"I can admit that I’m a certified road trip over-packer. This is mostly due to growing up taking vacations with a big family. I often have to resist the urge to pack everything I own. But over the years, I have gotten significantly better at packing only the necessities. So, if you’re planning on taking to the car for your next adventure, no need to sweat. We’ve gathered the ultimate list of family road trip essentials.
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Let’s be honest: A huge part of what makes a successful road trip is the car ride itself. Speaking from personal experience, a loaded snack bag, a comfy travel blanket, and a migraine relief stick are just a few road trip essentials that can change the game. Nowadays, there are tons of nifty accessories and gadgets labeled as “travel necessities,” but that can be overwhelming. With time, I’ve discovered which products are worth the purchase and which can be skipped.
To help prepare you and your family for your next getaway, we’ve put together a hefty list of road trip must-haves that’ll be loved by the whole crew. From entertainment to food accessories, we’ve got you covered with family road trip essentials that’ll make your journey that much more enjoyable.
Organization
Every road-tripper knows that organization is key when traveling. It’s inevitable that your car will be overflowing with luggage, snacks, and toys. So save yourself the trouble and add some organizational accessories into the mix. After all, nothing gives you peace of mind more than a clean and organized car.
Food Accessories
Would it really be a road trip if it weren’t for all the snacks you get to indulge in? I personally think munching on your favorite (maybe not-so-healthy) snacks is the best part of the car ride. With these food and beverage accessories, mealtime has never been easier or this mess-free!
Tech & Entertainment
While we tend to rely on screen time for road trip entertainment, sometimes you need something else to do. From a pair of headphones that will tell kids Disney stories to a Kindle for the passenger princess (mom, of course), there’s something in here for the whole family. Trust us: Having these items in your road trip arsenal will make a world of difference.
Even with all of these options, it’s a given that you or your kiddos will be reaching for a phone or tablet at some point. With that comes the need for chargers, cords, and cases. Keep those as organized as possible with the tech accessories below.
Cleaning & Sanitizing
The reality of road-tripping with kids is knowing that there will be messes you’ll have to clean up during the drive. To make things easier, consider these travel-friendly cleaning supplies and sanitation products. We’ve included everything from hypoallergenic wipes for messy little hands to individually wrapped flushable wipes. Because you never know where you may have to go!
Sleep Accessories
Everyone knows that the best way to make time fly is by taking a nap (or two). Whether you’re traveling with babies or big kids, these sleep accessories will make sure that everyone can get their much-needed rest as comfortably as possible on the road.
Beauty Essentials
In addition to the usual toiletries you pack, it can be helpful to have a couple of must-haves easily accessible. You’d be surprised at how many times someone needed chapstick or extra sun protection while in the car. It also doesn’t hurt to throw in a face mask to incorporate some self-care on your car ride!
Health & Safety
If there’s one category you can go overboard with, it’s this one. When it comes to health and safety, it’s always better to be on the safer side and pack extra just in case. Our picks below ensure that you’ll have everything you could ever need.
Why You Can Count on Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Gianna Aldana, Former Commerce Editorial Assistant
As the Everymom’s Commerce Editorial Assistant, Gianna assists The Everymom editors in the production of new and existing articles, pitches and writes new content, and sources product for shopping listicles. With writing being one of her absolute passions, she enjoys sharing her expertise in all things related to fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Before working at The Everymom, Gianna found her purpose in editorial content creation through internships at Bump Club and Beyond and The Pretty Palm Leaf Event Company.