11 Necessary road trip essentials to keep in mind
Are you planning a road trip with your best buddies where you drive off into the sunset with nothing but the car, the wind and the road to nowhere... But you don’t have your own vehicle?
Well, if you don't own a car, but still wish to take a road trip, don’t worry, there are several excellent car rental companies that can hook you up with any car you want. When it comes to road trips, however, there are a few more things required to get the most out of your journey.
Yes, we’re talking about the road trip essentials.
A perfect road trip needs a perfect plan and a perfect holiday packing list - after all, the key to a fun, economic and relaxing road trip is the right road trip essentials.
In order to help you be prepared for everything, we've produced the ultimate travel checklist for your next road trip.
Clothes and shoes
It’s no surprise that this is where the list starts. Of course, we know that you won’t forget to pack clothes and shoes, but that’s not the point we’re trying to make.
Most people either under-pack or over-pack, both of which are more or less annoying on a road trip. Put simply, you need to strike a clear balance and allow for all the days you plan to be on the trip.
You also need to ensure that you carry an extra pair shoes and change of clothing, in case of any mishaps - while you're at it, a few extra pairs of socks and underwear would be useful too.
Navigation apps and maps
What is the one thing you need on a road trip? Maps and navigation apps of course, unless you not afraid of the unknown.
Carrying a few maps that can help you with pit stops, bathroom facilities and camping areas is important for a smooth, stress-free road trip. Navigation apps can also be a great help for real-time navigation along the way.
That said, paper maps and directions are very important because, despite the high-tech world we live in, there are places that are remote and will not have mobile network reception.
Thermos, water bottles and munchies
Packing a handy Thermos to carry hot drinks is absolutely essential, especially if you’re a coffee drinker and you need it to drive at night.
Water bottles are a no brainer. Water keeps you hydrated, happy and cheerful. You could find yourself in places with little to no water and as such, a full water bottle will be your only source of life. Yeah… we know, that was very dramatic.
As for munchies, we all need them! Road trips seem to make people stressed and hungry. Trust us you do not want to travel with a “hangry” passenger or worse, a hangry driver.
Flashlights and a first aid kit
Flashlights need to be on the top of your holiday packing list.
Road trips can be scary at night as you drive through creepy forest and unnervingly quiet roads. Having a few torches handy will help make things less spooky! If you believe in the paranormal world, however, you don’t really want to be travelling in the dark.
A first aid kit and a box of few basic medicines are also imperative for obvious reasons. One of the most important aspects of road trip planning is safety.
Blankets and pillows
On a long enough trip, you might need to take turns driving. So when it’s not your turn to drive, you need sleep. It's therefore important to carry blankets and pillows.
Based on the size of the car and your preferences, you can choose a neck pillow or a regular one to help you get some shut-eye.
It can also get very cold on such a trip - be that the weather or you're just with a friend who likes the air conditioning turned up high. A cosy blanket will help you stay warm, relax and sleep.
Conclusion
We have covered almost everything that is necessary on a road trip with your best mates.
We hope you have a safe and enjoyable road trip!
