Planning a cross-country road trip adventure can be exciting. However, without careful preparation it can quickly become stressful and frustrating. To ensure you have an enjoyable road trip, it’s important to plan ahead and pack some essential gear.
Road trips require a lot of time in the car, so make sure you have a vehicle you find comfortable for long drives. If possible, get your car serviced before the trip to check things like tire pressure, oil, and coolant levels. There’s nothing worse than breaking down miles from help in the middle of nowhere.
Bring snacks to avoid getting hangry. Stock up on non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, jerky, and dried fruit. They’re perfect for satisfying hunger and boosting energy during long stretches between stops. Don’t forget to pack napkins, utensils, and a small cooler with ice packs to keep things fresh.
Entertainment will make the miles pass more quickly. Bring audiobooks, podcasts, music, portable chargers, and car chargers for your devices. If traveling with kids, bring books, small toys, tablets, handheld video games, coloring books, and portable DVD players.
Bring essential gear like a tent, sleeping bags, blankets, pillows, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, a basic toolkit, jumper cables, a spare tire, a jack, and flares. You never know when you might need them.
Wear comfortable, loose clothing and supportive shoes for long drives. Bring layers, pajamas, a jacket, hat, sunglasses, and anything else to make you cozy. Don’t forget a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and any important medications or toiletries.
Bring cash in case stores along the route don’t accept cards or in case ATMs are unavailable. Cash also comes in handy for toll roads, parking fees, and emergencies.
Map out your route ahead of time and mark points of interest you want to stop at along the way. Let friends and family know your route and schedule so they can check in on you if needed.
Take it slow, stop when you need to stretch your legs or rest, and enjoy the journey. A cross-country road trip should be an adventure, not just about the destination. Make memories together, see new places, try local cuisine, and experience the diversity of the open road.
Most importantly, don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure and humor. When things don’t go as planned, stay flexible and laugh it off. Years later, the mishaps and detours will become fond memories and part of the stories you tell about your epic cross-country road trip.