How to pack for a road trip

At this point, my life seems to be ready to go anywhere at anytime and the packing list is somewhat engrained in my mind. BUT, before this was the case, here’s how I would typically pack for a road trip.

I definitely recommend establishing the type of trip you’ll be taking…will you be camping, finding an air bnb or hotel along the way, or are you already all set up with a spot and you know all the amenities they have to offer?

First step: write a list - gotta always be ready for anything ;)

- toothbrush, toothpaste, floss (duh), soap, deodorant, face wash, washcloth, lotion

- socks, underwear/undergarments, hiking/walking shoes, sandals (plastic/weather friendly), activewear - leggings, tops, layers- sweatshirt, pants, pajamas, universal clothing that can be used for anything/mixed and matched.

- electronics - chargers for everything (phone, lights, portable chargers, cameras, etc.), headphones, laptop (depending on the trip)

- snacks - anyone who knows me knows I ALWAYS have a few of my current fav snacks on hand

- gear - sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, lights, camping chair, hammock, pillow, fire starters/wood, lighter, paper towels, toilet paper, garbage bags, stove, food supplies, utensils and plates/bowls, water bottle (I never go ANYWHERE without this), thermos, cups

- other - binoculars, camera, hat, headband/bandana, carabiner, chapstick, wallet, keys, pens/pencils, deck of cards and/or other games, extra blanket, packable backpack for day adventures, lightweight jacket, hat, gloves (all weather dependent), journal, book, speakers, maps or any info you might need if you lose service, laundry bag

- hygiene - towel, paper towels/napkins, toilet paper, plastic bags (backpacking trips)

Step two: keep it all together!

- I love using packing cubes for any and all trips - it helps keep everything organized and even better, easily accessible throughout the trip

- I try put all toiletries in one case, undergarments in another, tops in one, and bottoms in another (see how I organize my packing cubes below). Extra layers get their own cube and gear is usually reserved for the open space of my pack/suitcase.

- all the extra miscellaneous things reside in one place in my mind and so they too, get their own compartment

- snacks and food I end up putting in a reusable grocery bag separate from my pack (if road tripping). I try and separate snacks into easy things I can grab and pack for day adventures on the trip (so make sure to bring your reusable baggies if a snack calls for them).

Step 3: pack the car!

- I always make sure to save a spot for anything I might need access to while driving…like snacks and water

- all clothes and gear that won’t be needed along the way, tend to go in first

- all the things that need a little extra TLC get put in last and always secured down (thanks for the bungee cords dad)

here’s an example of how I organize my packing cubes:

- underwear/socks/bras

- tops

- bottoms

- warm layers (if needed)

- gear (small camping essentials like lights, soap, laundry detergent, bamboo utensils, etc.)

- toiletries (I like to picture myself heading to the bathrooms at a campground and make sure to put anything I might need for that haul, in one spot)

Ever since I packed for a two-month trip that turned into six…my life tends to be on the more minimal end of the spectrum. It might seem like an extensive list, but just make sure you aren’t bringing each thing in excess…or maybe you’re going on a road trip and there are no limits to the amount of space you can take up. In that case, do whatever brings your soul joy. Oh, and….

HAPPY TRAVELING!!!! :)