When you’re planning a family vacation or traveling, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by everything that needs to be planning. Put together a road trip tote that includes all the essentials that you might need – no matter where you’re going.
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My family travels a bit year-round, but it seems like we do it even more in the summer. I’m a stickler for making a list, but sometimes I forget the most obvious things.
It’s important to always be prepared for any scenario, especially in the summer when it can get so hot outside.
That’s why I put together this easy road trip tote. I grabbed a reusable bag that I already had and filled it with a few things that always come in handy.
Most of these items are things you probably already have around the house. If you only have one of an item, it’s worth purchasing an extra one just to keep in the car.
Practical road trip bags
Here are a few road trip tote bags you can find on Amazon. They’re all practical for a long day in the car with your family.
What’s in my road trip tote
1. trashbags
Somehow traveling fills my car with trash quickly. You’ve got food wrappers, used tissues, crayon paper peelings, and who knows what else. Fold up a few empty plastic grocery bags to use for garbage.
2. first aid kit
I like to keep a basic first aid kit with me so that no matter where we go, I can be prepared for small problems. My kit includes bandages, antibiotic ointment, anti-itch cream, and tweezers.
3. wet wipes
Even though my kids are older, I keep a package of baby wipes or antibacterial wipes handy. They can clean up kid messes, food messes, and sanitize a public table when necessary.
4. sunscreen and bug spray
Sunscreen and bug spray are pretty self-explanatory, but it seems like any time we aren’t prepared with both of these, we find that we really need them. My favorites are Badger sunscreen and they make one that’s a combo of sunscreen and bug repellent.
5. umbrella
Umbrellas are good for rain, of course, especially if you need to stop and change a tire. They also work nicely to block out the sun.
6. tissues
Getting in and out of an air-conditioned car is sure to cause a few sniffles. Tissues are also essential if a spider has snuck into your car when you’re not looking.
7. chapstick
Air conditioning can make your skin dry. Keep a tube of chapstick handy to save your lips. (Pack several if you don’t want to share with the kids.) My favorite is Burt’s Bees chapstick and it comes in tons of flavors.
8. bottled water
It’s a good idea to have more water than you need. Bottled water is good for drinking, of course, but also cleaning up a bigger mess or cooling an overheated car.
9. non-refrigerated snacks
I don’t leave these in the car, but always stock up before a trip and leave them there for that time. Look for inexpensive granola bars and trail mix. Avoid chocolate since it can melt.
10. blanket
This obviously won’t fit in your tote, but keep one in the trunk or tucked under a seat. It’s easy to get chilled on a long drive once the air conditioner has been running a while. A blanket is also handy for a picnic at a rest stop.
We usually carry a few more things with us that aren’t things I just keep in the car for long trips.
The kids like to take their own pillows and some entertainment like books and coloring supplies. We bring all of our electronics chargers and we have car adapters that stay in the car all the time.
We also have some basic emergency car supplies that stay in the car all the time:
- jumper cables
- tire pressure gauge
- car insurance documents
- spare tire and jack
There’s nothing that can ruin a fun weekend trip more than discovering a few miles down the road that you need something that you don’t have.
What’s next? Try these other fun and creative ideas on One Mama’s Daily Drama:
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