There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road. Long road trips can be great opportunities for bonding with others and making lifelong memories. Whether you are embarking on a trip for vacation, moving, or just getting where you need to go, you should be prepared for the trek.
Here are 4 essentials to pack for any long road trip:
1. Snacks
Snacks are an absolute must-have on any road trip. The right snacks help bridge the gap between meals and keep energy levels high. If you forget to pack snacks, you may find yourself stopping more than you want to and spending more than you anticipated. A few good snacks to consider for your road trip include:
- Nuts
- Dried fruit
- Chips
- Candy
- Trail mix
- Granola bars
For extra long hauls, you can also pack a cooler and keep perishable food and drinks. Either way, snacks are a good solution to keeping everyone energized for the whole trip.
2. Navigation App and Maps
Nothing can derail a road trip faster than a wrong turn. Heading the wrong way, even for a short period of time, can add hours to your trip. In remote parts of the country, a wrong turn can even turn out to be dangerous. Make sure to plan your route ahead of time, but also bring a good navigation app as well as a backup map.
Navigation apps are convenient and user-friendly, but you should be prepared for a lack of service or a dead battery. Paper maps don’t require any technology or power and can be real lifesavers when you need them the most.
3. First Aid Kit
As a general rule of thumb, you should prepare for the unexpected on long road trips. One of the best ways to do this is by packing a first aid kit. You never know when you or someone you are traveling with will experience an injury or medical emergency.
Especially if you are traveling through an area far from help, a first aid kid can be a literal lifesaver. Aside from emergencies, first aid kits are nice to have in case someone gets a paper cut, headache, or minor injury.
Today’s first aid kits are affordable and compact, so they can easily fit into your vehicle without sacrificing too much valuable space. In addition, most items in first aid kits are good for years, so you can use the same kit repeatedly if you keep it stocked.
4. Car Chargers
Between food, navigation, and comfort, many road trippers forget about another essential: power. Phones and electronics are great for navigation and passing the time, but only as long as their batteries hold out.
Without car chargers, you may have to stop to get a charge or overpay for a car charger along the way. If you can, it’s best to bring at least one charger as well as a backup.
With the right attitude and materials, road trips can be a fun way to get from point A to point B. Avoid finding yourself in a pinch, and pack these essentials before setting out on your next adventure.
