Planning to hit the road? Here are the essential items you need to ensure a successful road trip!
First road trip? Don’t worry! We’ve all had our first experiences on the road, and the good news is that you can learn from the little mistakes we made in the past.
That’s why we have listed our top essential road trip items. This list may vary according to your own itinerary and how long you’ll be on the road, but remember that this is an essentials list.
We also have an international travel checklist you may be interested in. Even if you’re not traveling abroad by car, it can be useful since many of the items are universal for any trip.
Now, let’s go to the list!
Road trip essentials checklist
1. Water bottle (or bottles)
Staying hydrated should be your number one priority, no matter what. On the road, some people may avoid drinking water and/or other beverages because you can’t always stop for a bathroom break. While this is true, we strongly recommend that you don’t let this stop you from drinking water.
A reusable water bottle (or bottles) is always the best option. You can drink from it on the road, take it on a hike — honestly, there are countless reasons why you should bring a reusable water bottle with you! Plus, there are many places where you can refill it and save on buying plastic bottles.
2. Money
Don’t rely solely on credit cards! Depending on where you’re headed, cash might be your only payment option. For example, street markets, artisan fairs, and small restaurants often prefer cash. Having smaller bills can also be helpful when making purchases.
Another important point is tipping, which is common in many places and countries, especially in restaurants or for tour guides. And let’s not forget about public restrooms, parking, and tolls during road trips, which often require cash.
It’s always a good idea to have some change on hand for tolls—don’t forget about them!
3. Important documents you can’t forget
Your personal documents are usually something you carry in your wallet, but it’s always good to double-check if you’re carrying important car documents: the vehicle registration, insurance policy, and even the car manual — which can be useful if you encounter car troubles (we hope you don’t, but it’s always a possibility).
Also worth noting: if you’re renting a car for your trip and usually don’t buy insurance, make sure to do so for a road trip! Read more about car rental insurance types here.
4. Portable phone charger
You know what’s not fun? Running out of battery in the middle of the road. Whether you want to stay connected or just use your phone for photos, we don’t want a dead battery. This is especially important if you’re using your phone for directions as a GPS.
Which leads us to item 5…
5. Paper maps or offline versions
We know that, for many, paper maps may seem like a thing of the past, but they are very much alive. This item can be crucial if you’re traveling to a place where the connection isn’t great, or if you don’t want to rely 100% on your phone.
And there’s more—paper maps can offer a broader view of the area, helping you plan routes and understand distances more effectively. If you’re traveling with family, this can be a fun and interactive way to involve everyone in the journey by marking points of interest and possible stops along the way on your map. Sounds cool, right?
6. First aid kit
A first aid kit is a must for every road trip. At the very least, you should have some painkillers, headache, stomachache and nausea pills.
If you’re adding small hiking or camping activities to your trip, we highly suggest adding bandages, gauze pads, various sizes of adhesive bandages, scissors, rash creams, insect bite relief creams, antiseptic spray/cream, and even more items to your kit.
7. Items that will keep you entertained on the road
Let’s be honest. Road trips can sometimes be… boring. Unless you’re driving the whole time (which isn’t great either, you should always rest and share the driving!), you’ll find yourself stuck in the car for long periods between stops.
Think of things to keep you entertained on the road. Our top picks are audiobooks, books or a Kindle (if you can read in the car without getting sick), and an amazing offline road trip playlist. If you’re into games, a portable game console is also a great idea!
8. Toiletries bag
It goes without saying that you can’t leave home without a toiletry bag. You can add your personal items to the list, and we admit it varies from person to person, but some good essentials to always pack are:
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Wet and dry wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Dry shampoo (not as obvious of an item, but important if you’re camping)
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
Honorable mention: toilet paper. Depending on where you’re going, toilet paper can be super important!
9. Backpack
For a short or long road trip, it goes without saying that you’ll need at least a small collection of items to keep you comfortable during the journey. A compact backpack will also come in handy if you’re stopping along the way for a hike.
As for what to put inside the bag, let your heart guide you. You can pack many of the items listed in this essentials list and other things important to you. Just remember that ideally, this backpack will be small and light so you can easily carry it no matter the circumstances.
10. Car safety items
This is especially important if you’re driving long distances or on rough terrain or dirt roads: always check the condition of your spare tire. Always!
If possible, some other emergency kit items can help if you find yourself in car trouble in the middle of nowhere. Jumper cables, for example, are essential, as well as a lug wrench, flashlights, or alternatively, a headlamp. Additionally, if you’re driving in snow, don’t forget snow/winter tires or tire chains!
11. Your own tech items
When it comes to tech, everyone has different preferences. Besides your phone and maybe a Kindle (which we already mentioned), you can add other items like a camera, headphones, or wireless earbuds. The most important thing, though, is not to forget your chargers and USB cables!
Also, if you’d like, Bluetooth speakers can be useful for enjoying music with your friends and family.
12. All the easily forgotten things
These are the things we sometimes forget, but really shouldn’t. Always make sure to bring sunglasses, hats, raincoats, and umbrellas. They’re essential for several reasons, but most importantly to avoid uncomfortable situations like sunburns.
13. Snacks
Ah, yes! Who can resist snacks? Taking a full meal break on the road isn’t always possible, so having snacks nearby is always a good idea.
Here’s a tip from us: it’s easy to load up on sugary snacks, but dried/cut fruits and granola bars, for example, are also great (and healthier) options. If you’re thinking of something that needs to be kept cool, add a cooler to your essential road trip items, and you’re set! No need to go hungry while on the road.
14. ‘Stay cozy on the road’ items
Being comfortable while on the road is super important — I don’t think we need to explain why. Sitting down for long hours may be exhausting, even if you’re not the one driving, so bringing a warm blanket, a regular or travel pillow, a cozy sweater and other items that bring you comfort is a must.
15. Paper or plastic bags for trash
This might be the most forgotten item of all. Producing trash while on the road is almost impossible to avoid, so having a small paper or plastic bag nearby is the best option for collecting trash and keeping the car (and the roads) clean.
16. Playlist of music or podcasts
To make the mood more enjoyable while on the road, there’s nothing better than preparing a playlist with music or podcasts you love and that match your travel style. Whether singing along while driving, on a family trip, or with friends, enjoying the music while exploring new landscapes turns any journey into an even more unforgettable experience. Take the opportunity to personalize your trip the way you want, making each mile a chance to create new memories.
Besides music, podcasts are also excellent company on the road. If you want to learn something new, hear inspiring stories, or simply relax with light and funny conversations, there are countless options for every taste. Press play and let the voices and ideas turn your trip into a remarkable moment.
We hope this helps you out when you pack for your road trip! If you’re an experienced traveler and would like to add your personal essential items, please comment below!
Do you want to ensure your trip is comfortable and worry-free? Rent with Rentcars and check out the partner rental companies and various quality vehicle options that you can choose according to your travel style and needs.
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