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Ahhh, summer…that time of year that evokes childhood memories of packing up the car and leaving for vacation. I remember watching my dad pack up the back of our family’s station wagon with everything except the kitchen sink (wish I was kidding). To avoid packing-up the kitchen sink, print out the Road Trip Packing List to ensure you have what you need for a safe and memorable vacation.

It’s easy to pack too much when you’re driving in a car and not limited to the weight of a suitcase or the size of your carry-on. Using this road trip packing list will help ensure you have what you need for your trip while keeping in mind you still have room for your family to fit in the car. Below I have listed road trip necessities for the adults, the kids, and even the dog while driving. Use this list as a guide to ensure you’ve remembered the essentials. Keep reading to print out your own copy of Travel Essentials for the Car, a great reference for your future road trips.

For the Adults

1. Insurance Cards & Car Registration
2. Tylenol/Motrin/Excedrin
3. Antacid
4. Lip balm
5. Directions printed out (in case you lose GPS signal)
6. Hotel reservation information
7. Hand lotion
8. Saline, extra contacts, and/or glasses
9. Plastic bags (for trash, upset stomaches, etc.)
10. Change for tolls (if trip includes turnpikes or toll bridges)
11. Hand sanitizer
12. First Aid Kit
13. Car Emergency Kit

For the Kids

This list is best for school-age children. Adapt as needed to meet the needs to your family.

1. Pillows
2. Books/Activity books/Crayons
3. iPad or/or DVD player
4. DVD’s
5. Access to cooler
6. Change of clothes
7. Blanket for napping

For Everyone

1. Tissues
2. Paper towels
3. Handi-Wipes
4. Snacks (portioned into small baggies or containers)
5. Drinks
6. Travel mugs for both hot and cold drinks
7. Headphones
8. Phones with chargers
9. Sunglasses
10. Medication

For the Dog

Don’t forget to plan for your furry family member if they are joining you on your trip.

1. Water bowl
2. Leash
3. Rabies tag & dog license (attached to collar)
4. Small towel to wipe dry in case of rain
5. Dog food/bowl
6. Medication (if needed)
7. Pillow or blanket to sleep on
8. Dog car harness and seat belt clip
9. Doggie waste bags

Free Printable

Click on the image below to print out your Travel Essentials list.

If you Stay Overnight on the Road

If you’re planning on staying overnight at a hotel along your route, pack an extra suitcase with everyone’s clothes, pajamas, and toiletries. This way, you just grab one suitcase and go without having to worry about unpacking the entire car. Not to mention, this also eliminates having to repack the car the next morning. When you’re anxious to get to your destination, every minute counts.

Looking for a Place to Go?

Not sure where to go on your next family vacation? Check out these posts for some fantastic ideas and two more FREE vacation planners! The Best Reasons to Visit Gatlinburg in the Spring Plan Your Myrtle Beach Vacation Ideas to Help Plan Your Destin Vacation Dauphin Island is THE Perfect Low-Key Beach Getaway Gatlinburg Getaway

Vacation Rentals

Have a place in mind but not sure where to stay? Check out my post on using VRBO and find your perfect vacation rental. How to Use VRBO What items do you like to pack for your road trips? Please share in the comments below, I’d love to hear from you! Safe Travels!