Vacation Week: Road Trip Supplies

Summer vacation season is upon us and with the COVID-19 pandemic in full swing, many Americans are dialing back their vacation plans. Instead of jetting to some exotic tropical locale or international tour, many people are now planning to hit the road and visit local or regional destinations.

With the car gassed up and the reservations set, it is now time to pack the car. But besides your clothes, what other travel essentials should you pack. Here is a list of must haves for every trip:

• Emergency Cash — Although most people use credit or debit cards to pay for every purchase, carrying cash is a must on any trip. You never know when you need to pay for parking, a toll, a car breakdown or an emergency in a rural area.
• Emergency Car Kit—You should always carry one, but you should double check the kit’s supplies are up to date. Make sure the flashlight has batteries, the jumper cables are not frayed, and you have extra washer fluid and a quart of oil.
• Extra Phone Chargers — Don’t become stranded without a charged phone. Extra phone chargers will save the day.
• Navigation System and Paper Map — If your trip takes you into rural areas where reliable phone service isn’t available, you shouldn’t rely on your phone for navigation. A good GPS-enabled navigation system should be used with paper maps for emergency backup.
• First Aid Kit — A full first aid kit should include a variety of bandages, a thermometer, antibacterial ointment, and over-the-counter pain relief medication. Check the expiration date of any medication.
• Prescription Medication — Make sure that you have enough medication to last through the trip. Carry a little extra if your trip is extended.
• Facemasks — Remember, we are still in the middle of a pandemic, so be sure to carry your facemasks and wear them when you are in public.
• Sunblock — Sunburns will ruin anyone’s vacation, so bring plenty of sunblock, at least SPF 15 in your luggage. Higher SPF and water-proof sunblock will help alleviate any sunburn concerns if you go swimming. Remember to follow directions and apply often.
• Bug Spray— Summer is mosquito season, so be sure to take and use bug spray. No one want to scratch their way through their summer vacation.
• Snacks and Water— Staying hydrated on a long road trip helps fight fatigue and makes you feel ready to enjoy your vacation once you reach your destination. Healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables or trail mix will help alleviate the case of the munchies.
• Pet Supplies — If your furry friend is accompanying you, be sure to pack plenty of food and treats. Your pet should also be up on its shots. A proper collar and a tag with your contact information is a must in case Fido decides to run off. Remember to always us a leash and clean up after your animal.
• Movies, games and books — Keep the kids occupied in the backseat with movies, games and books. A tablet with downloaded movies is a nice distraction for a couple hours of peace and quiet.

This list of supplies should help any traveler get ready for the summer road trip ahead. Have fun, take plenty of pictures and tread lightly.

Image: Packing a car for camping can sometimes require some interesting packing. (Lee Haywood via Wikimedia commons)