Great road trip accessories can make traveling more enjoyable, convenient, and safe. Let these essential gadgets do the heavy lifting so you can focus on the road and relish the journey.
Below, we’ve compiled the list of must-have road trip gear. Each item has been tried and tested by us and other road-tripping enthusiasts to help you decide what you’ll need for your next adventure!
1. Trunk Organizers
A trunk organizer—or boot organizer if you’re in the UK—is indispensable for keeping your road trip belongings neatly in place.
These organizers come in various sizes to fit your vehicle, whether it’s a car or an SUV. Many offer adjustable compartments to suit your specific packing needs.
If you’re bringing luggage, smaller versions won’t take up your entire trunk space.
During a three-week road trip across California and the Pacific Northwest, we relied on our trunk organizer to manage gear for different activities and climates.
It was perfect for keeping essentials like extra shoes, clothing layers, car supplies (e.g., jumper cables, paper towels), first aid kits, and snacks easily accessible. Knowing exactly where to find things saved us a lot of time and hassle.
Even after our road trip, we continued to use the organizer, especially for shopping trips. Most models are collapsible for easy storage when not in use.
2. WiFi Hotspot
A WiFi hotspot is an essential road trip gadget, especially if you’re embarking on an international journey where your regular SIM card may not work. On my road trip through South Iceland, it was a lifesaver.
While apps like Google Maps can function offline once the route is set, an internet connection is often required to get started. Many other navigation tools also need continuous connectivity.
A WiFi hotspot enables you to use a local SIM card, ensuring reliable data access. Some models even use cloud SIM technology, meaning the SIM is already built into the device.
Beyond navigation, a WiFi hotspot allows you to look up attractions, find accommodations, or discover great restaurants along the way. This eliminates the need to pre-plan every detail before your trip, offering flexibility and spontaneity.
3. Cup Holder Expander
Staying hydrated on the road is crucial, but car cup holders are often too small for larger water bottles. A cup holder expander solves this problem, enabling you to carry your oversized insulated bottle or tumbler with ease.
These expanders fit snugly into your existing cup holder and provide a larger opening to hold your bottle.
This gadget is a must for long drives, whether you’re going through the Blue Ridge Parkway, driving across Europe, or cruising the Pacific Coast Highway.
4. Microfiber Towel
Compact, lightweight, and versatile, a microfiber towel is a fantastic road trip essential. Despite being ultra-thin, it’s incredibly absorbent and dries much faster than traditional cotton towels.
A quick wring removes about 90% of the water, so you won’t have to deal with a damp, heavy towel.
This towel’s uses go beyond drying off. It can serve as a picnic mat, sunshade, or even a light blanket on chilly evenings. Its durability and versatility make it one of the best investments for road trips or any outdoor activity.
5. Sick Bags
For passengers prone to motion sickness, having sick bags on hand is a thoughtful precaution.
While plastic grocery bags or Ziploc bags might suffice in emergencies, professional-grade emesis bags are far more effective and reliable.
6. LifeStraw
To truly enjoy the journey, having access to clean drinking water is a must.
The LifeStraw is a portable water filtration device that removes bacteria, parasites, and debris from various water sources, ensuring safe hydration wherever you are.
Whether drinking from a river, pond, or questionable tap water, the LifeStraw makes it possible.
You can opt for the personal straw version or upgrade to the reusable LifeStraw water bottle, which integrates the filter into the bottle for added convenience.