Taking a road trip is an exciting way to discover new destinations and create unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re heading to the coast, exploring the countryside (my fav!), or venturing into the wilderness, proper preparation is key to a successful journey.
My Ultimate Road Trip Checklist is here to ensure you have all the road trip essentials for your adventure.
You can hit the road with confidence, knowing you’re fully prepared for whatever comes your way.
Key Takeaways
Here are some things that can make a difference in your travel experience:
- Preparation is Paramount: Use this free road trip packing list to plan for your family’s needs and ensure nothing indispensable is left behind.
- Safety Comes First: Prioritize safety for you and your loved ones on the road.
- Comfort is Key: Make the journey enjoyable for everyone- pack entertainment along the way, plus pillows and blankies.
- Adaptability: Pack essentials that prepare you for spontaneous detours or weather delays.
- Memories Over Miles: Capture and cherish moments along the way- it doesn’t matter how far you go but who you’re with.
From must-have gear to comfort items that add joy to your road trip essentials, I’ve got you covered. So gear up, load up, and get ready for an amazing road trip!
Embrace the chaos and cherish every unpredictable moment. With this road trip packing list, you’re setting the stage for stories to share for years to come.
Happy travels! 🚗💖
Road Trip Checklist
Let’s get this road-tripping party started, mama!
My comprehensive road trip packing list serves as your roadmap to success (pun totally intended!), equipping you with all the road trip necessities for an amazing road trip with your family.
Let’s make this road trip an amazing experience together!
Get Charges & Electronics Ready
Picture this: you’re cruising down the open road, feet on the dashboard, and your all-time favorite song is about to come on… when suddenly, your phone runs out of battery.
You’ve got some electronic road trip essentials to keep this and more from happening:
- Charge your electronics before you hit the road- then pack your chargers!
- Pack a portable USB car adapter and battery pack
- Get a car charger with multiple USB ports for any devices
Make A Road Trip Playlist
Music is like the soundtrack of our lives, and road trips are no exception. The right playlist can turn a long drive into an unforgettable adventure.
From the timeless classics that everyone loves to sing along to, to your favorite road trip podcast that keeps you hooked for miles, a well-curated road trip playlist is an absolute must-have.
And if you’re looking to make your road trip even more enjoyable, consider stand-up comedy/comedy podcasts and audiobooks for kiddos.
So go ahead, hit the road, and let the music guide you on an epic road trip adventure!
Plan Your Activities
While spontaneity can lead to exciting adventures, careful planning is an essential ingredient for a smooth road trip.
Whether it’s exploring a must-see national park or discovering a charming diner off the beaten path, pre-planning your stops ensures you experience memorable moments (and potty breaks!).
So take the time to map out your journey, plan your meals, and set aside time for rest stops. Remember, it’s not only about reaching the destination, but cherishing the journey along the way.
Have Everything Packed For Activities
Whether you’re hiking the Grand Canyon or catching waves in California, the right gear needs to be added to your road trip packing list!
Make a list of all the activities you plan to do on your road trip and pack accordingly:
- Hiking boots
- Backpack
- Hydration pack
- Water shoes
- Swimsuits
- Life preservers
- Swim floaties
- Rain jacket
- Rain boots
- Picnic blanket
So go ahead and add those road trip essentials that’ll make your adventures even more fun and memorable!
Pack Clothes & Bedding
As you pack for your road trip, I suggest packing for comfort and versatility.
Your trip will change exactly what you need to bring for comfort, but here are some road trip essentials to keep in mind:
- Underwear & socks
- Warm & cool PJs
- Short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts
- Jeans, leggings, and shorts
- Breathable “workout” wear
- Comfy sneakers
- Hoodies/Jackets
- Light blankets or flat sheets
- Heavy blankets (colder weather)
- Pillows
Pack Toiletries
If anything goes on your road trip packing list, make it your toiletry bag! There are many toiletries you’ll need on road trips, including:
- Shampoo & conditioner
- Body wash
- Face wash
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Washcloths
- Hand sanitizer
- Deodorant
- Diapers
- Wet wipes
- Bug spray
Also, be sure to save space by getting travel size bottles or buying your own mini bottles ot fill with whatever you need.
Use Vacuum Storage Bags To Pack
Vacuum storage bags are a must on my road trip packing list to fit everything we need on our adventures!
These plastic bags shrink bulky items down to a fraction of their size by removing the air. Using suction bags will save space and keep belongings safe from spills.
No more wrestling with wayward sweaters or runaway socks; everything stays tidy and contained, providing peace of mind.
Never Forget Sunglasses
Sunglasses serve a purpose beyond fashion. They’re essential for shielding your eyes from harmful UV rays and annoying glare, whether you’re on the road or enjoying your outdoor adventures.
So remember to pack yours – and grab some for the kiddos as well!
Have Extra Clothes In A Day Bag Up Front
Another life-saving tip I learned over my travels is to keep a day bag containing extra clothes, snacks, and road trip essentials within easy reach in the car!
You never know when you might need a change of clothes en route to adventure. Be it a surprise weather change, potty accident, or an impromptu beach stop- you’ll be prepared!
With a day pack at hand, you’re always ready for that next big adventure.
Kids Entertainment (Car & Trip)
Add activity bags to your road trip packing list! You can easily create personalized fun bags that transform “Are we there yet?” into “We’re here already?”
Each bag can include:
- Coloring books
- Stickers
- Road trip games/worksheets- 20 Questions, Car Bingo, and The Alphabet Game
- Wildlife bingo or a constellation guide
- Adventure stories
- Puzzles
These bags keep little ones enchanted en route and enrich their experiences, building anticipation for in-person exploration. Remember, a happy child equals a happy road trip!
Get A Camera
Remember to add a camera to your road trip packing list! It captures treasured memories: your child’s awe of seeing the ocean or a warm sunset with family.
The camera tells stories, preserving adventures, smiles, and detours- the heartbeat moments of your journey.
Get your kids a camera, too. It keeps them occupied and helps them see the world a bit differently.
Pack Food & Water Bottles
It’s really important to stay hydrated and well-fed during a road trip. Make sure you pack a cooler full of your favorite snacks, sandwiches, and beverages.
Here’s some food and drinks to prep:
- Trail mix
- Chip bags
- Canned veggies
- Lunch meat/sandwiches
- Hot dogs & rolls
- Pasta & sauce
- Eggs
- Water bottles
- Lemonade powder/squirts
You can prep meals for your road trip, plus meals for when you get to your destination. Focus on easy, portable foods, and you’ll be set.
Clean Out Your Car
Before your family road trip, take a moment to declutter and refresh the space where memories will unfold.
Create a space where you can sing, discover secret lookouts, and enjoy the journey in comfort. Trust me, a shipshape car is a road trip essential!
Check Your Car
You’re not just a driver; you’re the captain of a rolling ship! Your crew relies on you to guide them safely through unknown adventures.
Before setting sail, give your trusty steed a thorough checkup. You need to check road trip car essentials like:
- Fluid levels (wiper fluid, steering wheel fluid, etc.)
- Tire pressure- spare tire too!
- Any checklights going off
- Squeaky breaks
- Front & back blinkers
- Get battery checked out
Have Car Insurance, IDs, & Docs Packed
Make sure to have all important documents like:
- Car insurance
- Registration,
- Driver’s license
- Map backups
- Printed reservations
- Camp map/site details
Stay prepared and take care!
Pack Car Essentials
In addition to your luggage, it’s always a good idea to have some car road trip essentials on hand:
- Jumper cables
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tire inflator
- Roadside emergency kit
- Extra car key
- Car manual for car troubles
Remember, it’s better to be prepared than caught off guard. So make sure you’ve got these road trip necessities in your car, just in case!
Have A First Aid Kit Ready
Every outing with your kids is an adventure.
No matter the destination, a trusty first aid kit is your unseen nurturing hand. It’s an extension of your care and a testament to your love and preparedness.
You pack different snacks for the beach or a snowy hike, so you should make sure your first aid kit is specialized, too:
- Hiking enthusiasts: insect repellent, a whistle, and hydrocortisone cream
- Beach trips: aloe vera gel, burn cream, and waterproof bags
- Snowy slopes: hand warmers, emergency blankets, mittens, and wool socks
Car Storage Solutions
Mama, road-tripping organizers are a game-changer for our road-trip sanity! Every bit of space in your car matters when you’re embarking on a road trip.
Make the most of car storage solutions like roof racks, cargo boxes, or trunk organizers to optimize space and keep your belongings tidy and easily accessible.
My lifesaver has been the backseat organizer, a simple yet brilliant contraption of pockets and pouches that hangs snugly at the back of the front seats.
Its genius lies in its simplicity: transparent pockets for the kids to see their favorite toys and books and enough compartments for wipes, tissues, and snacks.
Stash Emergency Cash
While cards are convenient, it’s crucial to have some cash on hand when you’re on the road. You never know when you might need it, so it’s better to be prepared, just in case.
It’s always a good idea to stash some emergency cash in small bills for unexpected expenses or places that only accept cash.
Download A Navigation App
In today’s technologically advanced age, a dependable navigation app is indispensable for any road trip.
Apps like Google Maps or Waze provide directions and give real-time traffic updates to help you avoid traffic jams and reach your destination faster.
But pack a map as well, in case you are in remote areas and you lose service.
Get Gas Savings On Your Trip
Fuel can make up a significant portion of your expenses during a road trip! But don’t worry; some apps can help you save on fuel at different gas stations.
I’ll talk more about my favorites below, but I use Upside to find discount offers at gas stations wherever I am.
Winter Necessities
If you are taking a winter road trip, you should pack winter road trip essentials for unexpected delays.
Here are just a few things you should include:
- Snow shovel
- Ice scraper
- Warm clothing
- Blankets
- Emergency kit
- Flashlight
- Candles
- Duct tape
- Spare tire
Winter roads are whimsical, painting beautiful scenes one moment and causing unexpected troubles the next. Just like in life, prepare for the storm even when you can’t predict it!
Apps To Save Money
As a mom, you juggle enough hats to rival a seasoned circus performer, and looking for ways to maximize the family budget is a task we all have to master.
So, let’s dive into some savvy apps designed to cushion your wallet, especially when the open road calls you and your kiddos for a whirlwind of memories.
Upside
Upside is an amazing app for road trippers who want to save on gas, earn cash back for extra cash, and know where the best gas prices are.
With this app, you can get cash back on fuel purchases at thousands of participating gas stations, convenience stores, retailers, and restaurants across the country.
I use it all the time to check gas prices nearby- and Upside offers discounts so we can save extra cash while on the go.
So go ahead, fuel up, and let the savings begin!
Swagbucks
Swagbucks can be a thrifty mom’s little secret to help stretch those dollars on your next family adventure.
By completing everyday online activities like taking surveys, playing games, or searching the web, we earn points called SB.
Points that can turn into gift cards for gas stations or popular rest stops to save you money on your road trip!
Fetch Rewards
Fetch Rewards is an amazing shopping app that rewards you for purchasing your favorite brands. All you have to do is simply scan your receipts after shopping, and voila!
The app will shower you with points that can be redeemed for delightful gift cards to popular stores. It’s like having extra spending money for your exciting road trip!
So go ahead, treat yourself, and make your shopping experience even more rewarding with Fetch Rewards.
Honey
Honey is an incredible browser extension that finds coupon codes for you and applies them at checkout with just one click.
Before embarking on your exciting road trip, make sure to take advantage of Honey to secure any last-minute essentials and experience the joy of sweet savings.
With Honey by your side, you’ll have more spending power to indulge in memorable experiences along the way!
Capital One Shopping
Capital One Shopping can help you to effortlessly compare prices among various retailers, guaranteeing that you secure the absolute best deals available.
It also goes the extra mile by automatically applying any available coupon codes during checkout, to try and help you save on road trip essentials.
Whether you’re a seasoned shopper or a bargain-hunting enthusiast, Capital One Shopping is an indispensable and highly recommended resource that will help you keep more cash in your pocket.
FAQs
What are some must-have items for a road trip?
My trip packing list essentials include:
- Navigation apps like Google Maps
- First aid kit
- Emergency roadside kit
- Food & water
- Toiletries
- Comfortable clothing
- Entertainment
- Important documents like your driver’s license and car insurance
I’ll change things up based on what we plan to do- like staying in a hotel versus going on a camping trip.
How can I prepare for my road trip?
First, plan your route and make a list of sights and attractions to explore along the way.
Then, put together a comprehensive road trip packing list for essentials like clothes, toiletries, snacks, and entertainment.
Finally, give your car a thorough checkup, inspecting important areas such as the car battery, oil, brakes, fluid levels, and tires.
By following these road trip tips, you’ll be ready for a grand road adventure.
What do I need to get ready for a road trip?
You’ll need to pack for your road trip plus whatever you need for your destination, making a road trip a tricky thing with a lot to pack for!
Pack all the long road trip essentials, like suitable clothing for various weather conditions and activities that you guys might do while on your adventure.
You also can’t forget toiletries, food and water, entertainment options, and important road-tripping documents like car insurance and registration.
And remember to prepare your car by conducting a thorough checkup and giving it a good cleaning.
Should I check out my car before a road trip?
Absolutely! Remember, your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities!
Before setting off on a road trip, it’s crucial to give your car a thorough check to ensure a safe and stress-free journey.
Take a moment to inspect the oil, brakes, and fluid levels. And check the tire pressure and tread for optimal performance.
And, of course, make sure your headlights and brake lights are in working order.
If you’re not comfortable performing these checks yourself, consider taking your car to a professional for a pre-trip inspection.
How can I save money on a road trip?
Save some money on your road trip by packing your own meals and snacks and using gas savings apps like Upside.
You can even use cash back apps to save extra cash on what you buy or your trip, plus use whatever money you earn in cash back towards some food or fun on your trip!
Cashback is basically free money to give you extra playing money on trips like this.
What should I avoid on my next road trip?
When going on a road trip, it’s best to avoid common mistakes that can take up valuable space and complicate things.
Overpacking is one such blunder that should be steered clear of. You need extras for when things get ripped or weather happens, but your kids don’t need 6 stuffed animals, trust me!
Another tip is to plan your route and stops in advance to avoid any unnecessary detours or delays. Knowing about road closures ahead of time is so important!
These small but important precautions can make for a successful road trip.
My Thoughts
As we near the end of this journey, my heart is filled with love for the spontaneous moments that road trips bring to our family.
The laughter, sing-alongs, and wonder as we gaze at new horizons hold undeniable magic. These road trips connect us and create priceless memories.
To all the mamas out there considering hitting the open road with your little ones, make it easier to get the car loaded and focus on fun with out road trip taking list!
Safe travels, dear mamas, and may your road trip overflow with love and laughter!
