Everybody knows that the hardest part of a road trip is the packing (or is it unpacking?), and most of the time you’ll end up getting halfway to your location before realising that you forgot the next weeks’ worth of socks!
If you’re going to be stuck in a car for hours on end, you’ll need to pack all the essentials to survive, right? Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of ‘must pack’ items to ensure your drive goes as smoothly as possible.
1. Phone Cord
Probably the most important piece to the packing puzzle, without it you can forget having the ability to communicate, utilise Google maps, take photos, blast that Road Trip playlist on Spotify, or worst yet…post your photos to Instagram.
2. Bathroom Essentials
The usual necessities you need to tick off your list: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouth wash, mints and gum!
3. Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitiser
You never know when there will be a nasty spill in the car that will require you to disinfect yourself.
For those that are thinking of a solo road trip, check out this guide to the benefits of travelling alone.
4. Cooler
Filled with water, fruit and other refreshing food items, you’ll need all the energy replenishment you can get if you’re planning on driving for a while!
5. Mosquito Repellent
Taking a little break at night to get some fresh air? Make sure you pack some mosquito repellent to keep those blood suckers away!
6. Comfortable Shoes
Make sure you’re wearing shoes that are comfortable enough to be worn for hours at a time. It’s a bonus if these shoes are great for hiking and trekking as well! Pack some comfy sneakers – they will do the trick.
7. Snacks
Chocolates and health bars are great ways to keep yourself energised and full in between food stops.
8. Backup Petrol
There might not be a petrol station for a few hours, so make sure you have a metal Jerry Can full of petrol mounted on the back of your vehicle for a potential emergency.
9. Flashlight
One of those items you don’t think you need… until you do . More powerful than the light on your phone, you never know when you’ll need to find your way in the dark.
10. Re-usable Shopping Bags
You will need these! Always pack a few just in case – as a makeshift rubbish bin or to dispose of a leaking bottle. You never know!
11. Spare Change
You might come across a parking meter that only takes coins or a café that only takes cash – you’ll need that silver and gold in your glove box!
12. Sweat-pants
Trust us. You don’t want to be sitting in the car for hours at a time in tight jeans – you’ll want to be as comfortable as possible!
13. Headphones
Had enough of your friends babbling on? Want some me time? Pop in your headphones and treat yourself – after all, you’ll be stuck with these guys for a while! Here’s an awesome playlist you can share or keep all to yourself.
