Road Trip Essentials

2/7/2022

Road trips can be loads of fun! They can also be tiring and even irritating if the kids (and you) are restless and bored. These road trip must-haves will help beat the boredom and keep you organized.

Check out our list of Road Trip Essentials!

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Packing cubes are a huge help in organization and space-saving.

I love these Disney totes, available in Disney dogs, Disney cats, Disney villains, and more. Give each kid a tote filled with their snack box, games, books, an eye mask, and a travel blanket.

Bento boxes are great for on-the-go snacks. We love our Bentgo, as it's the perfect size for dried fruit, pretzels, cheese, crackers, and fresh veggies. We also love Zak Designs cups with the flip-up straws. Perfect for roads trips!

Bring a cooler to keep drinks cold. You can even bring sandwiches to have a picnic lunch along the way!

Of course you want the kids to sleep at least part of the time on the road trip. Help them get comfortable by having eye masks and travel blankets. Vera Bradley makes some super-soft travel blanket in pretty colors, or for more neutral, basic colors, go with the Pavilia travel blanket/pillow.

Keep the boredom at bay with fun games for the whole family!

For younger kids who might not be ready for the games above, bring along some Melissa and Doug ColorBlast books or a Paint by Stickers book.

Let the kids practice their writing and drawing with a travel journal or writing / drawing tablet (LCD or paper).

I am a big fan of reading, so my idea of a proper road trip includes settling in with a good book. Here's one that perfect for the adults and one that's great for kids!

Word searches and crossword puzzles are classic road trip activities. Here are some for kids, but bring some for the adults as well!

Other must-haves include hanging trash bags and window shades.

And of course, no road trip would be complete without spills and stains. Be prepared with waterproof bags for wet and soiled clothes and an instant stain remover.

Other things you won't want to forget include Dramamine for those who experience car sickness, antibacterial wipes, tissues, sunglasses, and toiletries. And if you're a family who appreciates a little humor, grab some matching "Are We There Yet?" t-shirts!

Need a little road trip inspiration? Check out Fodor's road trip guide!