10 things to keep in your car for a weekend road trip

Prep before road tripping

Before hitting the road, prioritize these vehicle checks:

• Tyre Health: Verify correct tyre pressure and adequate tread depth.

• Fluid Levels: Inspect engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels.

• Battery Power: Ensure the battery is fully charged and corrosion-free.

• Lighting System: Test all lights and indicators for proper function.

• Brake System: Check brake functionality and listen for any unusual noises.

By diligently performing these pre-trip checks, you can significantly enhance your road trip safety and enjoy a worry-free journey. If you’re planning a weekend road trip, you may also want to consider getting temporary car insurance for your trip to stay protected on the road.

Car tyre

Imagine cruising down the motorway, the wind in your hair, and the excitement of adventure ahead, only to be abruptly halted by a flat tyre. It’s not just an inconvenience; it can significantly derail your plans and leave you stranded in potentially remote or unsafe areas.

• A spare tyre ensures peace of mind, allowing you to swiftly resolve an unforeseen puncture or blowout and continue your journey without undue stress.

Moreover, road trips often take us through a variety of terrains, from smooth highways to rugged country roads. The unpredictable nature of these routes increases the likelihood of encountering hazards such as sharp stones or debris that could damage your tyres.

• Having a spare tyre on hand means you’re prepared for these eventualities, ensuring that a minor setback doesn’t turn into a major ordeal.

• It’s not just about having a spare tyre; it’s about having the right tools and knowing how to use them, which is fundamental for safe and enjoyable travel.

Food and water

Ensuring a surplus of these road trip essentials can make a significant difference to the overall enjoyment and safety of your journey.

Firstly, road trips often involve travelling through remote areas where facilities may be scarce or non-existent. In such situations, having extra food and water can be a lifesaver.

• It ensures that you are well-prepared for unforeseen circumstances such as vehicle breakdowns or unexpected detours, which might leave you stranded for extended periods.

• Additionally, not having to rely on finding the next service station for nourishment means you can stick to your planned route without unnecessary diversions.

Moreover, bringing extra provisions caters to the unpredictability of hunger and thirst during long drives. The physical demands of driving and navigating can increase your need for regular sustenance to maintain energy levels and concentration. Having a variety of snacks and enough water on hand allows for spontaneous breaks and keeps everyone in good spirits.

Jump start cables

One element that can make or break your journey is the reliability of your vehicle. This is where bringing jump start cables becomes essential. These seemingly simple tools can be a lifesaver when you find yourself in a situation where your car battery has unexpectedly died.

• Imagine the frustration of being stranded in a remote location, miles away from the nearest help, with no means to power your vehicle.

• Jump start leads provide the solution to this problem, ensuring that you can quickly revive your car and continue your journey without undue delay.

Moreover, jump start leads are not just for your own benefit but also for the benefit of fellow travellers. On a road trip, it’s common to come across other drivers who may be experiencing car troubles.

• Having jump start leads means you can offer assistance. This small act of kindness can significantly enhance the overall experience of your road trip, creating positive memories for both you and those you help.

Extra clothing

This might seem like a trivial detail, but it can significantly enhance your road trip experience. Weather conditions can be unpredictable, and what starts as a sunny day could easily turn into a downpour or a chilly evening. Having extra layers to adapt to these changes ensures you remain comfortable and well-prepared, no matter what nature throws your way.

• Road trips often involve spontaneous activities like hiking, swimming, or even an unplanned dinner at a quaint roadside restaurant.

• These impromptu plans call for different attire, and having a variety of clothes at your disposal means you’re always ready for whatever opportunity arises.

Phone charger and power bank

Bringing a power bank and phone charger is imperative for road trip packing list for several reasons. A dead battery could leave you stranded and lost, which is why having a power bank and charger ensures you remain on course without unnecessary detours.

Road trips often mean capturing countless memories through photos and videos. Your phone’s camera becomes your best companion in documenting these moments. Running out of battery in the middle of a picturesque landscape or an exciting event can be disappointing.

• A power bank allows you to recharge your device on the go, ensuring you never miss a snapshot of those precious memories.

Keeping that road trip playlist going is also important for an epic road trip. In addition, staying connected with friends and family is vital for safety and coordination. Whether it’s to update loved ones about your whereabouts, use Google maps or to coordinate plans with friends, having a charged phone ensures you are never out of reach. Emergencies can arise at any time; being able to make a call or send a message could be a lifeline.

First aid kit

Bringing a first aid kit on a road trip is essential for several reasons. Firstly, accidents and minor injuries are unpredictable and can occur at any moment.

• Whether it’s a small cut from a roadside picnic or a more significant injury from an unexpected fall, having a well-stocked first aid kit ensures that immediate care can be administered. This not only alleviates discomfort but can also prevent further complications.

Road trips often take travellers through remote areas where medical facilities might be scarce or far away. In such situations, having access to basic medical supplies can make a significant difference.

• A first aid kit equipped with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other essentials acts as a safety net, providing peace of mind and allowing you to handle emergencies effectively until professional help is available.

Car documents

For instance, in the event of a breakdown or an accident, having your vehicle registration and insurance details readily available can expedite assistance and ensure that you are legally covered.

Additionally, vehicle documents provide critical information about your car that might be needed in emergencies. Details such as your vehicle identification number (VIN), model specifications, and insurance policy number can be indispensable during roadside assistance calls or when seeking repairs.

Having these documents at hand also offers peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey rather than worrying about unforeseen complications. In essence, carrying your vehicle documents is a simple yet vital step in ensuring a smooth and stress-free road trip experience.

Cash

Having a small amount of cash on a road trip is an undeniable road trip essential. While we often rely on cards and digital payments, certain situations demand cash.

• Whether you’re paying for tolls, parking, or grabbing a quick snack from a quaint roadside stall, having cash ensures smooth transactions.

Moreover, some remote areas might lack card facilities, leaving you in a lurch without cash. Additionally, small local businesses often prefer cash payments. By carrying a modest sum, you can handle unexpected expenses effortlessly, ensuring your road trip remains enjoyable and stress-free.

Entertainment

First and foremost, create a killer playlist with a mix of everyone’s favourite tunes to keep spirits high and the atmosphere lively. Audiobooks and podcasts are fantastic for those long stretches of motorway, offering captivating stories and intriguing discussions.

Traditional travel games, like cards or trivia, are perfect for engaging passengers. Lastly, download some movies or shows for instant entertainment during breaks or downtime at your destination.

Basic tool kit

Among the long road trip essentials, a well-stocked tool kit is paramount. Equip yourself with a tyre pressure gauge, a reliable jack, and a sturdy set of spanners. Don’t forget a multi-tool for those unexpected fixes, and pack a flashlight with extra batteries for night-time emergencies.

Duct tape can be a lifesaver for temporary repairs, and having jumper cables ensures you’re not stranded with a dead battery. A first aid kit and emergency blankets are also important, guaranteeing safety and comfort throughout your journey.

Temporary car insurance considerations

Temporary car insurance is comprehensive cover for your vehicle – it swoops in when you need it most, providing short-term coverage that can last anywhere from 1 to 28 days. This could help you stay protected for your weekend road tri