Behold – the ULTIMATE road trip packing guide! From short day trips to extended adventures, I’ve logged thousands of miles in my car and I know what to pack for an epic road trip.
I get it. Packing and preparing don’t always come easy for everyone, especially if you’re about to embark upon your FIRST road trip!
But fear not, fellow adventurers! In this guide, I’ll spell out exactly what you need to pack, why it’s a good idea to have the items handy, and where to pack items in your vehicle before you leave on your road trip.
I should mention that this is NOT a clothing-focused road trip packing guide. Wear what you want. Sweats. Flip flops. Be you and most importantly, be comfortable.
Before your road trip:
Figure out where you’re heading. Have an idea of which route you want to take and how long you want to be out on the open road. You don’t necessarily need to have everything planned, but your route will determine what you need to pack and how to prepare.
Need some help with how to plan a road trip? Check out this article that outlines the steps you need to take to put together an awesome road trip!
Make sure your vehicle is road-trip-ready. Take your vehicle to get an oil change, top off fluids, check the tires, and make sure your spare is good to go. How are your wiper blades? Windows functioning okay? When was the last time you changed the air filters? It’s always best to get these things taken care of before you begin your road trip.
Prepare your entertainment. You’re going to be spending a lot of time in close quarters with your travel companions. Believe it or not, you’ll need to take a break from talking. Have some CDs, playlists, and podcasts downloaded and ready to go. Read this article for my 3 tips to create an EPIC road trip playlist. Make sure all of your electronics are fully charged.
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One Day Base Road Trip Packing Guide
Whether you’re taking the long way to grandma’s house or needing some solo time in your vehicle, this one day road trip packing guide is the base you’ll want to use for any road trip.
Vehicle Essentials
These items should already be in your vehicle and ready to go if needed. If you haven’t used any of them or are unsure of their condition, now would be the perfect time to check.
Paperwork: vehicle registration, insurance, manual, rental agreement (if renting), and any pertinent maintenance or warranty information. Keep in the glove box in a folder so they stay organized.
Spare tire: the location of your vehicle’s spare tire will obviously depend on the make and model of said vehicle. Make sure your spare is fully inflated. If possible, replace the donut with a full-sized tire.
Roadside emergency kit: jumper cables, thick gloves, reflector jacket, tow cable, various tools, anything else your vehicle might need. Duct tape is always a great option. If you’re going to be traveling in the snow, keep a blanket and red towel handy, just in case you get stuck and need to signal for help.
Flashlight: keep this by your seat, preferably in the driver’s side door. If you have a larger flashlight like a Maglite, it can double as a weapon.
Roadside assistance: especially if you’re traveling in the USA, having something like AAA is ideal to have on-hand. If you’re traveling in another country, check to see if there is an equivalent. Or at least have some phone numbers on-hand, just in case you need a tow.
Entertainment
Camera: document your journey. Take a before and after selfie. Stop by that weird thing you saw off the side of the road and have an adventure!
Music: CDs, podcasts, playlists, harmonica (only if you’re the passenger). If you’re traveling with multiple people, consider bringing headphones in case not everyone can agree on the music choice. Download what you can before you leave.
Phone accessories: cords, chargers, hands-free mount, case. Of course these can all be purchased at gas stations around the world, but save yourself some money and remember to pack them.
Comfort Items
First aid kit: you can purchase a ready-made one or build your own. Bandaids, gauze, gloves, sanitary wipes, Tylenol or other painkillers.
Deodorant: the quickest way to feel fresh and clean. And your fellow road trippers will thank you for it.
Sun protection: sunglasses, hat/visor, sunscreen, lip balm, lotion. Depending on your direction, there’s a good chance that one side of your face and the corresponding arm will receive more sunlight than the other. Protect yourself.
Snacks: save your wallet and your body! Pack some snacks and drinks to keep handy and help pass the time.
Weekend Road Trip Packing Guide
Vehicle Essentials
These items are exactly the same as the one day guide, but ever more important the more time you spend on the road. Spend the time to make sure everything is in working order.
Paperwork: vehicle registration, insurance, manual, rental agreement (if renting), and any pertinent maintenance or warranty information. Keep in the glove box in a folder so they stay organized.
Spare tire: the location of your vehicle’s spare tire will obviously depend on the make and model of said vehicle. Make sure your spare is fully inflated. If possible, replace the donut with a full-sized tire.
Roadside emergency kit: jumper cables, thick gloves, reflector jacket, tow cable, various tools, anything else your vehicle might need. Duct tape is always a great option. If you’re going to be traveling in the snow, keep a blanket and red towel handy, just in case you get stuck and need to signal for help.
Flashlight: keep this by your seat, preferably in the driver’s side door. If you have a larger flashlight like a Maglite, it can double as a weapon.
Roadside assistance: especially if you’re traveling in the USA, having something like AAA is ideal to have on-hand. If you’re traveling in another country, check to see if there is an equivalent. Or at least have some phone numbers on-hand, just in case you need a tow.
Entertainment
Camera: document your journey. Take a before and after selfie. Stop by that weird thing you saw off the side of the road and have an adventure!
Music: CDs, podcasts, playlists, harmonica (only if you’re the passenger). If you’re traveling with multiple people, consider bringing headphones in case not everyone can agree on the music choice. Download what you can before you leave.
Phone accessories: cords, chargers, hands-free mount, case. Of course these can all be purchased at gas stations around the world, but save yourself some money and remember to pack them.
Paper and pencil: have you ever been inspired to write? Spending a lot of time driving along backcountry roads, highways, and freeways can provoke some moments of self-discovery. Do yourself a favor and write down your thoughts so you can recall them later.
Power bank: depending on where you stay the night, you might not have access to power sources. Bring your own and use as needed.
WiFi hot spot: while a road trip might be a great time to disconnect, you don’t want to find yourself in a bad spot. If you need to communicate with anyone or work from the road, make sure you can access the internet.
Kindle: give your ears a break from your favorite songs and read. Have a few options downloaded to fit your mood. I always have “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “Angels and Demons” ready to go. And bringing a kindle saves packing space.
Comfort Items
First aid kit: you can purchase a ready-made one or build your own. Bandaids, gauze, gloves, sanitary wipes, Tylenol or other painkillers.
Toiletries: deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste, makeup, hair care items, whatever you use during your normal routine.
Toilet paper/tissues: have you ever pulled up to a rest stop in the middle of nowhere and realized it’s nothing more than a hole in the ground? Prepare yourself and take a roll with you.
Hand sanitizer: no need to spread germs. Restroom stops, car maintenance, eating…there are lots of reasons to sanitize.
Blanket: especially if you’re traveling with a companion (or companions), having a blanket in the car will allow you to create some personal space. And if you stop along the way, it can double as a picnic blanket.
Neck pillow: save space and use a neck pillow rather than a full-sized pillow. It can also double as a back cushion if you start to get sore from sitting in the same position for extended periods of time.
Sun protection: sunglasses, hat/visor, sunscreen, lip balm, lotion. Depending on your direction, there’s a good chance that one side of your face and the corresponding arm will receive more sunlight than the other. Protect yourself.
Towel: whether you’re camping or staying in another type of accommodation, it’s always nice to have your own towel. Trust me. There’s nothing fun about staying in a hostel that doesn’t provide towels and having to use a washcloth to dry off.
Snacks: save your wallet and your body! Pack some snacks and drinks to keep handy and help pass the time.
3+ Days Road Trip Packing Guide
Before you take off for your weeks-long adventure on the road, make sure you know how to perform some basic car care maintenance.
Do you know how to change a tire? Can you locate the jack?
Have you ever had to jump a battery? When was the last time you tested your jumper cables?
Do you know how to fill up your wiper fluid?
Don’t fret. You can find YouTube tutorials for almost anything these days. Check out some videos, visit a mechanic, have your friend show you. Bottom line: don’t let yourself be in a position where you’re helpless.
Vehicle Essentials
Paperwork: vehicle registration, insurance, manual, rental agreement (if renting), and any pertinent maintenance or warranty information. Keep in the glove box in a folder so they stay organized.
Spare tire: the location of your vehicle’s spare tire will obviously depend on the make and model of said vehicle. Make sure your spare is fully inflated. If possible, replace the donut with a full-sized tire.
Roadside emergency kit: jumper cables, thick gloves, reflector jacket, tow cable, various tools, anything else your vehicle might need. Duct tape is always a great option. If you’re going to be traveling in the snow, keep a blanket and red towel handy, just in case you get stuck and need to signal for help.
Flashlight: keep this by your seat, preferably in the driver’s side door. If you have a larger flashlight like a Maglite, it can double as a weapon.
Roadside assistance: especially if you’re traveling in the USA, having something like AAA is ideal to have on-hand. If you’re traveling in another country, check to see if there is an equivalent. Or at least have some phone numbers on-hand, just in case you need a tow.
Microfiber towels: as you drive along various terrains, your car will get dirty, inside and out. Having a few towels handy will help you ensure that you can not only see out your windshield, but can be a quick dry-off if you find yourself in the rain.
Entertainment
Camera: document your journey. Take a before and after selfie. Stop by that weird thing you saw off the side of the road and have an adventure!
Music: CDs, podcasts, playlists, harmonica (only if you’re the passenger). If you’re traveling with multiple people, consider bringing headphones in case not everyone can agree on the music choice. Download what you can before you leave.
Phone accessories: cords, chargers, hands-free mount, case. Of course these can all be purchased at gas stations around the world, but save yourself some money and remember to pack them.
Paper and pencil: have you ever been inspired to write? Spending a lot of time driving along backcountry roads, highways, and freeways can provoke some moments of self-discovery. Do yourself a favor and write down your thoughts so you can recall them later.
Power bank: depending on where you stay the night, you might not have access to power sources. Bring your own and use as needed.
WiFi hot spot: while a road trip might be a great time to disconnect, you don’t want to find yourself in a bad spot. If you need to communicate with anyone or work from the road, make sure you can access the internet.
Kindle: give your ears a break from your favorite songs and read. Have a few options downloaded to fit your mood. I always have “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “Angels and Demons” ready to go. And bringing a kindle saves packing space.
Comfort Items
First aid kit: you can purchase a ready-made one or build your own. Bandaids, gauze, gloves, sanitary wipes, Tylenol or other painkillers.
Toiletries: deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste, makeup, hair care items, whatever you use during your normal routine.
Blanket: especially if you’re traveling with a companion (or companions), having a blanket in the car will allow you to create some personal space. And if you stop along the way, it can double as a picnic blanket.
Towel: whether you’re camping or staying in another type of accommodation, it’s always nice to have your own towel. Trust me. There’s nothing fun about staying in a hostel that doesn’t provide towels and having to use a washcloth to dry off.
Neck pillow: save space and use a neck pillow rather than a full-sized pillow. It can also double as a back cushion if you start to get sore from sitting in the same position for extended periods of time.
Sun protection: sunglasses, hat/visor, sunscreen, lip balm, lotion. Depending on your direction, there’s a good chance that one side of your face and the corresponding arm will receive more sunlight than the other. Protect yourself.
Toilet paper/tissues: have you ever pulled up to a rest stop in the middle of nowhere and realized it’s nothing more than a hole in the ground? Prepare yourself and take a roll with you.
Hand sanitizer: no need to spread germs. Restroom stops, car maintenance, eating…there are lots of reasons to sanitize.
Snacks: save your wallet and your body! Pack some snacks and drinks to keep handy and help pass the time.
Day bag: chances are, you’ll be heading out to have adventures on your long road trip. Having a smaller day bag allows you the freedom to only bring what you need with you.
Traveling with kids or pets?
First of all, bravo for being brave. I’m currently working on some articles full of tips and hacks that I’ve used countless times. Each adventure merits its own packing list, coming soon.
Seasonal Road Trip Packing Guide
The time of year will have a great impact on your road trip packing habit. Here are a few items to consider for less-than-optimal driving conditions.
Ice scraper: this small brush is relatively cheap and a great way to clear off your windshields and windows. I keep mine in the trunk of my car so I always have it on-hand. It also doubles as a pick to get the chunks of ice released from behind your tires!
Tire chains: certain roads may close during snow storms, and some will remain open and require chains. These are great to just keep in your car if you find yourself regularly traveling in snowy areas, just in case. Check road conditions before you take off. If you’re nervous about putting chains on for the first time, head over to a local body shop and ask them to do it for you.
Sunshade: I regularly drive in the desert and can attest to how much of a difference having one of these bad boys can make. Even if you’re only heading out for an hour-long hike or adventure, use a sunshade during the heat of the day.
Whew! You made it! I know this is a lot to remember, but use this road trip packing guide to ensure that you’re prepared for any adventure, misadventure, and everything in between out on the open road!
What items would you include on your ultimate road trip packing guide?
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