10 Things to Bring on a Road Trip
Whether you are taking a quick weekend trip or planning a vacation for the holidays, there are 10 things you have to add to your packing checklist:
- Spotify Premium
This is not a physical item, but it is crucial for long road trips. Whether you prefer Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music, subscribe to ad free and offline listening. Create your playlists ahead of time with enough songs for the length of your trip. One of the worst things to happen on a road trip is to be stuck in traffic with buffering music.
- Hand Sanitizer
Going into restaurants, rest areas, and touching dozens of doors are going to leave you with germs on your hands. Bring a bottle of hand sanitizer to disinfect your hands and stay clean.
- Phone Charger
Your phone battery will drain quickly, especially if you are using it as your GPS. Make sure you have a charger handy in case of emergencies.
- Blanket
If you are a passenger, you have the luxury of being more cozy on long trips. Find a soft blanket to take with you for the cold nights on the road.
- Pillow
Another crucial items for passengers is a pillow. When the caffeine wears off, you may find yourself needing a nap. A pillow will help you get more comfortable and prevent your neck from getting sore due to uncomfortable sleeping positions. This can either be a pillow from your bed, a small throw pillow, or an airplane pillow. All will work great, so use your personal preference.
- Snacks
Snacks and drinks are a must for every trip. Water and crackers are particularly important if you have a weak stomach. I like to bring some tea with caffeine to keep me awake as long as possible. Though it is not a healthy snack, Skittles tend to settle my stomach when I am in the car for extended periods of time.
- A Bag
Bring a disposable bag with you. You will have wrappers, napkins, and tissues floating around your car. Having a bag to throw your trash away in will keep your car neat and make cleaning up easier when you reach your destination.
- Cash
Even if you have your credit card on you, bring some cash for emergencies. You never know if a business will only be accepting cash due to technical difficulties or if you need to pay a toll. Keeping change on you is also great for vending machines and sanitary products.
- Napkins / Wipes
If you are going to be eating in your car, you are going to want napkins and wipes to keep your hands and face clean. Tissues are also great to have on hand for those cold nights.
- Medicine
Medicine is something I always forget and regret not putting on my checklist. You never know when somebody is going to get a sour stomach or a headache. I like to bring Advil, Tums, and some Vitamin C to help my immune system.