Rollaboard Travel - Tips on Traveling Light

By: Alexine

Before you take off on a road trip there are some important things to consider like the weather and driving conditions. While you may be taking a road trip over the holidays or just for a fun family vacation, there is plenty of preparing to do. To make sure you have the essential items in addition to your favorite outfits and tent, I have come up with ten items you don’t want to forget on your road trip.

1. Cooler

This is one of the best things to have along on your road trip to keep beverages cold and food from spoiling. While traveling long distance you will want to have plenty of items on hand in case you break down or run into weather. Having a cooler along ensures you will have good food and drinks to enjoy.

2. Drinks

Making sure you drink plenty of water on long road trips is important, especially if you are changing altitude. Some people experience altitude sickness when traveling over mountain ranges so it is important to have ice cold water on hand to keep you from loosing focus. Ice water is also great when you are experiencing too much heat.

3. Snacks

While you can put perishable items in your cooler it is important to also bring along non-perishable snacks like trail mix, granola bars, dried fruit and nuts. These types of snacks are easy to eat on the road and stay fresh. Make sure you pack enough for the drive to and from your destination.

4. Pillows

Comfortable pillows are a necessity for long road trips across the country. Taking turns driving is a great way to get to your destination sooner and pillows help the person resting sleep better. Pack a few so you have enough for the whole family.

5. Blankets

If you plan on snoozing in the car at a truck stop or pitching a tent at a state park, blankets are defiantly a must. Warm and cozy blankets are a necessity when traveling long distance in your vehicle as they make great support when the seat gets uncomfortable.

6. Flashlights

It is important to keep a flashlight in your glove box or center counsel at all times in case you break down or need to see where you are walking in the dark. Flashlights also come in handy when you need to change a tire or check the directions.

7. Maps

If you have state maps or a road atlas you will be in good shape when it comes to finding your way around. The newest edition of the road atlas will also show you where food, gas and lodging are along your route. Make sure you have the maps in the front seat and easily available.

8. Money

Make sure you have plenty of cash and change available on your road trip for cash only stops and tolls. While it may not seem important because of cash machines available in most places, cash is nice when you run into a small town or truck stop to grab lunch and gas.

9. Music

To keep your mind off of the long journey ahead make sure you pack plenty of enjoyable music. Make sure a good amount of the music is upbeat to keep you awake when you get tired of driving and for driving in the dark. This will help keep your mind wide awake to drive safely for long periods of time.

10. Camera

For memories of the journey along the way don’t forget to pack your camera. It is fun to take pictures at different tourist sites and viewpoints when driving through places you have never been before. Then you can show your friends and family all the cool places you visited on your road trip.

Enjoy your road trip and remember to double check before you leave to make sure you have everything you need. If you are camping then don’t forget your tent and if you are staying at hotels then make sure you check maps for the best place is to stop along the way.