Summer Road Trip Essentials: Your Ultimate Packing Checklist
Posted on June 16, 2025
There’s nothing quite like a summer road trip: windows down, music up, and the open road ahead. But before you set off on your adventure, a little preparation goes a long way.
Whether you're cruising coastal highways or tackling mountain passes, having the right road trip essentials ensures a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable journey.
From must-have safety gear to comfort-boosting extras, this checklist covers everything you need for the ultimate summer drive. Pack smart, travel stress-free, and make every mile memorable with CarHub’s expert-approved road trip essentials.
Important Road Trip Safety Essentials
Before setting off on your summer road trip, you must have all the important documents and vehicle-related items in place. These aren’t just nice to have, they’re necessary for a safe, smooth, and stress-free journey.
1. Valid Driver’s License
Make sure your driver’s license is current and valid for the duration of your trip. It’s a basic requirement not just for driving, but also for checking into hotels or renting gear along the way.
2. Vehicle Registration
Keep your car’s registration document in the glove box. It’s crucial in case you get pulled over or need to prove ownership during an emergency.
3. Car Insurance Information
Always carry your auto insurance card or keep a digital copy on your phone. If you’re involved in an accident or need to make a claim, this information is vital.
4. Maintenance Checkup
Schedule a maintenance check before your trip. Have the oil changed, tires inspected, brakes checked, and fluids topped up. This helps reduce the chances of breakdowns during your journey.
5. Extra Car Key
Bringing a spare car key can save you a lot of hassle if you accidentally lock yourself out or lose the original. Keep it in a secure but separate place.
6. Car Manual
Your vehicle’s manual contains helpful information about warning lights, tire pressure, and basic troubleshooting. It’s a good idea to have it easily accessible.
7. Toll Transponder
If your route includes toll roads, bring your toll transponder or register for one in advance. It’ll help you breeze through toll booths and save time.
8. Cash
Even in a digital world, cash is handy, especially for parking meters, tolls, or small-town vendors that don’t accept cards. Keep small bills and coins on hand, just in case.
9. Roadside Assistance Phone Number
Save the number for your roadside assistance service in your phone and write it down somewhere, too. It’s your lifeline if you run into trouble like a flat tire or dead battery far from home.
Navigation & Tech Gear
Having the right navigation tools and tech gear can make your summer road trip more enjoyable and less stressful. With the right setup, you can stay on course, keep your devices charged, and stay entertained throughout your journey.
1. GPS Device or Updated Smartphone Navigation App
Whether you’re using a dedicated GPS device or a smartphone app like Google Maps or Waze, make sure your navigation tool is updated with the latest maps and traffic info. Reliable navigation helps you avoid getting lost and can alert you to traffic delays or road closures.
2. Car Charger and Power Banks
Keeping your devices charged is a must, especially when using them for navigation, music, or emergency communication. Bring a car charger that works with your vehicle, and pack a fully charged power bank for backup, just in case.
3. Mount/Holder for Phone or Tablet
A sturdy phone or tablet holder keeps your device in view and hands-free, which is safer and more convenient when following GPS directions. It also helps keep your dashboard clutter-free.
4. Offline Maps or Physical Road Atlas (in Case of No Signal)
Cell signal can be spotty in remote areas. Having offline maps downloaded or a physical road atlas on hand ensures you can still find your way if you lose connectivity.
5. Playlist or Audiobooks Preloaded
A good playlist or some engaging audiobooks can make long drives fly by. Preload your favorites before the trip so you’re not dependent on signal or data to keep the good vibes going.
Health & Safety Items
Your health and safety should always come first on any road trip. Packing a few essential items can help you handle minor injuries, stay clean, and be prepared for unexpected situations while you're on the road.
1. First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit is a must-have. It should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, tweezers, pain relievers, and any personal medications you might need. You never know when a small cut or headache might pop up, and it’s best to be ready.
2. Hand Sanitizer and Disinfecting Wipes
Road trips often mean pit stops, gas stations, and public restrooms. Keep hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes close by to stay germ-free and clean your hands or surfaces when soap and water aren’t available.
3. Face Masks
It’s a good idea to pack a few reusable or disposable face masks just in case you need them in crowded or indoor places, especially if you’re traveling to different cities with varying health guidelines.
4. Bug Spray and Sunscreen
If your trip includes outdoor stops or nature parks, bug spray will help keep mosquitoes at bay. Don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn during long drives or outdoor breaks.
5. Emergency Contact Information
Keep a small card with emergency contact numbers, any medical conditions, and allergy information. It’s a simple but smart addition in case of an emergency.
Road Trip Safety Checklist for Your Vehicle
Before hitting the highway, you need to make sure your vehicle is in top shape for the long haul. A few simple checks and preparations can go a long way in preventing breakdowns, delays, or safety issues during your summer road trip.
1. Inspect and Maintain Your Vehicle
Start with a basic inspection or schedule a professional checkup. Look at tire pressure and tread, fluid levels (oil, brake, coolant, windshield washer), lights, brakes, and the battery. Don’t forget to check your spare tire and jack to make sure they’re in working order, just in case.
2. Make Child Safety Your Top Concern
If you're traveling with kids, double-check car seats or booster seats for proper installation and age-appropriateness. Ensure seat belts are functioning and that child locks are engaged. Keep snacks, toys, and entertainment handy to keep young passengers comfortable and safe.
3. Be Prepared for Road Trip Contingency Plans
Plan ahead for what you’ll do if things don’t go as expected. Pack a roadside emergency kit with jumper cables, flashlight, blankets, and basic tools. Have a list of nearby repair shops or towing services saved on your phone or GPS just in case.
4. Check for Recalls
Before you go, check if your vehicle has any outstanding recalls by entering your VIN on the Transport Canada or manufacturer’s website. It’s a quick step that could prevent serious problems on the road.
5. Know Your Car
Take time to review your car manual. Knowing how to check your tire pressure, reset warning lights, or understand unfamiliar dashboard signals can be a huge help during your trip.
On-the-Road Trip Safety Tips
Staying safe behind the wheel is key to making your summer road trip enjoyable from start to finish. Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue and distractions, so you need to be proactive and mindful while driving. Here are some essential tips to help keep you, your passengers, and others on the road safe.
1. Drive at Non-Peak Times
Try to plan your driving during off-peak hours to avoid heavy traffic and reduce the risk of accidents. Early mornings or mid-week travel days are often less congested, helping you move more smoothly and safely.
2. Limit Nighttime Driving
Avoid driving late at night whenever possible. Reduced visibility and fatigue can make nighttime driving more dangerous. If you must drive at night, make sure you're well-rested and keep your headlights clean and properly aimed.
3. Let a Passenger Handle Traffic Apps and Entertainment
Don’t divide your attention between the road and your phone. Let a passenger take care of GPS navigation, changing music, or responding to texts so you can focus fully on driving.
4. Take Frequent Breaks
Plan to stop every couple of hours to stretch, grab a snack, or simply rest your eyes. Regular breaks help prevent driver fatigue and keep you alert throughout the journey.
5. Share the Driving
If possible, take turns behind the wheel with another licensed driver. Sharing the driving load reduces fatigue and gives everyone a chance to rest, making the trip safer and more enjoyable.
6. Share the Road
Be mindful of other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Use your signals, maintain safe distances, and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas or scenic routes where others might be distracted.
7. Buckle Up
It’s simple but vital; make sure everyone in the car is wearing their seatbelt, no matter how short the drive. Seatbelts save lives and are one of the easiest ways to stay protected on the road.
By following these safety tips, you can help ensure a smoother, safer journey for everyone on board, and keep your road trip full of good memories instead of avoidable mishaps.
Hit the Road with Confidence—and CarHub!
With your car packed and this checklist in hand, you’re ready for the ultimate summer adventure. But before you go, make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready, too.
Visit CarHub for a pre-trip inspection, expert maintenance, or even to explore our lineup of road-trip-ready vehicles—because the best journeys start with a car you can trust.
Your turn: Need a tune-up or looking for your next adventure-mobile? Schedule a service or browse our inventory today. Safe travels!