Summer is here, and for us that means the time is right for camping, barbecuing, fishing, and, most importantly, taking a vacation! States are lifting stay-at-home or shelter in place orders, which seems like the light at the end of the tunnel for all of us feeling cooped up as a result of months of quarantine. 

Even though the timeline for the U.S. easing air travel restrictions is still uncertain, road trips are a perfect option for those itching to get out of the house. Road trips limit contact with others and give you control of your own personal space, but also allow you to take a much-needed summer vacation.

Here is a list of the 10 best road trip accessories to take with you on your next getaway.

PPE & Sanitation Gear

While states are re-opening, it’s important to prevent the spread of coronavirus and adhere to any social distancing guidelines that are still in place in many states. Personal protective equipment and sanitation gear can be used at gas stations, rest stops, and grocery stores during road trips. There’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to find all of the protective supplies you’ll need while on the road, so it’s best to stock up before you go. 

Portable Battery Packs

If you’re bringing electronics on the road, portable chargers are a must-have. With so many things to do and see on the road, portable chargers keep your devices powered up and ready to go. Portable chargers are useful travel accessories to have in general, especially in the case of emergencies. Stay connected (and keep the kids entertained) along the journey. 

CatTongue Non-Adhesive Gription^® Pad

Speaking of kids, the CatTongue Grips Non-Adhesive Gription^® Pad will help you maintain your sanity on long drives with the family and get a grip wherever you go. This portable, double-sided, and non-abrasive grip pad will keep coloring books, playing cards, and gaming systems in place, so the kids can stay busy in the backseat. 

Our non-slip grip pad is the perfect solution for keeping things in place on car dashboards or larger surfaces like counters, shelves, desks, tables, workspaces, or cabinets in an RV. It’s designed to travel with you, so it’ll prevent your gizmos, gadgets, and phones from slipping, sliding, or shifting without permission. 

Backseat Organizer

Having a place for everything will make driving more comfortable by keeping your car clean and organized. A backseat organizer will keep messes off of the floor and road trip necessities within arms reach at all times. Backseat organizers are perfect for road trips, but can also be used for everyday trips in town.

Outdoor/Picnic Blankets

Driving long distances can be made easier with scenic nature breaks. Pull over and take in gorgeous scenery comfortably on a picnic blanket. For couples, a picnic blanket is all you need to create a romantic date night under the stars. As an added bonus, picnic blankets can also be used for a quick power nap in the car. 

Cooler

Food options can be limited on the road. Packing snacks and drinks in a cooler helps you skip the fast food and save money. Additionally, coolers are ideal for larger families on a budget. For solo road trippers, a cooler within arm’s reach will help you stay hydrated and satisfy your hunger.

Bike Rack

Stretching your legs every few hours is recommended on road trips, and bringing your bike along will provide an energizing change of pace. Trade four wheels for two with bike racks that can be easily attached to the roof or the back of your car. 

Travel Trash Bin 

From gas receipts to empty snack bags, clutter can build up quickly on the road. A travel trash bin is a road trip essential that will keep the car fresh and clean for the whole ride. Most travel trash bins are collapsible, waterproof, and leakproof to contain messes and smells. 

Binoculars

Take the classic road trip game of I Spy to another level with binoculars. Whether you’ll be driving through a national park or along the coast, binoculars are great for sight-seeing and they provide kids with a screen-free road trip activity.

Windshield Shades

Finally, keep the temperature cool while parked in the hot summer sun with windshield shades. Not only do they provide more comfort in your car on a hot sunny day, but windshield shades can also add a layer of privacy in your car or RV. They are easily collapsible and can be conveniently stored for use on a road trip or to the grocery store. 

The journey is always more important than the destination, especially for road trips. Pack the right road trip accessories to maximize comfort and enjoy adventure on the road this summer after months of quarantine.