Whether you’re headed out on the road for a few days or you’re prepping for a shorter road trip, there are so many things you can do to make your life easier when you start your journey.
Also, having the right road trip hacks is kind of essential. There’s gonna be hours of driving along long highways stretches, and if kids are involved, then things might get a bit more difficult.
But with the right car travel hacks for longer road trips or short travels, you can actually help stress-proof your road trips. So check out these ideas before hitting the road again; they’re great ways to make your life easier and your trip more enjoyable.
1. Have a “Stop-Worthy” Folder on Google Maps
It doesn’t matter if it’s a quick trip or a longer road trip, always create a “stop-worthy” folder on Google Maps. It’s a great way to make sure you do your research so you’re not realizing that you missed out on something cool two days later.
There really are so many beautiful views, fun roadside attractions, and cool spots that’ll make your trip so much more memorable.
I promise you, the road trip stops and spontaneous detours really are worth it.
2. Pack Your Shoes in a Shower Cap
I really like road trip packing hacks like this; it’s so simple, but so helpful.
To keep your clothing and other items clean, just put your shoes in a shower cap. It won’t take up extra space, and it’ll keep the bottoms of your shoes from touching anything in your suitcase.
READ MORE FROM BRIT+CO3. Pack a Bag of Napkins & Utensils Because Eating on the Road is Messy
Whether you have kids or it’s just you, always keep a bag with plastic utensils, napkins, straws, and anything else you think you might need. You’re going to be eating throughout your trip, and messes will happen. So it’s a good idea to make sure you minimize on them to make your road trip a lot less stressful.
READ MORE FROM MPMK4. Hang a Shoe Organizer Behind Seats for Organization
Before you head out on your trip, I’d get a shoe organizer to hang behind your front seats. It’s a great way to keep road trip essentials, toys, and even snacks organized.
5. Fill Plastic Easter Eggs With Surprise Snacks
Plastic Easter eggs are a cute way to store snacks for your kids. Just make sure to keep the eggs safe and organized by placing them in an egg carton.
READ MORE FROM KCL6. Create Your Own First Aid Kit
Yes you can buy your own first aid kit, but why not make your own? It’s a great way to have the essentials ready, and you can add anything else you personally think you’ll need if something does happen on a travel day.
Update: Original page on Travel Channel no longer exists.
7. Print On the Road Kids Activities
Traveling with kids isn’t always easy which is why I think this might be one of the best car trip hacks.
When boredom hits, everything might just become a mess. So give them this printable kids activity to get them busy and motivated during the whole trip. Also, it’s a great way to help them have fun; long stretches of endless road aren’t always the most interesting!
READ MORE FROM KCL8. Get a Personal Fridge
If you want a travel-friendly way to save space while keeping drinks and snacks cool or warm, then a personal fridge might be your answer. Also, it’s a nice way to make sure you’re not making too food and drink stops.
Update: Original page with the personal fridge doesn’t exist anymore, but you can find this other personal fridge here. Just make sure to check reviews before purchasing!
9. Put Binder Clips Over Your Razors
If you wanna keep your clothing and other packed items tear-free, then quickly putting on a binder clip is a great way to keep things safe!
10. DIY Smartphone Holder
Using a rubber band and a binder clip, you can make your own smartphone holder. Honestly, this is such a genius road trip hack for when you can’t be bothered to buy one.
READ MORE FROM MAMA SAY WHAT11. Travel With a Lego Box
Another great way to keep your kids entertained is to bring a box with legos for them to play with. I’d keep it minimal like in the photo though. Too many pieces means bigger messes and lego pieces going missing.
READ MORE FROM KCL
Grace Moser is the author and founder of Chasing Foxes, where she writes articles to help women create a life they love in big and small ways. She's been a full-time traveler since 2016 and loves sharing her experiences and exploring the world with her husband, Silas. Her lifestyle and travel advice can also be seen on sites such as Business Insider, Glamour, Newsweek, Huffpost, & Apartment Therapy.