Are you planning a road trip? Taking to the road in your car, campervan or motorhome? There is no fixed length of time for a road trip it can be a day trip, a weekend away, or a full-blown country crossing adventure.
Road trips are a great way to explore a country. There’s a sense of freedom in having the open road ahead of you. The ability to take detours on a whim, stop to take in the sights, the joy of discovering hidden gems along the way and to take as many rest stops as you need.
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Whether you are cruising along coastal highways, negotiating the bends on a winding mountain road, or hopping from one charming town to another, the journey can become as memorable as the destination.
I have great memories of road trips. Drives through the UK; taking the ferry to the continent to drive to Germany, Belgium or The Netherlands. I have taken road trips from England to Umbria, through Belgium, Luxembourg, Austria, Germany and down through Italy. A week driving around Tunisia and even a three-week tour of Bali on the back of a motorbike.
However, the key to a successful long road trip lies in the preparation. While spontaneity is part of the fun, nothing ruins a trip faster than forgetting an essential item or being unprepared for an unexpected situation. From ensuring your car is road-ready to packing the little luxuries that make long drives enjoyable, being prepared means you can relax and focus on the adventure.
Many people simply hop in their vehicle and get going without really thinking things through. Sometimes, this will work out and you won’t run into any trouble. But why would you bother to take that chance? If you have everything handled, you will be able to head out without too much stress.
This comprehensive guide is here to help you pack smartly and confidently. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or an epic cross-country journey, these must-have items will keep you safe, comfortable, and entertained, making your road trip truly unforgettable.
So, buckle up and get ready to hit the road with confidence!
Before You Go
Before you head off, check the following items:
- Full tank of fuel – petrol, diesel
- Check where you can charge your car if you have an electric car
- Check tyre pressures
- Check your oil
- Check your windscreen washer fluid (and keep some spare)
- Check your coolant levels
Road Trip Essentials for a Safe Journey
First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen, even on the best-planned trips. A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, or headaches. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, hand sanitizer, pain relievers, motion sickness tablets, and any personal medications. For added peace of mind, consider including a basic first aid manual.
Car Documentation
Ensure you have all important documents, including your car insurance, vehicle registration, and breakdown cover details. Store them in a waterproof folder in your glove compartment for easy access.
Emergency Roadside Kit
Be prepared for car troubles with an emergency roadside kit. Key items include a set of jumper cables, a warning triangle, a tyre repair kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a portable air compressor with a tire pressure gauge. These tools can help you tackle minor issues without waiting for assistance.
Spare Tyre and Tools
Check your spare tyre before setting off to ensure it’s in good condition. A car jack and tyre iron are also crucial for changing tyres on the go.
Navigation Tools
You probably know by now how vital navigation tools are. They make driving so much easier for everyone. GPS apps are super convenient, of course. A dashboard-mounted phone holder can ensure you navigate new areas with simplicity.
While smartphones and GPS devices are always handy, relying on Google Maps is not always wise. Carry a physical map or road atlas as a backup. Offline navigation apps like Maps.me can also be a lifesaver in remote places or areas with poor signal.
Personal Items
It is important to keep your personal items safe. Spare keys, documentation, cash, cameras, and drones should be hidden out of site in your car. Try a Pacsafe bag to stash everything safely.
Driving Abroad
If your road trip takes you abroad, you might have to take a few precautions.
Passport
If you are planning a road trip that takes you into Europe or another country, don’t forget to pack your passport!
Insurance & Breakdown
Make sure your insurance and breakdown will still cover you for road trips abroad. Check if there is an international phone numbers to call.
Driving Licence
Depending on which country you are driving in, you many need an International Licence. In the UK, these can be bought in the Post Office and currently (2024) cost £5.50.
Timings
If you are taking a ferry or Channel Tunnel crossing and are not sure about driving on the “wrong” side of the road when you arrive, try to time your journey to arrive during daylight.
Bank & Credit Cards
I would recommend taking 2 credit cards. Banks and businesses abroad, don’t always take debit cards, and you don’t want to be stuck if one doesn’t work or if you lose one.
Cash (Notes and Coins)
Following on from credit cards, in some places, you can not pay by card and they only accept cash. Having some coins or notes on you can be really handy for parking meters, tips or tolls.
Comfort Items and Convenience Must-Haves
Your road trip will be a lot more enjoyable with items that provide you with comfort. Travel pillows, cosy blankets, and quality sleeping bags can do so much for you. Noise-cancelling headphones and an eye mask can also keep passengers relaxed as it helps to block out distractions when resting on the road.
Travel Pillows and Blankets
For long drives or naps at rest stops, a travel pillow and a lightweight cozy blanket add a touch of comfort. Opt for compact, easily packable versions. Just recline the car seats and have a snooze.
Tip: When travelling at night or alone, I always park under a light in a petrol station, just in case.
Reusable Water Bottles
Stay hydrated while reducing waste with a reusable water bottle or two. Consider insulated bottles to keep drinks cool in the summer or warm during cooler months.
If you fill one with boiling water, you can have a cup of tea or coffee on your stop.
Snacks and a Cooler
A road trip isn’t complete without a variety of snacks! Pack healthy snacks, and non-perishable options like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit. A small cooler can keep sandwiches, fresh fruits, and drinks chilled.
I have to admit, I am rather partial to a bag of Liquorice Allsorts, glucose sweets or apples with ice-cold water, though not all at once!
Phone Charger and Power Bank
Avoid being stranded with a dead phone by packing an in-car charger with USB ports and a portable power bank. These are especially useful for long stretches without charging options.
Comfortable Clothing
Pack breathable, layered clothing to adjust to changing temperatures. Slip-on shoes are great for quick stops, and a hat or sunglasses can help with glare during sunny drives.
Entertainment and Enjoyment
Long journeys can be tiring and boring for passengers. Keep them entertained with a selection of games, or things to listen along the way.
Road Trip Playlist
Music sets the tone for any road trip. Create playlists in advance of your favourite music or use streaming apps to download your favourite tunes. For variety, include podcasts or playlists tailored to the mood of your trip.
Books or Audiobooks
Passengers can enjoy a good book, while audio books are perfect for drivers wanting an engaging story. Apps like Audible or Libby are excellent resources.
Games and Activities
Keep passengers entertained with travel games like trivia, eye-spy, road trip bingo, or decks of cards. For kids, activity books and small toys are a great distraction during long drives.
Binoculars and Camera
Capture memories or enjoy some wildlife spotting with a good pair of binoculars and a reliable camera. Don’t forget extra memory cards or charging cables.
If you are planning to fly your drone, check the local and national drone laws, to make sure you comply.
Practical Items You’ll Be Glad You Packed
Sometimes it is the simple practical things that you forget to pop into your car when you are going on long trips.
Reusable Shopping Bags
These are handy for grocery stops, impromptu shopping, or keeping wet or dirty clothes separate.
Trash Bags
A simple way to keep your car tidy, trash bags make it easy to collect and dispose of rubbish at stops. There is nothing worse than finding mouldy remnants of sandwiches, apple cors or any other things you have been munching on, days later.
Wipes and Hand Sanitizer
Keep clean and fresh on the go with sanitizing wipes or a bottle of hand sanitizer. These are particularly useful after using public loos or during outdoor stops. It might also be useful to carry a spare toilet roll, toilet paper or two or wet wipes in case you get caught short on the road!
Portable Camping Stove
If you’re planning outdoor meals or travelling in remote areas, a small camping stove and basic cookware can be invaluable.
Having the right kitchen supplies, like a compact camping stove or portable grill, makes eating on the go easier, allowing meal preparation at various stops. Bringing reusable utensils is helpful, and if you’re travelling for an extended period, consider packing pantry staples like couscous, rice and pasta.
You may already have some of these essentials if you opt for a motorhome hire, of course. In this instance, it’s always a good idea to double-check everything to ensure your set-up fits your needs. Your entire road trip experience will be so much better if you have the right food and kitchen setup.
Laundry Bag and Travel Detergent
For multi-day trips, pack a lightweight laundry bag and travel detergent to freshen up your clothes. Many service stops or campgrounds offer laundry facilities.
Luggage
The advantage of taking a car or other vehicle is that you can carry more luggage. Use packing cubes, to compress things. If you are having overnight stops, have a small case and a toiletry bag handy, to take out at the end of a long drive.
Pets
Taking your pet with you on a road trip can be fun. Make sure that they are comfortable and remember to take sufficient breaks and pack poo bags for the inevitable pee stops. Collapsable water and food bowls can keep them fed and watered along the way. Also pack extra towels if you are headed to the beach to dry them off.
Don’t forget to leave a window open if you are leaving your pet in the car while you are out. If you have an alarm on your car, you should be able to disarm the movement in car, while keeping the main alarm on.
If you are taking your pet abroad, you may need a pet passport, and check for any vaccinations or worming they may need either going abroad or coming back. Also
Destination-Specific Add-Ons
Tailor your packing to the type of road trip you’re taking. You might need some extras. Some suggestions include the following items:
- Beach Trips: Sunscreen, beach towels, swimsuits, and flip-flops, maybe a picnic table or rug.
- Mountain Trips and National Parks: Hiking boots, thermal clothing, trekking poles, a duffel bag and maybe camping gear.
- Urban Road Trips: Comfortable walking shoes, a day pack, and a guidebook for local attractions or book ahead with a Get Your Guide tour.
A well-packed road trip kit can make the difference between a smooth adventure and a stressful journey. By including these must-have items, you’ll be prepared for anything, from unexpected car troubles to impromptu picnics in scenic spots.
Remember, the best road trips combine preparation with spontaneity. Use this list as your foundation, and adapt it to your destination and travel style.
Ready to hit the road, where is your next road trip taking you? Let us know your road trip must-haves in the comments below! Happy Travels!
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