As summer approaches, you may be planning your next adventure. Packing essential items is the key to a successful trip. Pack too much, and you may lose important items or pay unnecessary fees. Pack too little, and you’ll spend money on items you have at home. Don’t hit the road without ticking this list of essential items off your packing list.
1. Travel Documents and IDs
No matter how short on time you are, take a moment to double-check that you have the necessary travel documents and IDs. If you’re planning on traveling across a border and forget your passport, you won’t be able to travel. Other important documents to remember are a visa, event tickets, and driver’s license.
2. First Aid Kit
You may have or encounter an accident if you’re hiking or doing any outdoor activities while on vacation. Instead of fumbling for help or risking an infection, it’s best to take a first aid kit. If you’re feeling frugal, shop at your local dollar store.
3. Portable Phone Charger
Whether you forget to charge your phone the night before or use it heavily the day of your trip, it’s smart to pack a portable charger. This way, you can charge your phone during your road trip if your car doesn’t have a charger or someone else is using it. Unlike airlines or planes, you’ll have limited options once you’re on the road.
4. Snacks
Snacks are essential. You’ll save money and avoid having to stop frequently to grab food. Include fruit, trail mix, crackers, and protein bars. Double-check that there will be enough snacks for everyone for the length of the trip.
5. Comfortable Clothing
Sitting in the car for a few hours can take a toll. Similar to when traveling to a plane, wear sweats, a comfortable t-shirt, and a hoodie if appropriate. Your goal is to be as comfortable as possible. Comfortable clothing will make stepping out of the vehicle easier and even help you fall asleep when you’re not driving.
6. Maps or GPS Device
Nowadays, you won’t need a separate GPS since most smartphones have a GPS feature. However, prepping the address for your destination the day prior is wise. Additionally, pack a map just in case—you may find yourself in an area without cell service.
7. Entertainment
Long trips need some form of entertainment. Pack your tablet, bring a book, or have your favorite podcast handy. If you’re driving, you don’t want to fumble searching for a podcast or your favorite music. Arguably, the most important thing is to have a dedicated person to talk to if you’re traveling far. Getting sleepy is common during long road trips. It’s best to take turns driving when you can.
8. Headphones
If you’re a passenger during a road trip, headphones will be essential for various occasions. You can listen to audiobooks, podcasts, and your favorite music or even just tune out all external noise. Be mindful of the headphones you take. Sound-canceling headphones may only make sense if traveling in a large group.
9. Toiletries and Personal Care Items
As with any trip, essential toiletries such as soap, shampoo, and toothpaste are necessary. This way, you’ll avoid paying higher fees if you’re staying at a hotel or Airbnb. Purchase separate travel-sized toiletries in your local pharmacy or dollar store if you lose them.
10. Medications
Forgetting important medications can negatively impact you. Emergency supplies such as EpiPens are also essential. Plan ahead, but if you discover you’ve forgotten important medications, determine if you can purchase them at the nearest pharmacy.
11. Credit Cards and Cash
Being stranded or forgetting your wallet can be costly, especially if traveling alone. Pack some cash in your pocket and put more in a different travel bag. If you lose any items, your odds of being without cash are lower. If you rarely carry cash, visit a local ATM the day before or early on your trip.
12. Reusable Water Bottle
Water is essential and should be consumed heavily. Instead of carrying a lot of plastic bottles, purchase a reusable water bottle to drink from. Be sure to fill it up before your trip. If you’re running low on water, you can stop at the nearest store.