Few adventures match the thrill of a road trip – driving through lush landscapes with your favorite tunes playing. Before embarking on a fun road trip though, you need to prepare properly if you want things to go smoothly. Creating a road trip checklist is key. To help you out, here’s a rundown of 12 essential items to pack without fail.
- Offline maps and navigation aids You surely don’t want to end up lost while enjoying the journey. So carry offline maps or install navigation apps that work without data connectivity like Google Maps. Preload your route maps while still on WiFi so your GPS works when network coverage drops.
- First aid kit Carry a readymade first aid kit or assemble one yourself containing band aids, gauze pads, medical tape, antiseptic creams, essential medications, pain relief sprays, emergency thermal blanket etc. This provides vital reassurance to handle any minor injuries, cuts or health situations enroute.
- Car power inverter Finding a steady power source for charging gadgets while traveling can be challenging. A power inverter converts DC current from your car battery into AC power to charge phones, cameras, other gadgets using regular plug points. It’s a road trip essential.
- Wet wipes and tissues When nature calls but rest stops are nowhere nearby, wet wipes and tissues prevent messy situations within the car. They also help freshen up without access to washrooms. Garbage disposal bags are great too for responsible waste handling when on the move.
- Sunglasses, hats, sun protection Don’t take bright sunlight lightly during day-long road trips. Carry UV protective sunglasses for everybody along with wide brimmed hats and high SPF value sunscreens (30+). Prevent headaches, sunburns and heat strokes even in open vehicles.
- Comfortable clothes and shoes
Pick comfortable fabrics allowing easy mobility and supple shoes with sufficient grip for extensive sitting and extended driving. Have jackets or stoles handy too as temperatures fluctuate when passing through different terrains. - Snacks, hydration drinks, coffee Stock up with healthy snacks like fruits, sandwiches and protein bars. Keep yourself hydrated with water and energy drinks to avoid fatigue. Carry a long-lasting thermos with black coffee too for sufficient caffeine kick when needed.
- Emergency car tool kit Flat tires, dead car batteries or stalled engines can completely derail road trips. Be equipped for such uncertainties by carrying jumper cables, car battery recharger, tow rope, warning triangles, fire extinguisher, tool kit etc.
- Protective case for gadgets Pack protective cases for cameras, tablets, specs and other accessories. Back up data online before leaving too. Wear an accessory pouch under your clothes to store cards, cash and important documents safely.
- Entertainment – playlist, games
Create engaging playlists spanning genres and decades to set the mood. Download offline games, e-books and movies for when internet drops. Sing-alongs, storytelling and travel games like I-Spy keep all passengers upbeat. - Chargers, power banks
Running out of phone battery in areas lacking connectivity is bad. Carry chargers compatible with your devices, charging cables and enough back up power banks to stay digitally connected throughout. Vital for emergencies too. - Vaccination records and insurance papers Keep copies of health insurance paperwork, vehicle insurance policies, ID proofs and vaccination status of everyone handy before setting off. These provide immense help during medical or accident emergencies enroute.
With these 12 must-pack items, you can handle uncertainties smoothly and create memorable moments. Stay safe and scintillating road warrior! Your adventure awaits.
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