Our Road Trippin' Car Bag

It took me several road trips before I got smarter about my packing. I realized that I was constantly packing the same essentials for each trip. So, I finally got smarter and kept the bag packed and ready to go. Hopefully, this will be your inspiration to do the same and make your road trip packing a little easier. Whether headed on a multi-destination stop or headed to a rental home, I find these essentials to be super useful on the road and even upon arrival. (You can build your own bag with my direct Amazon links here.)

Follow along to see what is in our bag!

Plastic Bags- I include plastic sandwich bags and quart size bags. These are super helpful if you want to consolidate snacks into individual bags. I also include a bag of trash bags. These have come in handy on numerous occasions- reducing the mess of sandy towels, muddy shoes or wet clothing.  I have found that I prefer to buy these items at a local dollar store- inexpensive and the right size for travel. I also include some plastic grocery bags. These can be used to transport items or in case of car sickness.

Mess Busters- You never know what is going to come up when you are traveling. I make sure to have Kleenex and paper towel on hand. Disinfectant wipes are useful in the car or if needing to clean up a mess upon arrival. Hand wipes have come in handy numerous times. I also include a travel container of laundry detergent and some stain wipes in case there is a clothing mishap. Even if you don't have access to laundry facilities, these items can prevent a stain from setting in. Clothes can always be rinsed in a hotel sink.

Personal Care Items: Each person in my family typically takes what they need or uses the toiletries at a hotel. But, there have been times when we didn't have enough or have forgotten. Knowing I have these as back-ups is helpful. (Again, I buy these at the dollar store as they are just for emergency use.) Hand sanitizer is always a must!

Kitchen Items: I always kept these items with our camping gear, but then realized how useful they are on road trips. First off, chip clips are crucial for when you open bags of snacks in the car. I also had these plastic bowls and find those helpful for snacks in the car. I also put some extra plastic silverware in the bag. We have been on road trips where picking up some local food to have at the hotel has been our dinner. It has been nice to have some some extra silverware if needed. I also include a kid's safety knife so that we can cut vegetables or fruit if needed while on the go. I include a travel container of dish soap so I can wash things.

Flashlight: We have been caught in storms on a road trip or at risk of losing power in a hotel. Always a good idea to have a flashlight with extra batteries.

Sunscreen and Bug Spray: We have extra sunscreen and bug spray packed, but it is always nice to have some very accessible for the stops along the way.

Febreze: Cars, shoes and hotel rooms can get stinky. Enough said. I've always been happy that I have had this along with me.

What have I forgotten? Anything else that you take along with you?

Build your own bag with my direct Amazon list. Find it here.

Find my favorite travel accessories here.

Read more about our favorite road trips along our 50 State Journey at Middle of the Road Mindset.