This is the most important resource you need for planning any sort of road trip.

We focus on family adventures, so there are quite a few family items here, but we have you sorted for road-tripping with your partner or your mates, too!

Get your notepad ready, or click here to download a printable version of this road trip packing list.

It’s important to note, not all road trips are created equal! It’s impractical to think you’ll need the same gear trekking through Europe in a hire car in winter as you’ll need for a summer RV trip across the United States; we’ll include here a very general checklist for all types of road trips, plus additional items to consider in extreme weather and certain locations.

Car Essentials: Important Items to Pack for Vehicle Safety and Maintenance

Before we get on to personal comfort and entertainment, it’s essential to consider the road trip essentials for your vehicle. Whether it’s your own car, a campervan, or a rental vehicle, here’s what you need to ensure is packed in your road-tripping vehicle.

Insurance

It should go without saying THE most important thing to have before you commence a road trip is travel insurance and car insurance.

Think not just any potential damage to your vehicle, are you insured for theft, delays, cancellations, or personal liability if you cause an accident? Will your travel insurance or credit card insurance cover these things, or do you need extra protection?

Roadside Assistance

What would happen if your vehicle breaks down mid-trip? If your vehicle is rented, your car hire company might have this covered for you – but do check the fine print when you’re signing your contracts about who is responsible for what.

If it’s your own vehicle, you may need your own coverage, separate from your insurance. Some premium credit cards include roadside assistance, but perhaps only with limited conditions (e.g. within a certain distance of home).

Check, double-check and make sure that phone number is saved somewhere you can easily grab in an emergency!

Drivers License

A valid driver’s license is a very important road trip essential! If traveling out of the jurisdiction where your license was issued, check if your driver’s license is accepted at your destination. Will you need to obtain an international driving permit?

Vehicle Registration

You will also need evidence of vehicle ownership with you or a rental agreement showing ownership.

Car Manual

No doubt this bulky item spends 99% of the time taking up space in your glove compartment but do not dream of leaving it behind on a long journey. Just imagine a scenario where you are stuck on the side of the road with no internet, cell service, or roadside assistance; when all else fails, check the manual!

Emergency Roadside Kit

Even with roadside assistance, there may be a few running repairs you can take care of yourself. Consider packing your own jumper cables, spare bulbs, small torch, screwdriver, and tape – or even easier, invest in an emergency kit you can keep in the trunk.

62 Piece Roadside Emergency Assistance Kit

127-Pieces Roadside Car Emergency Kit

Roadside Assistance Emergency Kit

See more below on extra safety gear considerations for cold-weather road trips.

Spare Tire

So often, our pre-road trip checks go as far as we can see inside the car and ensure your oil and water levels are OK, but never forget about your spare tire!

Ensure it will still be roadworthy and get you out of trouble when you really need it – and that your car is equipped with the appropriate tools, including a jack and bolt remover if you get a flat tire.

Smart Phone

We can all agree that smartphones are needed for almost every aspect of our lives now, and road-tripping is no exception. From navigation to music, QR Code reading, camera – oh, maybe even making a phone call?!

There’s no hard and fast rule on the best road trip smartphone; it’s down to whether you’re camp Apple or Android. We would suggest a phone with tons of storage space or the ability to add external storage.

Traveling overseas, you may want a phone capable of dual sims – and don’t forget to have your phone unlocked if you want a sim on a different network.

Road Tripping Apps

Of course, a smartphone is only as good as your downloaded apps. Here are some essential road tripping apps to consider:

Roadtrippers

This app is a total game-changer if you’re a regular road tripper, particularly at the planning stage. Load it up on a big screen first and play with all the different routes you can take. You’ll get driving distance estimations, add filtered layers for roadside attractions, food and accommodation options, and even a fuel calculator. (Google Play | App Store)!

Once you hit the open road, use the offline maps and look out for any last-minute detour planning; it even has guided navigation. Currently, detailed maps are available only for the USA, Canada, Australia & New Zealand. It’s one of the few “free apps” we’ve tried, and immediately saw the value of upgrading to Plus. The free version is good but limited in how many stops you can add.

Get $5 off the plus version here! Code: BTR5QTP

Google Maps

We do still keep Google Maps as our backup navigation tool. Just remember if you will be out of range to download maps in advance (many apps will require you to upgrade to the pro feature if you use this feature). Be mindful that downloading maps can be heavy on your phone’s memory, so delete the maps you no longer need.

You’ll find our complete guide to essential road trip apps over here

Loose Change

Parking meters, tolls, tips. We might be heading further towards a cashless society, but we’re not quite there yet. Always handy to have some local currency coins rattling around in your car for emergency situations.

Notepad and Pen

Likewise, as much as our smartphones manage our lives these days, a good old fashion pen and paper at times never go astray as a handy emergency item.

Charger / USB Cord

With all the handy uses for smartphones these days, you can see just how quickly you’ll drain the battery once you hit the road.

You’ll want some sort of charging device in your car, whether this is through an in-built USB port in your car or on older models, an adaptor that can fit in the cigarette lighter socket.

4 in 1 Multifunctional Charger Cable Adapter

Fast USB C Car Charger Adapter

iPhone Fast Car Charger, Veetone 48W Dual Port USB C

Just check if you need a USB, USB C, or a combination of both and the right cords for connecting your devices.

Phone Holder

Even better than having your smartphone floating around the car, get a purpose phone holder that can attach to your dash. You can then easily use your smartphone for navigation; these holders can also act as a charger, meaning you will need one less car accessory.

Magnetic Phone Holder for Car

Air Vent Cell Phone Holder Car

Cell Phone Holder for Car Phone Mount Long

Flashlight

Super handy when your car battery has died, or you’re seeking out lost items under seats. Keep a torch or small flashlight in an easy-to-grab part of your car.

Lepro LED Flashlight with Clip

LE Black Light Flashlight

EDC Small Rechargeable Flashlight

Multitool/Pocket knife

Another handy item to always have in easy reach is a multitool or pocket knife. Be it minor running repairs, mini scissors, or taking off bottle caps. An indispensable family vacation packing item!

Mini Hand Tools Pliers Multitool Knife

Camping Hunting Multitool Pocket Knife

Multitool Pocket Knife Accessory Gift

Windshield Sun Shade

If you are road-tripping in hotter climates, you’ll quickly realize just how essential a windshield sunshade is for your car. Look for a design that covers the entire windshield and can easily fold back into a convenient pouch.

A1 Shades Car Windshield

EcoNour Car Windshield Sun Shade with Storage Pouch

EcoNour Accordion Windshield Sun Shade for Car

If you are driving a truck or larger SUV, be mindful that you will need larger shades than regular cars.

Road Trip Essentials for Families

So now we’ve got everything you need to keep the vehicle going and navigate your way; here are all the items you need to keep your family clean, fed, and cared for.

You may also want to check in on our guide, “road tripping essentials for kids.”

First Aid Kit

We all know accidents can happen anywhere – literally anywhere! You can probably have a full first aid kit tucked in your trunk, but an easy-to-access first aid kit for road trips should be kept inside your vehicle, most likely in your glove compartment. Think items such as Band-Aids, children’s Panadol, and diarrhea tablets.

Tissues & Water Wipes

Snot, spills, spit-up; you know the drill if you’re a parent. We always keep tissues for the front and back of the car and a good supply of water wipes for those heavy-duty cleanups on the go, not to mention constant hand cleaning!

Motion Sickness Tablets

Don’t let long windy roads impact your road trip enjoyment. If you have a motion sickness sufferer, plan your route carefully and bring a few different remedies. Just be aware many motion sickness tablets make you tired, so don’t pop one right before you need them to make a roadside stop!

Dramamine Motion Sickness for Kids

Bonine Motion Sickness Tablets

Dramamine Motion Sickness Less Drowsy

Trash System

Keep your car organized and clean with an appropriate spot to keep your trash. This can simply be a reused plastic shopping bag or if you love your car clean and neat, try these purpose-made car trash bins.

HOTOR Car Trash Can with Lid and Storage Pockets

SUN CUBE Waterproof Car Trash Can with Lid

Car Garbage Bag Hanging with Strap

Water Bottles

Hydration on the road is essential, but don’t overdo it! The larger the bottle you give kids, the greater your propensity to pull over every 30 minutes for bathroom breaks.

Pick a good insulated bottle for every family member (if possible, assess the size of the beverage holder everyone will have in the car).

Thermoflask Double Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle

Swig Savvy Sports Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Takeya Originals Vacuum-Insulated Stainless-Steel Water Bottle

Reusable Coffee Mugs

Do the environmentally friendly thing and cut our plastic cup waste on your road trips. If you love your hot beverages for the taste of keeping alert, BYO it! Just check though; some coffee travel mugs come with handles that may not fit in a car beverage holder.

BrüMate Toddy 100% Leak Proof Insulated Coffee Mug

Life’s Easy – Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug

Congela 18oz Premium Stainless Coffee Mug

Snacks, Snacks, and More Snacks

A healthy supply of road trip snacks is KEY to keeping the hangry’s at bay. They are the ultimate pick me up, and kids really look forward to this part of a road trip.

However much you think you’re going to need, pack double. Oh, and as cute as those trays of food in one big tackle box look, do think practically too; if one child knocks it over, will you lose your entire journey’s supplies? If you’re going bento box-style, keep it compact.

We have a huge list of 40+ Healthy Road Trip Snacks for kids over here.

Polarized Sunglasses

Make sure the driver has good 100% UV protection sunglasses. You’ll likely want a set for your passengers, too, especially in warm and sunny climates.

Women’s Sunglasses UV400 Mirrored Lens

Lightweight TAC Polarized Tinted Retro 70s Sunglasses

KUGUAOK 2 PACK Polarized Sports Sunglasses

Car Organizers

Keeping your car organized can be an ongoing challenge for a road trip, but certainly, a sanity saver if you can put some good systems in place.

Back of the Seat Organiser

These are great when taking your own vehicle for having an organized system in the back seat of your car for the kids. Find a home for tissues, wipes, snacks, and toys that can stay in the car. Some even come with fold-down trays and tablet holding systems.

CAR KANGAROO Back Seat Car Organizer 2 Pack

VENFOREST Black Car Backseat Organizer

Tidify Car Front Seat Organizer

Sun Visor Organizer

These sun visor organizers for the car are a great convenient spot for keeping things like parking passes, loose coins, insurance documents – even a handy spot for things like tissues, wipes, and face masks.

Da by Car Sun Visor Organizer

Car Sun Visor Organizer

Car Truck Visor Storage Pouch Holder

Travel Tray For Kids

Great, especially for your preschooler and younger children in a forward-facing car seat. A travel tray expands the number of car games that a child can play and gives them a flat surface for eating snacks and somewhere to hold their drink bottle and tablet.

Trunk Organizer

These trunk organizers are great on long road trips where you may not want to pull everything out at every stop. You can have compartments for picnics and trail stops, another for food, and a quick and easy-to-reach spot for toilet emergencies.

Oasser Waterproof Collapsible Trunk Organizer

Mega Racer Black Trunk Organizer for Car

Collapsible Trunk Organizer for Car

Road Trip Essentials Babies and Toddlers

As you’re no doubt acutely aware, babies and toddlers add a whole extra element of complexity to our travels! We won’t necessarily call them challenges – but just a little extra thought and space – tend to be needed when road-tripping with very young children.

Infant Car Seat

Family Road Trip 101. Every child needs the appropriate safety restraint in a vehicle until they reach the height and weight to move into a grown-up chair (which may be much later than you think!)

You will need to check the local regulations on where you’ll be road-tripping, as some countries are much stricter than others on the appropriate type of restraint.

If you are looking to use your car seat on a plane, too, there are extra considerations to consider – you’ll find a good guide here on what car seats are appropriate for cars and planes.

Booster

Even if your child has outgrown their infant car seat, they may still sit too low in their seat to use the seat belt properly. There’s a long in-between phase where kids still need a booster seat.

You will likely start with a high-back booster that converts from a 5-point harness to a lap belt, then, as they grow, downgrade to a portable backless booster that just gives them a little extra height and support.

Car Mirror

When your newborns and infants are still super small and unable to communicate with you – particularly when still in a rear-facing infant seat – it’s vital you have some way of keeping an eye on them. One way is to install a car mirror above their seat that you can see from your rearview mirror.

Wide Shatterproof Baby Carseat Mirror

Fully Assembled Baby Mirror For Car

Shatterproof Newborn Safety Mirror

Car Baby Monitor

Alternatively, a portable car baby monitor may give you a clearer vision of your child without needing to strain in a mirror or distract you from the road ahead. The disadvantage of a camera in the car is that you have extra wires to deal with, and they take up a plug point – which may invaluably be needed for your smartphone or navigation device!

There are pros and cons to both car mirrors and car baby monitors but they can certainly bring you peace of mind, particularly traveling with a newborn.

Side Window Shades

We talked earlier about keeping the sun off your dash while parked but don’t forget your side windows too. Young children can be distressed by the light coming through the window, especially if they’re trying to nap so a great addition to keep your backseat guests cozy is a properly fitted side sunshade.

Enovoe Car Window Shade

kinder Fluff Car Window Shades

GOODYEAR Self Sticking Car Sun Shades

SUVs and larger vehicles consider you may need a larger shade or two shades on each window to get full coverage.

Portable Bottle Warmer

This is probably more of a “nice to have,” but if your bubs are especially fussy and like their bottles at a certain temperature, you’ll find it a total lifesaver!

There are plenty of portable bottle warmer models made especially for cars (though, be mindful that they’re all competing for that valuable in-car plug point!)

Don’t forget an insulated breastmilk bag if you’re taking pre-pumped breastmilk bottles in the car with you.

We talk more about drinks & cooling systems below in gear you need for roadside stops!

Quick Change Diaper Kit

You don’t need to pack your entire diaper bag in the car with you for a road trip! Sure, make space for a full change kit in the trunk, but in the car, we prefer to have an easy access grab and go change mat for roadside stops – or even in the front seat if you need to!

Include spare diapers, wipes, disposable baggies, and diaper cream that fold inside a changing mat that doesn’t take up loads of space.

Travel Portable Diaper Changing Pad

SIMBOOM Portable Changing Pad

Enovoe Portable Diaper Changing Pad

Porta Potty

On to the next stage… potty training parents will sometimes know you simply need to go NOW!! Often bathrooms are not readily available when you need them, so do consider having a simple travel potty seat in your car, preferably one you can bag up the mess and deal with at your earliest convenience.

Portable Potty Training Seat for Toddler Kids

Travel Potty Chair for Kids

On The Go Potty Travel Potty Chair for Camping

Also, consider whether a freshly toilet-trained child might need to wear “special car pants.” There’s no shame or regression in suggesting to a child they need their special pants for longer journeys until you’re certain they can go longer stretched and their warning system improves.

Piddle Pad

Graduating again to the next stage. Even with our well-trained preschoolers, we kept a liner in their car seats for years to come. They will put an extra layer of protection between your child and the seat and are much easier to clean in case of an accident than spend days with the smell of a urine-soaked seat.

INFANZIA Piddle Pad for Carseats Strollers

PudCraft 2PCS Piddle Pad Car Seat Protector

COOLBEBE Thicken Carseat Piddle Pad

Psst – do you regularly suffer from the dreaded car stench on a long journey? We share our top tips for removing bad odors from your car and how to keep your car smelling pleasant throughout a long journey.

Road Trip Essentials for Entertainment & Comfort

With all the safety and practical items dealt with, it’s time to get you all cozy and entertained, ready for your next long road trip.

Travel Toys

No matter a child’s age, they still need car toys! For babies, these can be simple items they can kick and chew on, through to more complex puzzles and coloring for your older kids.

Think about items that can’t be choked on without direct supervision, won’t roll away, and get lost between seats if you’re buying road trip toys for toddlers and younger children. And don’t forget to throw something in that can be used at roadside stops, like frisbees or balls.

You’ll find our favorite toddler car toys here

Tablets/Portable DVD Player

A savior for us on the very long driving days has been allowing the kids to use their tablets or electronic devices.

Each family will need to determine its own rules once it comes to screen time on the road. Just remember you may not have WIFI or an internet connection once you hit the road, so anything on their devices needs to be downloaded in advance.

Music, Audio Books, Podcast

Music is a given on any road trip, but why not mix it up with some family audiobooks and podcasts? There are plenty that are suitable for families that you can either listen to together or download onto each family member’s device so they can listen to them alone.

We’ve found Amazon Audible invaluable for this.

Headphones

With electronics, music, and audiobooks, these go hand in hand with the whole family having their own headphones!

Elecder i37 Kids Headphones

Kids Wireless Earbuds

Headphone Splitter

Remember, younger kids will still need something that is volume limiting to protect their hearing, whilst older kids may prefer to graduate to smaller earbuds. Children can still watch something together if you get them a headphone splitter.

Portable Power Banks and Battery Packs

Now we’ve seen just how vital our electronics are these days when we travel by road, don’t forget all these items need to be charged at some point!

Sometimes it simply can’t wait until you are back at your accommodation and have a power source. We strongly recommend having for your car a multi-power adaptor that can work through USB, or having several battery packs, pre-charged and ready to help when a device is running low.

USB Car Charger Adapter

Super Fast USB Car Charger

SUNDAREE 60W 4 Ports USB c Car Charger

You can get smaller units each that will easily fit in their car trays or seat organizers, or go with a big family model 20,000 mAh that will surely last you al an entire day on the road – one of the most useful but often forgotten items for a family road trip!

Family Games

Away from screens and devices, think ahead to games you can play in the car that don’t need any additional props or accessories.

Younger kids can easily pick up a game of I-spy and counting games, whilst your older kids, I’m sure, can enjoy a few rounds of “Would You Rather” or more challenging alphabet games to pass the time.

You can find plenty of games to play in the car with family here, or for older kids after more of a challenge, you might want to check out our collection of road trip trivia games.

Seat Belt Cozies and Neck Pillows

Once kids move out of a high back booster, they have much less support for their heads. Fine when they’re awake and chatting, but you’ll want something that adequately supports their head for nap times – likely on longer trips.

This can be attaching a comfortable cushion over the seat belt they can snuggle into, or even better, a neck pillow that can completely wrap around their head, giving a comfortable fit.

We compare the best car seat pillows for toddlers here.

Drivers cushion

Particularly if you are prone to sciatica back pain, a comfortable car seat cushion for long-distance driving is another essential for drivers.

Road Trip Essentials for Roadside Stops

Traveling long distances with children will require regular rest stops, be it for gas stations and a restroom, or a longer stop to stretch the legs and explore the trails en route. Here’s what we always keep handy in the car for those essential road trip stops:

Small Day Bag

Ready to grab and go when you leave the car, we keep a small backpack ready with the essentials we might need for snack stops, short hikes, and play parks. This can double as the bag you keep snacks in and the important little things like a first aid kit, sanitizers, and fresh face masks.

AOTIAN Small Lightweight Hiking Daypack

SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack

Wraifa Waterproof Oxford Small Backpack

Hand Sanitizer

Goes without saying, right? A small sanitizer tube comes everywhere these days, with every child having one clipped to their own day packs, plus the first aid kit, the purse!

6 Empty Travel Hand Sanitizer Bottles Holder

5 Pack 2oz Keychain Empty Squeeze Bottle With Holder

5 Pack 1 oz Keychain Empty Squeeze Bottle With Holder

Sanitizing Wipes

I am sure these have been in every Mom Bag well before COVID germs were a thing. We have long been rubbing down tables and cleaning grubby hands on the go. We do like to keep stronger surface wipes separate from those wet wipes we use on their faces and more sensitive parts of the body.

Lysol Disinfectant Wipes

Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes

Nice ‘N Clean Moist Flushable Wipes

Spare Toilet Roll

How many bathrooms have you stopped at on a long road trip only to discover there’s no toilet roll? A roll of spare toilet paper is always a handy road trip essential to pack. (And depending on the country you’re in, a few coins, too in case it’s a pay toilet).

Bamboo Toilet Paper by Nature’s Call

Coghlan’s Tissue On The Go

4 Ply Soft Toilet Paper RV Essential

Cooler Box

Important for meals on the go, keep your food fresh using a cooler box. The size really depends on whether you are camping and the cooler will be housing all your food and drinks, or are you simply needing to get the most perishable food from one fridge to the next?

Ivation Electric Cooler & Warmer with Handle | 24 L

K-Box Electric Cooler and Warmer for Car and Home – 34 Quart (32 Liter)

K-box Electric Cooler and Warmer with Wheels for Car and Home – 48 Quart (45 Liter)

On larger camping trips or with a campervan, you may have a plugin fridge that runs off the car battery. All you will need then is a smaller snack pack size cooler needed for day trips. Look to add soft ice packs with your small cooler box to keep drinks cold all day, and restock with ice cubes when you can.

Small Blanket

Easy to grab and go with your picnic lunch stops. A great range of sand-proof and waterproof blankets can fold down extra small, so small they should fit in your daypack and help prevent sand and dirt from making their way back into your vehicle.

Beach Blanket Sandproof Adults Waterproof

KuoSEN Outdoor Picnic Blanket Beach Blanket Sandproof Waterproof 

Beach Blanket, 79”×83” Picnic Blankets Waterproof Sandproof

Cutlery

While we hate to do the dishes on the road, we hate how environmentally damaging plastic waste can be even more. If we’re going disposable, make sure it’s made from recyclable material like bamboo cutlery. Better yet, it’s a great idea to pack your own picnic set if you think you’ll be making frequent roadside stops.

PURPLECLAY Disposable Wooden Utensils Set 360 PCS

Treeatery Compostable Cutlery Set – 380 Value Pack

Weemium Disposable Wooden Cutlery Set – 300 Count 

Bug Spray

It doesn’t take long for the bugs to find you on those roadside stops! Flies, mozzies, midges, gnats, keep yourselves protected with bug spray; look for those gentle on kids’ skin.

US Organic Mosquito Repellent Anti Bug Outdoor Pump Sprays

Bug Soother Spray (2, 8 oz) – Natural Insect, Gnat and Mosquito Repellent & Deterrent

Badger – Anti-Bug Shake & Spray

Sun Hats & Sunscreen

And don’t forget the sun’s harmful rays too. Even on a short trail, playground, or roadside stop, the sun can catch you out on a hot summer’s day. Keep little heads protected with sunhats, and out in the midday sun, remember sunscreen too.

Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen

Connectyle Outdoor UPF 50+ Sun Hat

Two Peas Organics – All Natural Organic SPF 50 Sunscreen

Pssst – worried about sunscreen stains in the car? We know; it happens! Follow our tips here for removing those sunscreen stains and a few extra tools you may want for car maintenance, especially on a beach road trip.

Raincoats & Umbrellas

On Winter road trips, you will no doubt have the opposite issue with kids getting wet no matter what you try! You must get everyone out of the car regularly to stretch their legs, so make sure you pack appropriate provisions to deal with the weather, including raincoats and umbrellas.

Repel Umbrella Windproof Travel Umbrella

Columbia Youth Girls’ Switchback II Jacket

ZOOGS Kids Glitter Rain Boots for Girls and Toddlers

You may also want separate rain boots that are kept in the trunk so as not to dirty up the back of the car.

Quick-Dry Towel

You can be sure if there’s any pond, river, or even a puddle on your roadside stop, kids will find it! We love having a few quick-dry towels within easy reach in the trunk (plus a couple of spare outfits) ready for inevitable dampness that happens en route, no matter the season!

Travel Towel – Compact & Ultra Soft Microfiber

ECCOSOPHY Microfiber Beach Towel for Adults

BOGI Microfiber Travel Sports Towel-Quick Dry Towel

Hair Ties

Ladies with long hair will know exactly what we mean! Heading out on a trail, it’s always handy to keep one of these on your wrist – ideal for MacGyver-style repairs on the move, too!

Black Hair Ties for Women Girls

Goody Ouchless Elastic Hair Tie

Hair Ties for Girls Women, Funtopia 30 Pcs

Walkie Talkies

Traveling in convo with another vehicle? A great way to keep in touch with your comrades is a walkie-talkie for your road trip. On the lookout for a great place to stop? Radio on to your next vehicle when you need to pull over or to alert them to any hazards or interesting things to point out along the way.

Motorola T100 Talkabout Radio, 2 Pack

Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio

Retevis RT628 Walkie Talkies for Kids

While they can be a novelty fun for the kids and may not be seen as essential, heading anywhere off-road or remote, we think they’re a must-have for a road trip.

Winter Road Trip Essentials List

Traveling in icy or snowy conditions will require you to have a few more road trip essentials to hand. We recommend you also include on your checklist:

De-icer & Scraper

In colder climates or areas prone to frost, it is wise to have de-ice your car with a brush and scraper attachment.

AstroAI 27 Inch Snow Brush and Detachable Ice Scraper

SEAAES 51 Inch Ice Scraper and Snow Brush with Squeegee

EcoNour 27″ Car Snow Brush and Ice Scrapers

Chains

These anti-slip devices are a requirement in certain places. You’ll want a set of these handy to grab in your trunk ready to go in snowy and icy conditions.

WEIZE Snow Chains

Tire Chains for Suvs, Cars, Sedan

Tire Anti-Skid Snow Chains

Defogging Spray

Internal screen fog can be caused by extreme temperature differences. A defogging spray will assist you in quickly clearing screen fog.

Anti-Fog Lens Spray

Car Glass Anti-Fog Rainproof Spray Agent

Visbella Anti Fog Spray for Glass, Windshield of Car

Collapsible Shovel

When all else fails, you may need to get out of the car and make your path in the wintery conditions. These collapsible shovels and gloves are a winter road trip essential for anyone in cold and snowy climates.

Printable Road Trip Checklist

Save time packing for your next family road trip by printing out this road trip packing list, ready to check off items as you go!

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. You can read our full privacy and disclosure policies here.

© Family Road Trip

While driving down the highway and your car window fogs up, the first thing you do is blast the defroster. The fog clears but then builds up a few minutes later. 

The same thing happens to the car driver and passenger side windows. The windows fog up, hindering you from seeing your rearview mirrors. You roll your car windows down and back up to eliminate the moisture. But then the fog comes back again. 

And you are left wondering how to stop car windows from fogging up completely. Fortunately, there are ways to escape this seemingly endless cycle of fog recurrence and achieve nirvana. 

What Causes Fogged-Up Car Windows 

Moist, warm air condensing when it hits your car’s colder windshield causes condensation. The air next to the window below a specific temperature is called the dew point.  

Foggy windows could result from many factors, including humidity (inside and outside the car), temperature variations, and chilly weather. 

Humidity 

Humidity (water in the air) causes a buildup in water that turns into water vapor. When you get inside your car, you breathe the humid air. This air comes out from inside your body or off of it. 

Car fogging up inside tends to be more of a problem when there is more than one person in the car since there will be more breathing.  

Surface Tension 

Surface tension is another reason that causes the inside of your car window to fog up. This is because water molecules choose other water molecules to form tiny droplets of water. These droplets will attach to your car windows and cause fog. 

Heat 

Temperature is the action of molecules in motion. Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. This doesn’t mean that molecules are holding onto water molecules. When it’s warmer, more water turns into gas than it is liquid. This creates more space between each molecule with warm air, meaning water molecules thus can fit into this space between molecules.  

How to Quickly Clear Fogged-up Windows 

Understanding how windscreen fog is formed/ created can help you get rid of it depending on the season. Fog gathers on your car’s windshield when a temperature difference in the air meets.  

This means that fog in the summer is formed when your cool windshield hits the hot air outside. On the other hand, winter fog gathers when the warm air in your car meets your cold windshield. 

But whether the fog is inside or outside your car windows, it’s potentially dangerous as it hinders you from having a clear view of all directions. Here is how to ensure that your car windows are clear- no matter the season or weather. 

When the outside is colder than inside your car: 

• Change your air source 

With today’s technology, most cars come equipped with buttons that will allow you to recirculate the air in your car or pull air in from the outside. If you are starting to see fogged-up car windows, you should change the settings so that the air gets pulled up from outside.  

There is probably a button with a little car drawn and an arrow pointing inside the car. Tap this button so that the light above it is on.  

Alternatively, you can tap the button with a car and a circular arrow inside so the light goes off. By so doing, you will be turning off the function that recirculates the air already inside your car. 

• Lower the temperature in your car 

As earlier stated, car windscreen steaming up is caused by the temperature difference; therefore, getting the air temps inside your car to match the air outside will reduce fog. 

Turn your car fans on to the highest setting and turn the air temps down as cold as possible. But be prepared to shiver a bit, as this is the fastest but coldest method. 

• Turn on the defrost vent on with cool air: 

Your car’s defrost vent will direct air straight at your windshield, but the cool air will help your windshield temperature to match the air temperatures outside. This will help get rid of fog on your windshield. 

When it is warmer outside than in your car: 

When the temps and moisture level outside are great compared to the inside of the car, moisture will condense on the exterior of your car glass. Your goals are to change the temperature inside the car to match the outside temperature. 

• Turn down the AC if it is warmer outside: 

If you got water vapor on your car windows during the summer, turn down your air conditioner. Turning down the air conditioner will warm your car and get the inside air temperature to match the outside better.  

You can also opt to open your windows a bit to allow more outside air in, preventing your car from becoming too stifling. 

• Open your car windows: 

Opening your car windows is a quick way to get the temperatures inside to match the outside temperatures. Roll down your car windows as far as you can so that the warm air outside gets into the cool interior of your car. 

Driving with fogged-up car windows can be hazardous, but with the above tips, you can increase your safety while on the road. 

How to Prevent Fogged-Up Windows  

Having to deal with fog while in a rush can be frustrating. To prevent foggy windows in the future, try out these tips. 

Apply some shaving cream to your windshield: 

When buying shaving cream, look for the type that foams up when you squirt it out of the bottle or can. Spray a small portion of the shaving cream unto a soft cotton cloth and spread it over your entire windshield (ensure that you get every part). 

Then using a clean, dry rag, wipe it off. Doing this, you should create a moisture barrier on your car window, thus preventing fog buildup. 

Use silica cat litter

One way to limit moisture on your car windows is to ensure that it ends somewhere else. Fill up a sock with silica cat litter. Tie up the open side of the sock with a piece of string, and then place one or two full socks (packed with silica litter) near the front of your dashboard. 

Placing the socks with silica litter on the dashboard will help absorb the moisture inside your car during the night, preventing any fog buildup. 

You can also opt to buy dehumidifier products

BARSKA Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier

Buy it on Amazon

wisedry Rechargeable Silica Gel Dehumidifier

Buy it on Amazon

Vacplus Fragrance-Free Gel Moisture Packets

Buy it on Amazon

Keep your car windows rolled down if possible

If your car is in a secure area, roll your windows down about half an inch. Rolling your windows down allows some outside air to get into the car and can prevent the windscreen from fogging. 

This method is best practiced during the summertime since you do not want to risk any snow or ice getting into your car during the winter. 

Keep your car clean

Fog needs to cling to something; therefore, the cleaner your windshield is, the less foggy it will be. Your windshield collects particles from the interior and the road outside, creating a film inside your windshield. 

Remember to clean your windshield from time to time. Also, never try to use your hands to wipe away the fog, as it only makes matters worse. 

More Driving & Road Trip Preparation Advice

Whilst the weather can certainly make driving more challenging, there’s no reason without the right preparations steps you can’t continue to road trip year-round.

You may want to dig further into our driving and car care advice series, including:

Tips for Driving in the Winter
How to Prepare For Desert Driving
How to Keep Your Car Clean (even with kids!)
How to Keep a Campervan Heated in Winter

What Items Do I Need In An Emergency Car Kit?

Emergency Car Kit
Battery Booster Pack or Jumper Cables
Multitool
Gloves
Fix a Flat
Battery Backup for Electronics
Anti-Freeze
Snacks
Sunblock
Map
Case
Small Mechanics Tool Kit
First Aid Kit
Flashlight
Flares or Warning Signals
Charging Cord
Water
Wipes
Bug Spray
Toilet Paper

Now, whether or not you want to build your own emergency car kit or just get one that is already packaged for you, that’s up to you to decide. We will go through the items on the list, and you can make the decision that is best for you.

Read down to the end, and you can get a free downloadable PDF copy of what we pack every time we take a family road trip

5. First-Aid Kit

This will probably be the most used item in your emergency car kit. If you opted to go with a prepared kit, as mentioned above, you most likely already have one.  

However, if you have kids or are accident-prone, you may want a beefier first aid kit.  There is no shortage of selection when it comes to selecting a first aid kit. 

6. Gloves

Who wants to get their hands dirty?  I always have gloves.  I like gloves that have a high tactile feel and are sturdy.  When working with lug nuts whilst changing a tire or trying to manipulate a pair of pliers, you need to have control of your tools.  A simple set of gloves like these are awesome for an emergency car kit.

7. Flashlight

Flashlights are not just for emergency car kits.  You should have a flashlight in your car at all times. You never know when you will need it. 

8. Fix-A-Flat

This selection is somewhat controversial.  I always have a can of Fix A Flat or Slime in my truck.  If I have the option, I am going to change to my spare tire; sometimes, though, that is not an option. 

Having Fix A Flat gives you the ability to get back on the road quickly.  It is not ideal in all situations and should be looked at as a last resort.  But you will be thankful you have it if you need it.

9. Flares or Warning Signals

Again, some prepared emergency car kits come with these.  But if not, you want a set.  These will warn other cars that you are on the side of the road.  If our fine highway workers and survey crews use warning flags and signs, there must be something to them.

In lieu of having any warning system, a buddy with a flashlight will do in a pinch. But they aren’t that expensive, and it’s one more layer of safety.

10. Battery Pack Backup and/or Charging Cord

You never know when you are going to break down.  It will probably be when your cell phone is almost dead, which is the last thing you want.  These little backups are small, inexpensive, and easy to carry around.

Now, they shouldn’t go in your emergency car kit per se’.  You will want to keep this in your glove box or center console. Someplace you can get to easy enough so that it can be recharged.  

Or if the weather gets too hot, you can easily grab and carry it with you.  The extreme temperatures will damage the portable battery. 

Wait! Did you find this article during wintertime? You don’t need this stuff during winter. Check out our article on how to build an emergency car kit for winter.

Items For a Summer Emergency Car Kit

All right, so these first few items are general items that you should have with you at all times, no matter the season. 

12. Anti-Freeze or Water

Just like you, your car needs water, but more specifically, antifreeze, even during the summer. Summertime is a prime opportunity for your car to overheat. Having an extra gallon of water or antifreeze in the trunk is essential to ensuring that when your car gets hot, you can fill it up and get to a safe spot. 

Having antifreeze is preferred because it provides a level of lubrication to your engine, and you don’t necessarily have to worry about a change in the winter.

Water will be sufficient, and if you get there, you can also drink the same water. Having a gallon of water in your trunk is also acceptable because you can have some of that, too. Just don’t drink the antifreeze that would be very bad.

We share more tips for driving in the heat in our desert driving tips

13. Snacks

Well, if you have water, you might as well have some snacks to go with it. Just keep in mind that you don’t want anything that’s perishable or can melt in the summer heat. Think high energy and healthy snacks, not sugar-laden.

You want something that’s high in protein and will last a while like a pack or dried nuts or fruit bars.

14. Wipes

What should one of those things that are good to have all the time in your car as well as keep things clean? And your hands up are dirty after you get done changing your tire, so now you have a way to clean them up?

If you have kids or babies, you understand the importance of having wipes in your car.  Heck even having to be an adult it’s good to have wipes in your car.

15. Sunblock

You may think that having sunblock is only for the beach. However, if you think about it, if your car breaks down and you’re on the side of the road, you are not going to be sitting inside the car.

It’s hot in the Summer sun, and you want to have a way to protect yourself while you’re waiting for help to come or waiting for to get your car going again.

16. Bug Spray

I’ve lived in Maine, and I lived in Florida, and no matter where you’re at there are bugs in the summertime. So, have a can of bug spray or some sort of bug repellent that you can apply to yourself.

You will be an easy target sitting on the side of the road or wherever you’re broken down if you don’t have any bug protection. Even if it’s not an emergency, you have some there just in case if you’re out.

17. Toilet Paper

Ummmm, I’m not going to write much here. Maybe it should be at the top of my list. You know what you need this for.

18. Paper Map

At the very least, it will give you an idea of where you are going.

In my humble opinion, reading a map is becoming a lost art. What happens if your GPS fails? Maybe I am old-fashioned, but I always have a paper atlas when I travel.

Essentials you’ll want in your car for any sort of cold weather travel

Traveling during the cold winter months can be a dicey prospect, whether you are commuting to work or traveling for recreation. Careful planning and preparation are necessary in order for you to be safe on the road.

Accidents can happen at any time, and preparation is key in order for you to come through safely.  Preparing an emergency kit for the cold weather doesn’t need to be a daunting task.

First, you need to figure out what you are going to need. Are you going on a winter road trip? Do you have a long commute? How will you be traveling in the cold, snowy weather? So, what should you have in your emergency car kit when the cold weather months are upon us?

These items are listed in no particular order. There are so many items that you could pack, but what do you actually need? That depends on your particular driving situation. Look through the list and figure out what you are going to need in order to build the perfect winter emergency car kit. 

Items For Winter Emergency Car Kit

This is an extensive list of items and you probably won’t need everything on this list, but let’s take a look at these items to determine what you need.

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Essentials You Should Always Travel With in Winter

Emergency Car Kit

Let’s just start at the top: an emergency car kit should be a staple for every vehicle.  It contains many of the items that you will need should you break down.

For a relatively low investment, you can have peace of mind that if something should happen, you will have the basics.  Emergency car kits are available with a variety of choices, so what do you need?

A basic emergency car kit contains only the first aid kit; this is a relatively inexpensive option, but it won’t help if your vehicle breaks down. On the other end of the scale, there are emergency car kits that contain jumper cables, air compressors, tire repair kits, etc. You would truly be ready for nearly anything that could happen.

Most likely, somewhere in the middle is where you would fall. An emergency car kit with a small tool kit and jumper cables would suit your needs. So, what are your needs? Are you commuting back and forth to work? Are you taking a long road trip? Are you going away for the weekend? All of this will determine what level of emergency car kit you need.

Having an emergency car kit is a great start. But most are not geared specifically toward cold weather.  You will need to augment your own personal car emergency kit with items specific to dealing with cold temperatures.

The HAIPHAIK Emergency Roadside Toolkit from Amazon is a great place to start. It’s one of the few kits that come with a shovel. It lacks a first aid kit, but if you want to start building your own kit. This is a good place to begin.

Jumper Cables

If these are not included with your emergency car kit then you should absolutely have a set with you.  You never know when you will need them.

If you don’t know what you are looking for, then click over here to see what size jumper cables you need.

Also, there are some other considerations that you need to keep in mind.  Like what does the red and black on the jumper cables mean?

Choosing jumper cables is not complicated, but you should be educated before you make your choice.

Flashlight

Another staple that should be in all cars, no matter what season is a flashlight.  However, for cold weather, special consideration needs to be made to the type of battery that your flashlight uses.  

Cold weather will affect all batteries, but your regular alkaline Double A’s will be affected by the cold much more than a lithium-ion battery.  Even though the flashlights are stored in the car, the constant cold will eventually drain them. Then, when you need to use them, and you will, the batteries will be dead. 

Also, look for an LED flashlight.  The LED bulb has much more versatility than a conventional bulb and will be more useful in cold weather.  The LED bulb does not get hot like a conventional light bulb, so in extremely cold weather conditions, they are less likely to break.  They also draw less power from the batteries, so an LED flashlight will last a bit longer in the cold weather.

Finally, use rechargeable batteries or a rechargeable flashlight.  By maintaining a regular routine of recharging the batteries, you will always have a flashlight ready to go in case of an emergency.

Gloves

An extra pair of gloves is always good to have in the cold.  A nice set of wool gloves or even mittens is essential to have in your car kit because once your hands and fingers get cold, it is very difficult to warm them back up again.  

Also, you never know when you are going to need to touch something that has been exposed to the cold.  This will chill your fingers even faster. Gloves are good for keeping your hands and fingers warm, even if you have to do some work outside in the cold.

A nice pair of wool gloves will do the trick nicely.  What you should really look for would be something that is waterproof or, at the very least, water-resistant.  Because once your hands and fingers get cold AND wet, it will be very hard to recover from that.

De-icer

This stuff runs along the lines of fixing a flat in your car; you don’t know when you are going to need it until you need it.  I have used this stuff to get my car doors open when they were frozen shut and to scrape a layer of ice off my windshield.

I always liked having a can in the car because you just never know.  The one thing to keep in mind is that it does not work well when extremely cold.  If it sits in your trunk for too long, you may need to warm it up a bit before it will work properly.

Blanket

You always want to have a blanket in the car during the winter months.  During the cold winter months in Maine, we always had at least one blanket in the car, just in case.  If you break down, you will be very thankful that you have a blanket to keep you and your family warm.

What kind of blanket do you need?  The first thing that people think of when it comes to having an emergency blanket is the metallic space blanket. To be sure, these blankets serve their purpose. However, a warm wool blanket is the way you want to go. A space blanket will not keep you warm when it’s 20 degrees outside and the temperature is falling.

Think of it this way. When you go camping, you don’t bring a pad and a space blanket and expect to stay warm. You have a sleeping bag to keep yourself warm and dry. The same principle applies to ‘camping’ in your car when you break down.

This is especially important when you have babies in the car. Babies tend to get cold quickly, so having an extra blanket or two is a good idea. You also want to make sure they are kept warm in their car seat.

Batteries

Spare batteries are always good to have.  You keep spare batteries in your house. You had better keep them in the car as well.  Again, lithium-ion batteries are the best to keep in your emergency kit. They have a good shelf life, and they don’t leak.

Regular alkaline batteries will freeze and leak in freezing cold temperatures. This will do you no good when you are in an emergency situation. It will also damage the device that they are in.

First Aid Kit

This should be a staple in any car, any time of year.  Pick a first aid kit that will satisfy you and your family’s needs. 

Your first aid kit should include various size bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, and wrap. All the things you may need if you cut your hand changing your spare tire.

Ice Scraper

Don’t underestimate a good ice scraper.  These things are invaluable because, you know, they let you see where you are going.  You should have one of these in your car during the winter at all times, not just in an emergency car kit.  

I always carried two with me. One was extendable and had a brush on one end, with a typical ice scraper on the other end. I would brush any loose stuff off first and then follow up with some hardcore scraping.  

I always liked an ice scraper with a metal handle and rubber blade.  These always did a superior job of getting ice off of my windows.  

Tool Kit

Again a basic that should be in your car, any time of the year.  It doesn’t need to be a 199-piece set. Just something simple with pliers, screwdrivers, work gloves, wrenches, and a small ratchet set.

We are not talking about extensive mechanical work here. I am talking about having a screwdriver to pry the hubcap off of your wheels.

Multitool

In lieu of a tool kit, a multi-tool, such as a Leatherman, is your best bet.  I carry one of these around with me wherever I go, regardless of the season.

With a multi-tool, you have a set of pliers, a knife, a screwdriver (Phillips and flat head), a file, etc.  You never know when you are going to need it, but you’ll be glad you have it when you do. 

Cell phone

This one goes without saying.  This is probably your most important tool if you find yourself in an emergency situation.  Just make sure it’s charged or that you have an additional power source with you. Which leads me to…

Battery Power Pack for Electronic Devices

These babies are handy to have and inexpensive. We have one charged up and ready to go for hurricane season here in Florida. The only thing you have to do is make sure it’s charged and that you actually have it with you.  

Like all batteries, it is susceptible to cold weather, so it needs to be brought into the warmth at night.  Don’t leave it in your console or in your emergency car kit. There is a risk that the battery will die when exposed to extreme conditions.  

We use our cell phones for everything, so the likelihood of having a drained battery is pretty good.  It’s nice to know that you have a little extra power if you need it.

Shovel

There may be no more important tool than a shovel when you are traveling in cold weather especially if there is snow in the forecast.  

When you find yourself stuck in the snow or ice, your best friend will be your shovel.  Anytime you need to get unstuck, the shovel is the tool of choice. Be it you are stuck in a parking space because the plow truck pushed snow up behind your car? Or you find yourself on the side of the road because you got stuck in a rut.  

A shovel combined with a good set of traction mats, and you could possibly free yourself from a bad situation. 

Medications

This will not apply to everyone. But it’s something you need to keep in mind if you have specialized meds that you need to take. At the very least, you may want to have some pain relievers with you, just in case.

Snacks (Non-Perishable/ High Protein)

It’s bad enough being stuck on the side of the road and not being able to get where you were going.  It almost adds insult to injury to be hungry at such a time.  

Have healthy snacks like granola bars, almonds, crackers, and beef jerky at your disposal. You want something calorie-rich that will last a while. You don’t know how long you are going to be stuck.

If you have children in the car, make sure that you have snacks appropriate for them.  They will make a stressful situation worse if they are hungry. 

Extra Items (To Make Being Stuck Less Terrible)

The list above describes the essentials that you should have in your emergency car kit for cold weather.  If you want to be uber-prepared for cold weather, continue reading.

These are items that are not essential but nice to have if you happen to get stranded in cold weather.

Traction Mats

As I have said before, if I had known about these when I lived in Maine, I would have invested in a set.  

For most of us, we are driving to work, school, and dropping off the kids, it’s pretty basic. In cold weather, basics can become complicated. A little patch of ice, some packed down snow, and you are not going anywhere.

Traction mats give you the ability to get unstuck and go again, all on your own. Potentially, with a little bit of digging and placing these bad boys in the right spot. You should be going again.

The best part is, they are portable and don’t take up a lot of room in the trunk.

Looking for Tire Traction Mats?

Check out my recommendations on the best tire traction mats for you. Click the button to find out more Read More

Air Compressor

A portable air compressor is always nice to have. They can either be part of a jump starter pack or a stand-alone unit that plugs into the cigarette lighter.

When you are on the road, an air compressor has one job. To keep your tires inflated.  If you pick up a nail or discover that your spare tire is flat. Rather than using some Fix-a-Flat, an air compressor will get your tire back to where it needs to be so you can continue on your journey.

Remember you don’t want to over or under inflate your tires, so check your PSI before you get back on the road.  Also, keep in mind that you may have a slow leak. Inflating the tire with an air compressor may only be a temporary measure.

You may need to have the tire professionally fixed.  But at least you were able to get moving on your own terms.

Emergency Road Flares

No, these are not the ones you fire out of a flare gun.  As much fun as that is, road flares get ignited and placed on the road to warn other drivers.

These are nice if you don’t want to get creamed while you are waiting on the side of the road.  These signal other drivers that you are in distress. Some emergency car kits come equipped with emergency flares.

Just a word of caution: please be careful when using emergency flares.  They are very hot and can cause serious burns if not used properly.

Hazard Triangles or Led Flashers

A safer alternative and perhaps a bit more long-lasting alternative to emergency road flares are hazard triangles or flashers.  These, too, warn oncoming drivers that there is a broke down vehicle.

However, they do it without the flames.  Also, they are reusable. All in all, these are probably a better solution than road flares.  You do need to make sure that you have a good battery in the flashers, though.

Extra Clothes

Why would you need to carry a spare set of clothes?  Usually, when it’s cold, there is snow and ice. Snow and ice melt and make your clothes wet.  Wet clothes make you cold and put you at risk of hypothermia.

Or just having some extra clothing to wrap around you like a blanket.  Anything to keep you insulated if you happen to be stranded somewhere.

At the very least, carry a pair of insulated socks.  Cold feet are the worst and are high-risk candidates for frostbite.  

Paper Map

A what now?  Yes, before Google Maps, there were paper maps that showed where roads would lead. “ Why on Earth would I need a paper map? I have my phone.”  

Yes, you may have your GPS. I use mine all the time. But what happens when you have no signal? What are you going to do?  Whenever I am making a trip out of town, I have a paper map with me. There is something nostalgic about being able to navigate with your wits.

You don’t need one for your daily commute, obviously.  However, if you are planning a long road trip, it may not be a bad idea to carry one with you as a backup. Learn how to read a map, it will be one more tool for you.

Lighter/Waterproof matches

The ability to start a fire seems to be universal when it comes to survival.  Matches and lighter help that along tremendously. Now, obviously no one wants to be caught out of doors in the winter. However, if you are, you will need a fire to keep you warm.

Which leads us to the next item…

Candle Powered Heater

With a few tea lights and a coffee can, you can create a rudimentary heater for your car.  Please be careful not to set the interior of your car on fire.

With the proper candles, this will generate enough heat to keep you warm until a tow truck arrives and gets you going again.  

Continuing with this theme…

Fire Extinguisher

If things go badly with your candle-powered heater, you need a way to put out the fire.  Fire extinguishers come in a variety of sizes

Check over here for the best fire extinguishers for your car.

If you don’t need it for yourself, you will at least be in a position to help someone else in an emergency.

Tow Strap

What I wouldn’t have given for a tow strap when I got run off the road in Maine.  There I was completely helpless. I was totally unprepared…shame on me.

With a good tow strap, another vehicle, and someone willing to give you a hand, you can get yourself unstuck from many situations.

Find a secure spot on your vehicle and attach it to a secure spot on another vehicle some gentle pulling and you should be back on the road again.

These are almost a necessity if you do any offroading, but that is a different topic.

One last note: while it is good to have one, you should probably have some experience with a tow strap. Or, at the very least, have someone with some experience show you how to use one.  

You can do some serious damage to your car or the other person’s car if these are placed in the wrong positions.  

Rope 

There are substitutes for almost everything.  A rope is a great substitute for a tow strap. Make sure it is a good length, and it is a solid rope.

The same warnings apply to know how to use one. 

Pen and paper

Even in this digital age, a pen and paper are useful to have.  Like many other items on this list, you won’t know you need them until you do.

You may need to write down directions on how to perform a certain task. More likely, you will need to leave a note for someone.  

Whatever the case, it’s good to have.

Fix-A-Flat

Ah, good ol’ Fix-A-Flat.  No matter how you feel about this product; if it means getting you to a hotel for the night, I think you will use it.  I would.

Remember, it’s not a permanent fix, but it may get you to a safe and warm place.

The one drawback to Fix-A-Flat is that it doesn’t like the cold weather. So don’t leave it in the extreme temps for too long.

More Winter Travel Tips & Inspiration

Whilst the wintery weather certainly curtails a lot of road tripping adventures as roads become icy and inaccessible, but there are still plenty of places across the United States where you can have fabulous winter adventures.

If you’re still keen to hit the road this winter, check out next:

The Most Magical Christmas Destinations in the US
Canada’s Best Winter Family Holiday Destinations
Best US Winter Wonderlands For A Cold Weather Vacation
Epic US National Parks that are even better in the winter!
Here’s how to prepare you and your vehicle for a winter road trip
Escaping the Cold? Our favorite warm weather winter road trip destinations

Hands up who can profess to actually know anything about their car, other than how to drive it?

This was pretty much me until I moved to the desert. If you are living in extreme climates such as the desert in the Middle East, or deep in the US Southwest it’s essential to understand not only how the heat can impact your vehicle, but also the first steps to take when things go wrong!

This is not a 4-wheel drive “how to” or off-roading guide, but a simple survival guide for your everyday driver who may find themselves on a desert road trip and confronting difficult conditions in a foreign place.

Dealing with dusty conditions, extreme heat, tire blowouts and engine failure are just a few examples of what desert driving can throw at the inexperienced driver.

Electric Car Maintenance Advantages vs. Gasoline Cars

Electric vehicles have some decided advantages over their gas counterparts when it comes to maintenance:

The engines have fewer moving parts, so there is less to wear out.
EVs have a different braking method, which reduces wear and tear.
EVs have a simplified cooling system, the lack of radiator and component parts reduces overheating issues.
Motors and batteries are designed to last for hundreds of thousands of miles.
The servicing schedule is less frequent, requiring less time in the shop and fewer maintenance dollars.

Research indicates that electric cars, on average, cost at least 30% less to maintain over their lifetimes and, in some cases, as much as 50% less. Fewer moving parts are a significant cost-saving factor, as fewer things can wear out or break down. Other notable differences in servicing include maintaining fewer overall vehicle fluids.

No Engine Lubricant or Gas Exchange Required

Electric motors have no friction between moving parts, meaning they need no oil, filter, or exhaust system maintenance, making a big difference in overall maintenance costs. Electric motors have fewer “wear parts” that affect how they run. You won’t find timing belts, cylinder head gaskets, cooling hoses, etc., all of which regularly break down in internal combustion engine vehicles.

EVs also have a simplified transmission as there is no gearbox or clutch, as the electric motor delivers the direct drive, eliminating all breakdowns related to transmission.

The Difference in Braking

As all-electric cars have some form of regenerative braking, the electric motor slows the vehicle, making braking more efficient. Regular braking only kicks in after regenerative braking has started. This action puts less wear on the brakes, with disks, drums, and pads requiring fewer replacements.

These advantages add to considerable savings over the lifetime of your vehicle. Nevertheless, you’ll still need to bring in your EV regularly to ensure it operates properly. Let’s take a look at some things you’ll need to consider.

Other Systems Still Require Regular Maintenance

Your EV will still require regular preventive maintenance, as well as eventual repairs. Check your owner’s manual for specific intervals so the warranty remains in effect. Not following the recommended schedule can void the warranty, and you may end up paying for repairs that the warranty would have covered.

Whenever you bring in your EV for repairs or even routine maintenance, make sure a technician certified to work on electric vehicles performs the services.

Finding qualified mechanics is not a problem if you have your car serviced at the dealer, but the shop down the street may not have a certified EV mechanic on staff.

Systems and Items That Require Regular Maintenance

Most maintenance will consist of various mechanical inspections performed by trained mechanics at recommended intervals. As an owner, you can check tire pressure and adjust as necessary, check tires for wear, and top off windshield washer fluid.

Your mechanic should perform the following services as recommended by the manufacturer:

Tire rotations
Check coolant levels for the battery, cabin heater, power inverter, accessory power, and charger modules
Check for fluid leaks
Inspect brakes and perform maintenance as needed
Inspect power steering, half shafts, and drive shafts for excessive wear or damage
Check the airbag system
Lubricate body components
Inspect the suspension for wear, cracks, and other damage
Replace brake fluid
Replace the cabin air filter
Replace worn windshield wiper blades

Remember you’ll still need to replace tires with worn tread, headlamp, and taillamp bulbs, and get a wheel alignment if your EV pulls to one side or shows uneven tire wear.

What About Battery Maintenance?

One of the main concerns new EV buyers pose is how much maintenance their vehicle’s lithium-ion battery requires, as it is arguably the car’s most important component.

Today’s batteries are designed to last at least ten years and, in some cases, over the life of the vehicle. You don’t have to check your EV’s battery regularly, and if an issue arises, your car’s onboard computer will alert you to it.

Manufacturers generally provide EVs with a long-lasting warranty designed to cover defects.

Typical warranties cover batteries for eight years or 100,000 miles. You can expect that batteries requiring replacement outside the warranty period will have a significant cost, yet manufacturers believe the cost of replacement batteries will decline significantly over the next decade as production costs decrease and volume increases.

However, you should remain aware that EV batteries have a limited number of charging cycles, which is the number of times they can be charged and discharged. All EV batteries will degrade over time, although this happens slowly. The issue is more prevalent in older EVs with limited range than in new ones with a 200-plus mile range.

It’s also a good idea to set a timer when charging. Keeping your battery charged between 10% and 90%, except when going on a long road trip, is recommended. Having it charged too fully, or too little can reduce its capacity more quickly.

How You Drive Will Affect Your EV

Driving habits will affect your EV more than any other factor. Think about following these practices when operating your EV:

Don’t overload your car, as the battery will have to work harder.
Coast when you can, especially in heavy traffic, as regenerative braking only recovers a fraction of lost energy.
Conserve battery usage in cold, wet weather by not running your heater as often and minimizing other electrical components, as the battery must be warm to deliver full performance.

Paying attention to where you park is another essential habit that affects EVs. In the summer, park in the shade when possible to prevent using additional power to cool the car.

In the winter, do the opposite by parking, where sun exposure can help warm your vehicle while you’re away. If your EV has a thermal management system, ask your dealer how this will affect your EV in various temperatures and act accordingly.

Following these tips can help maintain your battery’s maximum power over time.            

Should I Remove My Roof Rack When Not In Use?

It’s always a good idea to remove roof racks when not in use to maintain the best possible fuel economy.

It can be a bit of a pain, especially if you are using your roof rack regularly, but yes, the consensus from motoring experts is that you will save fuel by removing your roof racks when not in use.

You may also want to read about why we suggest not driving around with an empty cargo box on your roof

Sources:

• Osti.gov – Fuel consumption impacts of auto roof racks
• Car and Driver – Tested: How much do roof racks affect fuel economy