Cozy Road Trip Must-Haves

Written by: Alex Nelson

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Time to read 2 min

Summer is here, and chances are you're planning a road trip, whether it’s to catch up with friends, explore national parks, or simply enjoy a change of scenery. Maybe you’re renting an RV, heading to a mountain cabin, or checking into a beachfront hotel. And if cross-country drives aren’t really your thing, that’s okay too. No matter how far you're going or what you're driving, we’ve got the essentials to help make your road trip feel cozy, comfortable, and stress-free.

Road Trip Must-Haves for Adults

When it comes to things to bring on a long car ride, a little preparation makes all the difference, especially for adults juggling the demands of planning, driving, and navigating. Here are our top five must-haves to be well-equipped for the miles ahead.

  1. A plan – The first thing is to have a plan for your road trip, especially if you’re traveling with kids, pets, or other people. You don’t have to have it all mapped out up front, but having a general idea of places you can stop to stretch your legs, fill up the tank, take a bathroom break, or let the kiddos run around and expend some energy will save everyone frustration down the road.

  2. Snacks & water – It kind of speaks for itself, but packing lots of snacks and water should be a no-brainer. We like to have a variety of protein bars, something sweet (candy or cookies), something salty (chips or pretzels), something juicy (apples or mandarins), and something crunchy (carrots or celery). We recommend bringing napkins and wet wipes for easy cleanup afterwards. Don’t forget a trash bag and a cooler if anything is perishable.

  3. Comfortable loungewear – Whether you’re the driver or the DJ, there are plenty of options for men and women to keep you comfortable and cozy throughout your journey. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics, like viscose from bamboo, to keep you comfortable no matter the climate. Our list of transitional outfits is great for traveling!

  4. Entertainment – Make sure the appointed road trip DJ knows the kinds of jams that keep you alert and engaged so everyone reaches the destination safely. If you’re more of a podcast or audiobook person, download new content before leaving so you don’t have to rely on hotspots or spotty internet. If you’re a passenger, look for games or books that don’t require internet access.

  5. Comfort items – A cozy throw blanket and travel pillow can make a long road trip so much more enjoyable.
Woman sleeping on travel pillow in car with sleep mask on

Road Trip Must-Haves for Kids

Like adults, toddlers, kids, tweens, and teenagers need lots of entertainment, snacks and water, comfort items, and cozy clothing (bonus points for stylish picks!). Obviously, these will look a bit different depending on their age(s). Also, when planning a road trip with kids involved, make sure you have plenty of time for breaks in your itinerary.

Kids reading in backseat of car

Pack Smart, Travel Cozy

No matter where you're headed this summer—whether it’s the mountains, the beach, or just a weekend away—packing with comfort in mind can make all the difference. From thoughtful planning and cozy essentials to snacks and entertainment, these must-haves will help turn any road trip into a relaxing, enjoyable adventure. So, load up, settle in, and let the journey be just as cozy as the destination.