Are you ready to hit the open road for your next adventure? Although the thought of just hitting the road sounds exhilarating, you’ll still need to prepare. So, before you rev up that engine, you’ll need to pack a few cross-country road trip essentials.
Proper planning and packing is a must — whether you’re a seasoned traveler or feeling the itch for a spontaneous road trip. Trust us, folks, it’s the difference between smooth sailing and a rocky road ahead. So, without further ado, here is your ultimate road trip packing list.
How to Plan a Cross-Country Trip
Ah, the thrill of planning a cross-country road trip — it’s like mapping out your very own adventure movie! But before you hit the road, let’s ensure you’ve got all your ducks in a row.
1. Choose Your Route
First things first, let’s talk routes. Researching and selecting your route is vital to a smooth trip. Consider factors like time, distance, attractions and road conditions. Ask yourself the following questions:
- How many days do you have to travel?
- How far do you want to travel?
- What sights do you want to see along the way?
- What activities do you want to do?
- How long will you stay at each stop?
- Is your route safe and accessible?
2. Set up a Budget
Next up is budgeting for the potential expenses. Nothing puts a damper on your road trip vibes like running out of cash. A few things to budget for ahead of your trip include:
- Fuel expenses: One of your largest expenses will most likely be fuel consumption. Ensure you allocate enough money, as gas prices vary across state lines.
- Accommodation: Will you stay in hotels, motels, campsites or Airbnbs? Each accommodation option will vary in price, so choose one that fits your budget.
- Food: No one wants to travel on an empty stomach! Set a daily budget for meals, and don’t forget to include road snacks in your calculations. It’s also a good idea to keep a case of water in your car, as it’s more cost-effective than purchasing individual bottles.
- Emergency fund: A good rule of thumb is always to keep an emergency fund handy for surprises. Invest in good roadside assistance and have a bit of extra cash on hand for unexpected events.
3. Book Your Accommodations
Now, let’s talk about accommodations. Are you the type to book in advance or keep things spontaneous? Whether you prefer a cozy motel bed or camping under the stars, plenty of options suit your style and budget. Regardless of where you’ll stay, always check the reviews, compare prices and book ahead during peak travel seasons.
4. Plan Your Itinerary
When planning activities and attractions, think ahead but stay flexible. Research must-see sights, outdoor activities and local experiences along your route. You may want to hike in national parks, explore charming small towns or try regional cuisines.
On the other hand, while on the road, you’re sure to see attractions and activities that catch your attention. That’s where that extra cash in your budget comes in handy. Scheduling your stops will keep your itinerary on track while leaving room for impromptu detours.
5. Prepare Your Vehicle
Last but not least, let’s ensure your vehicle is road trip-ready. You don’t want to be stuck on the side of the highway with a flat tire and no spare. Before you go, schedule a maintenance check-up, top off fluids, check tire pressure and pack a roadside emergency kit. Your emergency kit may include jumper cables, a flashlight and a first-aid kit. If you’re traveling in winter, add a blanket and a snow scraper. Remember to review your insurance coverage to ensure you’re protected on the road.
Cross-Country Road Trip Packing List
All right, travelers, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of things — your road trip packing list. Here’s your go-to road trip supplies to ensure you’re prepared for anything the open road throws your way.
Must-Haves
A cross-country road trip packing list would be incomplete without these essentials:
- Bottles of water
- Cash and change
- Cell phone car charger
- Cell phone mount for hands-free navigation
- Extra gallons of gas
- First aid kit
- GPS devices
- Mini cooler for drinks and snacks
- Personal medications
Fun and Entertainment
Boredom can strike during some portions of your journey, so plan accordingly. Here are a few fun things to do on your road trip:
- AUX power adaptor for music
- Pre-loaded podcasts or audiobooks
- Pre-loaded music playlists
- Pre-loaded movies or TV series
- Travel notebook
Food and Drink
Keep hunger at bay and stay hydrated with the following:
- A stash of non-perishable snacks like jerky, dried fruit, granola bars or pretzels
- Mini garbage pail or plastic bag
- Reusable water bottles
Safety
Rather be safe than sorry with the following items:
- A copy of your car insurance card
- A subscription to emergency roadside assistance
- Flashlight
- Jumper cables
- Paper map
- Roadside emergency kit
- Spare keys
- Spare tires
- Umbrella
- Vehicle registration
Personal Hygiene
Just because you’re on the road doesn’t mean you can’t take care of yourself. Here are some essential items:
- Body wipes
- Bug spray
- Chapstick
- Chewing gum or breath mints
- Hand sanitizer
- Lotion
- Sunscreen
- Tissues
Other Recommended Items
Here are other road trip supplies you might need during your trip:
- A roll of quarters
- A toilet paper roll or two
- Binoculars
- Car air freshener
- Camera to capture stunning scenery
- Travel pillow and blanket for extra comfort
With your cross-country road trip essentials packed and ready to roll, you’re all set for your journey. But what will you wear?
Road Trip Clothes
When it comes to road trip clothes, versatility is vital. Pack items that can adapt to various weather conditions and activities along the way. Think lightweight layers, moisture-wicking fabrics and convertible pieces that can easily go from day to night.
Speaking of layers, don’t underestimate the power of layering for comfort. Whether you’re cruising through sunny deserts or navigating chilly mountain passes, having multiple layers allows you to adjust your clothing to stay comfortable throughout the journey. Plus, it’s a great way to save space in your suitcase!
Now, let’s talk about footwear. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable for those long hours behind the wheel. Comfy shoes are also essential for exploring roadside attractions and participating in activities. Opt for supportive sneakers or hiking shoes that can handle miles of walking without sacrificing comfort. If you’re the one driving, close-toe shoes are best.
Remember your accessories and gear to round out your road trip wardrobe. Protect yourself from the elements with hats, sunglasses and rain jackets. Also, don’t underestimate the chill factor — pack some thermal wear for those crisp mornings and chilly evenings.
With your road trip clothes sorted, you’re ready to hit the road in style and comfort.
Ready, Set, Road Trip! Get There Faster With 24 Hour Passport and Visas
As you gear up for your cross-country road trip, remember that thorough planning and packing are the keys to a successful journey. Ensure you have all your cross-country road trip essentials with this complete road trip packing list.
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