13 Road Trip Essentials for an amazing adventure.

Updated: April 13, 2024

WHAT? You have a road trip planned? YAHHH!

When heading out on a road trip to explore the great outdoors, the packing goal is to minimize items, but still make sure you have all the road trip essentials! But what is essential? Here are 13 Road Trip ESSENTIALS…

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Road Trip Essential #1: Clothes

Rule #1 for road trips and outdoor adventures: clothes should be comfortable.

Hot tip: Minimize the number of items by making sure all items are interchangeable.

Some good items to pack: leggings, jeans, tanks and tees, plenty of undergarments, and socks.

Pack an outfit for each day and a backup outfit (for extra dirty adventures) for every 2-3 days you will be gone. My go-to traveling outfit: black leggings, black tee, hiking socks, and zip-up combat boots.

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Essential #2: Shoes

I like to ride without shoes on, so Crocs are great to slip on for quick trips into the store. HeyDudes are good for overall comfortable walking, shopping, etc.

And easy zip-up boots are great for quick outdoor exploration. My hiking boots also come along for all hikes and are always attached to my hiking bag.

Road Trip Essentials #3: Outerwear

Hoodie/Jacket/Coat. Packing one of each will pay off. You never want to be caught in a situation when you cut short or pass up an adventure because it’s too cold. If you have the space and wet weather is expected, pack a rain jacket also.

Read about how to plan the perfect road trip –>

Essential #4: Blanket

I always pack my favorite throw blanket to stay cozy in the princess passenger seat. The Berkshire plush throw is my absolute favorite, cozy blanket that travels everywhere with me! It has affectionately become known as my “blanky.” It’s warm and packs well (not too bulky).

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”

helen keller

Road Trip Essentials #5: Makeup

If you don’t wear makeup… congrats, and you can skip this section! But I prefer makeup. Keep it minimal, but still bring whatever it takes to make you feel pretty.

Essential #6: Coconut Oil

For the face and body, keep packing simple with one product that can be used for multiple things.

Coconut oil is my all-in-one for cleaning off makeup, and moisturizing skin and lips. Skincare is simplified with ONE product. I absolutely do not take off on a road trip without it! Especially if I’m traveling to a dryer region.

“And just like that, we’re on our way to everywhere.”

Emery Lord, Open Road Summer

Road Trip Essentials #7: Outdoor Backpack

I take an outdoor backpack, pre-packed with all of my outdoor exploration essentials. I never leave home without it! It keeps me prepared for any cool adventure I may happen across along our travels.

Read more: 9 Hiking ESSENTIALS

Essential #8: Phone + charger

A phone is always a must for pictures and videos! And of course, for safety and security in case of emergency. Make sure you pack the cord and keep the phone charged!

“The freedom of the open road is seductive, serendipitous and absolutely liberating.”

Aaron Lauritsen

Road Trip Essentials #9: Journal

Keep a journal in case an idea or inspiration hits along the way. Or pack a travel journal to keep you busy when you are in the passenger seat.

“Be a collector of good ideas. Keep a journal. If you hear a good idea, capture it, write it down. Don’t trust your memory.”

jim rohn

Essential #10: Water Bottle

A water bottle is essential. I call mine my “emotional support water bottle.” I NEVER leave home without it. We keep gallons and bottles of water in the camper van for quick and easy refills.

Another option is a stop at a convenience store or any water fountain for free refills of water bottles and water jugs.

Road Trip Essentials #11: Hair Supplies

For hair care, I pack dry shampoo, a brush, and hair ties to keep my hair somewhat tamed.

I try to keep it simple and minimal. If the trip lasts longer, I will pack a small bottle of shampoo and conditioner and a wide-toothed comb.

Essential #12: Hat

One of my big go-to’s for road trips: HATS! Pack a ball cap or hat to disguise dirty hair or to protect hair from the rain.

It’s beneficial to always keep a ball cap on hand with travel and outdoor activities.

Road Trip Essentials #13: Basic Toiletries

Pack all of those bathroom necessities to stay FRESH– toothbrush and paste, deodorant, body/face wet wipes.

Packing for a road trip is an art. The goal is MINIMAL PACKING for MAXIMUM FUN.

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The 13 Road Trip ESSENTIALS may vary from person to person, but these 13 are a good starting place to find YOUR road trip essentials.

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