Summer is the perfect time for a road trip! You probably can't wait to go on your outing, but days before the big day, you should already be fully packed so you won't forget anything. But what are you going to bring? A flashlight? Medicine for cough and colds? A pillow? An ice pack? Here’s our list of roadtrip essentials you must not leave home without.
Maps
Despite having numerous apps to guide us where we need to go, it is still best to have an actual printed map on hand. What do your phones run on? Batteries. Remember, your electronic device’s battery doesn’t last forever. Actual maps, on the other hand, need no batteries, charging or network service.
Blankets
It does not matter if it is a one day only roadtrip or an overnight one; a blanket is an absolute essential. A blanket isn’t just for sleeping as it has multiple uses. Going on a picnic? Grab a blanket and cover the ground with it. Parking under the sun and don’t want the seats to get hot? Cover ‘em with a blanket. Someone feeling sleepy in the passenger seat? Roll it up and use it as a pillow.
Roadtrip Playlist
What roadtrip wouldn’t be complete without some awesome sounds? Use a USB chord and connect your phone to your car’s audio system if possible. If not, grab some portable speakers to amplify your music. You can use Spotify if you cannot think of a great playlist as there are numerous playlists available for your roadtrip needs.
First Aid Kit
Medical mishaps can happen on the road. Purchase or assemble a first aid kit to be ready for anything. If one of your passengers become carsick, pass them a motion sickness bag and tablet. If one of your passengers nicks himself opening a pull tab can of luncheon meat, give him the iodine solution and band aid.
Snacks and Water
Going on a roadtrip means that you will get hungry at some point. Pack non-messy snacks like granola bars and fruits to make clean up a breeze. If you know that lunch hour will reach you on the road, bring a packed lunch with viand that won’t spoil easily. Bring a lot of potable water and put ‘em in a small cooler to keep them cold. This water can also be handy if your vehicle overheats.
Toiletries
Aside from your usual shampoo, soap, toothbrush, dental floss and toothpaste, what should you include in your toiletry kit? Add paper towels, wipes and alcohol. Wipes can be quite useful on those hot days when you just need a quick refresher or for cleaning sticky fingers while paper towels can be used for mopping up spills and alcohol for times when you just cannot wash your hands before eating.
Emergency Car Kit
Be prepared for any mechanical problem with an emergency car kit. Some car companies include a car kit when you purchase your brand new car, but if you are not satisfied with that pack or your car did not have one, buy one at your nearest hardware store or online.
ID, Credit Cards and Cash
If you plan on staying in a hotel, have some form of identification ready as some establishments may require it. Have your credit card ready as it can get you out of any fix. There’s a couple of reasons why you need cash. First, if you are going to pass by a tollway, have your companion be ready with your exact toll fee. Second, some stores do not accept cards or their machines may be offline so be ready with a good amount of cash.
Garbage Bag
Clean up your mess! Have a garbage bag ready for your rubbish and end the roadtrip with a clean car.
Be prepared, have fun and don’t forget to take plenty of photos to for that roadtrip to remember.