What Should I Pack for a Summer Road Trip?

By Alice Nichols

Summer is the perfect time for a road trip! Whether you’re heading to the beach, visiting national parks or exploring new cities, packing can be overwhelming. To make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable journey, we’ve put together a comprehensive packing list.

Clothing

When it comes to clothing for your summer road trip, comfort and versatility are key. Pack clothes that are easy to mix and match and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Here are some essential items to include:

  • Lightweight t-shirts
  • Shorts
  • Sundresses
  • Swimsuits
  • Flip flops
  • Sneakers
  • Sun hat

Toiletries

Don’t forget your toiletries! Here’s a list of essentials to include in your travel bag:

  • Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30.
  • Insect repellent: Keep bugs at bay with insect repellent containing DEET.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste: Maintain good oral hygiene on the go.
  • Hairbrush/comb: Keep your hair looking neat and tidy.
  • Lip balm: Prevent chapped lips with lip balm that contains SPF.

Entertainment

Long car rides can be boring, so pack some entertainment options to keep yourself occupied:

  • Music player: Create a playlist of your favorite songs or download podcasts for the trip.
  • Books/magazines: Catch up on your reading list or grab a travel guide to plan your next destination.
  • Gaming devices: Pack a portable gaming device or bring along some board games to play with your travel companions.
  • Camera: Capture memories of your road trip with a camera or smartphone.

Snacks

Pack some snacks and drinks to keep you fueled for the journey:

  • Bottled water: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water on the road.
  • Fruit: Pack some fresh fruit like apples, grapes, or bananas for a healthy snack on the go.
  • Nuts and trail mix: These protein-packed snacks will keep you full and satisfied during long stretches of driving.
  • Candy/chocolate: Indulge in some sweet treats to boost your energy levels during the trip.

Miscellaneous

Here are some additional items that can come in handy during a summer road trip:

  • Cooler: Keep drinks and perishable snacks cold with a portable cooler.
  • Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun’s glare with sunglasses.
  • Cash/credit cards: Make sure you have enough money to cover gas, food, and lodging expenses along the way.

In conclusion..

Packing for a summer road trip doesn’t have to be stressful. Just remember to pack comfortable clothes, essential toiletries, entertainment options, snacks and drinks, and any other items you may need for your journey. With these tips in mind, you’ll be all set for an unforgettable road trip adventure!