Introduction:
Road trips are always exciting, perhaps more exciting than a trip by aeroplane. When you have decided to go on a road trip. And you have scheduled it then you look forward to it. It’s more exciting than other travels because road trips make you create more memories. You are likely to enjoy the journey more than any other traditional way of travelling.
I love road trips more than any other trip I would go for. I have been travelling on roads for more than a decade now, and I can say with confidence that if you have never been on a road trip then you are missing out on the most thrilling and adventurous journey ever.
When you plan a road trip you need to know the items that you need to bring along. I have put together a packing list for your road trip. Ensure you bring everything you need so that you can hit any road on any location without having to worry much and enjoy the adventurous trip.
Here’s The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List
Paperwork
- Driver’s license: You can’t drive without having packed your driving license. So don’t miss it.
- International Driver’s permit: If you are travelling abroad then check if your driving licence is valid there. That country doesn’t require you to get any permit for you to drive. If that’s the case, then you are fine if not then get an International Drivers to permit sorted beforehand to avoid any problem.
- Car insurance: If you are going to drive your car, then you have to ensure that you have a valid proof of insurance. Many times you realise the insurance has expired when it’s too late. To avoid any issues on your trip check it before you leave. Most of the people drive rental cars, you don’t have to worry much in this case. Just ask the service provider for proof of insurance before you hit the road.
- Documents of your vehicle: Either you drive your car or a rental car, you must check if you have the right documents for the car itself. If possible get a rental proof too.
In addition, choose your rental car wisely. If you are comfortable with manual cars then go with manual only and not with an automatic car. This will help you keep your trip painless and hassle-free
Roadside Emergency Kit: Either you are going by your car or renting a car on the go. You must be equipped with a basic Roadside Emergency Kit. They are easy to pack and come in handy. It’s extremely useful for a road trip.
Emergency contact details are also very important and crucial for you to have a smooth ride. It could be your roadside assistance service or an emergency roadside service provided by the rental company. You must know what numbers to dial in case of an emergency. Always be fully prepared.
Don’t forget to carry an extra key for the car you are driving. I have suffered a lot on one of the road trips because of no extra car keys. I locked the car with keys inside it. Tent and other essential stuff were in the car and it was raining…it was one of the worst experiences I have ever had on any of my road trips in the past decade. Along with an extra key, bring a spare tyre too.
Maps: Maps are extremely useful for any road trip no matter where you drive. Online Maps are good as it comes with real-time live location and helps you navigate through and protect you from getting lost in the middle of nowhere. Sometimes you might not have access to the internet. You should download an offline map of the area you are travelling to.
Paper-Maps have been traditionally used by travellers for ages. It’s still worth carrying a paper map with you on your road trip. It can be of huge benefit in case your device (phone or GPS device that you use for maps) dies or stops functioning. It will work as a backup and you continue the journey without any interruption. You will reach your destination safely.
Extra Cash: You can use e-Wallet, credit cards and other digital payment methods to make payments on your trip. It’s good to use cards on a road trip and you should not have much hassle if your journey is not through any remote area. No matter where you travel Cash is still the King on road trips. Everywhere you go you will see cash is one of the primary modes of transaction. In certain places, card or digital payments won’t be accepted. Therefore it’s highly recommended to carry some extra cash with you. You won’t regret it, trust me.
Travel pillow & blanket: You will get tired on the road and need to take a break and relax. At some point, you would want to take a nap. Travel pillow and blanket will be the most comfortable items and you will love them along the way.
Water jug: A water jug is a necessary item in your packing list. You can store enough water as per your need. With having a water mug you don’t have to stop to drink water and it also helps you keep yourself hydrated throughout the journey. Please avoid any plastic bottles and cut down on plastic usage.
Electronics
Electronic items could be a matter of confusion as to which ones to carry and which ones to leave behind. Some people bring all electronic items even if they don’t use all of them. Just bring those items that you need and avoid any unnecessary gadgets or accessories.
- Phone: We cannot think of a life without a phone now. Please inspect and ensure that your phone is free from any major issues. If there is any problem then get it fixed before the trip.
- Camera: Bring a nice and compact camera with you to capture images as you travel along. Get a camera that has a good battery and lasts longer because you might not get a chance to charge your camera every time you need to.
- Charger: Bring all necessary chargers to charge all your electronic gadgets like Phone, Lantern/LED lights, camera etc.
- Portable Power backup: Power Banks are a must-carry item when you travel let alone a camping trip. You are going to need it to charge your phone and camera.
First Aid Kit
Last but not least, you need a First Aid Kit. It is a must-have item on your list. It should be on your priority list. It is wise to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Having a First Aid kit will provide you with confidence and peace of mind. If you meet with minor injuries then the kit will be worth it.
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