Road trips are so much fun, and can be easily planned especially if it’s for the day. Another important aspect is that road trips are so budget friendly. I recommend road trips for 2021, since it’s safe for social distancing. While you can still enjoy nature while not having to take a flight. As I have been travelling more and more by road and exploring my own state and neighborhood. I have made a list of basic essentials you need for every road trip.
Regardless you whether you take a weekend road trip or a day trip. I find myself always grabbing or looking for these essentials. Carrying these basic essentials with you in your car will make your road trip much more enjoyable and comfortable
This post is all about the basic essentials you need for every road trip. Print the free road trip checklist or use the editable version on your laptop/tablet
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Table of Contents
Basic Essentials you need for every road trip and why
Facial wipes
It doesn’t necessarily have to be facial wipes, you can use baby wipes or even flushable wipes. These come handy and can be used for a couple of good reasons (no I did not have makeup in mind). But more like, wiping your hands, your car, or even a spill. Though you get bonus points if you carry disinfecting wipes, since these wipes can reduce the spread of infections when cleaned and used properly to clean surfaces and hands
Paper Towels
Paper towels, toilet paper or even tissues are great to have in your car, can easily be accessed and used for cleaning a spill or used as a napkin while eating food on the go
Hand Sanitizer
This is a no brainer, sanitizer is something you probably have in your car (we have all been about face masks and sanitizer this year). So, just remember to grab a new bottle in case you are running out
Sunscreen
Sunscreen should not be exclusive just for the beach. Instead should be worn all day ever day, all year round. Sunscreen if used by correctly can help you protect from UV rays that damage the skin barrier and lead to serious skin disease in severe cases
Gum
Gum is a good breath freshener. Good to keep handy, you never know when you might need it
Water
Water is an essential and so important to keep us hydrated. have some water handy and in store for emergencies. And, have access to it right away, plus who wants to make a stop just to make a stop.
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Sunglasses
I love the sun, it makes everything bright and lovely. Though I hate when it hits my eyes. So , keep it handy and easily accessible if the weather changes on you. Plus, its good protection for the eyes from UV rays
Hoodie
You can never tell with the weather, keep a hoodie handy if the weather gets a bit cooler. This will also work as a backup top if you need it in an emergency
Phone Charger
This is one of the most important items on the list. Since our lives are on it, GPS, important apps, emergency contacts.
Portable Charger
This is an essential for times when you are not able to use your phone charger in the car. I know this has happened to me. So, portable chargers (given you have charged them ahead of time) will really save the day!
Travel Pillow
Whether you are going to be the driver or the passenger. You deserve to be comfortable, so definitely grab a comfortable pillow to make the trip extra enjoyable
Travel Mug
It is important to carry a travel mug, I hate disposable cups (besides waste) they are not convenient and not environment friendly. Plus travel mugs keeps the drink hot or cold.
First Aid Kit
Good to store some pain killer and Band-Aids for trying times
Snacks
If you dread making multiple stops, make sure to plan and buy your favorite snacks. Unless stopping for snack is part of the trip
Chapstick
No matter what time of the year it is, I know my lips yearn for some Chapstick. So keep your lip friend handy for all your trips.
Car Service
Ensure you get your car serviced (oil change) to make sure the car is in good condition to take additional miles on it without having a breakdown
Spare Tire
Ensure you have a spare tire as well as know how to change, you never when you may need it
Jumper Cables
Keep this handy. Even if you just got your car all serviced and checked. Things can go wrong (sometimes for reasons we are not sure) so be prepared with jumper cables. You never know when these will come handy
Coolant & Water
Keep extra coolant and water in the car. Water for the car especially if the car heats up. Though, make sure the car cools down first and then add some water to radiator to bring the temperature down
Empty Gas Can
This is essential as you may be on a road trip, where gas is not within your radius. So, having gas on you can save a lot of headache.
Registration, Insurance
Make sure you have all the car documents in your car. Incase you get pulled over (I hope not) or need it in case of an emergency, have them handy so no one ruin your good mood on a fun road trip
Summary
This post is all about the basic essentials you need for every road trip, whether its for a weekend or a day trip. These essentials will make the trip more enjoyable and comfortable. Print the free checklist or use the editable version. This post goes in depth of items and why you need each one.
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I going to plan a crazzzy road trip this summer
Awesome, hope the printable is helpful
Now I can’t wait to take a road trip, your checklist is a time saver.
Thank you, I am glad it was helpful