Road Trip Checklist

Exploring the country by car makes for a versatile adventure: you can get away for a couple days or embark on a multiweek trek, all while exploring a seemingly endless number of new-to-you trails, campsites, coastlines, towns and roadside greasy spoons.But a road adventure isn't complete without a few essentials and comfort items. That's why we created a checklist of the things you'll need (spare tire, jumper cables, a sleeping pad) and things you might want (a solid coffee setup, options for entertainment, a packable hammock), so your next outing runs as smoothly as a rig pre-300,000 miles. Of course, this is a comprehensive list, and we don't expect you to bring along every item—though we won't judge you if you do!Peruse the checklist, then crack your windows, rip open the snack bag and crank the tunes. You're ready to hit the road.Always adhere to state and local guidelines when traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic. This may mean staying home, or postponing your plans. For the most up-to-date travel guidance, check the CDC FAQ page. For information about outdoor activities wherever you go (close to home is best), read Recreate Responsibly: An Activity-Specific Guide.Before You Hit the Road:Check to see whether you need an oil change. If you plan to log thousands of miles in a single trip, it may be best to change your oil just before you leave.Ensure you don't need vehicle maintenance by double checking your engine lights.Top off all fluids, including oil, windshield fluid, brake fluids and coolant.Check your tire pressure (including your spare!). Check the tread on your tires.Check your brake pads and rotors.Make sure your headlights and turn signals work properly.Tell someone where you're going. If possible, provide them your route, dates and destination.Printer-friendly version (PDF)Car SafetyCar trouble is the worst. It's even less fun when you're hours from a mechanic and don't have reliable cell service. Here is a comprehensive list of what to bring for vehicle maintenance, fix-ups and emergencies.Full-size spare or donutJumpstart battery or jumper cablesTire chains (this can vary by vehicle and road conditions)Extra wiper fluidFlares or emergency triangleTools for changing a tire (car jack, lug wrench, wheel lock key)Tire repair kit, tire plug kit or sealant and 12v tire inflatorTire pressure gaugeVehicle height (for driving through tunnels or under bridges).Extra straps or bungee cordSafety kit (this can include items like a GPS device, emergency supply of food and medical kit)Road atlasExtra waterSimple toolkit with screwdriver, socket wrench set, adjustable wrench, zip ties, WD-40, flashlight, work gloves and tow ropeUmbrellaOptional:Mileage log book (to make it easier to gauge when you'll need an oil change)Small bag of cleaning supplies for your vehicle's interiorSmall broom to collect dirtLint roller (if traveling with a furry friend)Rechargeable string lights for your vehicle's interior (to save your car battery in the evenings)Window coverings (if you plan on sleeping in your vehicle)Summer or winter tires, depending on the weatherReusble bags for stowing dirty gearCampsiteThese are important items for your campsite, if you choose to sleep outside of your vehicle.Tent (and footprint, stakes)Sleeping bagsSleeping padsCamping pillowHeadlamps or flashlights (and extra batteries)Camp chairsCamp table (if no picnic table)Lantern (and mantles and fuel/batteries if needed)Optional:Sunshade, tarp or screen houseHammockCotsSleeping bag linersFirewood sourced near campsiteCamp rugTablecloth and clips (or tape)Clothesline with clipsTools & Repair ItemsMulti-toolDuct tapeExtra cordTent-pole repair sleevePad/Mattress repair kitMallet or hammer (for hammering tent stakes)Saw or axe (for cutting firewood)Small broom and dustpanPrivacy screen for changing clothesKitchenMany campgrounds have drinkable water. If not, bring your own, or be prepared to treat water if there's a water source. Also, for even more ideas and food suggestions, see our separate Camp Kitchen Checklist.Stove and fuelMatches/light/firestarterCook pots (and pot holder)Frying panEating utensilsCooking utensilsBottle opener, can opener, corkscrewSharp knifePlates/bowlsMugs/cupsCutting boardCoolerIce or ice substitutesWater bottlesCamp sink or wash binsBiodegradable soapPot scrubber/sponge(s)Trash/recycling bagsDish towelWash bagOptional:Camp grill and fuelGrill rackGriddleDutch ovenCharcoalPortable coffee/tea makerRolling ice cream makerMarshmallow/hot dog roasting forksSmall food-storage containers/bags/foilLarge water jugsLarge, clear plastic bins to store kitchen gearCampsite ExtrasMost of the following items are optional, though depending on how remote your campsite is, navigation tools such as a map, compass and/or GPS may be required (for more info, read about the Ten Essentials).Solar and portable powerBinocularsNavigation toolsField guides (flowers, insects)Star chart/night-sky identifierBook/reading material or audiobookNotebook and pen/pencilMusic speakers / headphonesGames and toysDog gearDry bags, stuff sacks or clear plastic bins to store itemsClothing & FootwearMoisture-wicking underwearMoisture-wicking T-shirtsQuick-drying pants/shortsLong-sleeve shirts (for sun, bugs)Lightweight fleece or jacketBoots or shoes suited to terrainSocks (synthetic or wool)SleepwearAdditional items for rainy and/or cold weather:Rainwear (jacket and pants)Long underwearWarm insulated jacket or vestFleece pantsGloves or mittensWarm hatOptional:SwimsuitsWater sandalsIn-camp sandals or bootiesBandanasHealth & HygieneToilet paperHand sanitizerToothbrush and toothpasteToiletry kitQuick-dry towelMenstrual productsPrescription medicationsFirst-aid kit or first-aid supplies (see First-Aid Checklist)Sun and bug protection:SunscreenSunglasses (and sunglasses straps)Sun hatLip balmInsect repellentOptional:Urinary productsSanitation trowel (if no toilets)Baby wipesAlcohol or antiseptic wipesMirrorBrush/combCosmeticsSpare eyeglasses/contact lens suppliesEyeshadesEarplugsPortable camp showerPersonal ItemsCredit card and/or cashIDCellphoneCampsite reservation confirmation (if required)Map of public landsPhone numbers for AAA and insurance companyProof of car insuranceSelf-CareJust like your vehicle needs a tune up every few thousand miles, so does your body. Bring along a foam roller, massage ball or yoga accessories, so you can give your muscles the TLC they deserve after hours at the wheel. These items are optional, but they may make for a more comfortable road trip.Foam rollerYoga matYoga blockYoga strapsMassage ball