This week on the podcast, we are talking about one of my favorite things – road trips! To kick off the week, I thought I’d share this handy checklist that helps me get all my road trips off to a great start.
Vehicle Maintenance & Safety:
Give your vehicle a thorough inspection, checking lights, oil, fluids, windshield wipers, and battery.
Ensure proper tire pressure and tread depth, and check your spare tire, jack, and lug wrench.
Include a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, road flares or triangles, and a basic tool kit.
Phone or in-vehicle navigation is excellent, but paper maps are a must in case of areas with limited or no cell service.
Keep a spare key with you, either in your luggage or with another person.
While you’re at it, wash your car. Ensure your windows are clean and the interior is free of trash and any items you don’t intend to take with you.
Personal Care & Comfort:
Pack all necessary prescription and over-the-counter medications, along with a list of your prescriptions.
Pack weather-appropriate clothing, including layers, comfortable shoes, and rain gear if needed. Don’t forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and other essentials.
Comfort items like pillows, blankets, and neck pillows can make the ride more comfortable.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a cooler to keep food fresh.
Your first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
Entertainment & Other Essentials:
Download playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks for entertainment.
Pack cards, travel games, or books to keep you entertained during your travels.
Don’t forget to pack a phone charger and a power bank. Keep your devices charged for navigation and entertainment.
Have some cash on hand for emergencies, tolls, or small purchases.
Trash bags and paper towels will help keep the car tidy.
Before You Leave:
Plan your Route, noting gas stops, rest areas, and attractions along the way. Plan to stop every 2 hours to avoid fatigue.
Monitor the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
Inform a friend or family member of your route and expected arrival time.
Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your debit or credit cards.
Start with a full tank of gas.
Of course, no road trip would be complete without a great playlist, so I’m sharing some of those, too.
Here’s a couple I found on Spotify that I did not make:
That last one was created by Texas Parks and Wildlife magazine especially for river trips.
Do you have anything special you like to pack or do before a road trip? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!
