Summer road trip season is here, and recently WalletHub released their list of the Best Road Trip Destinations for summer 2018! The personal finance website researched all 50 states and scored each state based on costs, safety, and activities. WalletHub also examined gas prices, hotel room costs, quality of roads, and much more.

Overall, the top spot for WalletHub’s Best Road Trip Destinations goes to Wyoming, which boasts impressive rankings, including landing first in the cost category. North Carolina, Minnesota, Texas, and Florida rounded out the top five.

Whether you are doing a cross-country adventure or checking out one of these top states, here’s my ultimate packing guide for your road trip ride!

 

Car Needs

A road trip requires a car, so it’s critical to have all of the car essentials. Be sure to have your license, registration, and proof of insurance policy handy. I also recommend having your car’s manual, spare tire, and roadside kit prepared in case of emergency. Don’t forget to bring a first aid kit and flashlight, and download an app for directions before leaving!

 

Staying Entertained

Once you have your car prepped for your trip, it’s time to consider how you will stay connected and entertained during your ride. Be sure to pack a phone charger that can be plugged into the car! You may also want to purchase a hands-free kit for your phone that can be attached to your windshield or vents. This allows you to view your directions without using your hands. Other essentials can include games, cards, books, and a camera.

 

Other Essentials

Other than your entertainment and car essentials, it is important to pack a few comfort items. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, blanket, and a travel pillow for your ride. Other essentials include sunscreen, tissues, body or baby wipes, and other toiletries. I also recommend packing mints or gum for a quick pick me up. Snacks and a reusable water bottle are two other items you cannot go without. A few extra things that I also pack for my road trips include hand sanitizer, painkiller medication, an umbrella, and plastic shopping bags.

 

Ready to take a road trip? My ultimate packing guide will help you prepare so you can hit the road worry free!

 

Paul Deloughery is an law insurance dispute consultant and avid traveler. Check out his latest Travel blog or visit his Twitter!