Disclaimer
At Relax & Chill, we believe in transparency and trust. In order to keep our website running and to continue providing valuable content, we may earn a commission from certain links found on this site.
11 Must-Have Items for Your Road Trip Checklist
If there’s one thing I’ve learned after countless road trips, it’s that preparation is key. Whether I’m driving through the deserts of Utah or along the breathtaking California coast, I’ve come to realize that having the right gear can turn a long drive into a smooth, enjoyable journey. Over the years, I’ve curated my ultimate road trip checklist of essentials that have saved me from roadside disasters, kept me comfortable during overnight stops at campgrounds, and helped me stay organized throughout.
Here’s my personal road trip packing list, including the top 12 items that I never hit the road without. I’ve tested each of these products firsthand, and I’m excited to share my honest reviews—both the highs and the lows. Let’s dive in!
1. Roadside Emergency Kit
Having a roadside emergency kit is non-negotiable when you hit the road, especially on long drives through remote areas. This one includes all the road trip essentials: jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, a car jack, and more. It’s like carrying your own mini garage in the trunk.
Pros:
- The kit covers all basic roadside emergencies, including a first aid kit, which has been handy more than once.
- Durable tools, especially the jumper cables and tire pressure gauge.
- Compact and easy to store in the car.
Cons:
- Some users report that the flashlight isn’t very bright, so I recommend packing a backup.
- The duct tape in the kit could be of higher quality.
I personally love the peace of mind this kit brings, especially when driving through isolated areas with few gas stations or rest stops. It’s saved me during unexpected flat tires, and the tool kit alone is worth it.
Make sure you’re never left stranded. Grab this emergency kit now—it’s an absolute must for any road tripper.
2. Polarized Sunglasses
No road trip packing list is complete without a good pair of polarized sunglasses. They’re not just a fashion accessory—these babies help reduce glare from the road and protect your eyes from the harsh sun.
Pros:
- The polarization works wonders during mid-day drives, especially when the sun’s at its peak.
- Sturdy and well-made; they can withstand being tossed around in the car.
Cons:
- Some users have mentioned that the lenses scratch easily, so make sure you store them properly in a daypack or case.
- They may feel a bit snug if you have a larger head size.
After a full day of driving through sunny California, I can confirm that these sunglasses make a huge difference. They reduce eye strain, which is crucial on long road trips.
Don’t squint your way through a road trip—grab these polarized sunglasses for a clearer, more comfortable drive.
3. Travel Pillow & Blanket Set
If you’ve ever tried to catch some sleep in the car, you know how essential a travel pillow and blanket can be. This set makes those mid-drive naps at rest stops much more comfortable.
Pros:
- The memory foam pillow provides great neck support, even during bumpy rides.
- The blanket is soft and warm but not too bulky.
Cons:
- The blanket isn’t super large, so if you’re tall, it might not cover you completely.
- Some people find the pillow a bit too firm.
I swear by this set on any long road trip. It’s perfect for those late-night drives when you just need a quick nap before switching drivers.
Upgrade your road trip naps—this travel pillow and blanket combo is a lifesaver on long hauls.
4. Phone Holder
A solid phone mount is an absolute road trip essential, especially when you’re navigating through Google Maps or following your favorite playlist. This one is adjustable and keeps your phone in place, no matter how bumpy the road gets.
Pros:
- Strong grip that doesn’t let the phone slip.
- Easy to adjust for both portrait and landscape views.
Cons:
- Some users find the suction cup loses grip in extreme heat or cold, so keep that in mind if you’re road tripping through places like Utah.
- It can be tricky to install on certain dashboards.
I’ve used this on winding mountain roads, and it holds steady, even when you’re making sudden turns.
Keep your phone secure and your hands on the wheel. Get this reliable phone holder today!
5. Portable Charger
When you’re on a long road trip, your phone is your lifeline—whether you’re checking maps, texting friends, or snapping photos of epic scenery. A portable charger is key to making sure your battery doesn’t die when you need it most.
Pros:
- Charges fast and holds multiple charges for both phones and tablets.
- Compact enough to throw in a daypack or duffel bag.
Cons:
- Some users have said that the charging cable could be longer.
- Heavy users may need more than one charge if you’re on the road for days at a time.
This little charger has saved me more times than I can count. From keeping my phone alive during national park hikes to powering my Apple gadgets on the go, it’s a must-have.
Never get caught with a dead phone—grab this portable charger and stay connected wherever your road trip takes you.
6. Cooler Bag
A cooler bag is a road tripper’s best friend. Whether you’re packing snacks, drinks, or even granola bars, keeping them cool and fresh is essential on those long drives.
Pros:
- Excellent insulation that keeps items cold for hours.
- Lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for campgrounds or day trips.
Cons:
- The zipper can be a bit finicky.
- Some users say it doesn’t hold as much as they’d like, so it may not be ideal for larger groups.
I always pack this cooler for road trips. It’s perfect for a day at the beach or for keeping drinks cold when you’re stopping at scenic overlooks.
Stay refreshed on the road! This cooler bag will keep your drinks icy and your snacks fresh.
7. Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration is crucial during a road trip, and I never leave home without my reusable water bottle. This one keeps your water cool for hours, which is a blessing when driving through hot climates.
Pros:
- Keeps water cold for an entire day, even in the heat.
- Durable and leak-proof.
Cons:
- Some reviews mention that it’s a bit hard to clean without a specific brush.
- If you overfill it, it can leak slightly from the cap.
This bottle has kept me hydrated during hours of driving across arid deserts and makes sure I always have cold water when I need it.
Stay hydrated and eco-friendly—grab this reusable water bottle and ditch the plastic!
8. Laundry Bag
A laundry bag is often overlooked on road trip packing lists, but it’s a game-changer. You can toss your dirty clothes in and keep them separate from the clean ones in your duffel.
Pros:
- Compact and folds easily into luggage.
- Keeps dirty clothes organized and odor-free.
Cons:
- The material could be thicker, so don’t overstuff it.
- Some users wish it had a zipper closure.
After a long trip through national parks or campgrounds, this laundry bag keeps things tidy, making it easy to unpack and wash later.
Keep your road trip organized and hassle-free—this laundry bag is a must for every traveler.
9. Snack Box
I never leave for a road trip without a well-stocked snack box. It keeps all my snacks organized and easy to reach, whether I’m in the middle of the desert or stuck in traffic.
Pros:
- Lots of compartments for different snacks like granola and dried fruit.
- Easy to clean and reuse.
Cons:
- It’s a bit bulky, so it may take up space in smaller cars.
- Some users find the lids aren’t as airtight as they’d like.
This snack box has been a lifesaver on long drives. No more digging through bags for a quick bite—it’s all right there.
Stay fueled and organized on your next adventure—get this snack box to keep your road trip essentials in order.
10. Nausea Relief Capsules
If you’re prone to motion sickness, nausea relief capsules are a must-have for long drives through winding roads. I don’t get car sick often, but when I do, these capsules have been a lifesaver.
Pros:
- Quick-acting formula that helps within minutes.
- Non-drowsy, so you won’t feel sleepy after taking them.
Cons:
- Some users say the capsules have a slight aftertaste.
- Not as effective for everyone, depending on the severity of nausea.
On a recent trip through Utah’s winding mountain roads, these capsules helped keep the queasiness at bay.
Don’t let nausea ruin your road trip—grab these relief capsules and enjoy the ride!
11. Car Trash Can
Keeping the car clean during a road trip can be a challenge, which is why a car trash can is essential. This one attaches to the back of the seat and holds all your trash in one place.
Pros:
- Leak-proof lining, so you can even toss in wet wipes or empty bottles.
- Easy to clean and install.
Cons:
- It’s not the biggest trash can, so you may need to empty it frequently.
- The straps can come loose if you overload it.
I’ve found this trash can to be super useful on longer trips, especially when stopping at rest areas where there’s no trash bin in sight.
Keep your car tidy on the road—this car trash can is a road trip essential for staying clutter-free.
Time to Hit the Road!
After years of road-tripping across America, these 12 items have become my go-to essentials for ensuring every journey is as smooth, comfortable, and fun as possible. From the roadside emergency kit that’s saved me from more than one flat tire to the reusable water bottle that keeps me hydrated during long drives, each of these products has earned its spot in my car.
Whether you’re gearing up for a short weekend trip or an extended adventure, make sure these items are on your road trip checklist. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when the inevitable bumps in the road come your way.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your hands on these road trip essentials today and make your next adventure the best one yet!
