I love road trips. LOVE them! And I love having a detailed road trip packing list to use as a guide.

I do like the convenience of flying. But I like even more the flexibility of road trips. Random excursions along the way are the best!

Just last month while road tripping through several southern states, I was able to take a spontaneous side-trip to see Elvis Presley’s childhood home in Tupelo, Mississippi. What a fun detour!

My road trip packing list includes everything from my favorite footwear, and underwear to my can’t-do-without sunscreen and screen-time downloads.

These items made for a great week-long trip to explore all the best things to do in Oregon.

And this packing list helped me make the most of the magnificent scenery and landmarks along California’s Pacific Coast Highway.  

Without every single item, I could not have taken in all there was to do and see during my Glacier to Yellowstone to Grand Teton National Parks road trip.

And the same goes for the two weeks I spent during my Utah Mighty Five National Parks road trip where some mornings I woke to a dusting of snow on the ground. And where by mid-day I had shedded layers down to a sleeveless top.

So, use my recommendations as a guide for creating your own general road trip packing list.

Or as a guide for creating a U.S. National Park’s road trip packing list.

You will hardly feel like you ever left the comforts of home.

Note: I make minor modifications to the packing list depending on where I plan to explore. For a mid-July road trip to the hot and humid Southeastern coast of the U.S., I would pack some summer dresses and sports skirts in place of a few pairs of hiking pants, and gloves.

So, here we go.

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Shoes:

I’ll start with the most important body part. The feet.

Ahnu Hiking Shoes

I prefer hiking shoes over hiking boots and have worn Ahnu hiking shoes for a few years now.

They are lightweight and comfortable enough to wear not only hiking but just about anywhere anytime.

Note: I think hiking boots look cool and I want to love them. But they are uncomfortable for me. Plus, they tend to be heavy and take up extra packing space.

Asics GT Running Shoes

I have been wearing Asics GT Running Shoes for over 10 years.

I use to suffer from plantar fasciitis. But, since discovering these running shoes, I have not had any major flare-ups. They provide the needed arch support for everything from walking to running to hiking.

Yes, hiking! Would you believe that even thru-hikers cover thousands of miles in running shoes?

On Cloud Sneakers

I almost did not include my new obsession in this packing list. But they are just too incredible to exclude.

This past spring while exploring beach towns and beaches along the Florida panhandle, I ran across a store with a huge stock of On Clouds.

And they were flying off the shelves.

I had been wearing mostly summer dresses during that adventure swapping from Asic running shoes to flip flops as I moved between exploring towns and walking beaches. So, I purchased a pair of white On Clouds.

I liked the way they looked with my summer dresses.

But, what I liked most was that they were slip-ons. Making it just so easy to swap them out for flip flops.

I loved them so much that a few months ago I purchased a 2nd pair in denim color.

Also, On Cloud shoes are becoming a favorite among those in the medical field as well.

I recommend them to everyone!

Flip Flops

Tearing off my dusty hiking shoes and socks and slipping on a pair of Sanuk Yoga Mat Flip Flips is the first thing I do after a hike. There is nothing more satisfying.

During my Utah National Parks road trip, while shopping at an outfitter’s store in Moab, I tried on a pair of Teva Flip-Flops. I liked the added arch support and the soft “mush mold” insole. So, I bought them and they have traveled with me ever since.

I refer to the Tevas as my dressy flip-flops.

But Sanuk flip-flops remain my favorite for all-around comfort and versatility.

Haflinger Slippers

I use to wear my flip-flops as house slippers when traveling. I now allow myself the luxury of packing my crazy comfy wool Haflinger Slippers. They are a bit expensive. But the fit and fun styles are worth it.

Ugg Sienna Mid-Calf Rain boots

Ugg Sienna rain boots are easy to put on and take off. Not always the case for rainboots. And the shearling insole makes them comfortable even without socks. I have them in the gloss grey color.

I noticed stores are carrying them in pink. Adorable.

Socks:

Darn Tough Hiking Socks

I love wearing Darn Tough Socks with my hiking shoes. They are the perfect thickness for soft comfort and are a blend of wool to keep my feet at the right temp. Usually, I pack a pair in crew length and a pair in ¼ length.

Smart Wool Running Socks

Smart Wool Running Socks are perfect with my Asics running shoes. I like a thinner sock for walking and working out. These guys fit snug and never bunch up beneath my toes. They are my go-to everyday socks.

I have a few pairs of Darn Tough brand running socks as well. I like them just as much as the Smart Wool brand.

Some swear by Smart Wool and some swear by Darn Tough brand. I like them both. Equally.

But the lifetime warranty offered by Darn Tough has moved them to the top of my list for recommendation.

Pro Tip: Feet like variety. Changing between three styles of footwear (hiking shoes, tennis shoes, and flip flops) keeps my feet always happy and ready for the next adventure.

Now for the body.

I tend to wear the same clothing at home as I do when on road trips. I just love being casual and comfortable.

All the time.

So, here is my tried-and-true list of favorite clothing.

Pants:

Kuhl Hiking Pants

I love the Kuhl Splash Roll-Up Pants. They fit snug around the waist with plenty of room in the butt and thighs. They are great-looking hiking pants with all the necessary pockets.

I own them in green, navy, and grey and often take all 3 when traveling.

Kuhl has added new colors this season. I am considering ordering a pair in the antique rose color.

North Face Aphrodite Pants

North Face Aphrodite Pants are lightweight, cool, and comfortable. They can even be worn for sleeping. The light fabric makes them good for packing and quick drying after washing.  

North Face Paramount Hybrid Pants

I struggle to describe North Face Paramount Hybrid Pants. Are they hiking pants? Are they leggings? Are they dress pants?

Yes, they are.

One online reviewer described them as her sexy hiking pants. I would agree.

I wear them mostly for days where I am exploring a downtown area or dining out. I have even worn them to church.

They are made of hybrid wicking and stretch fabric and have deep, secure, zippered hip pockets and open back pockets. I love the quick phone access.

They look good with any type of footwear. Flip flops, sneakers, hiking shoes, or rainboots.

These are the most stylish elastic-waisted pull-on I have ever owned. I have them in blue and black.

Prana Standard Essex Cargo Pants

What I love about Prana Standard Essex Cargo Pants is that they are considered fitted but have a little room in the thighs.

They are made of lightweight organic cotton and are perfect for driving days or low-key exploring.

These pants are casual yet a step up from hiking pants. I have them in grey and navy. (I forgot to include them in the picture.)

Leggings:

Lululemon’s All The Right Places Leggings

After discovering these Lululemon’s, I got rid of all my other activewear leggings.

Why? For a lot of reasons.

I love that the side pockets are deep and secure for phones and small wallets. And the fabric makes them perfect as an underlayer for cooler weather, an indoor workout, or even walking or hiking.

Best of all. They are flattering for all body styles.

I have them in just about every color – black, navy, grey, and merlot.

Pajamas:

Pajama Top

I pack at least one Soma Cool Night V-Neck Camisole.

I like the soft flowing fabric, the shelf bra, and the adjustable straps.

This camisole is not just for sleeping.

It works for quick dashes to the hotel continental breakfast bar and even as a standalone layer for steamy hot days.

Pajama Bottoms

Sioro Modal Pajama Pants with drawstring are my favorites pajama bottoms. The modal fabric is just the right weight for sleeping. And oh so soft.

Tops:

Athleta Cloudlight Tops

I have two Athleta sleeveless tops and want to buy more. I like the fit and the cut of the sleeves.

My favorite style is the racerback. In the back, the sleeveless cut is not quite as deep as many racerback styles. This allows me to wear any kind of bra vs. only racerback bras.

I recommend these Athleta Cloudlight tops for travel because the modal fabric blend makes them so versatile.

They are great for hiking and workouts and with a pair of business casual pants.

They are truly that adaptable.

T-Shirts

I like cotton t-shirts and the softer the better.

Because I am a bit cold-natured, I travel with both long sleeve and short sleeve t’s. Year-round.

Long-Sleeved Button Up Shirts

I wear flannel long-sleeved button-up shirts a lot. Around the house and when traveling.

Flannel shirts are comfortable and great for layering. So I like to pack a couple when traveling.

Recently I purchased a Columbia Long-Sleeved Button-Up Fishing Shirt. I wasn’t sure I would like it.

But I do like it and I wear it all the time. Over everything from tanks to summer dresses.

The thing I like most about button-up shirts is that I can tie them around my waist when I get too warm.

Under Armour Midweight Baselayer

One of my favorite tops is my all-season Under Armour. It’s a great base layer for cold weather and I use it as sun protection for beach walks.

Columbia Midweight Baselayer

My Columbia base layer has a little more weight to it when compared to my Under Armour. It is a good option for cooler days and nights.

Also, I like wearing this white top under short-sleeved t-shirts.

Patagonia R1 Pullover Midlayer

I am in love with my Patagonia R1 Pullover. I wear it ALL THE TIME.

I’ve slipped it over my swim top for sun protection during my 10-mile Southern California beach walk/hike between Del Mar to LaJoya.

And I wore it to layer up during my cold-weather river hike of the Narrows during my Zions National Park road trip. 

Underwear:

Bras

I have several sports bras and I travel with 1 or 2. I am not sure which is my favorite brand. Brooks brand or Syrokan brand.

Both have all my favorite features. No underwire yet offers maximum support and easy-adjust straps. And they DO NOT create the dreaded uni-boob.

Also pictured is my recommended minimizer bra for everyday wear. Wacoal brand.

I got turned on to the Wacoal brand bras several years ago when they were included in a list of Oprah’s Favorite Things.

The Wacoal Slimline Seamless Minimizer is my favorite. I have several.

Bralette

The Soma Enbliss bralette is a pull-over bra.

No wires, no hooks, no nothing. Just buttery smooth fabric.

I have several of these bralettes and take one (and a pair of Soma underwear) with me for “travel sleeping.” I just like the idea of being prepared while traveling in case of an emergency.

For example, late one night during my road trip through Arizona, a smoke alarm went off. All occupants were required to vacate the building. Immediately. And we were not allowed to return until the fire department could determine the cause.

I felt good about grabbing a jacket and vacating. Because I was wearing a little bit more than mere pajamas.

By the way, the tripped smoke alarm was the result of a plastic spatula being placed on a stove burner. It wasn’t me!

ExOfficio Give-N-Go Brief

I rarely wear traditional underwear because they just don’t stay where they are supposed to for me. Especially when I am hiking.

But ExOfficio briefs are the most comfortable, breathable, and quick-drying pair of underwear I have ever owned. And they stay put when I am active!

They are expensive but so worth it. I recommend ExOfficio brand briefs above all others for hiking.

Spanx Slimming Shorts

Yep, I travel with a pair of black lightweight Spanx Assets Red Hots. I have worn them with hiking pants as an added layer in cold weather. And I like to wear them under a summer dress or a lightweight skirt in warmer weather.

Swimwear and Beachwear:

I am picky when it comes to swimwear. So I mix and match tops and bottoms.

For the past couple of years, I have worn an Athleta tankini swim top with Delfin tankini swim bottoms. 

Athleta Tankini Swim Top

The Athleta Maldives Tankini top is made of a thick, body shaping fabric and comes in “bra sizes,” an option that provides the perfect fit for those who want to minimize.

I own this swim top in black though the last time I checked, Athleta did not have black in stock.

Delfin Tankini Swim Bottoms

Delfin is a great brand and these swim bottoms have held up for me for several years. I love wearing them with my Athleta swim top.

Prana Swim Coverups

Prana is another great brand and I have worn one of their tops and sarongs as swim coverups for the past few years now.

My Prana top has a white ribbed t-shirt fabric and beaded ties. And my Prana Sarong can be tied to fit as a skirt or as a dress.

Prana no longer carries my exact coverup top and sarong but offers similar new styles.

Shorts:

Nike Running Shorts

Nike Running Shorts are a classic. Great for just about anything. Swimming, kayaking, and sleeping.

The mesh insert is so cool and comfortable for those hot summer days. And they are fast drying. I have them in green and blue.

Now for the outerwear.

Jackets and Fleece:

Patagonia Nano Puff Hooded Insulated Jacket

I take my Patagonia Nano Puff Hooded Insulated Jacket everywhere I go. It is super light and super warm.

I use it for hiking, working in the yard, as a pillow on the airplane, and more. And it rolls up small enough to fit in my small crossbody bag.

If I had to recommend one single product from my packing list, this would be the one. This is THE most versatile jacket I have ever owned.

I would like to buy a second jacket in a different color and have heard good things about the North Face Thermoball. I plan to give it a try simply for comparison purposes.

But, I am struggling with that decision because I love my Patagonia Nano so much.

Columbia Fast Trek II Fleece Jacket

Several years ago, I purchased the Columbia Fast Trek II in black. The weight and fit were so perfect that recently I purchased another one in grey.

I wear them ALL THE TIME. And they are the perfect layer beneath my Patagonia jacket.

Over the years I have purchased other fleece jackets that were ok, but quickly got rid of them.

There was always something about the others that would bother me. Like the collar would be too stiff or too big. Or the overall weight of the fleece would be too heavy. Or they came out of the wash looking crumpled.

None of that with my Columbia Fast Trek II Fleece.

Marmot Raincoat

I purchased my Marmot Raincoat back in 2016 when I moved to the Pacific Northwest. It was great for the Seattle area’s rainy winters.

And now that I live in Savannah where summer afternoon rainstorms are the norm, this guy continues to get plenty of use.

It slips on just so easily and fits just so well.

One of the best things about this raincoat is the hood. It has a rigid edge that directs rain away from my face.

And the zippered underarm vents allow for air circulation. So, none of that sudden steaming hot feeling you get when wearing most raincoats.

Also, it has an ultra-thin fleece-type lining making it oh so comfy against my skin.

I truly believe this is the best raincoat ever.  

Gloves:

Trailhead Convertible Mittens/Fingerless Gloves

Trailhead gloves are my favorites. They are lightweight and water-resistant. And the thumb flaps are convenient for smartphone use.

Black Diamond Windweight Fleece Mittens/Fingerless Gloves

Black Diamond are my backup gloves.

I call them my backup gloves because I purchased them after hiking the Narrows in Zions National Park where one of my Trailhead gloves had become soaked when I stumbled in the frosty waste-high river.

I had to finish the hike using only one glove, having to place one hand in my pocket intermittently to keep it warm.

Now, in cooler weather, I always travel with a backup pair of gloves.

Thick gloves like the Black Diamond Windweight Fleece are not my favorites, but they would have been my favorites had I had them as backup during my hike along the Narrows.

What I do love about these gloves is the Polartec fabric making them super warm and wind-resistant.

No thumb flaps on these gloves. But they are still a great option for cold-weather photography and smartphone use.

Hats:

Outdoor Research Lodgeside Beanie

There is a lot that I like about my OR Lodgeside Beanie. It is durable and the fleece lining makes it crazy comfortable. Not at all scratchy.

I think the cable knit and pom give it a classic look. And the fabric is windproof yet breathable.

REI Cap with Bendable Brim

I don’t wear caps much, so I have never wanted to bother with carrying one while traveling. But last year, I ran across this REI Cap and decided to try it.

Since then, it travels with me wherever I go. The bendable brim makes it packable and the lightweight fabric keeps my head from feeling hot and itchy. 

Basic Hiking Gear:

Osprey Talon 11 Backpack (and Tempest 9 Backpack)

I have been carrying the Osprey Talon 11 for a few years. The women-specific version is the Osprey Tempest 9. I know the Tempest 9 might offer a slightly better fit for me. But, I am not yet willing to give up the extra packing space.

These packs are perfect for so many reasons.

Though they hug the body securely, they have a flexible back panel that allows for airflow.

These packs include a crazy simple trekking pole carry system, helmet lock, and ice axe attachment.

I love the external hydration reservoir sleeve which keeps the hydration bladder separate from items in the larger internal compartment.

The zippered hip belts are convenient and are part of a full lumbar support system. And outer compartments are great for easy access to small items and my smartphone.

The inside compartment has a mesh zippered section for items like my cash, keys, whistle, and first aid kit.

The larger compartment of the Osprey Talon 11 can hold my Patagonia jacket, gloves, cap, flip flops, hiking essentials, snacks, and even my 13-inch laptop.

I am pretty sure that the larger compartment of the Osprey Tempest 9 could carry the same load. But, I am not yet positive how safely my laptop could be stowed in the smaller packing space.

So, for now, I plan to stick with my Osprey Tallon 11.

Platypus Big Zip LP 2 Liter Hydration Bladder

One of the best things about my Platypus Hydration Bladder is that the slide lock is easy to open and close yet never leaks.

Also, it has a center baffle which helps the bladder keep its shape while in my pack. A unique feature.

For long road trips, I pack a hydration cleaning kit. I use the Camelbak Cleaning Brush Kit.

Camelbak LUXE 14 Hydration Pack (Optional)

Sometimes I carry a small dedicated hydration pack. I like to use my Camelbak LUXE for long beach hikes and bike rides.

A nice feature is the small fleece-lined compartment for phones and electronics. It’s great for protecting my phone and other small items while splashing through water or navigating ocean waves as the tide rolls in.

And the pack comes with a rain protector and a small toiletry/utility pack.

Do I always carry my small Camelbak Hydration Pack? No, not always. Only when I think I might end up on a beach walk, or when I have a concern about being where I don’t have easy access to water.   

Komperdell Titanal Contour Hiking Poles

I have had my Komperdell’s for several years. I like that they are lightweight yet sturdy and have 3 locking options for length.

Some love these poles. Others not so much. I have never had any issues with mine and would buy them again.

But I tend to use only one pole when I hike and try to be mindful to trade them out with each hike.

Maybe that’s the reason my poles have lasted so long.

Other Items:

I list these items as “other” because not all road trips include backcountry hiking or camping.

But, because the items take up so little space, I try to bring them on every trip. Just in case.

Leupold BX-2 Acadia 10x42mm Binoculars

I keep a set of binoculars in my car at all times. They are too heavy to carry on long hikes. But, I cannot count the number of times I have pulled over to take a better look at a distant rock formation, snowcapped mountain, or breaching whale.

And now that I live in Savannah, Georgia, I plan to use them to check out everything from dolphins in the Atlantic to alligators in the brackish marsh waters near my home. Yikes!

Towel

I always pack a towel. It’s great for drying off after a sweaty hike. Or to protect the car seat from wet or muddy backsides.

And, of course, beach towels are a must if planning a road trip to the beach.

Rain Poncho

Yep, rain ponchos are ugly. I can’t remember the last time I wore one.

But, as a solo traveler, I like to be prepared.

Ponchos are not just for protection against rain. They can be used as ground cloths, table cloths, and emergency shelters.

Bodum 1-Cup Coffee Press

I love fresh black coffee and I get a bit cranky if I don’t get to drink a cup or 2 or 3 every morning.

So, when traveling I often pack fresh coffee grounds and a travel-sized 1-cup Bodum French Press. Just in case I find myself in a remote area.

Pro tip: Recently I found out that left-over coffee can be placed in a cooler overnight and will taste fresh when reheated the next morning. Who knew?!?

Since that discovery, I have been known to buy several cups of Mcdonald’s coffee to place in the cooler as a backup in a pinch.

Why McDonald’s? Because their coffee is always fresh. And a large coffee costs only $1.

Energy Bar

I hardly ever eat energy bars. But I keep some kind of bar or nuts in my backpack or car at all times.

The same energy bar has been in my backpack for several years now. And I recently threw out a baggie of stale cashews that had been in my glove box. I know. That’s gross.

Maybe I have watched too many documentaries and movies where someone stayed alive until rescued merely by nibbling on the smallest amount of food.

Coleman Headlamp

My Coleman headlamp has been a part of my camp box for several years. I like the variable lighting options – low, high, red, and flashing. The flip-out option for directional lighting is a nice feature.

First Aid Kit

A mini first aid kit stays in my backpack. It’s small, but it will get the job done.

Survival Whistle with Compass

My Survival Whistle with Compass stays in my backpack as well. Along with the energy bar and first aid kit listed above.

Bear Spray

A few years ago, while hiking in Western Washington State, I approached a trailhead to see a handwritten note warning hikers that bears had been sighted along the trail.

I was hiking solo in the early morning that day and there was no one else visible. I could hardly enjoy my hike until I caught up to other hikers. Immediately after completing that hike, I drove to purchase bear spray.

Bear spray has a shelf life of 3-4 years so it is time for me to buy a new canister.

I plan to give Maximum Strength Bear Spray by Mace a try.

Knife and Lighter

I don’t plan to need to kill and cook my food or fend off wild coyotes. But, who knows.

It’s good to be prepared. Especially if hiking or even driving in remote areas.

MSR Pocket Rocket Travel Stove and MSR ISOPRO fuel.

This little mini-stove setup is incredible. I am not much of an overnight camper so have not used it much for cooking.

But this guy brings water to a boil in only a few minutes. No waiting for my coffee. Just pull it out of its little carrying case, screw it to an MSR isobutane-propane fuel canister and it’s ready to go.

Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System

This simple water filtration system is easy to use and stays down in the bottom of my pack along with other rarely needed items. I like knowing it’s there if I need it.  

Waterproof Baggies

I have a few different types of waterproof baggies.

I like to use my Seattle Sports Drymax waterproof bag with necklace cords when kayaking. Having easy access to my phone allows me to catch images of harbor seals and dolphins.

Because these types of holders are prone to leaking when submersed, I prefer double-bagging my phone using a freezer bag in rough waters or when hiking through deep water or when it’s raining.

I carry a couple of Loksak Airtight Odor Barrier Bags as well. These can work for cell phones and cameras. And for food or waste. 

Folding Chair

Do not underestimate the value of a cheap folding chair.

More than once, I have chosen to NOT throw in a folding chair. And more than once I have found myself taking a detour to find somewhere to buy one.

Collapsible Water Cube

During my Utah National Parks road trip I was reminded just how important it is to carry extra water.

The weather had been nice and mild. But temperatures dipped below freezing the night before resulting in the park’s water fountains and spigots being temporarily frozen and inoperable.

I had just enough water with me to explore the park and trails. But was wishing I had stashed more in the car.

As a result, I am considering purchasing a collapsible water cube.

Electronics:

Gonex Electronics Organizer

This organizer is marketed for toiletries. But it is the perfect size for electronics cables, USB ports, extra batteries, and other small items.

Earbuds

I use earbuds all the time. So many great Audible books and podcasts and so little time.

TOZO T10 Bluetooth 5.0 Wireless Earbuds with Wireless Charging Case are perfect for the shower. And VAVA Moov 28 for everywhere else.

Both have Bluetooth capability.

The VAVA Moov 28’s are getting harder to find so I have provided a link to a comparable brand.

USB Wall Chargers and USB-C Charging Cables

Rarely are there enough outlets in convenient places when traveling. Having extra USB ports and an extra-long phone cable makes life much easier when on the road.

I have a 2-port and a single-port USB wall charger. And a 6-foot USB-C Charging Cable for my Samsung S10+. I like the way the nylon cord easily winds and unwinds.

Samsung S10+ Camera

My Samsung S10+ phone has a great camera. It is all I use for capturing images.

Also, I download movies, books, and maps before traveling in case I find myself in an area with poor cell service.

LG Gram 13 inch Laptop

I love this lightweight laptop. I mean LOVE it.

At 13.3 inches and 2.4 lbs, it easily slips into my backpack. I can even fit it into my crossbody bag/purse.

It has held up to all my travel use and abuse. To say it is the best laptop I have ever owned is an understatement.

Power Bank

I purchased a multi-port power bank way back when they were about the size of a brick. And almost as heavy. So, I don’t often take it with me when I travel.

I received a super-small single port as a gift a few years ago and it works just fine. 

Cell Phone Car Clip/Mount

I think the cell phone car mount that clips to a car’s air vent is one of the coolest inventions ever. I keep one in my travel bag to use when driving a rental car.

Using this phone clip helps keep me safe. It easily attaches to almost any car’s air vent, placing my phone up where it needs to be for me to safely use Google Maps in an unfamiliar area. Especially while driving in an unfamiliar car.

I have purchased several. Because sometimes I leave them in the rental car on accident.

I am not sure what brand I have pictured, but my favorite vent clip so far is the Apps2Car Universal Car Mount. I like that it sits out from the air vent, allowing for better airflow.

UBeesize Tripod for Smartphone or Camera

I purchased this tripod primarily to use as an extension to capture deep canyon images without having to get dangerously close to the edges of cliffs.

The size is perfect for stowing in my backpack.

I am surprised how much I use the tripod feature. Not only for selfies but for stability and ease of use for video calls and for watching movie series.

Crossbody Bag/Purse:

Baggallini Crossbody Bag

I carry the same style of crossbody bag on road trips as I do every single day.

Both Baggallini brand and Travelon brand make top-of-the-line travel bags. Baggallini is my current favorite.

The outside pockets are what I love most. There is a dedicated outer zippered pocket for my phone, and pockets for my water bottles, and items like my keys and my face mask.

When traveling by air, I use one of the pockets for easy access to my passport or ID. 

Skin Care Essentials and Toiletries:

My Camelbak hydration backpack came with a perfectly sized little utility organizer. It works for small items like a travel toothbrush and toothpaste, travel-sized deodorant and dry shampoo, lip balm, fold-up brush with mirror, sunscreen, and bug spray.

Also, I travel with a hanging toiletry pack for “luxury” toiletry items like my Sonicare toothbrush, COCOFLOSS dental floss, shampoo, makeup, jewelry, etc.

And the plastic pouches are great for stowing damp items like sweaty socks.

Sunscreen

I use 100% pure zinc sunscreens, in part, because added fragrances and chemicals burn my eyes when I sweat.

One of the best pieces of advice I received while living in San Jose, California was from my dermatologist.

She recommended CVS brand or Wallgreens brand of 100% Pure Zinc Sunscreen.

Though she offered a high-end skincare line, she shared with me that pure zinc sunscreens are the most natural and affordable way to protect my skin.

Yes, pure zinc is white and thick.

But it feels like butter on my skin. And once rubbed in, the white tint goes away leaving a layer of silky moisturizing protection.

I buy 100% Pure Zinc sunscreen in bulk whenever I can find it. Because I use it EVERY SINGLE DAY.

On my face, neck, hands, and wrists. Hiking or not.

Aquaphor

Aquaphor is a multi-use healing product. I use it for my lips, chaffing, and blister prevention. I have used it, in a pinch, as a body lotion replacement as well.

Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Insect Spray

Mosquitos love me. And I hate them. hate them. HATE them.

Even when no one else is being bitten by mosquitos, they will be eating me alive.

Products with DEET use to be the only repellants that worked for me. But fortunately, natural bug sprays have come a long way. And the Repel Brand of Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Insect Spray works for me.

But as much as I dislike DEET, I keep Coleman 100 Max with DEET on hand for the few months of the year when mosquitos are dense in hot and humid areas.

Food and Drink:

I have a routine for travel snacks and food stops. One small cooler holds a ½ gallon of Fairlife milk, a few bottled waters, a prepackaged vegetable tray with ranch dressing, and baggies of cut-up fruit.

I sometimes grab a tray of cheese squares and crackers as well, depending on how long the drive is.

While filling up for gas, if the station has hot dogs, sometimes I will grab one to eat on the road. I rarely eat hot dogs at home. But, for some reason, I can hardly resist a gas station or movie theater hot dog. 

Many of the larger gas stations have a good supply of fresh food items as well. So, if the cooler gets low and there is not a grocery store nearby, I grab a few things from the gas station. Things like milk, deli meats, cheese, fruits, and vegetables.

I like knowing I have something in the cooler if I am too tired to go out to find food once I reach a destination.

Car Cooler with Rollers

I like to take two small 15-quart car coolers when road tripping. One for food and one for drinks.

The small size and rollers make these coolers so convenient for me. And, in a pinch serve as a seat or laptop table.

When traveling solo, I keep one in the passenger seat where I can have easy access to cold milk (love milk), fresh veggies, and fruit.

Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Last year I began hearing good things about the Hydro Flask brand. And while shopping at an outfitters store near Canyonlands National Park, I found a huge supply of them. And in every style, size, and color you could imagine.

It took me forever to figure out which one would suit me best.

I am an avid coffee drinker so I chose the Hydro Flask Coffee Mug. I love it and use it for both coffee and water.

I would have purchased a water bottle as well, but I don’t like carrying more than one stainless steel container. They are just too heavy, clunky, and clangy to be hiking with more than one.

Though Yeti is still #1 in the business, Hydro Flask is quickly closing the gap.

Nesco 8 Inch Electric Skillet

I cannot count the number of times I have ended up in a hotel room or short-term rental without a microwave or cookware.

Though I don’t mind fast food at all or going to a restaurant, I like to be able to cook up something simple like chicken thighs and vegetables when I get the craving. And I get the craving a lot.

I bought the little Nesco Electric Skillet out of desperation on a road trip last year and I wholeheartedly recommend it. It heats up crazy fast and can cook 2 small servings of meat and vegetables to perfection. Crazy easy to clean as well.

Recently I chose NOT to pack the Nesco Electric Skillet and ended up having to take detours to purchase similar electric cookware.

Once I ended up purchasing a much larger electric pan because it was the only option. Currently, it is stored in the back of my kitchen cabinet. doubt I will ever use it again.

Then on another trip, I chose poorly, yet again. I did not pack the little Nesco Electric Skillet.

I ended up taking another detour and purchased a tiny little George Foreman Mini Grill. It cooked up my chicken and veggies just fine. But it is more of a panini press.

It is stored in the back of my kitchen cabinet alongside the large electric pan.

Park Passes, Trail Permits, and Maps:

American The Beautiful Annual Park Pass

The Annual U.S Parks Pass costs $80 and can be purchased online. Or at the entrance to most all major federal parks and recreation entrances.

This pass is the ONLY way to go when exploring National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands because the entrance fee for most major U.S. parks is $35 per vehicle.

So, this annual pass quickly pays for itself.

Trail Permits

There are tons of trails and hiking adventures in National and State parks that do not require permits.

But many do. So, I recommend checking online for permit requirements.

Park Maps

Cell service is often unreliable or non-existent when hiking and when navigating to remote parks and destinations. I like to download google maps, detailed trail maps, and general park maps before beginning my road trips.

Also, I love pouring over printed colorful, and detailed fold-out area maps the night before vising a destination. These maps are available at nearby campgrounds, hotels, and other establishments.

Whew! That may seem like a lot of stuff.

But, using this packing list as a guide will give you peace of mind as you head out on your next road trip adventure.

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