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One of the best parts about a road trip is the freedom to go wherever your heart desires. However, without the right essentials packed for the journey, that freedom can quickly become frustrating. That’s why I’ve put together a list of must-have items for your next road trip, all while staying within budget (I was sent these items for review purposes; however, all opinions are my own). From comfortable accommodations to entertainment options, these essentials will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Click through to see all seven road trip essentials.

Seven Road Trip Items to Upgrade Your Journey

Pack Everything You Need

A great travel backpack is especially essential. I was sent the Rainier Weekender Backpack from The Skyway Luggage Co. The Rainier Collection offers durable and eco-friendly luggage with intelligent organization features to suit any traveler’s needs (there’s a size for everyone). Each piece is made from 100% recycled PET materials and has a quality finish that can withstand the rigors of constant use. I really liked the style and pattern of the backpack, but most importantly, I love how there are a number of straps and clips, which made it easy to attach the bag to just about anything. The main compartment is cavernous and holds more than a full weekend of just about everything you’ll need (in my case, days of clothes and cosplays). The two side pockets seemed small initially but were large enough to hold all my portable electronic needs (minus my computer) and everything else I wanted close at hand. 

Don’t Be Left in the Dark

Have a handy flashlight ready for late-night check-ins, darker rest stops and everything in between. I tested out the Hybrid Power Flashlight 4000 Lumen from Infinity X1. This flashlight operates on either four AA batteries or the rechargeable unit that’s included (the USB cable is attached, so you don’t have to worry about hunting for the cord). To make things even more environmentally friendly, the instruction booklet literally dissolves in water to reduce waste. You can access a digital copy before it self-destructs by scanning the QR code. How cool is that?

A Touch of Luxury

Bring a luxe skincare set. Let’s be honest: even if you’re planning for a super chill trip, traveling can be stressful, and if you’re like me, stress tends to manifest on your skin. I tested out the Byroe Skincare Starter Kit during a weeklong convention trip. This travel starter set from Byroe includes four luxurious skincare pieces that calm the skin and make you feel extra fancy (I actually looked forward to using them every evening after a long weekend convention). 

No Dead Batteries

Pack a supercharger that can multitask. I tested out the EZQuest 120W USB C Charger. I love this one because it can charge three items at once and comes with an adaptor. It doesn’t take up much room either, and you can utilize the Type C and USB ports for charging just about anything. This came in handy during convention trips when I needed to charge everything from my laptop to my iPhone to my portable charger. Everything charged well, and I didn’t have any mid-day dead battery panics the entire trip. 

Fancy Fuel (For You) on the Go

I’ve been a fan of Copper Cow Coffee since I took one low-budget road trip several years back. While the rooms were clean and comfortable (enough), we had an early start every single morning, and the coffee options weren’t optimal. Copper Cow Coffee is a pour-over coffee company that offers individual sets for on-the-go brewing. The portable sets make it easy to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee, no matter where your travels take you. Copper Cow Coffee elevates the typical travel coffee experience by providing high-quality ingredients and an enjoyable, mindful brewing process.

No Leaky Toiletries

Traveling for longer trips with multiple purposes can make it difficult to pack the right toiletries (especially when the climate is decidedly different from your usual). I was sent a Poke-A-Dot Organizer, and at first, I wasn’t quite sure what to make of it. After a little time, I realized it’s a pretty fantastic organizer for road trips when you’re not limited to a quart-sized bag for your liquids. I piled all of my liquid toiletries in here, utilizing the small, moveable walls, and packed it pretty tightly. I was rather impressed that it fit snugly in the bottom of my backpack (specifically the Rainier Weekender Backpack), and upon arrival, nothing had moved or leaked. 

Sleep Safely

You can never be too careful these days, and the Master Lock 270D Folding Door Security Bar is the perfect way to make sure you can sleep soundly and feel secure. I spent a week at a decent, lower-budget hotel during a convention and brought the folding door security bar with me. It’s easy to use, adjustable, and allows us to feel more comfortable knowing there is an added layer of security. Because the bar folds down, it doesn’t take up much space in the trunk. This bar is a bit heavy, but I took that as a good sign since it was very durable and well-made.