10 Things You’ll Need for a Smooth Road Trip

If you’re itching for a getaway this year, we get you. Hitting the open road with your quarantine crew is a great way to see new places and keep germ-spreading at a minimum. Of course we recommend packing the essentials: hand sanitizers, gloves, masks, medication, and disinfectant wipes. 

We also recommend planning stops ahead of time (looking into what’s open in what states, possible food and overnight accommodations, and toll situations). To help you with packing needs, we rounded up some products to stow in your car. Wherever you choose to go, always wear a seatbelt and remember that life is, indeed, a highway.

For more helpful tips, check out the CDC’s considerations for travel.

For when everyone throws a bag in the trunk with zero order…

Organize via cube

$27.99, The Container Store

So you don’t have a Jenga situation going on. You can keep smaller items grouped together. Or you can designate a cubby to each passenger. Easy peasy.

Buy it

For when you want to start the road trip on the right foot…

Remember, safety first

$9.99/set of 2, Amazon

This tool can cut seatbelts and break windows. Just in case of an emergency. Because you should always be prepared when hitting the road. No excuses.

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For when you want your sandwich to be fresh, not soggy...

Use reusable bags

$7.97/set of 6, Amazon

These are leakproof. So you can pack whatever you want without it getting waterlogged. Dig in.

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For when you get a bit hangry a couple hours into the drive…

Reenergize with a meal

$39.99, Target

This cooler has an insulated, leakproof inside that can keep items cold for 36 hours. And a dry pocket for napkins and utensils. Once you’re done, it can fold flat. So it won’t take up space in your trunk. Violá.

Buy it

For when the entire crew wants to charge their phone at the same time…

Split the juice

$16.88, Amazon

And charge five devices at once. No matter the type. Yes, Androids included.

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For when you need to sneeze while highway cruisin’…

Grab a tissue

$13.99+, Amazon

Right from your car’s cup holder. So you don’t need to use the inside of your elbow. Aka, less germs floating around. A clean car is a happy car.

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For when the ‘check engine’ light comes on halfway through the drive…

Pull over

$49.95, Amazon

This emergency duffle comes packed with road trip must-haves. Like a first aid kit, jumper cables, tow strap, flashlight, and more. Sigh of relief sold separately.

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For when the only restroom in sight looks a bit dirty…

Cover the seat

$5.99/set of 6, Amazon

And maybe hold your breath. These covers are sticky so they’ll stay in place. So you won’t have to hold a squat while you go. Save leg day for later.

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For when you’ve got a sea of wrappers sitting below your feet…

Collect your trash

$16.99, Amazon

You can attach this mini garbage to the back of your passenger seat. So you’ll have a place to put chewed gum and used napkins. P.S. throwing stuff in the back doesn’t count. Stop doing that.

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For when leaning your head against the window isn’t an option…

Pack a pillow

$60, Uncommon Goods

This one will provide support, but can be rolled into a ball when not in use. It’s also lightweight, so adding it to your backpack will be no big deal. Sweet dreams.

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PS: These are editorially selected, but if you purchase, theSkimm may get something in return.

PPS: If something’s out of stock, oops, it was there when we published. And we apologize for any shipping delays due to COVID-19. Thanks.