charge items with a standard power plug, like a computer or a camera. It makes it even easier when you are on the road, and who doesn’t like to make things easier?

Phone mount

When you are using your phone to navigate, having a dashboard mount makes it easier and safer to view the screen without having to hold it or constantly look down, which is not safe at all.

I personally love this one, but there are lots of choices out there, including ones that will charge your phone while it’s docked. Fancy!

Road atlas

Technology can fail, and if it does, you’ll still want to be able to get to your destination.

A road atlas or paper map is a great item to always have in your car just in case. They also make great gifts for the road trip lover in your life.

Trunk organizer

So you have your portable battery jumper, your air compressor, your first aid kit, and your gas can, but where should you keep them?

A trunk organizer is a great item to keep everything in order and in a proper place so you’ll know exactly where to find the gear when you need it.

Sunshade

I seriously need to get one of these. Sunshades keep the inside of your car from heating up like a sauna on hot days.

I usually just suffer through it, but I’m not sure why I do when I can just get a sunshade. These would also come in handy if I have items in my car that I don’t want to get too hot while I’m stopped somewhere, like groceries or toiletries (melted deodorant = no bueno).

What To Pack For A Road Trip: Camping

Camping is probably my preferred way to stay when we travel, but that also means my packing lists have a lot more stuff.

Here are all the important road trip essentials you should consider packing when you are taking a camping vacation.

Sleeping

Tent/hammocks

Whether you are Team Tent or Team Hammock (we are definitely Team Hammock) you’ll need some kind of shelter.

You can also sleep in your car or a camper if that’s more to your liking and comfort.

I personally love our Hennessy hammocks. They are incredibly durable, comfortable, and keep us dry and warm in just about every kind of weather. You can even turn them into a tent if you don’t have a good place to hang them.

Sleeping bag

You will also need something to sleep in. You can use blankets if you like, but I prefer something a little warmer and more snug.

Sam and I just discovered the Puffle Quilt from Sierra Madre and absolutely love them. They are extremely versatile and incredibly warm – we got the 20 degree ones and are very happy with them.

These can also be used as a blanket and an underquilt for your hammock – if you are in the market for a new sleeping bag, give these a look!

Air mattress/sleeping pad

If you are sleeping in a tent, having an air mattress or a sleeping pad is the best way to stay as comfortable and warm as possible in cold weather.

Sam and I use the WELLAX sleeping pad because it’s lightweight which also makes it great for backpacking, and you can blow them up quickly.

Travel pillow

In my humble opinion, a pillow can make or break a good night’s sleep. I love my Nemo Fillo Pillow because not only is it compact and lightweight, but it has memory foam in it! 

Sleeping bag liner

When you are sleeping in warm weather, you don’t want to be sweating all night in your sleeping bag. Having a sleeping bag liner is great for keeping you cool at night, and if you tend to sleep hot, you could just use the liner as your sleeping bag when it’s hot and humid outside.

Eating

Cooler

I also mentioned this in the General Items section, but a cooler is something you absolutely should bring with you when you are camping.

While there are lots of great non-perishable food choices out there that work great for camping, it’s also nice to have some healthy, fresh options to choose from and to cook with.

Camp stove

Cooking over a fire is great, but sometimes you just want to heat something up or eat something small, and making a fire just for that is not only a pain but a waste of expensive firewood.

A camp stove is a great item to have for quick meals and to heat water for coffee and tea.

We use and love the MSR PocketRocket Stove Kit. It is also what we use when we go backpacking and it works great for both situations.

Cookware

Even though camp stoves are great, you’ll probably still want to bring some other cookware with you for bigger meals and grilling.

We love to cook with cast iron, but there are other options out there too if you are looking for something a little cheaper.

We also like to bring marshmallow sticks & mountain pie makers since it wouldn’t be camping without s’mores, now would it?

Don’t forget the tongs, spatulas, spoons, etc. that you’ll need to cook your meals!

Paper plates & bowls

Honestly, when we are camping we like to pack paper plates and bowls because it’s so much easier than washing dishes after every meal, but you can absolutely bring dishes if that works better for you.

Utensils

Even though I like paper plates, I pack reusable utensils (don’t ask me why, there’s no real rhyme or reason), but you could also buy a box of disposable forks, spoons, and knives if that’s easier for you. But you’ll want to make sure you have something to eat the delicious food you made.

Knives and cutting board

These are items I often forget and then always wish I had. You have so many more options for what you can cook when you have knives and a cutting board to prepare the meal.

Can opener

This is another item I forget a lot. If you buy canned food with the pull tabs you won’t need a can opener, but I often don’t look when I’m buying food for my road trip, and therefore I try to remember to bring a can opener so I can actually, you know, EAT the food I pack.

Corkscrew

Am I the only one who likes to bring wine with me when I camp? Assuming it’s allowed at the campground, of course, we usually like to bring a bottle or two on our trips, so a corkscrew is a good item to pack.

Oven mitts

Cooking over the fire can get your cookware SUPER hot, so a good pair of heat-resistant oven mitts is a road trip packing list necessity.

Thermos/travel mug

Is there anything better than waking up on a chilly morning and sipping some hot coffee or tea out of your thermos while sitting around the campfire?

Regular coffee mugs are fine too, but if you want to keep your drink hot until it’s gone, a good thermos or tumbler is the way to go.

Coffee maker

Unless you like instant coffee (I don’t know anyone who actually does), you might want to consider bringing a camping coffee maker.

A lot of backpackers also swear by the Aeropress, and while we haven’t used it ourselves (yet), you can check it out and see if it would be a good option to take with you on your travels so you always have your caffeine fix.

Charcoal

Firewood is expensive, y’all, and while a good wood fire is great to cook over and snuggle around, if you plan to do a lot of cooking, get a bag or two of self-lighting charcoal. A bag will last a lot longer than a bundle of wood and it burns a long time.

Matches/lighter

Unless you are a pro at the whole flint and steel fire-starting thing, pack along some matches or a lighter to get your fire started.

Silicone bags

These are great for storing leftover food in your cooler and also for dividing out your snacks and lunches when out and about.

I like the silicone ones instead of the plastic ziplock kind because they are more durable and less likely to get waterlogged, and you can wash them and reuse them on the entire trip.

Aluminum foil

Foil is great for wrapping up food as well, but it’s also useful for cooking and grilling.

Trash bags

It’s much easier to throw all your trash into a large trash bag than to trek back and forth to the campground dumpster a dozen times a day. Just make sure you put the trash in the dumpster every night so the critters don’t get into it.

Bucket/dish soap/sponge

Most campgrounds won’t have a designated dishwashing area, so we like to bring along a bucket that is designated just for cleaning our pots, pans, and utensils.

Just make sure you dump the dirty water in a safe area away from drinking water and lakes/creeks. If you can, dump it down the shower or sink drain.

Miscellaneous

Flip flops/sandals

Not only are flip-flops great for wandering around the campground, but you’ll also want to wear them when you take a shower in the public bathrooms. You have no idea whose gross feet were in there before you!

Bug spray

Depending on where you are camping, you might have a lot of bugs. I swell up a lot when I get bit, so I try to avoid it in the first place by wearing bug spray whenever I’m camping.

Bug candle

Having a citronella bug candle on the picnic table is nice so that you can keep as many bugs away as possible when you are eating.

We also use a Thermacell Rechargeable Repeller and find it works pretty decent.

Camp chairs

Picnic tables are nice, but they aren’t super comfy. Pack along camp chairs so you can be comfy and cozy around the campfire or wherever you are relaxing at your campsite.

Tarp

Tarps can come in handy for so many things. If you have a particularly rainy day/trip, you can make yourself a little canopy and have a place to get out of the weather.

They can also work as tent footprints or rainflys in a pinch.

Utility cord

Utility cord also has tons of potential uses. We like to use it to create a clothesline and hang things off the ground, like food and trash, so the animals can’t reach it.

Water filter

If you are worried about the quality of the water or are camping off the grid and need to get your water from a lake or stream, a good water filter is indispensable.

We have the Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter and can’t recommend it enough. We use it on all our backpacking trips and it’s been fantastic and super easy to use.

Dry bag

A good dry bag is another item that is so nice to have on any camping road trip.

Whether you are on the water, in the downpouring rain, or want to keep some food away from critters, you’ll be glad you have it when you need it.

Shower caddy/toiletry bag

A friend recommended I add this to the list, and it’s a good suggestion!

If you want a designated carrier for all your toiletries, bring a shower caddy or a bag you can hang in the stalls with all your bathroom items. It’s much more convenient than juggling everything in your arms, or just throwing the bottles in a bag willy-nilly and risking them spilling everywhere.

What To Pack For A Road Trip: Families

If you are traveling with kids, no matter their ages, you’ll want to pack some items specifically for them that will make their road trip (and yours) as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

Activities/entertainment

Long road trips are a great time for kids to read, watch movies, play video games, listen to music, or do any other types of activities that will keep them content on the journey.

Pick a couple of their favorites and pack them along so you won’t hear, “I’m bored!” twenty billion times on the drive. Or, if you have younger kids, buy a few new items and whip them out when they start to get fussy and whiny.

Headphones

If your child has a Kindle or music player, chances are you don’t want to hear what they are listening to the entire way. Or if you have multiple kids, they might not want to watch or listen to the same thing at the same time.

Pack along a pair of headphones for each kid so they can listen to their own devices without driving each other (and you) up the wall.

Playing cards

Playing cards are a great item to pack for a road trip for both kids and adults. With one deck you can play an endless amount of games. Teach your kids some of your favorites!

Books

If your kids don’t get car sick, reading is a great way to pass the time while driving. Books are also great for downtimes in your trip or to read together before bed.

A fun thing you can do is to take them to the library right before your trip so they can pick some out and have something to look forward to reading.

Toys

Toys such as frisbees, soccer balls, baseball and gloves, hula hoops, etc. are a fantastic choice to pack when you are road tripping with kids. It’s a great way for them to play at a park, campground, rest stop, etc. when they need to get out for some exercise or stretch their legs when you are taking a break from driving.

Stuffed animal/special blanket

If your child has a favorite stuffed animal or a special blanket that they can’t travel or sleep without, don’t forget to bring it!

Kid camera

See the vacation from your kid’s point of view by getting them a kid-friendly digital camera and encouraging them to take pictures along the way. There are a lot of affordable ones out there now and many have games and functions to make taking pictures fun for the little ones!

Extra baby food/diapers/wipes

If you are traveling with an infant, baby, or toddler, you’ll need some extra items, such as baby food/formula, diapers, wipes, etc.

Make sure you pack more than you think you will need. You might not be able to find exactly what you like to use while on the road so it’s better to have too much than not enough.

Extra clothes

The same goes for clothing. Kids have a way of getting into EVERYTHING and getting dirty constantly, so make sure you pack along extra clothing that’s within easy reach in case you have to change outfits mid-drive.

Emergen-C/vitamin C

Kids also spread germs like nobody’s business, so it might be a good idea to pack along some immune-boosting vitamins or supplements to keep you and your kids healthy while traveling.

Kid medicine

You never know when a stuffy nose, stomach ache, or fever will hit, so bring along some kid medicine for those just-in-case situations.

Bucket

If you do have a kid who is prone to getting carsick, having a bucket readily available and easy for them to reach is a good idea. You also never know when they might eat something that doesn’t agree with them, and I’m sure you’d rather they get sick in a bucket than all over the backseat and their siblings.

Sound Machine

Even if your kid doesn’t need a sound machine to sleep, I’d still recommend bringing one in case the places you stay are noisy and they can’t sleep.

Our kiddo does use a sound machine at night, so we bring the one he uses in his room and also a portable one in case we need to use it in the car or stroller.

Stroller/wagon/baby carrier

If you have the room, I know a lot of parents who like to bring a stroller or a wagon to cart the kids around when they decide they’ve had enough walking.

Our normal jogging stroller is much too big to take on a road trip so I opt to bring a carrier instead, but if we need to bring a stroller sometime, we’ll get a cheap packable one that we can use just for trips.

Kid utensils/placemat/bib/sippy cup

For those wee ones who still get food all over themselves and you when they eat, pack along all items that make mealtime a little less chaotic, such as their own utensils, placemat, bib, sippy cup, plates, bowls, etc.

What To Pack For A Road Trip: Beach/Water

If a vacation by the water is calling your name and you are packing for a road trip to an ocean, lake, or river, there will be some items that you won’t want to forget.

Swimsuit

What’s the point of traveling to a water destination if you don’t plan to get wet?

If I plan to spend a lot of time in or on the water, I like to bring at least two swimsuits so I don’t have to constantly be putting on a damp one (isn’t that the worst feeling?!) and also so I have options depending on what activity I’m doing.

Cover-up/sarong

For the ladies out there, having a cover-up or sarong of some kind is helpful for traveling to and from your activity and also a good thing to have if swimsuits aren’t proper attire for a restaurant or store and you don’t have time to change.

Sunscreen

Please, please, PLEASE protect your skin! Wear sunscreen all day and reapply as needed so you don’t get sunburn or other skin problems/diseases.

My face is really sensitive and everything makes me break out, so I like to use a special facial sunscreen by Supergoop! that also doubles as a primer so I can wear makeup over it without all the extra steps and hassle (and less chance of breakouts from an oily sunscreen).

Sunhat

Don’t forget about protecting your head and scalp! My scalp burns really easily, so I try to remember to wear a hat to not only keep the sun out of my face but also protect my scalp.

After-sun cream

In the event that you do get sunburnt, having some after-sun cream with you is going to be so much nicer than trying to find it at your destination.

Beach towel/mat

You definitely want a beach towel or mat that you can use to dry off and also sit on in the sand or on the shore.

I usually bring one towel for drying off (usually a quick-dry one like the one I mentioned in the General Items section) and also an extra-large one that I can sit on and relax.

Rashguard

If you plan to do any adventurous activities or sports, or just want to give your skin extra sun protection, consider bringing a rashguard with you on your road trip.

I have one that I wear a lot when I’m kayaking/paddleboarding, whitewater rafting, or snorkeling because it gives my skin extra protection and also so I’m less likely to, um, flash someone if I’m really active and my swim top moves or comes undone.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must-pack item for any road trip, not just a water-based one. You should definitely protect your eyes from sun exposure just like your skin.

Sandals/flip flops

Sandals and flip-flops are definitely the staple footwear option when you are spending time in or on the water. I normally just wear cheap Old Navy flip flops but I also have the Blowfish Malibu sandal and love these for walking around in warmer weather. They are super comfy and stylish!

Water shoes

I also really like having quick-dry water shoes for water sports and activities because they stay on your feet and also protect them from rocks, seaweed, and other items in the water. They are perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, river tubing, whitewater rafting, boating, fishing, and more.

Goggles/snorkels

If you spend a lot of time snorkeling and swimming on your vacations, consider purchasing your own goggles and snorkel so you don’t have to rent them all the time.

Plus you’ll know that it fits your face well and if you get squeamish about how sanitary rentals are, now you won’t have to worry about it.

Floaties

If you are traveling with children you’ll want to make sure you pack their flotation devices, but even teens and adults can enjoy relaxing in an inner tube or a raft on the water.

Pool noodles are also a great inexpensive choice for both kids and adults.

Beach umbrella/tent

Having a shelter of some sort to get out of the sun is important when you are at the beach or lake. A beach umbrella is a great choice, but there are also beach tents that have SPF protection and can fit 2-3 people at a time.

GoPro/waterproof camera

I absolutely LOVE my GoPro. The picture quality is fantastic and when I want to get underwater photos or I’m filming in the rain, I can get what I want without worrying about ruining my camera.

You can also get all kinds of gadgets and attachments for it so you can use it however and wherever you want.

Waterproof phone case

If you’d rather use your phone to take pictures in or near the water, look into getting a waterproof phone case.

I had one for my phone for a while before I got the GoPro and it worked decent, especially when I was on a budget and I wanted to get some photos while snorkeling. There are all sorts out there, so do your research to make sure you get a good quality one for your specific device. Ruining your phone on your road trip is not a memory you want to have.

Float strap

No matter if you are using a GoPro or a waterproof phone case, get a float strap so you don’t accidentally drop said device into the ocean and can’t get it back.

Dry bag

Dry bags are not only great items to take for camping trips, but also for beach trips. They will keep your clothing, food, books, electronic devices, and anything else dry and clear of dirt and sand.

What To Pack For A Road Trip: International

If you are heading to another country for your road trip, you’ll probably have to fly to get there, which means you’ll be restricted on how much luggage you can take.

While you should pack the items on this list that work best for your situation and the amount of space you have, here are a few things that you absolutely need to take when you are packing for an international road trip.

Passport & visa

Do not forget your passport if you are traveling internationally! You won’t be able to get on the plane or cross the border without it.

You should also check to see if you will need a visa to enter the country and whether you will need to obtain it ahead of time or if you can get it upon arrival.

Driver’s license or international driver’s license

Depending on what country you are from and where you are going, your regular driver’s license may not be sufficient to rent a car and drive in that country. An international driving permit may be required.

You can get an IDP through either the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).

Plug adaptor/converter

You may also need to bring an outlet adapter and converter so that you can use and charge your electronic devices.

I like this one because it can be used just about everywhere in the world and I don’t have to try and remember which plug to pack along. I also bring it a lot when I travel domestically because it has lots of USB ports so I can charge multiple devices at once.

Power bank

Being able to charge your devices on the go when you are out exploring all day is invaluable, so pack a power bank so you don’t have to stress about your phone or camera dying.

No ATM fee debit card

It’s always best to pull cash from an ATM in the country you are visiting to get the best exchange rate. Get a free, no ATM fees and no minimum balance checking account from Charles Schwab and use the debit card to pull cash out when you need it on your vacation.

No foreign transaction fee credit card

Besides having a no ATM fee debit card, you should also carry a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees. There are dozens of them out there, so if you don’t already have one, pick one that works for you.

Travel-sized toiletries

Even if you are checking a bag and don’t need to worry about the 3 oz liquid limit, bringing travel-sized toiletries is still a smart move because it will save precious space in your luggage. I have a bag designated specifically for all my toiletries, and if it doesn’t fit, it doesn’t come.

Luggage locks

While some people argue that having locks on your luggage encourages airport staff to open your bag and rifle through it, I like having them. It gives me a little extra peace of mind. Just make sure if you do use them, you get the TSA-approved ones so you don’t wind up with a broken suitcase because agents couldn’t access your bag.

Luggage tags

ALWAYS make sure every piece of luggage you take with you has a durable, visible tag with your name, phone number, and email address so that if your bags get lost in transit or accidentally left somewhere, you can be contacted.

What To Pack For A Road Trip: Pets

Taking your furry friend on a road trip can be a lot of fun, but it can also be stressful if you aren’t prepared. Here’s a great road trip packing list of items you should bring along for your pet.

Food

Obviously, you’ll need to bring your pet’s food, but I recommend bringing more than you think you’ll need. This is helpful in case your trip has delays or you end up staying longer than you originally planned.

Food & water dishes

Bringing your pet’s food and water dishes along is nice so that you can feed your pet on the road if necessary and you also don’t have to rely on finding other dishes to use while traveling.

Collar & ID tags

Even if your pet doesn’t wear a collar at home, you should always make sure they have one while traveling and make sure it has an ID tag with your contact information on it.

It’s also helpful to have any immunization tags on the collar too, like rabies, so that if your critter is lost, their information can be found through that tag as well.

Leash

Having a leash for your pet, even a cat, is nice in case you need to let your animal out of the cage while outside or you don’t have a crate readily available. Plus, many places require a leash in order to let your animal on hiking trails or in restaurants.

Being able to control your pet and keep them safe is very important, especially when traveling because they will be in unfamiliar territory and you don’t know how they will react to their environment.

Crate/carrier

More than likely you’ll probably leave your pet in a hotel room at some point or need to contain them to transport them. Getting an appropriately sized crate or carrier is important for their safety and comfort while traveling and when staying in unfamiliar places.

For some pets, their crate is their safe space, so having that with them on the journey can help with any anxiety and can give them comfort too when they are away from home.

Toys

If your pet has a favorite toy or stuffed animal, bring it along! Having something that they can play with on the car ride and at your destination will help prevent them from finding other things to chew on or scratch up, and it could also be a comfort item for them.

Treats

Treating your pet for traveling well is a great reward to encourage good behavior, so make sure you pack along some of their favorites.

Bedding

Having blankets or a pet bed can make the drive more comfortable for your animals, but it will also be a great way to keep your pet calm at bedtime and give them something from home that smells and feels familiar in an unfamiliar place.

Medications/tick & flea treatment

If you use any tick, flea, or heartworm treatments or medications, or if your pet has any prescriptions for health concerns, make sure you will have more than enough for the duration of your journey as it might be very difficult to get exactly what you need while on the road.

Vet records

It’s always a good idea to keep a copy of your pet’s vet records with you just in case you have an emergency while traveling and need to show the animal hospital your pet’s medical history.

Poop bags

Please pick up after your pet when it goes to the bathroom! Bringing along bags specifically to pick up your pet’s waste will ensure you always have something with which to take care of their business and so you don’t become one of those people who leaves it for others to step in.

Seat covers

More than likely your furry friend will shed while you are traveling in the car, and if you are anything like me, the less hair I have to vacuum out of my vehicle when I get home, the better.

Buy some seat covers or a blanket that you can lay in the backseat so that when you get home, you can just take the covers out, shake them off, and wash them for the next road trip. Easy peasy!

Cleaning supplies

Anyone who has ever had a pet puke in the back seat knows how awful that stench can be. No one wants to let that scent linger any longer than it needs to.

Pack along some cleaning supplies so that you can take care of any messes right away.

Brush

If your pet has hair, it’s probably a good idea to bring a brush so you can take care of their coat while traveling. Even animals with short hair can shed, and if you take a few minutes to give them a good brushing before getting into the car, you’ll have less hair to deal with and it will keep their coat nice and shiny too.

What To Pack For A Road Trip: Winter

Winter may not be the most ideal time to take a road trip, but with some preparation and patience, you can enjoy a beautiful snowy vacation in the winter months.

A winter road trip requires a few more items to pack to ensure that you stay safe and warm on your journey (and at your destination).

Hat & gloves

Make sure you pack a warm pair of gloves and a good hat to keep you toasty while you are outdoors.

Balaclava

If you are participating in outdoor activities, a balaclava is really nice to have to keep your entire face and neck warm. I find these keep me very warm when paired with a hat and scarf.

Snowboots

Keeping your feet warm is important, so a good pair of snowboots is worth it.

Scarf

Scarves are nice to have to keep your neck warm and also to look nice when you are out and about.

Snowpants

Having insulated and waterproof pants is important for outdoor activities like skiing and snowmobiling.

Winter coat

A good winter coat is key in keeping your body warm in the cold snowy months. I like ones with hoods and big pockets, and I tend to size up so I can wear lots of layers underneath.

Layers

Even a good winter coat won’t keep you warm for long if you don’t have good layers underneath. A merino wool baselayer and then a fleece midlayer are great options to start with.

Ski gear

If you are going on a ski trip, bringing your own gear will save you a lot of money instead of renting and you’ll be more comfortable with it. If you have your own stuff, consider packing it in the car and taking it with you.

Snowshoes

Snowshoes are a great item to pack for a winter snow trip. Not only will it allow you to get out on the trails in the winter and get some exercise, but they are also nice to have in case of an emergency or if your car gets stuck.

Tire chains

In some places, tire chains are a requirement in the winter. Whether they are required or not, keeping a set in your vehicle is a good idea if you are traveling where you could have some serious snow.

Make sure you fit them and know how to install them before your road trip!

Shovel

It’s a good idea to keep a snow shovel in your car while traveling in the winter for emergencies or in case you get stuck in a snowbank.

Traction cleats

No one wants to slip on the ice and get hurt, especially on vacation. I love using my traction cleats when I’m out walking in the winter in case the sidewalk or trail is slippery. It gives me that extra peace of mind and allows me to do more exploring.

What To Pack For A Road Trip: National Parks & Hiking

Hiking vacations are my absolute favorite. Most of my vacations and road trips are built around hitting the trails and exploring the great outdoors.

Spending a lot of time in our national parks does require some specific items to make exploring enjoyable, safer, and more comfortable.

National Park Pass

If you plan to visit more than one or two parks in a year, a National Park Pass is absolutely worth the cost.

For $80, you can enter all the national parks and federally managed lands in the country for a full year. Many of the parks can cost up to $35 each, so visiting even 3 parks in one year saves you a bit of money.

Day pack

I always carry a day pack with me when I’m out exploring or hiking. I keep the 10 essentials for hiking and all the other items I’ll need for the day in it so I’m set!

I personally like one with good back support and lots of pockets, but there are options in all sizes and designs so you are sure to find one that works for you.

Hydration pack

This is another item I prefer to use instead of water bottles. I like the easy access while I’m hiking and hydration packs can hold a lot more water and take up a lot less space than water bottles.

Bug spray

Don’t let itchy bites make you miserable. Keep bug spray with you to ward off any pesky insects.

Sunscreen

Sunburn can also ruin your trip, and you want to make sure you protect your skin. I always keep sunscreen with me as well so I can reapply as needed throughout my day.

Hiking boots/shoes

While sneakers and sandals can work on some trails, I always prefer to hike in supportive hiking boots or shoes. I want a shoe that’s going to have good traction and ankle support and can also get wet and muddy without getting ruined.

Wool socks

I highly recommend wool socks for hiking. They regulate temperature well so they will keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They also are very durable and comfortable.

Having a good pair of socks can make a big difference in how your feet feel after a day on the trails. There are lots of good brands out there, but I like Cloudline.

Raincoat

Don’t let a little rain prevent you from getting outside. Pack a good raincoat and get outside no matter the weather.

Layers

Even in the summer, many national parks can still get cool at night. Packing along a variety of layers is always a good choice so you can be comfortable in all temperatures and weather.

Hiking poles

While not really a necessity, I like having hiking poles when I’m out all day on tougher trails. They are also really nice to have on backpacking trips when you have a lot more weight on your back.

Cooling towel

I overheat pretty easily so I always like to carry a cooling towel so I can keep myself comfortable in warmer temperatures and while hiking.

Other Road Trip Essentials

So you’ve got the car packed up, but what other road trip essentials should you have for your next vacation?

Roadside assistance

I’m a big advocate for having a roadside assistance membership like AAA. If you find yourself in a pinch, you can give them a call and they will help you with everything from a dead battery to running out of gas to a flat tire and tons of other situations.

You also get additional perks like free passport photos, travel and restaurant discounts, and much more.

Travel Insurance

Even if you are traveling domestically, it can be nice to have travel insurance that will cover you if your flight is delayed or canceled, an airline loses your luggage, you get injured or need to go to the hospital, or other issues that can happen on vacation.

I like Safety Wing but there are plenty of good companies out there.

Offline maps

Having reliable navigation is important on a road trip. There are still plenty of places in the United States that don’t have good cell phone service, so having Google Maps downloaded on your phone for offline use is super important and very easy to do.

Road trip apps

There are LOTS of travel and road trip apps out there to help you on your vacation. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Wanderlust: Travel Expenses – this lets you keep track of everything you spend before and during your trip so you can stick to your road trip budget
• Gas Buddy – helps you find the cheapest gas and can also help you determine how much gas will cost based on your route and the car you are driving
• Upside – this app gives you real cash back when you fill up at select gas stations

• The Dyrt – a great app for finding camping
• SpotHero – an app that helps you find, reserve, and pay for parking in cities and at certain attractions
• TripAdvisor – I use this app to help me find restaurants and places to visit

Music playlists

Is it really a road trip without a good playlist? I always think it’s fun to create a playlist before each trip so I have some good tunes to look forward to listening to on the journey.

Audiobooks

If I’m traveling by myself, I love listening to audiobooks. I think it makes the time pass by and I can usually catch up on some books on my reading list.

You can look into an Audible 30-day trial or check and see if your local library has audiobooks you can borrow.

Podcasts

Sam and I love to listen to podcasts together when we are traveling. They are a great way to learn something new, be entertained, or just create conversation and make the time pass.

What Should You Not pack for A Road Trip?

While there are always lists of what you should bring on a road trip, what things should you NOT take?

Valuables

If you don’t need it, don’t bring it. Valuables like expensive jewelry, purses, watches, etc. are not a good idea because if you lose them on vacation, you probably won’t get them back.

Valuables can also make you a target for thieves and car burglars. If it’s not something that’s going to be useful on your trip, leave it at home.

Fancy meals

Packing food and bringing ingredients to cook your own meals is a great idea, but don’t make the meals too complicated or tedious. If you’ve had a long day of traveling or sightseeing, you probably won’t want to cook anything too fancy or that takes too long.

Consider simple meals like spaghetti or sandwiches or meals that you can make ahead of time, freeze, and then heat up when you are ready to eat.

All your toiletries

I have a beauty routine that I do when I’m at home, but I never bring all of my products with me when I travel.

Not only does it take up a lot of room, but it’s also time-consuming. There’s also a good chance that some of your products will spill or break while you are traveling or you will forget them at the hotel.

Only bring the products you really need and then consider bringing travel sizes with you so they take up as little space as possible.

Hardshell luggage

Hardshell luggage is more difficult to pack into a car because it has no flexibility, and it also tends to break easier when it is constantly being moved around and shoved into cars and planes.

Softshell luggage is much easier to pack and is less likely to break on your trip. I also feel like you can pack more into backpacks and duffel bags than you can a hardshell suitcase.

Impractical clothing & shoes

Leave your high-maintenance clothes and impractical shoes at home.

You certainly can dress well and bring a nice outfit or two for going out for dinner or a show, but don’t choose outfits that wrinkle easily or need to be drycleaned, and bring shoes that you can wear with multiple outfits and are comfortable.

How To Prep Before The Road Trip

Take some time to prepare before you leave for your road trip. A little preparation beforehand can really make a difference in making sure everything is taken care of and you don’t forget something important.

In fact, take a look at my road trip planning workbook, which has all the pages and information you’ll need to prep before your adventure.

Plan ahead

Creating a road trip plan will save you a lot of money and time in the long run.

Mapping out your route, setting up places to stay, knowing what you want to see and where you want to stop, and even knowing what time of day you want to drive will help make the road trip as memorable and stress-free as possible.

Make a budget

No one wants to have to stick to a budget on vacation, but it’s important to know how much money you can spend on your trip and then be able to stick to it so you aren’t in trouble when you return.

Take some time to plan your budget and read Ways To Save Money On A Road Trip to make the most out of your road trip money.

Prep the house

If you are only going to be gone a few days, there probably isn’t much you’ll need to do, but if you set out on a several-week journey or more, you’ll want to do a few things to ensure your home is secure while you are away.

• Put a hold on your mail
• Unplug most appliances and electronics
• In the winter, turn your heat down (but don’t turn it off)
• Double check all doors and windows are locked
• Mow your grass before you leave (and ask a neighbor or friend to look after your lawn if you will be gone a while)
• Water your plants

If you have a friend or neighbor you trust, have them check on your house every once in a while to make sure everything looks OK while you are gone.

Prep the car

You’ll want to make sure your car is in good shape before you hit the road. Some things you should do include:

• Get the oil changed and the tires rotated
• Check fluid levels and have the car inspected by a mechanic for potential issues
• Have a complete roadside emergency kit

Go shopping

Make a shopping list of everything you still need to buy, including food and meals, and make a grocery store run a day or two before your trip.

I like to wait as long as possible before going shopping because I often find things I need, like toothpaste or contact solution, while I’m packing. If I go shopping too early, I often have to go again because I discover something else I need the day before leaving.

What To Pack For A Road Trip FAQs

When should I start packing for a road trip?

This is going to be different for everyone, but I like to start the packing list about a week ahead of time so I can make a shopping list and start setting aside the clothing and travel items I definitely want to bring.

I usually start packing my bags 2-3 days before my trip so I can make sure I have what I need and have more time to remember items. I find that if I only pack a day or two before my trip, there’s a pretty high chance I’m going to forget things and then I’ll need to go buy them later, which then cuts into my road trip budget.

Find the schedule that works best for you. The best time to start packing is the time that’s going to be the least stressful and will allow you to remember everything you need.

What should I absolutely not forget to pack for a road trip?

Depending on the kind of road trip you are taking, there will be certain items you won’t want to forget.

Download the FREE road trip packing checklist below to make sure you are bringing everything you need no matter what kind of adventure you are having.

How should I pack my clothing for a road trip?

I personally think that using packing cubes is the easiest way to pack more into my bag and make it easy to find what I’m looking for.

I like being able to sort my bottoms from my tops, and I also have a separate hanging bag for my toiletries and another one for my miscellaneous stuff.

How should I pack up my vehicle for a road trip?

Everyone is going to have their own system that works best for your family, but I like to put all the food items and things I‘ll need during the drive in the back seat so it’s easily accessible.

Some of the bigger items, like suitcases, camping gear, sleeping bags, etc. I put in the trunk because I won’t need them until the end of the day or until I reach my destination.

I also keep a day bag in the front seat with me that has my wallet, a sweater, my camera, etc. that I can just grab and go when we take our breaks or are visiting an attraction.

Try out a couple of options and find the one that works best for you.

What are some fun things to pack for a road trip?

You can bring pretty much whatever fun activities you’d like for your road trip as long as you have room in your vehicle!

If you don’t get carsick, you can bring books to read or activity books like crosswords and Sudoku. If you have kids, you can pack games and puzzles or even download movies.

Frisbees and balls are great choices for breaks and for parks and campsites. Sidewalk chalk, jump ropes, and hula hoops are also fun options.

If you have the space in your car, you can bring pretty much whatever you’d like to keep yourself and others entertained on the journey and at your destination.

Conclusion: What To Pack For A Road Trip

It may seem like there is a lot to pack for a road trip, but it doesn’t have to be stressful! With a little foresight and some planning, you can have a great vacation and have everything you need for an unforgettable adventure!

Want to save it for later? Pin it!