So, you’re thinking about hitting the road?
We couldn’t be more stoked for you!
Whether it’s your first road trip, or you’ve put in thousands of miles, planning ahead is one of the most valuable things you can do for yourself. Being prepared can mean the difference between getting to your destination on time and being thrilled versus being stranded on the side of the road or having to cut the trip short.
With limited space, it can be hard choosing between what you “want” and “need” to bring. While it is best to go in with a minimalist mindset, there’s also a few things you may not even consider that will make your trip wildly more comfortable.
We’ve put together a list of our ride or die items to help getcha goin’.
Storage/Luggage:
The first and most important piece of planning out your trip is figuring out what bags or luggage you need. There's a lot of variety, from hard cases to soft saddlebags. Depending on the weather, you’ll need to also consider if your luggage is waterproof, or if you need certain bags that are.
We recommend having separate bags for each need: one for tools and electronics, one for camping and cooking, and one for clothes and toiletries.
Let’s dive into what you’re filling these bags with.
Tools/Electronics:
These are the kind of things you’ll want to bring just in case. The essentials you really hope you don’t have to use, but will be kicking yourself if you don’t have them.
- Toolkit
- First aid kit
- Maps/GPS
- Hydration pack
- Phone mount
- Duct tape
- Bungee cords
- Pocket knife
- Bear spray
- Battery Pack
- Phone charger
- Drybag
- Headlamp
Camping and Cooking:
Hey, we didn’t say “glamping.”
Obviously it’s up to you how you travel and where you stay. Maybe you know you’ll be more comfortable in a hotel, and that doesn’t make your trip any less exciting. If you do plan on camping, these are the essentials:
- Tent/tarp (if you aren’t into cowboy-ing it)
- Insulated sleeping pad
- Sleeping bag
- Air pillow (can also be used as a seating pad)
- Mini camp stove
- Pot
- Utensils
- Java drip
- Collapsible mug/plate
- Dehydrated food packs
- Granola bars/snacks
- COFFEE
Clothes and Toiletries:
While it’s important to be dressed and ready for the ride, you also want to be as comfortable as possible when you’re camping because you’ll need your rest. Make sure you’re watching the weather for where you’re traveling, but come prepared just in case that weather changes.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss- just because you’re road doggin’ it, doesn’t mean you can’t keep your chips clean
- Baby wipes
- Shampoo, conditioner, soap
- Lotion/sunscreen
- Washcloth
- Daily salve…we recommend @alpenglowbotanicals !!
- Nail clippers
- Feminine hygiene products
- Extra tee and pair of jeans
- Socks
- Undies
- Thermal baselayer
- Fleece sweater
- Gloves
- Beanie/cap
- Sunglasses
- Extra pair of shoes/sandals
- Swimsuit- You never know when you might run into an epic waterfall or hot spring - or you just need to rinse off somewhere.
- Towel
- Riding jacket, Chaps, and boots. Oh yeah baby, this is where your Augusta and Adeline products come into play!
As you start road tripping more often, your list will change based on what works best for you, and what season you’re in. Give yourself “treat days.” Rent out a hotel room for the night, or take yourself out to a nice dinner. If you need something, buy it! If you don’t need something, consider selling it to a consignment store, or ship it home. This is YOUR adventure.