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Hitting the highway for a road trip may be one of the best ways to see the country. Plus, it can be more affordable than flying, and certainly cheaper than international travel. If you already have travel plans in mind, it’s smart to prepare accordingly with some road trip essentials.
Whether it’s a long car ride by yourself, with family members, a significant other, or a close friend, there’s something on this packing list for everyone, no matter where you’re going. Below, see our top musts for what to bring on a road trip, before shopping some specific items in each category.
- A spacious backpack to travel light and maximize trunk space.
- A portable garbage can to keep your car tidy.
- A cooler for snacks and drinks.
- A travel pillow to snooze when you’re in the passenger seat.
- A raincoat for unexpected weather.
- An air mattress, if you plan on camping.
- A physical map in case you lose service or your phone runs out of battery.
- Perhaps most importantly, a car emergency kit.
Ready to join your fellow wanderlusts on the road, traveling the coast, visiting national parks, and sightseeing? We promise this checklist will make your journey more comfortable. Shop our road trip selections ahead.
— Additional reporting by Lauren Harano and Emily Co