ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS
Every trip has its list of necessities, and road trips are no different! Whether you’re taking a day trip or are planning to be on the road for a few days, packing everything you need to make the trip as safe and fun as possible is a top priority. I am a huge fan of road trips, so here’s a list of my favorite things to take on a trip:
Amazing Playlist
An amazing playlist is a key component to making your road trip fun and exciting. You can compile a bunch of throwbacks and old favorites, pull together some new jams that you’re currently obsessed with or try out a curated playlist for some surprise hits. Whatever you choose, this is going to be your road trip soundtrack, so you want it to be super fun and enjoyable for everyone, and you want to add to it as you go about your trip! Here’s a playlist I made to get you started!
Sun Protection
Even from the car it’s good to think about using some sunscreen and protecting yourself from UV! This is my favorite one, and I try to lather on a bit even if I think I’m not going to be out in the sun a ton. You never know when or where you’re going to stop on a road trip, and it doesn’t take long to get burned, so make sure you’re reapplying pretty frequently to protect your skin. Cute Sunglasses and a hat are a must as well. Not only are they cute accessories that make being out in the sun more enjoyable, but they give you some extra coverage on your face which is always a plus!
Water
You can always stop at gas stations and grocery stores to grab drinks, but I always have to have water with me at all times when I’m on a road trip. I still end up buying some bottled waters and drinks along the way, but I like to bring my own giant water bottle to keep me hydrated. If I fill it up before I leave, it usually lasts me for some time, and it helps me to stay hydrated through hours in the car. Especially in the summer, it’s important to stay hydrated, so remember to keep drinking water even if you’ve just been sitting in the car on the way to your destination.
Snacks
Snacks on a road trip are a no-brainer! I love bringing a variety of sweet and salty snacks, so I usually end up packing fruit, bars, chips and sometimes something to satisfy my sweet tooth. If you’re headed on a longer road trip, you might want to consider bringing a cooler to stash some sandwich stuff and perishable items like fruit. Once you’ve decided on your list, simply grab your favorite snacks, toss them in the car and make sure they’re an arm’s length away for all of your snacking needs.
Cozy Pillow
If you’re not the one driving and need a little nap, having a cozy pillow can make it so much easier to sleep in the car. I’ve been on road trips where I’ve used sweaters and blankets to sleep, but nothing beats having your own pillow to rest your head on. Especially if you’re camping, staying in hotels or even with friends along the way, having your own pillow from home can make it easier to sleep in an unfamiliar place.
A Camera
It’s really simple to take catch moments on your phone now, but for added fun, bring a disposable camera along so when you get back from your trip, it can be an exciting way to look back on your adventures. I love the aesthetic of those photos, and I love that a disposable camera encourages me to capture those special candid moments. It also helps me to remain present so I don’t get sucked into using my phone too much.
Car Games
Sometimes you get to a certain point on any long road trip, even with your closest friends, where a silly game can help liven up those long stretches of road where there’s not much to look at. Use the cars and billboards around you to get from A-Z. Maybe you see a license plate for “Arizona” and then shortly after see the word “best” on a billboard. It’s a super fun game and it keeps people engaged when the car is starting to make you feel a bit antsy. Have fun, and good luck when you get to “X” (no judgement if you skip it lol).
Somewhere in Big Sur while driving along the coast of California
Taking in the redwoods in Muir Woods
Stopped in the picturesque Danish Village in Solvang, CA
One of my favorite colorful and quirky hotels in San Luis Obispo
Oversized tees were my go to for our last California road trip