From music playlists to hiking gear.
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If you're anyone like me, then you remember the days of packing up the car with your family in the summer and taking on the open road. The many hours stuck in traffic, snacks strewn all over the floor, the arguments between siblings that unfortunately can't be avoided, etc. Road trips are times of sleeping in questionable places, eating questionable food, and taking time to enjoy the little moments with your loved ones.
While the destination is important, it's equally essential to have the right items—including fun things for couple and kids—to ensure a great vacation. Follow our road trip checklist of the essential items that must have in order to have the trip of your lives—wherever the road takes you.
Waze
Every road trip has a destination... but you might not know the exact directions. Waze not only gives you the chance to be your own guide, but it will also help you avoid all the accidents that might impede on the specific timeframe you set out for driving.
Spotify
A good road trip always needs a good playlist—no ifs, ands or buts. With the world's favorite music app, you can create the perfect mix that not only satisfies your musical tastes, but also can be tailored to those who just don't understand why you put Rascal Flatts and Phoebe Bridgers on the same playlist.
Snacks are oh-so important to a road trip, and sometimes you want to give yourself an option that will be healthy and satisfying for a few hours. KIND bars do just that—with a touch of sea salt to surprise your tastebuds.
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Cold weather can happen at any time—even in the summer months! A good zip-up hoodie is always good to have around, and it can even double as a makeshift blanket (if you get desperate).
Judy Safety Emergency Kit
Judy Safety Emergency Kit
For all road trips are cracked up to be, they also can result in injuries. Having a safety kit will not only give you the tools to fix the smaller aches and pains, but will also leave you feeling protected for your loved ones.
A necessary staple, Tide to Go is essential for when you find those pesky stains that you don't remember getting on your clothes.Is it from dirt? Is it from chocolate? I don't know how that got here!
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Mom always said never to leave the house without a baseball cap... and she's right. Always be prepared to protect your face—you won't regret it.
For those precious moments when you need some peace and quiet in the middle of mindless chatter. And the best part? You won't get tangled in it while resting!
Whether you put your toiletries or food for those hikes, this backpack is prepared to help you with any essential you use it for.
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Herschel Supply Co. Wheelie Duffle Bag
Herschel Supply Co. Wheelie Duffle Bag
Not only does this duffle bag give you enough space to fit a good amount of clothes/toiletries in there, but it's also on wheels, making it much easier to schlep around.
A stroke of genius in the world of organization. Instead of leaving your suitcase a mess, how about some packing cubes that will keep everything nice and tidy?
Instead of everything sitting on the floor, how about an organizer that will help you compartmentalize all the things you might need throughout the drive?
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An essential for any time you're driving. Even more important when there are at least three more people in the car and not enough battery life to supply their social media needs.
Whatever you decide to do on your vacation, food is pretty important. This cooler will not only keep things fresh throughout the day, but it also has the capacity to fit a good amount of drinks in it too—perfect!
Instead of having to wait in line at the rest area for a bottle of water, why don't you just bring your own and fill it up as you go?
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Or you can just buy your entire cara case of water so that you don't have to stop for food and drinks as often.
A good pair of sunglasses not only makes a fashion statement—they also will protect your eyes while on the road as well.
It never hurts to be prepared for those impromptu hikes. These sneakers not only reduce sweat and foot odor, but the traction helps as you walk through rugged terrain.
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Joseche Sleep Headphones Bluetooth Eye Mask
Joseche Sleep Headphones Bluetooth Eye Mask
This eye mask not only gives you enough darkness to let you sleep, but you can hook it up to your phone for a good meditation without wearing bulky headphones.
Perfect for when you need a good shut-eye and a few minutes to yourself. Maybe for those few minutes while everyone goes in for a coffee break?
