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Make your next road trip even more fun and comfortable with this essential gear.

Road Trip Essentials

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The dirt-shedding exterior isnt super soft to the touch.

Sleeping in the car, front-country camping, or truck-bed overnights are better with a giant blanket.

At 17 x 11 inches, its a little small for an overnight pillow.

Amazon Rumpl The Down Blanket

Credit: Amazon

Partially deflated, this also doubles as lumbar support in case your back starts to get tired from driving.

It also comes with its own stuff sack and has a removable, washable cover.

It is self-inflating, but it takes a while to get all the way up.

NEMO Fillo Pillow

Credit: REI

It has reinforced seam lamination as well as open-cell foam for loft without too much extra weight.

The lighter colors look a little like orthopedic shoes.

Even if that thought has never crossed your mind, this puffy shoe will change your tune.

Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad

Credit: Amazon

The mens version also comes in anankle-boot style.

The drinking spout and non-squeeze sides can take some getting used to.

Tap the spout down and you have an incredibly leak-proof bottle.

Dog sitting on the Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad outdoors at a campsite

Credit: Travel + Leisure / Margot Cavin

This is the most truly one-handed bottle Ive ever used.

Best Backpack

Gregory Rhune 25

This is the clown car of backpacks.

You will not believe how much you’re free to cram in this thing.

Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad sitting on the grass next to a pump

It may not be the best option if you plan to stop for hiking.

This is definitely an investment item.

The brand itself is known for quality and Im a sucker for the color options.

The blown-up Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad sitting on the grass at a campsite

Some people might want a hard-sided gear bin for more protection.

If youre packing to move, youll want something larger.

This means less wind resistance, which in turn means (slightly) better fuel economy.

Dog sitting on the Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad outdoors at a campsite

Some people might prefer more wrap-around coverage.

They have a wide front-coverage design and come in a variety of classic colorways.

The adhesive mount is great on flat surfaces, but the front can peel up on curved dashboards.

Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad sitting on the grass next to a pump

There isnt any USB-C output, so gear charging external items could be faster.

I always carry a portable charger, whether Im flying or road tripping.

you’re able to only charge one item at a time.

The blown-up Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad sitting on the grass at a campsite

Just not all at once, so plan ahead.

The tub is too large for some door-side pockets.

I like the Armor All because theyre a great all-in-one wipe.

Chaco Ramble Puff Clog

Credit: Amazon

Consider your passengers

Unless youre road-tripping alone, youll have passengers to consider.

Comfortablekid-friendly headphonesare also a must-have for long car rides.

For nostalgias sake, one of my favorite games is the classicInterstate Highway Bingo.

Bivo Trio Insulated Water Bottle

Credit: Bivo

REI Gregory Rhune 25L Pack

Credit: REI

YETI Roadie 24 Cooler

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REI Co-op Trailgate Gear Bin

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Amazon Thule 614 Pulse Rack Medium

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Amazon Nathan Polarized Sunglasses

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Amazon Peak Design Mobile Car Mount VHB

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Best Buy Anker Portable Charger 325 Power Bank

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Smartish USB-C/Lightning Cable for iPhone 15/14

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Armor All Car Cleaning Wipes

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