LIBRARY BLOG

Family Road Trip Essentials

It’s time for a road trip! These getaways can be super fun, but packing can be tough, and there are so many things we forget to pack for long car rides. This list will help you get together what your family needs for this summer’s road trips.

Sunglasses

No matter where you are traveling sunglasses are a must have so you don’t have to squint in the car. These will make driving or enjoying the views so much easier by protecting your eyes from the sun on the long trip ahead of you.

Snacks

Not only will snacks keep you and your passengers full, but they will also save you money! If you pack snacks you won’t have to go out and buy snacks or stop so many times on the way to your destination. Another tip is to pack plastic bags to use as garbage bags for your trash, so it isn’t lying around in the car.

Maps and a GPS

Losing your way is never fun. By packing a map, GPS, or using a navigation app, you can avoid all of those wrong turns!

Car Games

These are great if you have any passengers, but they will be especially helpful in order to keep the kiddos occupied for the long drive ahead. Card games, I Spy, or question games will keep them entertained.

Charging Cords

These are super important especially if you are using a navigation app. Everyone riding with you will probably need a turn at charging their phone, too. And don’t forget to pack chargers for tablets and video games.

First Aid Kit and Medicine

A first aid kit can stay in your car at all times for the unwanted emergencies. Medicine is essential for the headaches you could experience from being in the car for such a long time. Pack it before you leave so you don’t have to stop anywhere on the way.

Emergency Car Kit

You can make your own or buy a Roadside Emergency Kit, but either way this could save you in many situations. Some things to put together if you are making your own: rain poncho, tire pressure gauge, window breaker, jumper cables, tools, spare tire, jack, rags, and a flashlight/flare.

Audiobook/Song Playlist

Making a playlist is so important so that you can have fun by singing and dancing along the way. If it will be a longer ride, an audiobook could be a good option to keep you occupied for the drive.

Hand Sanitizer

For the times you do have to stop for food, hand sanitizer can keep your hands clean so you can just go through the drive through for the meals.

Blankets

This is the perfect thing to pack for a cozy nap during the car ride (if you aren’t driving of course). This will keep the passengers warm, happy, and well rested.

Toiletries

Tissues, Chapstick, wipes, hair ties etc. Although it may not seem so, these are important things to bring on the road for spills, chapped lips, allergies and so much more.

Reusable Water Bottles and Cups

It is one thing to pack plastic water bottles for the road but packing one that is refillable and that will keep your drink cold is an even better idea.