A car trip can save you all the hassle regarding checkpoints and baggage fees, but if you want to save some money on the gas, a lighter car will do the trick. This means a lighter baggage, which will also make your back happy, when you will need to carry it. Plus, there will be less clothes to wash when you’re back home.
Duffel Bags Save Space
Pack your things in duffel bags and backpacks with soft sides as they can fit better in the trunk, along the other stuff you carry. If you will make multiple night-stops until you reach the final destination, pack the over-night essentials in smaller bags and put them near the trunk open. Like this you will only unpack the few things you will use that night, not the whole baggage.
Comfy Clothes
Pack only comfortable clothes, in natural or dark shades when you travel. Lighter shades can stain easy and will not make good travel companions. Jeans can also be a bit uncomfortable. Fabrics are also an issue to pay attention to. Fancy silk or fabrics which require ironing are to be avoided. If you will stop to restaurants, keep your outfit comfy, but decent. A pair of leggings and a dress or an oversized T-shirt will do for any place.
Comfy Shoes
A comfortable outfit will require comfortable footwear, so toss the flip-flops and the high heels and bring in the sneakers. Any other comfortable shoe is good, as long as it can allow the foot to walk comfortable, even when swollen.
Keep Cool
Pack snacks in zipper bags and put them in a cooler, inside the trunk. Use a smaller cooler to keep snacks ready inside your car. Avoid food or drinks which can stain or spoils easily. If you make sandwiches don’t put in the creamy ingredients like mustard or mayonnaise, but keep them beside and add them when you eat the sandwiches. Water is the best choice for drinks as it can rehydrate you and doesn’t stain.
Go go Gadgets
Use a GPS to help you find your route and if you rent the car ask the rental company for a GPS. If you get lost you can recalculate the route with your GPS and reach the destination safely. But as technology is full of unpleasant surprises, don’t rely on the GPS alone. Charge your mobile devices like the smartphone and the tablet and take them with you. Also pack a map, as it may come handy in areas without signal.
Check the Emergency Kit
Before you start your trip check on the emergency kit and make sure everything is in good condition and sufficient quantity. Check the expiration date and replace stuff if needed. Apart from the emergency kit, pack a blanket/person and jumper cables. Check the spare tire and the car winter gear as well.
Make sure you have hygienic wipes and pack a few in the truck, but also keep some of them near you, inside the car. Moisturized wipes are always good to rely on when traveling, so don’t forget them.
