Preparation manual for a Roadtrip – what should you take when traveling by car?

Are you planning a trip but don’t know where to start? Follow our travel preparation guide to get the most out of your family car vacation.

Take the stress out of your packing

Have you ever felt that you can’t plan your trip because you still have the daunting task of packing for the whole family?

Family trips are a fantastic way to create memories that will last forever, but they can also be a hassle when it comes time to prepare. If you forget something, there’s no helpful assistant at hand – and you might find yourself miles away from the nearest store.

Whether you’re planning to explore your own country more or embark on an overseas adventure, our practical packing guide can help streamline your holiday plan and ensure you’re not caught off guard in the middle of the road.

Step 1: Select the roads and print the itinerary

Depending on where you’re traveling, you might not have network or internet access on your phone. Bring a map and print the itineraries for your planned destinations. If your destination is remote, you might want to note the location of gas stations and the distance between them. Better yet, install a portable GPS unit in your rental car and navigate easily on less-traveled roads.

Having trouble choosing your itinerary? Check out our Roadtrip Itineraries for inspiration.

Step 2: Choose the ideal vehicle

The most important element of the vehicle you’ll be traveling in is the set of wheels best suited for the trip. For small families or short distances, our comfortable and suitable range of economy class vehicles might be the tip. Alternatively, take a look at our range of four-wheel drive vehicles, which are very spacious for passengers, luggage, camping gear, and everything you need to explore a little further.

Step 3: Pack your bags!

With the car chosen, knowing where you’re going, and the family quite excited, now it’s time to think about what to take on your Roadtrip. Read below for tips from our guide to see everything you need to make this family trip an unforgettable experience.

Basic clothing

Generally, you should bring light clothes that can be layered. Even in regions with very hot climates, temperatures can drop sharply at night. In that case, shorts and flip-flops won’t protect you!

• T-shirts and sweaters
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Fleece sweaters or jackets
• Shorts and skirts
• Lightweight long pants
• Warm pants
• Belt
• Socks (wool ones are best for hiking)
• Comfortable shoes and driving shoes
• Raincoat or waterproof jacket or umbrella
• Pajamas or nightgowns
• Underwear
• Swimsuits
• Travel towels
• Small backpack for essentials
• Hats
• Sunglasses
• Casual wear for dining out
• Camping gear (if camping)
• Cooking utensils
• Warm sleeping bags
• Flashlight

Toiletry basics

No one wants to sit in a car for days on end with someone who forgot their toothbrush. And whatever you do, bring as much sunscreen as possible for everyone.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste, dental floss, mouthwash
• Hairbrush and hair ties
• Deodorant
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap or body and face wash
• Makeup remover wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen and face lotion with SPF protection
• Lip balm with SPF protection
• Personal hygiene products
• Scissors, nail clippers, and tweezers

Health

Don’t be caught off guard without the essentials for the worst-case scenarios. Bring everything you might need to keep everyone happy and healthy.

• Extra contact lenses and cleaning solution if needed
• Glasses and prescription if needed
• Prescription medication if needed
• Paracetamol and children’s fever reducer
• First aid kit (bandages, gauze, adhesive, etc.)
• Thermometer
• Allergy medications
• Hydrocortisone cream or antibacterial ointment
• Multivitamins
• Sunburn relief balm
• Insect repellent, mosquito net, and sting anesthetic
• Motion sickness tablets
• Eye drops

Technology

You’re going on vacation to escape screens, but some equipment will provide comfort to everyone, even if used sporadically.

• Mobile device and car charger
• Laptop, iPad, or e-reader and chargers
• Headphones
• Camera, GoPro, or video camera, memory card, and chargers
• Converters and electrical adapters (if traveling to the United States and Anglo-Saxon countries)
• Portable speakers
• Portable GPS

Comfort and information during the trip

Avoid hassles and have everything at hand while on the road.

• Driver’s license for drivers
• Car rental agreement and insurance documents
• Itinerary with directions
• Maps and travel guides
• Bottled water (bring more bottles than you think necessary)
• Cooler for picnics and snacks
• Compilation of the whole family’s favorite music
• Travel journal and pen
• Books and magazines
• Deck of cards and travel games