7 Essentials You Need for a Road Trip

7 Essentials You Need for a Road Trip

Is it sunny outside but you are not sure what to do with your weekend? You know your city like the back of your hand and have seen everything it has to offer. That sounds like the perfect opportunity to go on a road trip. Grab a friend or two, pick a destination, stick on some tunes, and roll out with the windows down. Before you head out, though, there are a few things you need to have with you. Let's take a look at what essentials you should have with you before setting off on your adventure:

Have a Plan

A road trip is usually done on a whim and spontaneity is great, but be sure to take a minute and plan your journey. Your destination will be a deciding factor in what you need to bring with you. Are you planning on going camping? Will you be back home in time for dinner? If you are not sure what to do but want to get in your car and drive, I recommend downloading a geocache app on your phone. This treasure hunt game is addictive and will find you discovering places you never knew about.

Make Sure Your Car Is Ready for the Journey

What can ruin a road trip in seconds? Your car breaking down on you is the answer. Sometimes it can happen unexpectedly, so it won’t hurt to be prepared. Do you know how to change a tire? Is your spare tire pumped up? Does your tire tread meet the legal requirement?

While checking your tires, make sure your emergency car kit is fully stocked. You will need warning triangles, high-vis vests, jump cables, tow rope, a wheel jack, a fire extinguisher, a  first aid kit, a working flashlight. You might need snow chains if traveling in the winter. If it’s a warmer day, bring a sunshade. Check what you are legally required to carry in your car and make sure you have it.

Ensure your car's oil is full along with any other fluids, windscreen wiper fluid etc.

Make sure your car insurance is up to date and that you have paid any applicable road taxes. Taking your cars owners manual with you won’t hurt. Also, don’t forget your license.

Food and Drink

What is a road trip without snacks? If you are only out for a day, make some sandwiches or buy a portable BBQ. Make sure you have enough food to cover your trip and some. While in the store, pick up some big bottles of water to keep in your car. You need to stay hydrated so having too much water is not a bad thing. Bring a fill-able water bottle for the time you are away from your car. Bring some gum as well. Stinky breath is going to make your trip unpleasant.

Personal Hygiene

Long trips will make you stink. There's no shame in it, and it happens to the best of us but even if you are going out for the day, there are a few things you should keep on you:

·         Baby Wipes/Wet Wipes

·         Deodorant

·         Toilet Paper – Because nature calls and you should be ready

·         Bags for trash – Do not leave your trash at the side of the road. Bag it up and put it in the bin.

·         Hand Sanitizer

·         Medication – Not strictly personal hygiene-related, but if you are prone to headaches or allergies, make sure you are equipped. Your car’s first aid kit should already have plasters, bandages, disinfectant for cuts, etc. If not, make sure you are prepared for some basic first aid.

·         A change of clothes – Even if you are only out for a day, a change of clothes on hand will be great if you get unexpectedly wet.

·         Towels

·         Feminine Hygiene Products – Getting court on the road in the middle of nowhere and being surprised by that time of the month is not pleasant. Make sure you are prepared.

·         Bug repellent and insect bite relief

Dress for the Occasion

The dress code for a day at the beach compared to a day hiking is very different. Make sure you are wearing appropriate clothes for your journey. It’s also a good idea to keep a rain jacket in your car in case the weather turns. Flip flops, hat and gloves, don’t underestimate how quick the weather can change, so make sure you have everything you are going to need, and then a bit more.

Make Use of Tech

Make sure your phone is fully charged and that you have a spare battery pack. Even then make sure you have your charger with you. Ensure your camera is ready to take some awesome snapshots. Get familiar with your phones map app. A hands-free mount for your phone should also be with you. Your hands need to be on the wheel of your car.

A mini speaker for your phone could come in handy if you are planning to camp but still want to enjoy some tunes. Speaking of tunes, make sure you have a killer playlist and a way to play it, whether via USB, Bluetooth, or on a CD.

Other Essentials

The above will set you on the right path for getting equipped for your road trip. However, there are a few additional items that will serve you well depending on how long you plan to be away:

·         A Swiss Army Knife

·         Pillows and blankets

·         Money – Heading out of the city may leave you having to get by without your credit or debit card. Make sure to have some cash to hand just in case.

·         Tell someone close to you that you are heading out - Again if heading out of the city, you might not always have phone reception. Let someone know you are leaving, tell them where you are planning to go, and give them an idea of when you plan to return.

You Don’t Have to Fly to See the World

A road trip is a great way to see what your country and neighboring countries, have to offer you. Mountain ranges, beautiful lakes, and hidden beaches could all be on your doorstep. Some of the best days I have had have been when I have just got in the car and headed out for the day.