Planning a road trip can be exciting, but it requires some preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly.
When taking a road trip, whether to the national parks or to a new state, it’s always a good idea to go through a road trip safety check before leaving. If you don’t know much about your vehicle, it’s a good idea to take it to an auto mechanic who should be able to perform a safety inspection for you for cheap or free.
Safety
Vehicle Preparation
A safe road trip starts making sure your vehicle is ready for the next trip. Have peace of mind while on the road by checking the following at least one week before your trip. Plan time to bring the car to a mechanic if you need any repairs before hitting the road.
- Check fluids: Oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid.
- Inspect tires: Check tread depth, tire pressure, and have a spare tire.
- Test battery: Ensure it’s in good condition and fully charged.
- Check lights: Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior lights.
- Brakes: Ensure they’re functioning properly.
- Wipers: Check for wear and replace if necessary.
- Roadside emergency kit: Jumper cables, tire jack, spare tire, basic tools, flashlight, and first aid kit.
- Vehicle registration and insurance: Ensure they are up-to-date and accessible.
- Car manual: Know where it is.
- Clean car: Start with a clean car.
Navigation and Communication
- GPS device or app: Ensure maps are updated.
- Phone charger: Car charger or portable charger for your cell phone.
- Printed maps: We use Google Maps but this is good in case of poor signal.
- Emergency contacts: Save important numbers on your phone and keep a printed list.
Safety and Emergencies
- First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, etc.
- Roadside assistance: Consider a membership or have the number ready.
- Reflective triangles or flares: For breakdowns at night.
- Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife: Handy for various situations.
- Fire extinguisher: Small, car-friendly extinguisher.
- Blanket: Emergency thermal blanket in case of cold weather.
Documents and Planning
- Itinerary: Rough outline of your trip, destinations, and activities.
- Travel insurance: Consider coverage for accidents or cancellations.
- Copies of important documents: Keep digital and physical copies of your ID, insurance, and itinerary.
Final Checks
- House preparation: Secure your home, arrange for mail pickup, and inform a neighbor or friend.
- Pack bags: Ensure you have everything you need, including chargers and any electronics.
- Fuel up: Start with a full tank of gas.
Road Trip Essentials
Personal Essentials
Pack a day pack with some of the essentials. This bag needs to stay up front for easy access at all times.
- Driver’s license and ID: Ensure they’re up to date.
- Wallet: Cash, credit/debit cards.
- Sunglasses: For comfortable driving during the day.
- Comfortable clothing: Dress for the weather and comfort during long drives.
- Personal medications: Enough for the entire trip.
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper, etc.
Entertainment and Comfort
- Music playlist or podcasts: Download offline content.
- Books or audiobooks: For relaxation during breaks.
- Travel blanket and pillow: For comfort during naps or for passengers.
- Snacks and drinks: Non-perishable items and plenty of water in a reusable water bottle.
- Cooler: To keep drinks and perishable snacks cold.
Lodging and Stops
- Accommodation reservations: Confirm bookings in advance.
- Rest stop planning: Know where you’ll stop for breaks.
- Hotel apps: Useful for last-minute bookings.
Road Trip Tips
Plan, but Stay Flexible
- Research your route: Know the main highways and key stops, but don’t be afraid to take detours or explore off the beaten path.
- Break up long drives: Plan to stop every 2-3 hours to stretch, use the restroom, and take a mental break.
Start Early
- Hit the road early: Starting your day early helps you avoid traffic and makes the most of daylight hours.
- Rest well the night before: A good night’s sleep will help you stay alert and enjoy the drive.
Pack Smart
- Pack light: Bring only what you need to avoid a cluttered car. Use soft bags instead of hard luggage for easier storage.
- Keep essentials accessible: Snacks, water, a first aid kit, and a map should be within easy reach.
Stay Comfortable
- Dress in layers: Temperatures can vary throughout the day and in different locations.
- Seat comfort: Bring a lumbar pillow or cushion for extra support during long drives.
- Healthy snacks: Fresh fruits, nuts, and protein bars keep your energy up without a sugar crash.
Stay Connected
- Share your itinerary: Let someone know your route and expected arrival times, especially when traveling in remote areas.
- Offline maps: Download maps for areas where cell service might be spotty.
Entertainment
- Curate a playlist: Have a mix of music, podcasts, and audiobooks to keep you entertained.
- Road games: Classics like “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” or the license plate game can make the time pass faster.
- Local radio stations: Tune in to local stations to discover new music and get a feel for the area.
Safety First
- Stay alert: Take turns driving if possible, and don’t drive while tired. If you feel drowsy, switch drivers or find a safe place to rest.
- Watch the weather: Check the forecast regularly and adjust your plans if necessary. Be prepared for sudden changes, especially in mountainous or coastal areas.
- Fuel up often: Don’t let your gas tank drop below a quarter, especially in rural areas where gas stations might be sparse.
Explore and Engage
- Talk to locals: Ask for recommendations on places to eat, scenic spots, or hidden gems. Locals often know the best spots off the tourist path.
- Capture memories: Take plenty of photos, but also take time to just enjoy the scenery without a camera.
Be Mindful of Your Budget
- Set a daily budget: Factor in gas, food, lodging, and activities. Keep some cash on hand for places that don’t accept cards.
- Use apps: Apps like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas, and hotel apps can offer last-minute deals.
Enjoy the Journey
- Embrace spontaneity: Some of the best road trip moments happen unexpectedly, so stay open to changing plans.
- Relax and have fun: Road trips are as much about the journey as the destination. Enjoy the ride, take in the sights, and savor the freedom of the open road.
Maximize Car Space
- Use packing cubes: Organize clothing and essentials in packing cubes or ziplock bags to save space and make finding items easier.
- Over-the-seat organizers: Hang organizers on the back of the front seats to store snacks, toys, and electronics within easy reach.
- Roof storage: If you’re short on storage, consider a roof cargo box or bag for extra space.
Keep the Car Clean
- Portable trash can: Use a small bin, plastic container, or even a cereal container lined with a bag to keep trash in one place.
- Silicone cupcake liners: Place these in cup holders to catch crumbs and spills, making cleanup easier.
- Quick cleanup kit: Keep a small kit with wet wipes, paper towels, and a small handheld vacuum for quick cleanups on the go.
Stay Organized
- Pre-pack daily outfits: Pack outfits in individual bags (like gallon-sized ziplock bags) for each day, making it easy to grab and go.
- Snack station: Use a tackle box or bead organizer to create a DIY snack box with a variety of options.
- Important documents folder: Keep all important documents like maps, reservation confirmations, and emergency contact information in one easy-to-access folder.
Comfort Hacks
- DIY travel pillow: Roll up a towel or small blanket and secure it with rubber bands for a quick neck or lumbar support pillow.
- Window shades: Use sun shades or even a fitted sheet over windows to block out the sun and keep the car cool.
- Blanket fort: If road tripping with kids, create a cozy space in the backseat with blankets and pillows as a great way to help them relax or nap.
Food and Drink Tips
- Freeze water bottles: Freeze water bottles overnight to use as ice packs in your cooler. As they melt, you’ll have cold water to drink.
- Pack a cooler smartly: Layer the cooler with items you’ll need first on top, and use reusable ice packs to keep everything cold.
- Healthy, mess-free snacks: Pack snacks like pre-cut fruits, veggies, nuts, and granola bars that are easy to eat and don’t require refrigeration.
Entertainment Solutions
- Download entertainment ahead of time: Load up your devices with music, podcasts, audiobooks, and movies in case of poor signal areas.
- DIY game kits: Create a travel game kit with small games, coloring books, and puzzles to keep kids entertained.
- Bring a hotspot: If you need internet access, consider bringing a portable Wi-Fi hotspot for areas with weak signals.
Navigation and Route Planning
- Pre-plan bathroom breaks: Use apps like iExit or Google Maps to identify rest stops, gas stations, and clean restrooms along your route.
- Save offline maps: Download maps for your route in case you lose cell signal in remote areas.
- Avoid rush hours: Plan your driving schedule to avoid big city rush hours and peak travel times to reduce stress and save time.
Stay Safe
- Emergency kit: Keep a well-stocked emergency kit with first aid supplies, a flashlight, basic tools, and a portable phone charger.
- Stash a spare key: Keep a spare car key in a magnetic box hidden on the exterior of your car or with someone in your group.
- Plan for the unexpected: Bring extra snacks, water, and blankets in case of unexpected delays or breakdowns.
Budget-Friendly Hacks
- Use gas apps: Apps like GasBuddy help you find the cheapest gas stations along your route.
- Pack your meals: Save money by packing sandwiches, salads, and snacks to avoid overpriced rest stop food.
- Look for free attractions: Research free or low-cost attractions along your route, like parks, scenic overlooks, or small town festivals.
Stay Healthy
- Stretch and move: Plan stops every 2-3 hours to stretch, walk around, and keep circulation going.
- Stay hydrated: Bring refillable water bottles and make sure everyone stays hydrated, even if it means more bathroom breaks.
- Eat smart: Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can make you feel sluggish. Opt for lighter meals and snacks that will keep your energy up.
Comprehensive Road Trip Packing List
The best way to be prepared for long road trips is to pack all the best things and essential items for your trip.
Essentials
- Driver’s license
- Vehicle registration and insurance
- Roadside assistance information
- Cash, credit/debit cards
- Mobile phone and charger (car and portable)
- Printed map or atlas (in case of poor signal)
Vehicle Essentials
- Spare tire, jack, and tire iron
- Jumper cables
- Car manual
- Roadside emergency kit (reflective triangles, flares)
- Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife
- Fire extinguisher
- Windshield sunshade
- Window cleaner and microfiber cloths
- Portable air compressor or tire inflator
- Extra car fluids (oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid)
Emergency and Safety
- First aid kit
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Blanket (thermal for emergencies)
- Rain poncho
- Non-perishable snacks (granola bars, nuts, dried fruit)
- Bottled water
- Medication (prescription and over-the-counter)
- Copies of important documents (ID, insurance, etc.)
Personal Items
- Sunglasses
- Hat and sunscreen
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
- Tissues or toilet paper
- Reusable water bottle
- Comfortable clothing and layers
- Comfortable shoes
- Laundry bag for dirty clothes
Food and Drinks
- Cooler with ice packs
- Snacks (fruit, chips, sandwiches)
- Reusable utensils and napkins
- Trash bags
- Reusable coffee cup or thermos
Entertainment and Comfort
- Books, magazines, or e-reader
- Music playlists or podcasts
- Portable speaker
- Travel pillow and blanket
- Notebook and pen
- Games (cards, travel-sized board games)
- Camera with extra batteries or charger
- Binoculars (for scenic views)
Technology
- GPS device or navigation app (with offline maps downloaded)
- Portable power bank
- Laptop or tablet (with charger)
- Headphones
- Car mount for phone
- Camera with memory cards and charger
Lodging
- Hotel reservations or camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, etc.)
- Pillow and blanket (if staying in the car)
- Shower sandals
- Towel
Miscellaneous
- Insect repellent
- Travel laundry detergent (for long trips)
- Reusable shopping bags
- Ziplock bags (for storing snacks or organizing items)
- Duct tape (handy for quick fixes)
- Small sewing kit
Motion Sickness
- Dramamine
- Pressure point bands
- Gallon-sized ziplock bags make great puke bags. They are large enough and can seal to prevent spills and the smell from permeating the vehicle.
- Ginger biscuits
- Peppermint candies
Best Road Trip Apps
Navigation and Maps
- Google Maps:
- Features: Reliable navigation, real-time traffic updates, and information on nearby services. You can also download offline maps.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Waze:
- Features: Community-driven app that offers real-time traffic alerts, hazard warnings, and the best routes based on current conditions.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Apple Maps:
- Features: Integrated with Siri and other Apple services, it offers navigation, real-time traffic updates, and nearby recommendations.
- Platforms: iOS
- GuideAlong
- Features: Purchase audio tours through the National Parks and other scenic drives.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
Accommodation and Stops
- Roadtrippers:
- Features: Helps plan your route and find interesting stops along the way, including attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Hotels.com / Booking.com:
- Features: Search and book accommodations on the go, with access to reviews and last-minute deals.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- iExit:
- Features: Shows upcoming highway exits and what services (gas, food, rest areas) are available.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Flush:
- Features: Search for the nearest public restrooms.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
Fuel and Charging
- GasBuddy:
- Features: Find the cheapest gas stations along your route, updated in real-time by other users.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- PlugShare:
- Features: Locate electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and see reviews and photos from other users.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
Food and Restaurants
- Yelp:
- Features: Discover local restaurants, read reviews, and see photos to find the best places to eat.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Roadside America:
- Features: Find quirky roadside attractions, unusual museums, and offbeat tourist spots.
- Platforms: iOS
- OpenTable:
- Features: Reserve tables at restaurants in advance, especially useful in popular tourist destinations.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
Entertainment and Music
- Spotify / Apple Music:
- Features: Create road trip playlists and download music for offline listening to keep the vibes going.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Audible:
- Features: Access a huge library of audiobooks, perfect for long stretches of driving.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Libby:
- Features: Borrow audiobooks and ebooks from your local library for free.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Plates:
- Features: Mark off license plates from each state as you see them.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Geocaching
- Features: Find hidden geocaches when you make pit stops along the way.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
Weather and Safety
- The Weather Channel:
- Features: Get detailed weather forecasts and alerts along your route.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Dark Sky:
- Features: Hyper-local weather forecasts with minute-by-minute updates. (Note: Fully integrated into Apple Weather as of 2023).
- Platforms: iOS
- AAA Mobile:
- Features: Access roadside assistance, travel discounts, and insurance information.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
Budget and Expenses
- Splitwise:
- Features: Easily split costs among friends or family and keep track of shared expenses.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- Trail Wallet:
- Features: Budget tracking for travel expenses, allowing you to set daily spending limits and monitor your budget.
- Platforms: iOS
Road Trip Communities
- Roadtrippers:
- Features: In addition to route planning, it has a community feature where you can read tips and reviews from other road trippers.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
- RV Parky:
- Features: A community-driven app to find campgrounds, RV parks, and rest stops.
- Platforms: iOS, Android
Road Trip Snacks
Healthy Snacks
- Fresh Fruit:
- Apples, bananas, grapes, berries, or pre-cut fruit like watermelon or pineapple. These are refreshing, hydrating, and easy to eat.
- Vegetable Sticks:
- Carrot sticks, celery, cucumber, and bell pepper slices are great with hummus or peanut butter.
- Nuts and Seeds:
- Almonds, walnuts, cashews, sunflower seeds, and trail mix offer protein, healthy fats, and energy.
- Dried Fruit:
- Dried apricots, raisins, dates, and apple slices are sweet and satisfying without the mess of fresh fruit.
- Yogurt:
- Single-serving yogurts (preferably Greek for more protein) are a great source of probiotics and calcium.
Savory Snacks
- Cheese Sticks or Slices:
- String cheese or pre-sliced cheddar, gouda, or other hard cheeses are easy to eat and don’t require refrigeration for a few hours.
- Jerky:
- Beef, turkey, or plant-based jerky provides a protein-packed, savory snack that’s easy to store.
- Popcorn:
- Lightly salted or flavored popcorn is low-calorie, crunchy, and satisfying.
- Crackers and Pretzels:
- Whole grain crackers or pretzels paired with cheese or hummus are great for snacking.
- Rice Cakes:
- These are light and versatile, great with toppings like peanut butter or just on their own.
Sweet Snacks
- Granola Bars or Energy Bars:
- Look for bars with natural ingredients, low sugar, and high fiber for a quick energy boost.
- Dark Chocolate:
- A small amount of dark chocolate can satisfy a sweet tooth without being too sugary.
- Cookies:
- Homemade or store-bought cookies like oatmeal raisin or chocolate chip can be a comforting treat.
- Muffins:
- Mini muffins or healthy homemade versions are great for a sweet snack that’s more filling.
Drinks
- Water:
- Keep plenty of bottled water or a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Iced Tea or Coffee:
- Brewed at home and kept in a thermos or brought from a favorite café, these are refreshing options.
- Juice Boxes or Pouches:
- Convenient for a quick burst of energy, though it’s best to choose 100% juice with no added sugar.
Easy Meals
- Sandwiches or Wraps:
- Pre-made sandwiches with deli meats, cheese, or peanut butter and jelly are easy to eat on the go.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs:
- These are a great source of protein and can be pre-peeled for easy eating.
- Pasta Salad or Grain Salad:
- Make ahead and pack in individual containers for a more substantial snack or light meal.
Fun Snacks
- Chips and Salsa:
- Single-serving packs of chips with a small container of salsa or guacamole can be a fun treat.
- Trail Mix:
- A mix of nuts, dried fruit, and a few chocolate pieces or M&Ms offers a sweet and salty combo.
- Gummy Bears or Candy:
- For a fun, occasional treat, a small bag of gummies or your favorite candy can be a nice reward on the road.
Car Games for Kids
I Spy
- How to Play: One player chooses an object they can see, either inside or outside the car, and says, “I spy with my little eye something that is [color/shape].” The other players then try to guess what the object is.
- Best For: All ages
20 Questions
- How to Play: One player thinks of a person, place, or thing, and the others take turns asking yes-or-no questions to guess what it is. They have up to 20 questions to figure it out.
- Best For: Ages 5+
The Alphabet Game
- How to Play: Players look for words on signs, billboards, or license plates that start with each letter of the alphabet, starting with “A” and going to “Z.” The first person to find a word for each letter wins.
- Best For: Ages 6+
License Plate Game
- How to Play: Players try to spot license plates from as many different states or provinces as possible. You can make it a competition to see who can spot the most.
- Best For: Ages 7+
Road Trip Bingo
- How to Play: Create or print out bingo cards with pictures or words representing things you might see on a road trip (e.g., a cow, a stop sign, a red car). Players mark off items as they spot them. The first to get a line or full card wins.
- Best For: Ages 5+
Would You Rather?
- How to Play: Players take turns asking each other silly or challenging “Would you rather?” questions. For example, “Would you rather have the ability to fly or be invisible?”
- Best For: Ages 6+
Name That Tune
- How to Play: One player hums or sings a few seconds of a song, and the others try to guess the title. You can also play this with songs on the radio or a playlist.
- Best For: Ages 5+
Categories
- How to Play: One player picks a category (e.g., animals, types of food, colors), and the players take turns naming something that fits within that category. The game continues until someone can’t think of a new item.
- Best For: Ages 6+
The Picnic Game
- How to Play: The first player starts with, “I’m going on a picnic, and I’m bringing [item that starts with A, like ‘apples’].” The next player repeats the sentence and adds something that starts with the next letter of the alphabet. The game continues, and players must remember all previous items.
- Best For: Ages 7+
Spot the Car
- How to Play: Players choose a type, color, or brand of car to look for (e.g., “red cars” or “SUVs”). The first person to spot a set number (like 10) of their chosen car wins.
- Best For: Ages 5+
Animal Name Game
- How to Play: One player names an animal, and the next player has to name an animal that starts with the last letter of the previous animal (e.g., “elephant”—next player says “tiger”). The game continues until someone can’t think of an animal.
- Best For: Ages 6+
Story Chain
- How to Play: One person starts a story with a sentence, and the next person adds a sentence to continue the story. This goes on until everyone has had a turn, creating a funny or imaginative tale.
- Best For: Ages 6+
Counting Cows (or Other Objects)
- How to Play: Players pick a common object (like cows, mailboxes, or yellow cars) to count. The first person to reach a set number wins.
- Best For: Ages 5+
Memory Game
- How to Play: The first player says, “I’m going on a trip and I’m bringing [object].” The next player repeats the sentence and adds another item. The game continues with each player adding a new item and repeating the list in order.
- Best For: Ages 7+
Guess the Sound
- How to Play: Use your phone or a device to play different sounds (like animal noises, vehicles, or household items), and have the kids guess what the sound is.
- Best For: Ages 4+