
How To Have The Most Comfortable Road Trip You've Ever Had
This post might as well be called, “On the road to (fill in the blank)” because you’re about to embark on a long-awaited road trip. Whether it’s for spring break, a music festival, or a getaway, you’re going to want to read further. It’s not likely that we LOVE being stuck in a vehicle for more than an hour, so we thought we’d help you ease into your next road trip with a list of essentials you won’t regret to pack. Whether you’re the designated driver, switching off at every stop, or just a passenger, planning ahead will be the only road side service you’ll need.
PREPARATION
First thing’s first—do a full diagnosis on your car (or help the driver do so). Go through this easy checklist to get you started:
Check all the fluids in the vehicle and make sure they’re topped off: oil, coolant, windshield wash liquid, and brake fluids.
Check the air pressure in your tires, as well as the tread to make sure each tire is not worn out and still has good traction for the road ahead.
Check the car’s air filter and cabin filter to ensure performance and efficiency of the vehicle. Also, make sure the vehicle isn’t making any funny noises, which may be caused by something unexpected.
Check to make sure all the lights are working: headlights, reverse lights, indicators, tail lights, and hazards.
ENTERTAINMENT
If you and your crew want to take a break from chatting, put on a podcast you can all listen to and enjoy. There’s something for everyone depending on what the car ride vibe is
Podcasts will help you not to get bored during long distance driving.
A GOOD PLAYLIST
Maybe podcasts aren’t your thing and you and your car mates want to sing all the lyrics to Queen, Britney Spears, and Destiny’s Child like you’re in your own music video. Lucky for you, we created the perfect playlist called, “Backseat Driver”. With a list of 31 songs, 2 hours will fly by and you’ll be at your destination in no time.
One of the best tips for road trip planning is to create a playlist before getting behind the wheel.
One of the best tips for road trip planning is to create a playlist before getting behind the wheel.
snacks + hydration
Snacks are your best friend on the road so don’t forget to pack your favorite granola bars, chips, and whatever will make you excited to dig into. Remember to bring foods that are gentle on your tummy — both appetizing and healthy to prevent nausea. Just remember: lots and lots of water.
COMFORT
Snacks are your best friend on the road so don’t forget to pack your favorite granola bars, chips, and whatever will make you excited to dig into. Remember to bring foods that are gentle on your tummy — both appetizing and healthy to prevent nausea. Just remember: lots and lots of water.
HEALTH
Being on a road trip for hours can give you the same icky feeling as being on a flight but the difference is, bathroom breaks aren’t as convenient as they are on an airplane. Plan ahead and bring these travel-sized products that’ll make you feel so fresh and so clean.
Some studies show that ginger can effectively prevent motion sickness so pack a few ginger candies with you! If your tolerance is low for a long car ride, you can try over-the-counter medications such as Dramamine or Meclizine, which are most effective 30-60 minutes prior to your journey. Side effects may apply so please consult with your doctor to discuss options that are best for you.
LIGHT BAGGAGE
No matter what the size of the vehicle is, baggage will most likely take up most of the trunk space. In order to have the most compact and efficient travel bags as possible, get the best of the best weekenders CALPAK has to offer.
Images courtesy of Lifeline, Igloo Coolers, Cocoon, High Road, YUNI Beauty, Colgate-Palmolive and Dr. Bronner's.
Katarina