Are you planning your next road trip adventure? Road trips offer a unique way to bring your pets, see small town America, and really get to know your companions. While you might have the obvious essentials like a map, snacks, and a great playlist, there are some unexpected road trip must-haves that can make your journey even more enjoyable and memorable.
In this post, we’ll explore 15 surprising road trip essentials that you’ll be glad you packed. From practical gadgets to comfort-enhancing accessories, these items will help you navigate unexpected challenges, stay comfortable and entertained, and create unforgettable memories along the way.
Essential Tools for Your Road Trip | Food and Beverage Essentials | Staying Powered on the Road | Health and Safety Essentials | Comfort and Convenience | Wrapping Up
Essential Tools for Your Road Trip
1. Multi-purpose Tool
A compact multi-purpose tool like a Swiss Army knife or a Leatherman is a road trip essential that can help you tackle a wide range of unexpected situations. Whether you need to cut a rope, repair gear, or open a stubborn package, these versatile tools offer an array of functions in a small, portable package. Keep one in your glove compartment or backpack, and you’ll be ready for anything.
Our pick: Leatherman Wingman Multitool
The Leatherman Wingman Multitool combines 14 tools in one compact, 7-ounce package. It features spring-action pliers, scissors, a combo knife, and a unique package opener. The Wingman is made from high-quality stainless steel and comes with a removable pocket clip for easy carrying.
2. High-quality Flashlight or Headlamp
A reliable light source is an often-overlooked road trip essential that can prove invaluable in a variety of situations. Whether you’re setting up camp in the dark, dealing with a breakdown at night, or simply trying to find something in your car, a high-quality flashlight or headlamp can make all the difference. Opt for a rechargeable model with a long battery life.
Our pick: Petzl ACTIK CORE Headlamp
The Petzl ACTIK CORE Headlamp offers 450 lumens of brightness and features a rechargeable battery with a micro USB port. The headlamp has three brightness levels and a red light mode to preserve night vision. It is water-resistant (IPX4) and weighs only 2.5 ounces.
Food and Beverage Essentials
3. Collapsible Cooler
A collapsible cooler is a must-have for any road tripper looking to save space while keeping drinks and snacks cold. Unlike traditional hard-sided coolers, these can be easily folded down, making them perfect for smaller vehicles or limited storage areas. With a collapsible cooler, you can enjoy the convenience of a traditional cooler without sacrificing precious cargo space.
Our pick: YETI Hopper M30 Portable Soft Cooler
The YETI Hopper M30 features a puncture-resistant DryHide™ Shell and ColdCell™ Insulation, providing superior durability and ice retention. The Hopper M30’s leak-proof HydroLok™ Zipper and wide-mouth opening offer easy access to contents. It has a capacity of up to 28 lbs of ice or 20 cans of beer.
4. Reusable Water Bottle with Filter
Staying hydrated is crucial during a road trip, but buying bottled water can be expensive and environmentally harmful. A water bottle with a built-in filter allows you to fill up from any water source without worrying about contaminants. This is handy when traveling through areas with questionable water quality or when you want to reduce your plastic waste.
Our pick: LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle
The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle incorporates a 2-stage filtration system, removing 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa. The bottle has a capacity of 22 ounces and is made from durable BPA-free Tritan material. The filter can clean up to 1,000 gallons of water before needing replacement.
5. Portable Camping Stove
For the adventurous road tripper, a portable camping stove is a game-changer when you’re miles from the nearest restaurant. Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast before hitting the road or cooking a gourmet dinner under the stars, a compact and easy-to-use camping stove offers the flexibility to dine on your own terms and create memorable meals in the great outdoors. See 15 easy camp stove meal ideas.
Our pick: Coleman Bottle Top Propane Stove
The Coleman Bottle Top Propane Stove features a unique bottle-top design that allows it to fit on top of a standard 16.4 oz propane cylinder (not included). It has a single 10,000 BTU burner and a large base for stability. The stove measures 6.62″ x 7.81″ x 7.75″ and weighs 2.2 pounds.
6. Portable Coffee Maker
For many travelers, a good cup of coffee is an essential part of their morning routine, even on the road. With a portable coffee maker, you can enjoy your favorite brew wherever you are, without having to settle for subpar gas station coffee. From compact pour-over setups to mini espresso makers, there’s a travel-friendly coffee solution for every taste and preference.
Our pick: Wacaco Minipresso GR, Portable Espresso Machine
The Wacaco Minipresso GR uses a semi-automatic piston to brew up to 50 ml of authentic espresso. It is compatible with any type of ground coffee and doesn’t require electricity or batteries. The Minipresso GR is lightweight (0.78 lbs) and compact (6.89″ x 2.75″ x 2.36″), making it easy to pack and carry.
Staying Powered on the Road
7. Compact Solar Charger
In today’s connected world, keeping your electronic devices charged is essential, even on the road. A compact solar charger offers an eco-friendly and convenient way to power up your devices. Whether you’re camping in the great outdoors or simply spending a long day on the road, a solar charger ensures that you’ll never be left with a dead battery.
If sun power is your thing, see more in our guide to the best solar-powered camping gear for an off-grid experience.
Our pick: Anker PowerPort Solar 21W
The Anker PowerPort Solar 21W features 21 watts of power output and dual USB ports, allowing you to charge two devices simultaneously. It utilizes PowerIQ technology to deliver the optimal charging speed for your devices. The charger’s compact size (11.1 × 6.3 in folded) and durable polyester canvas make it ideal for outdoor use.
8. Portable Fan
When you’re road tripping in hot weather, a rechargeable fan can be a lifesaver. Whether you’re stuck in traffic without air conditioning or trying to sleep in a stuffy tent, a portable fan can provide much-needed relief from the heat. Look for a compact, lightweight model with multiple speed settings and a long battery life to ensure you stay comfortable no matter where your journey takes you.
Our pick: VENTY Portable Fan
The VENTY Portable Fan redefines mobility with its foldable, lightweight design and robust 16,000mAh battery that provides up to 48 hours of continuous airflow. This versatile fan features adjustable height, tilt, and oscillation controlled by remote. It also includes a USB-C port to double as a power bank and ambient LED lighting to enhance your space.
Health and Safety Essentials
9. First Aid Kit
While no one wants to think about accidents or illnesses on their road trip, being prepared with a small first-aid kit can provide peace of mind and help you handle minor issues on the go. Be sure to include essentials like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you may need. By having a well-stocked kit on hand, you’ll be able to quickly address any unexpected health concerns and get back to enjoying your trip. See our list of the best first aid kits you can take on your road trip.
10. Portable Safe
When you’re on the road, it’s important to have a secure place to store your valuables, such as passports, cash, and electronics. A portable safe offers an added layer of security, giving you peace of mind whether you’re leaving items in your car or hotel room. Look for a sturdy, lightweight model that can be easily transported and secured to a fixed object for maximum protection.
Our pick: AmazonBasics Portable Security Case
The AmazonBasics Portable Security Case features a programmable combination lock and a soft interior lining to protect your valuables. It has a durable steel construction with a black powder-coated finish. The case measures 10″ x 6.5″ x 2″ and includes a security cable for attaching to a fixed object.
11. Portable Air Compressor
A flat tire can quickly put a damper on your road trip plans, but with a portable air compressor, you can be back on the road in no time. These compact, easy-to-use devices allow you to quickly inflate your tires and adjust their pressure, ensuring a smooth and safe ride. When choosing a portable air compressor, look for a model with a built-in pressure gauge and multiple nozzle adapters to fit a variety of tire valves.
Our pick: Bullseye Pro Tire Inflator
The Bullseye Pro Tire Inflator efficiently inflates tires with a 150 PSI maximum, inflating from 24psi to 34psi in under two minutes. It features an auto shut-off function for precise inflation, a rechargeable battery with USB-C and car charger options, and a clear LED display for pressure monitoring. Lightweight at 1.9 lbs, it comes with built-in LED lights for nighttime use and includes essential accessories for diverse applications.
Comfort and Convenience on the Road
12. Packable Hammock
One of the joys of a road trip is being able to stop and enjoy scenic locations along the way. A packable hammock allows you to do just that, providing a comfortable and relaxing spot to take in your surroundings. Whether you’re taking a break at a scenic overlook or setting up camp for the night, a lightweight and easy-to-set-up hammock can instantly create a cozy oasis wherever your journey takes you.
Our pick: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock
The Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock is made from soft yet durable 210T parachute nylon. It measures 9 feet long by 4.5 feet wide and can support up to 500 pounds. The hammock packs down to the size of a grapefruit and weighs just 16 ounces, making it easy to carry on any adventure.
13. Travel-friendly Board Games
While the open road offers plenty of excitement, there are bound to be moments of downtime during your trip. Packing a few small, travel-friendly board games or card games can help keep everyone entertained and engaged, whether you’re whiling away the hours in the car or relaxing at your campsite. Look for compact, easy-to-learn games that can be enjoyed by all ages for a fun and inclusive way to bond with your fellow travelers.
See more in our list of the top 10 fun things to bring camping.
Our pick: Exploding Kittens Card Game
Exploding Kittens is a highly-strategic, kitty-powered version of Russian roulette. Players take turns drawing cards until someone draws an Exploding Kitten, at which point they explode and are out of the game, unless they defuse the Kitten. The game is designed for 2-5 players aged 7+ and takes about 15 minutes to play.
14. Compact Binoculars
Exploring the world through your car window is one thing but having a set of compact binoculars can take your road trip experience to the next level. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, binoculars allow you to get a closer look at distant wildlife, stunning vistas, and intriguing landmarks. Lightweight and easy to pack, these road trip must-haves are an essential addition to your gear for any scenic drive or outdoor adventure.
Our pick: Nikon Trailblazer 8×25 ATB Waterproof Binoculars
The Nikon Trailblazer 8×25 ATB Waterproof Black Binoculars feature 8x magnification and 25mm objective lenses, offering a clear and bright image. They are waterproof and fogproof, making them suitable for various weather conditions. The binoculars have a compact design, measuring 4.4″ x 4.4″ x 1.8″ and weighing just 9.9 ounces.
15. Rechargeable Hand Vacuum
Keeping your car clean and tidy can be a challenge on a long road trip, but with a rechargeable hand vacuum, it’s easier than ever. These compact, powerful vacuums are perfect for quickly cleaning up crumbs, dirt, and debris, helping you maintain a comfortable and inviting space throughout your journey. Look for a lightweight model with strong suction and an easy-to-empty dustbin for maximum convenience.
Our pick: BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster Handheld
The BLACK+DECKER dustbuster CHV1410L features a lithium-ion battery that holds a charge for up to 18 months. It offers strong suction and a rotating slim nozzle for reaching tight spaces. The vacuum has a translucent bagless dirt bowl that allows for easy visibility and cleaning.
Wrapping Up: Pack These Road Trip Must-Haves
Planning a road trip can be exciting, but it’s essential to make sure you have all the necessary items to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. By packing these 15 unexpected road trip must-haves, you’ll be prepared for any situation and ready to make unforgettable memories on the open road.
Now that you know what to pack, check out our other blog posts for more road trip tips and inspiration:
- Top 10 Must-Have Jeep Accessories You Need for Your Wrangler
- 25 Must-Have Ebike Accessories to Improve Your Ride
- How to Combine Fitness and Travel: Essential Tips and Gear
Did we miss any of your favorite road trip must-haves? Let us know in the comments below! Remember to subscribe to our Gorilla Gazette newsletter for more travel tips and product recommendations!
Happy road tripping!
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