Don't Get Caught on a Family Road Trip Without These 19 Essentials
The best thing about loading up the car and taking your family on a road trip across America is that you can literally stop at any point during the drive and experience something new. Even if you arrange your rest stops ahead of time, you never know when you'll drive by something inspiring that makes the kids just want to jump out and explore. But just as you never know what you'll see, you also never really know what you'll need in the car to keep everyone happy. Whether it's a pillow for naps, games to occupy the kids, or even a first-aid kit to treat that unexpected scrape, here are 19 things you'll want to toss into the trunk.
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Angie's Boom Chicka Pop Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn
When you need a mix of something a little sweet and salty, Angie's Boom Chicka Pop Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn ($5) is the way to go. There are only 70 calories per cup in this snack, but it's loaded with flavor.
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Nap Travel Pillow
This portable Nap Travel Pillow ($35) makes sleeping on the road so much more comfortable.
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LapGear MyDesk Lap Desk
Pile the LapGear MyDesk Lap Desk ($20) with everything the kids need: toys, snacks, drinks, coloring materials, tablets, and more!
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Portable Phone Charger
This Portable Phone Charger ($20) makes sure your battery is charged, no matter how far you go. In case you're using the car charger for other phones, or in case the car battery dies, it's always smart to have this on hand.
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Enovoe Car Window Shade
The Enovoe Car Window Shade ($13) will keep sun out of everyone's eyes.
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SC Johnson Shout Instant Stain Remover Wipes
Keep these SC Johnson Shout Instant Stain Remover Wipes ($5) in the car for when you inevitably spill ketchup from that drive-thru on your clothes.
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No.2 Toilet Paper
Ever been to a rest stop that's out of TP? Take No.2 Toilet Paper ($34 for 24 rolls) with you for emergencies.
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Uniquely J Gentle Baby Wipes
Whether your kids are snacking in the car or that roadside bathroom stop doesn't have proper facilities, you'll be thankful you brought along Uniquely J Gentle Baby Wipes ($13).
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Dramamine Motion Sickness Relief For Kids
Motion sickness can creep up at any time. Keep Dramamine Motion Sickness Relief For Kids ($4) in your luggage just in case.
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Corkcicle Canteen
Traveling with a baby and need to bring milk? Want to make sure there's hot coffee for the driver to stay awake? Whatever the need, the Corkcicle Canteen ($30) is a tried-and-true method for keeping liquids either warm or cold for hours at a time.
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Wireless Headphones
Make sure to give your kids some JBL Kids' Wireless Headphones ($40) to use with their tablets so they won't get tangled and you won't have to suffer through Frozen for the hundredth time.
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First Aid Only 299 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Kit
You never know when a bump or scrape will come up. Keep everything organized in one place and stash this First Aid Only 299 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Kit ($15) in your car.
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Snack Containers
Pack some snack containers ($14 for two) for keeping snacks fresh or storing leftovers you pick up at pit stops along the way.
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Magik Catch
Encourage your kids to get some exercise during those roadside stops with the help of a Magik Catch ($5).
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Lifeline Black AAA Premium Road Kit
It's a good idea to have this Lifeline Black AAA Premium Road Kit ($24) in your car, and hopefully you never need it.
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Nintendo Switch
To avoid constantly hearing "Are we there yet?" from your kids, keep them occupied with a Nintendo Switch ($297) and Super Mario Party.