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What to Pack for a Long Trip: The Ultimate Packing List

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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There’s an undeniable allure to embarking on a long journey—a feeling of leaving everything behind for new horizons. Of course, you don’t want to abandon everything —so we’ve compiled the perfect packing list to help you strike the sweet spot between overpacking and underpacking.

Bring too much, and you’ll be weighed down by hefty bags that you have to drag between hotels. Underpack and you’ll spend your time on the road scrambling to find everyday essentials. Packing for a long-haul journey is a challenge that requires a different strategy than packing for a short vacation. 

This customizable packing list for long trips will help you prepare for your next extended vacation. 

On a long trip, you’ll likely be experiencing different climates (or even seasons), so packing versatile items that can be layered is a must. You’ll probably also be going for long stretches without access to laundry facilities, so choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics made from odor-preventing materials such as merino wool.

Pick neutral colors that can be mixed and matched to create many outfits from just a few pieces. 

The Ultimate Packing List

Depending on the weather at your destination, you’ll want to pack a mix of short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeve tops, and sweaters. Two or three of each type of item should be more than enough, and you can adjust based on the temperature (for example, three short-sleeved shirts, one long-sleeve shirt, and one lightweight sweater for a hot climate.) 

Some of our favorite tops to pack for a long trip include:

• Outerknown Blanket Shirt : This heavyweight shirt is perfect for layering, as it can be worn open or buttoned up and is super soft and cozy.
• Mott & Bow Light Ribbed Sweater : The most warmth for the lightest weight, thanks to a cashmere and cotton blend. 
• Icebreaker Cool-Lite Sphere II T-Shirt : This Merino wool t-shirt can be worn multiple times without starting to smell.

Jeans can be safely worn many times without washing, and they’re so versatile that you can wear them in most weather conditions and social situations. Wear one pair of stretchy jeans on the plane and pack a second lighter pair of pants in your suitcase for hot days.

The best pants to pack for a long trip are:

• Levi Totally Shaping Straight Leg Jean s: Ultra-stretchy jeans that move with you and don’t bag out after multiple wears.
• Tommy Bahama Wide Leg Linen Pants : Perfect for hot weather destinations where you want to be covered up. 
• Spanx Jean-ish Leggings : Feel like leggings, look like pants.

Pack at least two pairs of shoes on long trips in case one pair gets wet or starts giving you blisters. We recommend bringing one pair of casual shoes that you can wear to workout in or walk around in, a pair of waterproof boots (for cold or damp destinations), and sandals for any beach or water adventures.

The best shoes to pack for a long trip are:

• Ariat Wexford Waterproof Chelsea Boots : These boots are stylish but fully waterproof, and the slip-on design makes airport security easy.
• Danner Logger Moc 917 GTX : For long trips that involve outdoor adventures, pack Danner’s Logger Moc boots. These versatile boots will work for both rugged trails and city streets. They’re completely waterproof and can shed snow and rain.
• Cariuma Knit Sneakers : A good pair of white sneakers fits any outfit.
• Tevas Original Universal Sandals : Great for the beach or walking around your hotel room, Tevas sandals are lightweight and easy to pack. 

10 Most Comfortable Travel Shoes for 2023

Electronics

Pick chargers and electronics that serve multiple purposes to save space on a long trip.

Essential electronics to pack for a long trip are:

• Kindle Fire : The Kindle Fire can be used to read books, browse the internet, and stream entertainment.
• 3-in-1 Charge Cord : A fast charger saves time, and this one has three different cords so you can charge any type of electronic you bring.
• Anker Portable Charger: This slim backup battery can charge an iPhone to 50 percent in just 30 minutes.
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds : Noise-cancelling earbuds will be handy on planes and in hotel rooms. 

For a truly long trip, it will be best to replenish your toiletries on the road rather than carting around full-sized bottles of everything you need. To get started, pack travel-size versions of all the necessities, including:

• Flexpower Sunscreen : A scent-free sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white cast.
• Over-the-counter Medications : This variety pack includes travel-sized packets of Advil, Pepto, and other key medicines.
• Travel-size toothpaste : This multipack from Colgate is an economical option.

The Ultimate Toiletry Kit Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Tracker Tag: The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 or Apple Air Tag can help you track any luggage you must check.
• Loop Earplugs : A good night’s sleep is essential if you’re traveling for a long time. Loop’s Earplugs can help block out any noise in a hotel or hostel.

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25 Practical Tips for Long Road Trips

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on May 25, 2024
• Published on July 7, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

You’re finally ready to embark on that epic road trip that will take you across the country from sea to shining sea. The gas tank is full, you’ve checked off every item on the packing list, and you’re ready to hit the road. But are you actually ready for a long road trip?

The longer a road trip, the more complicated it can get. I didn’t say would get, but it certainly can get complicated. Have you packed enough clothing for the entire trip, or will you need to do laundry along the way? Are you ready for chilly nights, rain, and unexpected adventures? Unfortunately, these are the kinds of questions many people don’t consider until the road trip is underway – and it’s too late to make many changes.

These 25 practical tips for long road trips will help you get prepared long before you leave home, save money along the way, and help you spend more time enjoying the road trip and less time dealing with those pesky complications.

Buy food at grocery stores instead of gas stations

Road trip snacks are almost as necessary as gasoline for the car – they even perform similar functions. But one of the worst things a person can do on a road trip is to buy the snacks spontaneously at random gas stations along the way.

Save money and time with those snacks at grocery stores or bulk purchase stores. Stock up on all the snacks, drinks, and coffee at a fraction of the price of buying it along the way. The more you save, the longer you can drive.

Get your car inspected

Before leaving home, get your car inspected. Most national chain auto repair shops offer free inspections because they want your business when they find something wrong with the car.

But it’s an excellent way to get all the fluids topped off, tires rotated and balanced, and the hundreds of moving parts of a car inspected before you leave. Spur of the moment auto repairs during a road trip can be prohibitively expensive – not to mention you might have to shack up at a roadside motel for a few days while the work is done.

Keep your car maintained

Did you know properly inflated tires can lead to better gas mileage? Under-inflated tires cause a drop of 0.2% miles per gallon for every 1 PSI of all tires. That may not seem like much, but it can add up on long road trips.

Consider a 5,000-mile road trip in a vehicle that gets 30 miles per gallon. This would require 167 gallons of gas to complete the trip. However, if all four tires are underinflated by an average of 4 PSI, that means the vehicle is only achieving 27.6 miles per gallon. This would require 182 gallons to complete the trip – an increase of 15 gallons.

Beyond tire pressure, be sure to maintain fluids for the radiator, brakes, and engine oil to prevent damage to the engine. Replaced burned out headlights and taillights immediately. Keep up with oil changes and tire rotations for trips longer than 5,000 miles.

20 Essential Travel Apps for Awesome Road Trips

Set a reasonable daily mileage goal

The point of a road trip is to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Driving 500 miles per day on the interstate highways doesn’t make for a very enjoyable road trip adventure. Driving that far on two-lane roads is incredibly tedious and exhausting.

By the time you stop at a couple roadside attractions, go for a hike in a state park, sit down for lunch, and take a short detour, the number of miles you’ll be able to cover in a single day will be limited at best. But that’s the point of the road trip! Set a limited number of miles to drive each day, giving yourself plenty of time to enjoy everything you’ll discover along the way.

Avoid rush hour traffic and peak dinner times

Sitting in congested traffic and waiting for food are two of the biggest examples of losing time on a long road trip. In fact, those are the biggest time wasters for just about any kind of travel. But there is a simple way to avoid losing time: avoid rush hour and peak dinner times.

Eat breakfast after 9 a.m., get lunch around 2 p.m., and consider dinner either early at 4 p.m. or wait until 7 p.m. During those time frames, you’ll get seated faster, and food served quicker. Also, when driving around town or between destinations, avoid the rush hours of 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.

As an added bonus, use a navigation app or dedicated GPS device in your car that includes traffic information – this information will help you spot potential traffic jams from congestion, construction, or accidents and usually includes optional detours. Using an app like OpenTable ( iOs | Android ) will allow you to make reservations at many restaurants – cutting down the time spent waiting for a table to open.

Road Trip to the 8 Presidential Sites Throughout Northern Ohio

A void Small Town Travel on Sundays and Mondays

Roll into almost any small town with a population of less than 20,000 on a Sunday or Monday, and you’re likely to find every restaurant, museum, and attraction closed. It’s not from the owners’ lack of business sense but rather because the owners often work in their businesses, and they want a couple of days off each week.

Sundays and Mondays tend to be the most common days these local businesses are closed. However, it may also include mid-weekdays like Tuesday and Wednesday. Instead of visiting the small towns, consider spending the night in state or national parks, driving scenic routes, or just taking a couple of days to relax.

Pack everything – including the kitchen sink

I own six rain jackets, four sets of trekking poles, and two pairs of Crocs Swiftwater shoes . It’s not because I want a particular color combination for each day of the week, but instead because I kept leaving the items behind, thinking I wouldn’t need them.

Pack everything you can possibly fit into your vehicle for a long road trip. Go beyond your tentative itinerary and think about things you enjoy doing that you might want to do along the way. Take those golf clubs or stunt kites, pack the fleece hoodie, and bring more than two pairs of shoes. Although it’s impossible to prepare for every eventuality, every little bit helps save money in the budget.

Fill the gas tank on Monday

GasBuddy ( iOS | Android ) conducted a survey a few years ago to determine the best and worst times for gas prices. Interestingly, Mondays were the cheapest day of the week to get gas on average, with the best time coming around 10 a.m.

Also, interesting – though not surprising – was that the worst day to get gas was Friday or the day before a major holiday. During those days, gas prices tended to spike first thing in the morning.

18 Essential Items That Belong on Every Road Trip Packing List

Don’t rely on cellular service

One universal constant of any long road trip is the eventuality of running into a cellular dead zone. Rural areas in the Midwest, rugged terrain in the Rockies, and sporadically throughout the Southeastern United States are areas in between cellular towers that will leave your cellphone or tablet as useful as screen doors for submarines.

Be prepared to eventually lose cellular service during your long road trip. Download Google Maps ( iOS | Android ) for offline use, make sure all your apps are up to date, and download movies for entertainment. Doing as much of this as possible while connected to WIFI will prevent you from breaching a monthly data limit.

Plan to do laundry on the road

Depending on the length of the road trip, the activities you plan to enjoy along the way, and your fashion style, it just might not be possible to pack a new outfit for every single day. So rather than pack five suitcases stuffed with every stitch of clothing you own, consider doing laundry somewhere along the way.

As a rule of thumb, pack at least five of each type of clothing. Shorts, pants, tees, polos or blouses, underwear, and socks. On top of that, pack something for chilly nights and rain. This will give you about a week of clothing – but you’ll need to get used to wearing those shorts and that shirt more than once in between washing.

Buy a laundry bag and take it with you on the road trip. However, do not buy laundry detergent ahead of time. The heat and humidity will ruin most detergents and leave your car with an overwhelming smell. When you finally decide to do laundry, be sure to take enough quarters to complete your load, never leave your laundry unattended, and always use a laundromat during daylight hours.

Get organized

Organizing all your clothing, gear, food, and accessories is a crucial and often overlooked aspect of any long road trip. But, after two, three, or four weeks of restacking bags, hunting for that small item, and shifting cargo around every curve of the road, you’ll be on the edge of losing it.

Buy stuff sacks or use gallon-sized Ziplock bags to organize smaller items. Buy midsized duffel bags or plastic totes for organizing smaller bags. Stackable totes that can lock together are best for keeping the totes from sliding around in the vehicle. Label everything and always leave the most frequently used items on top.

Get plenty of sleep

The first few days of a long road trip, you’ll likely feel energized by the excitement and tempted to stay up 18 hours a day. I can typically keep that level of stamina going for about the first three weeks of constant travel – but eventually, everyone slows down.

Getting plenty of sleep is important to maintaining your mental and physical health, not to mention keeping morale high. Spending too much time traveling and not enough sleeping will eventually lead to exhaustion, depression, and moodiness.

On a long road trip, plan to take one or two days a week off from travel. Find a nice roadside motel, splurge on a super nice hotel with a free hot breakfast, or settle into a campground for two nights. Avoid the temptation to go out and explore the area – just focus on rest and relaxation.

Road Trip Along the Scenic Route from Gatlinburg to Asheville

Keep the car clean (inside and out)

The day before any road trip begins, I always find one of those really nice car washes with the conveyor belt that pulls the vehicle through a wash cycle. Then, after getting the exterior cleaned – included RainX and a tire shine – I visit the vacuum cleaners. There is no greater feeling than starting a long road trip with a squeaky-clean vehicle.

On long road trips, it will probably be necessary to do a little cleaning along the way. Car washes are easy enough. Instead of relying on their vacuum cleaners – or paying for them – consider buying the THISWORX Car Vacuum Cleaner . It uses 12v power with a removable collection bin and comes with a nice travel bag.

For an added touch, the Little Trees Vent Wrap Car Air Freshner’s “new car smell” will make your vehicle smell brand new after getting it clean.

Join a roadside rescue plan

Most auto insurance companies and cellular providers offer some sort of roadside assistance rescue plan. If you don’t have the option for either of those, consider buying a AAA membership to access their roadside rescue plan.

At the very least, roadside rescue plans will unlock a vehicle, tow your vehicle to safety, and provide gas in case you run out. Better plans will include longer towing distances and more gas. It’s the one thing you never think about until you need it – so this time, plan ahead.

Road Trip on the Scenic North Carolina Waterfall Byway

Keep up with monthly bills

Only about 40% of Americans use auto pay for monthly bills like utilities and credit card payments – I’m not one of them. One of the biggest mistakes with long road trips that last more than a month is forgetting to take care of those bills before you hit the road or somewhere during the trip.

It’s easy to pay those bills with the home computer with your login information saved, but could you pay those bills on the road with a cellphone or tablet? Be sure to take your login information with you and keep it in a safe location like a locked glovebox or portable security case. Add the due date for any bills to your travel itinerary – and remember that cellular service is not a guarantee everywhere.

Life Pro Trip: Many credit card companies and certain utilities allow you to choose a due date for your monthly bill. Aligning all these bills for the same due date makes it easier to keep up with – especially while you’re traveling.  

Leave room for souvenirs

I know I said “pack everything – including the kitchen sink” earlier, but don’t go overboard and fill the entire vehicle before you hit the road. More than likely, you will want to buy some souvenirs along the way.

Smaller souvenirs like clothing, décor, and Christmas ornaments – my favorite type of souvenir to buy – are easy enough to pack into a bag or tote in the vehicle. But if you buy more oversized items like artwork, glassware, or large gift items, ask the retailer if they can ship them to your home or a relative’s home for safekeeping. Often, the shipping is included, especially in areas of high tourism where they expect the buyers to be non-locals.

Insider Tip: An easy way to keep up with souvenirs on a long road trip is to mail them to a friend or relative. The Flat Rate boxes at the United States Postal Service come in several sizes and are indeed a single flat rate – ranging from about $5-$15 per box – no matter where you ship it in the continental U.S.

Bring your favorite ___________

Do you have a favorite coffee mug? Slippers? Or what about a television series you love to watch? Just because you’re going on a road trip doesn’t mean you can’t bring some of those with you.

Bringing your favorite items with you on a long road trip can help you feel more at home and relaxed. Instead of missing that perfect coffee mug or comfortable slippers, you’ll feel much better having them with you.

Have an itinerary but leave room for spontaneity

It’s always good to have a travel itinerary. It’s essential to know the business hours of museums, restaurants, and attractions, so you don’t arrive too late or on a day when they are typically closed. Building an itinerary can help you avoid those frustrations.

However, leave room for spontaneous detours that will inevitably come along during a long road trip. Be prepared for entire destinations to change as your route progresses. Take advice from locals and be willing to give something new a try!

Road Trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Fill all prescriptions and bring extra

For three years, I worked as a certified pharmacy technician at CVS/Pharmacy in Emerald Isle, North Carolina. During the hectic – sometimes chaotic – summer months, we would sometimes fill thousands of prescriptions in a single day. The most common type of prescription was for someone who had left the medication at home.

If you have any kind of regular medication, be sure to pack that for your trip. But for long road trips that last more than 30 days, you might run out while on the road. Make sure your prescription has refills on file with your pharmacy or take a new prescription with you – as long as it is not a controlled substance. If your insurance allows, consider getting two or three months’ worth filled at one time for your long road trip.

Watch out for 140-degree heat in the car

On sunny days during the summer months, vehicles’ internal temperatures can rise 30-40 degrees higher than the outside temperature. When I was a kid, I remember going for a walk to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse during a family vacation. When we returned, my mom opened the back of the car to make snacks – only to discover the Cheese Whiz had exploded all over the car!

The high internal temperatures of vehicles can ruin more than just pressurized cans of food. Contact lenses, prescriptions, electronics, and coolers are all susceptible to damage from temperatures over 100 degrees.

You can reduce those internal temperatures by using a windshield sunshade. Close the sunshade on the moonroof. You may even consider buying curtains for the side windows – it’s not as silly as you might think.

Set a daily and final budget

My first road trip adventure of 2021 was a spontaneous, itinerary-free adventure along the Gulf Coast from Gulf Shores, Alabama, across Florida to Vero Beach. After a week exploring that area of Florida, I was considering heading south to Key West for what would have been my first visit. But when I looked at my bank account, my heart hit the floor when I realized my travel budget was at an end.

I’ve never been good at creating or keeping to a travel budget, and that resulted in a road trip cut short. So the better method is to create a daily budget and stick to it. But also give yourself leeway for those rare opportunities to do something awesome and set a final budget for the entire trip.

The advantage of a long road trip is that if you’re on the road long enough, you might just get an extra paycheck while you’re traveling. So how many vacation days do you have saved up for your long road trip?

Only travel by day

Some people only travel at night to avoid any traffic congestion at all – and that’s a good idea. But driving on unfamiliar roads at night poses some safety issues – not to mention what would happen if your vehicle broke down at 3 a.m.

The safest and surest way is to only travel by day. It will be much easier to keep aware of the unfamiliar road ahead, and you’re certain to get roadside assistance faster during normal business hours.

The Ultimate Road Trip on the Skyline Drive Through Shenandoah National Park

Choose the best road trip route

My #1 Rule for Road Trips is no interstate highways. There is just no reason to take a road trip route onto the interstate – you’ll miss everything along the way.

But what is the best road trip route? National scenic byways are a good start – there are dozens across the country. But sometimes, the most scenic or exciting road trip route is just a simple country road connecting interesting destinations. The best way to find those is to ask the locals – they always know the best route.

Document the trip

After returning home from an epic long road trip, it might be difficult to remember precisely where you found that amazing cheeseburger or savory salted caramel ice cream cone or watched that stunning sunset. It can be downright frustrating when you realize you don’t have a single photo to share or any clue where to find the name of that restaurant.

But what exactly does it mean to document the trip? I am not advocating for ten thousand photos plus an additional five thousand selfies from your long road trip. Don’t become one of those people who jump out of the car on the Blue Ridge Parkway just long enough for a selfie and then leave just as quickly.

It starts with the photos. Capture an exterior photo of every restaurant, museum, and attraction you visit – and be sure to include the name of the business. Capture an interior photo and then one or two photos of every meal or activity.

Take a journal. Jot down notes of the places you visit. Feelings. Smells. Sights. Take note of the business name, details of the food you eat, and reaction to museums. Draw pictures and maps, create word maps, put any word to paper that comes to mind. It will all be wonderful to see all the photos and notes again when your long road trip is finished.

Keep in touch with regular updates

One of the most important safety measures you can take during a long road trip is to let someone know where you are and where you are going by the end of the day. Particularly in places where cellular reception could be spotty, it’s good to tell someone that by nightfall, you should be at a particular destination and able to call them again.

That way, if your vehicle breaks down while in a cellular dead zone with little traffic, at least someone knows the route you were driving to send rescue your direction.

5 Responses

Great tips. Do you have a good app that we can use to track how our car is doing. So like we put in the mileage and it does the calculations for us of how many miles to gallon and stuff like that?

The best app I know about is called Mile IQ. It’s meant for contractors who have to keep up with their mileage for bookkeeping, but it works for road trippers as well. Give that a look and let me know if it works~!

Wrote down some of the tips that I want to remember before the trip. Changed the idea of minimizing clothing to being sure to cover (see what I did there) all bases. Like having a warm hoodie even though I am planning a trip, late June, to the South. Having something & not needing it is so much more logical that getting something I already have but not bringing it. Thank you for your tips.

Thank you very much for taking the time to put these tips together! Very helpful!

Great tips, thank you! My son is traveling the month of May on a solo road trip for the first time so wanted to pass these tips on to him!

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How to Prepare for a Long Trip

Written by Dan

Updated on May 16th, 2024

How do you prepare for a long trip abroad? Here's a list of things to do before long-term travel, including long-term travel preparation and how to prepare to travel the world for several months.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

• Selling everything and traveling for a year
• Travel with an organized remote work and travel program
• Rent on Airbnb
• Stay in a hostel
• Find a roommate from Facebook or other expat groups
• How do you do laundry when you travel?
• What if I need something specific while I’m in a new country or city?
• Get some AirTags to protect against lost valuables
• Set up travel insurance for traveling abroad
• Using Google Fi for your international phone plan
• Get set up with a bank that reimburse foreign ATM and transaction fees
• Get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees
• Create a travel first aid kit with products you trust

Fun fact: I’ve sold all my things and moved across the world to travel long-term, more than once.

I’ve packed up and left NYC twice, to travel the world and work remotely , and after traveling long-term both times, I came back!

In these experiences, I’ve learned a lot about selling the things that aren’t important, what to know before taking a long trip, traveling full-time and everything that is involved in preparing for a long trip.

I’m happy to share my knowledge and experience, because preparing for long-term travel and leaving everything at home sure doesn’t happen overnight. Here’s my step-by-step guide for a checklist for long-term travel.

First steps: What to do with your house or apartment before traveling

Figuring out what to do with your house or apartment can be tricky. It’s really different for every person, and depends on if you rent or own, and the duration of your upcoming trip.

The variables to consider are:

• How long is the trip?
• Do you rent or own your apartment or house?
• Are you planning on storing your stuff somewhere, or selling everything?

I won’t get into too many specifics about how to handle every variable, but I can go into detail about the two times that I sold everything to travel, while moving in (and then back to) New York City.

Selling everything and traveling for a year

This was a straightforward process for me, the first time. I was moving out of an apartment at the same time that I was expected to leave for my trip.

I was living with roommates, at the time, so I helped get a person to take over the lease of my room, getting someone that everyone else would get along with. I asked my roommates if they would like to buy any of my furniture.

One roommate bought my mattress. Then, I listed everything else on Craigslist, some of the best websites for selling your stuff online .

I held on to a few things that were important to me, like small keepsakes and art. Luckily, my family lives close by, outside Philly, so I was able to store a few small boxes with my parents.

In a slightly different situation, when I was living with Becca, we did a similar process together. Except, her parents (thanks, Becca’s parents!) stored some of our larger items, like a bed, two bar stools and all of our 16 plants.

We still sold most replaceable items, like four bookcases, my desk, our other bar stools, rugs and my desk chair.

We also chose to downsize, rather than throwing things out.

We gave away around six bags of clothing to a weekly clothing drive that we found out was a pop-up on Thursdays, half a block from our apartment.

This time was different because our lease didn’t quite end at the same time of when we wanted to leave to travel.

We found a close friend that was able to sublet our apartment for six weeks while we traveled for the first three months, until the lease ended.

This worked out great because we could keep most of our things in the apartment for her to use. We also knew we’d be back to do the actual move-out.

We adore our old neighborhood, Brooklyn Heights, and if you’re in NYC, we have a list of local tips and secrets for seeing this beautiful neighborhood.

When we came back to the apartment to officially move out, we knew that what we had left in the apartment wasn’t important to us, but, a lot of it went into storage at Becca’s parents’ house.

We were able to determine that some of it wasn’t stuff we missed, because we traveled for three months in Europe without all of those things!

Because of that, it was easier to part with some extra kitchen items, clothes that we weren’t wearing and other random house stuff.

The funny thing about stuff is that after it’s gone, you kind of don’t miss it.

For you, if you own your house or apartment, you can rent it out for long periods of time with no issues. I know people who’ve done this.

I’d suggest against doing several short-term rentals, like Airbnb for homes, as they can become risky and can be a lot to manage over a long period of time with all the cleaning in between guests and whatnot.

Planning for your trip: Where will you stay while you’re away?

After you’ve figured out what to do with your home, you can now move on to planning where to live while you’re away.

It’s a similar process of comparing your options for accommodation while traveling short-term, but with a few more kickers.

Depending on your situation, you may have long-term accommodations set up for you. If that’s the case, feel free to skip ahead.

Assuming that you don’t know where you’re going to live yet, don’t worry. There are a few tricks that I want to share about how to set up long-term accommodations.

Travel with an organized remote work and travel program

I’ve been on two segments of a trip with Remote Year .

It’s a great way to travel away for a while, while working remotely on your job (if you can do this) and to go with the flow, rather than doing all the logistical accommodation, flight and coworking space stress on your own.

With Remote Year, they’ll set you up with an apartment for the month. They’ll do everything from transportation to and from the airport, to apartment maintenance. Easy.

During my travels with Remote Year, I’ve had electrical issues, water issues and even a small fire [that did not start, yet one that I put out, and saved everyone]!

Remote Year (or the local apartment staff) has helped to make sure everything was safe and up to satisfying living standards.

Rent on Airbnb

When Becca and I were in Taipei, Taiwan for almost a month, we decided to rent an apartment through Airbnb.

We found that the apartments were relatively expensive in the neighborhood where we wanted to stay because it was centrally-located and close to all sorts of MRT stations.

Because we were going to be long-term guests for the Airbnb property owner, we knew that we had some wiggle room in negotiating a price.

For the owner, it’s expensive and time-consuming to turn over an apartment for lots of guests through lots of weeks.

If you, as the traveler, are able to stay in a place for a few weeks, it’s much more favorable for the owner.

Interested in saving money during your trip ?

Check this out: we sent a few messages to a few properties and told them our situation. We said that we’re coming in for a few weeks and asked if they were able to provide a special offer and discount for the long-term stay.

We got a few offers and ended up with a newer listing for almost 40% off the listed price.

This included the 12-20% discount that some owners offer for guests who stay more than two weeks. If you hunt around, you’ll also see that owners sometimes discount for stays of four weeks or longer, and some even discount if you book far in advance, like three months before your trip.

Want $50 off your first Airbnb? Sign up with this link and get an immediate credit on your first booking.

Stay in a hostel

Sometimes hostels have private rooms that seem more like apartments.

When we were in Mexico City, we stayed at the Selina Mexico City Hostel in the downtown neighborhood of Centro Historico.

This was a unique experience because our room was more like a studio apartment, but without a kitchen. It had its own bathroom and plenty of space for us, even a couch, a desk, an entrance area and a closet with shelves.

There was a shared kitchen down the hall on another floor that was different from the regular hostel kitchen because it was for studio apartment guests only.

It was tons (and I really mean tons) cleaner, had a locked door with a code and it was safe to leave our groceries in the fridge even without our names on them.

This was important for us, because you probably know by now how much we love cooking, to stay healthy while on the road .

We met several people that were living in Selina Mexico City for several months.

It’s a little more expensive than a regular apartment, but had so many more accommodation types available. Also, it came furnished, so to speak… so that comes at a premium.

Find a roommate from Facebook or other expat groups

Lastly, you can find a roommate or someone renting an apartment through local connections.

If you’re going to be living in a new city for long-term, join a few expat groups in the area. For example, we’re familiar with Medellin and we know that the expat and community for digital nomads there is very strong.

There are several Facebook groups and meetups that you can find and attend, and you’re bound to meet new like-minded people.

Another example is that our friends Cyd and Marc are currently living in Hanoi as expats.

They later told us that our friend Sean, who we know through the Remote Year network, was living with them for a bit during his digital nomad lifestyle month in Hanoi. Isn’t it a small world?

You can always rent an Airbnb or stay in a hostel private room for a few weeks to get to know the city.

During that time, you can meet local people that are looking to fill a room in an apartment elsewhere.

How to meet people in a new city when you’re traveling

So you’ve relocated to a new city and now you’re sitting alone in your room on a Friday night and don’t know what to do.

I’ve for sure done this when I’ve traveled solo or didn’t know too many people in a new city.

When you are planning on taking a new trip, you’re basically moving to a new city for as long as you plan to stay there.

So, whatever you would normally do to meet people in a new city applies for travel, as well.

You can join meetup groups, like a fitness group or a meetup for another shared interest, such as art, reading, history, culture, hiking and more.

You can reach out to your existing network and see if any of your friends have a local or expat connection to someone in your new city. You can join a coworking space and see if there are any events. The ideas are endless, and will be different depending on where you find yourself.

If you plan to be working remotely during your travels, we have a few suggestions for networking and meeting other professionals that you can check out.

How to pack for a long trip

Like most things in this article, everyone has a different situation and different style of travel. I’ll speak to my personal style and hopefully some (or all) of this will also apply to you.

I believe that if you want to pack for a year, you need the same amount of things that you’d pack for a week. You can get by with a few of your favorite shirts and extra pair of versatile travel pants .

If you have space in your new destination, you can always pick up some locally-purchased clothes. You can also ‘dump’ belongings along the way, to lighten your load. You can sell stuff online, if any of these tips for selling your stuff online may work for you.

It’s all part of the minimalist travel mindset .

Buying local is not only a sustainable travel practice , but also supports the local economy and also makes you fit in a bit more with the local culture.

For example, locals in warm-weather countries usually wear pants all the time, and it’s only the travelers, expats and backpackers who wear shorts every single day.

If you want to start doing the local thing, look out for what locals do. That includes having a heavy-duty jacket like a winter parka if winters get cold and windy where you are headed.

How do you do laundry when you travel?

What I realized is when I’m home, I do laundry about once a week. This means that I only need about a week’s worth of clothes.

I don’t have to worry about packing 20 T-shirts and 30 pairs of underwear (even though Becca wishes she could).

You can get by with much less.

Also, isn’t it fun to try to figure out laundry machines in other countries? And also fun to see how people dry clothes all over the world? At Nine Coliving , we hung the laundry out to dry on long clotheslines on the beautiful rooftop that had a view of the town and the volcanic islands.

In Taipei , our washer turned into a dryer, but it took around an hour, and we chose to hang-dry anything that wouldn’t dry naturally in the super-humid climate.

What if I need something specific while I’m in a new country or city?

I thought that I needed to bring everything that I could think of when I left the US to take a long trip.

What I didn’t realize is that there is an entire city, somewhere else, of people that probably need the same thing. For example, if you break a phone charging cable, you can find the local version at a local market.

Unless you are traveling with medication that you can’t get anywhere, I’d think that there’s nothing that you can’t find wherever you’re going to be living long term (that is, unless you’re very particular about brands or if you have super-specific needs like name-brand whey protein or something…I’ve seen people ask about that).

Get some AirTags to protect against lost valuables

We got ourselves some Apple AirTags to bring along on our trips. AirTags can be placed on your checked luggage, backpack, laptop or even your wallet, to help be able to location-track these items if they become lost, stolen or just misplaced.

We’ve seen a lot of travelers invest in AirTags as a way of having peace of mind during long-term travel, and we’ve even seen how they work out (see our safety guide for Mexico City for the full story).

What to set up at home before traveling long-term

Set up travel insurance for traveling abroad.

Becca and I use World Nomads travel insurance to insure us on our international trips.

We’ve also heard great things about SafetyWing . Depending on your age, length of trip, destinations and a few other factors, World Nomads will give you a quote and you can choose to proceed with getting reliable travel insurance.

World Nomads will help insure things like delayed baggage, emergency medical expenses overseas, flight cancellations due to severe weather and hospitalization abroad.

If you’re a scuba diver, there are also specific insurance plans for diving. Our friends Alex and Ryan chose this add-on. You can ask them how it’s going!

We initially signed up with World Nomads based on a recommendation from a friend.

The rates are reasonable and we’ve heard that World Nomads are responsive if you ever have to make a claim. We haven’t had to make a claim yet, but we feel at ease knowing that if anything were to happen, we are covered.

Using Google Fi for your international phone plan

I use Google Fi and have data usage all over the world. You can now bring most phones to Google Fi!

Check to see if your phone is supported to get all of the amazing benefits.

I like Google Fi because it’s flexible and affordable, and it even works in places that many people would consider to be off-the-beaten-path countries . It’s about 25 USD for a phone and text plan and 10 USD per GB that we use.

Most of the time, I’m on WiFi in a coworking space and we don’t end up using that much data.

Local SIM cards are almost always cheaper. I like to have Google Fi to help navigate a new destination for a few days.

I’ll switch to a local SIM if I know that I’m going to be using a lot of data.

When Becca and I were in Taipei, we got a local SIM and tethered off of it to do work in our Airbnb because the WiFi was a little slow at times.

This goes along with a general recommendation of researching WiFi speeds, one of our best tips for remote work during travel.

Get set up with a bank that reimburse foreign ATM and transaction fees

You’ll want to take out cash, obviously, but might not want to always pay the ATM fees that go along with taking our money. It’s the worst when you have to take our large amounts of money because you’re trying to justify the fee for the ATM.

I use checking accounts from Fidelity and Charles Schwab bank. They both offer excellent checking accounts that reimburse all ATM fees domestically and internationally.

It’s been a lifesaver to pull out the equivalent of 10 USD to pay for a cab or something here and there without having to pay 3 USD in ATM fees.

See more about our recommendations for traveling with money when you’re ready to take your next trip.

Get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees

We often get asked about our moey advice for trips abroad .

For credit cards, I use the United Explorer card , which doesn’t have any foreign transaction fees. It also has a nice sign-up bonus, Global Entry reimbursement and many more great benefits.

We typically like using credit as much as we can while we’re away. We’ve found that we get the best conversion rates and don’t need to take out too much cash if we’re using credit often.

Typically, the best credit cards for getting no transaction fees might be travel credit cards that come with a fee. But, in exchange for that fee, you’re probably going to get nice benefits like 3x points or miles on travel purchases and things like that! You can see more in our guide about travel hacking with travel credit cards .

If you use a point of sale machine, make sure to use their local currency. Let your bank do the conversion and not the point of sale device!

Create a travel first aid kit with products you trust

As much as Becca and I try to not get sick while we travel, it happens. We even wrote this list of tips for avoiding being sick while traveling .

When we go away for a while, we share a travel first aid kit that has a few trusty items from home: Band-Aids, travel packets of Advil tablets, a travel-sized Neosporin, travel-sized Vaseline, a small bottle of travel illness pills and some sheets of Benadryl/antihistamines.

These things have come in very handy, especially if we’re traveling in a place where pharmacies are closed on Sundays, for example.

It’s also good to have products you know and trust in case you cannot read the language in the country where you’re traveling. Our travel-sized first aid kit has gotten us pretty far.

As a bonus tip, you can bulk up your emergency travel kit while you’re abroad. Did you know that lots of medications are tons cheaper outside the US?

Maybe you’ve realized this by now, but in case you haven’t, try grabbing antihistamines, antidiarrheals or other types of medications that are sold by local pharmacies in different parts of the world and you’ll see how affordable the prices are.

Your travel-sized health kit should only take up the size of two decks of playing cards. If it’s any bigger, it will start to feel in the way.

Remember that you can usually get help to buy medicine while you’re abroad, but in case you’re in a remote location like on a hike, take enough with you so that you’re set and not regretting bringing more medication along.

If you’re looking for more specific travel gear suggestions, make sure to check out our list of the best travel accessories to see what we use on all our trips.

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How to Prepare for a Long (and We Mean Long) Trip

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Last October, I began the greatest adventure of my life : a solo bucket list trip through Central and South America. I had no set plan or time frame except to check three major places off my bucket list: Patagonia , the salt flats in Bolivia , and Cuba .

Since 2008, I have been on the road non-stop working mostly as a freelance photographer. I’ve visited 43 countries and lived in five. Long-term travel seemed overwhelming until I learned how to prepare properly.

Here are a few tips about how to prepare for your own long-term trip:

Do The Research

Cost of Travel

The biggest myth about traveling is that it’s expensive. Asia, aside from Japan and Singapore, is traditionally very cheap. Australia isn’t cheap, but Europe is more affordable since the euro has dropped. Flip through guidebooks on your destination to get an idea about the cost of the three biggest travel expenses: transport, accommodation, and food. Gathering a little information will guide you through setting the appropriate trip budget and savings goal.

Visa costs and requirements are listed on the U.S. Department of State’s website . Many visas are available on arrival while others are required in advance. Several places in South America, including Argentina and Bolivia, charge Americans a reciprocity fee to enter.

High/Low Seasons

Be aware that prices can triple during high seasons and holidays. Rates drop in low season, but monsoon rain, sporadic transport, and business closures can cause trouble. Shoulder seasons are often best to avoid crowds and high prices.

Bucket list activities will likely be a large portion of your travel budget. For example, Inca Trail permits sell out six months or more in advance. The Peruvian government only allows a limited amount of non-transferable permits. Plan accordingly with both your money and time!

Health & Safety

Visit a travel doctor about vaccination requirements and stock up on medication for traveler’s diarrhea. Be sure to pack probiotics that don’t require refrigeration.

Read up on the history of your destination. Follow any recent or potential political/military conflicts closely. Avoid traveling during elections as most businesses close and riots are possible.

Check the U.S. State Department’s website for travel warnings and sign up for their Safe Traveler Enrollment Program for email updates. Talk with other travelers and review guidebooks for specific travel concerns (solo women travelers, taxi hijackings, etc.).

Working Abroad

There are endless options to work abroad, but some require a little preparation. Go Overseas is a great resource for teaching English. Check out Wwoof.net and Workaway.info for work exchange opportunities for free room and board. Working Holiday Visas are options in Australia and New Zealand for Americans under 30.

Tell Everyone

The moment you start to talk about your trip, it transforms from a daydream into reality. Once you’ve set the departure date and spread the news, it also boosts your courage levels. Plus, it’s a great way to get your friends involved and make plans to meet up for a portion of your trip!

Find the Time

I quit several jobs over the past eight years to both travel and work abroad. During my adventures, I met people with a variety of careers—doctors, lawyers, teachers, and bartenders—who did the same. Always be honest about why you are leaving. There’s a good chance your boss will be jealous of your trip!

If you plan to change jobs, take advantage of any large gaps of time to travel. Post-graduation trips are also common. Consider freelancing from overseas. I still continue the majority of my freelance work abroad.

Travel Banking

The easiest way to save money while traveling is to avoid ATM fees and international transaction fees. I have a Charles Schwab Investor Checking Account, which does not charge ATM fees or international transaction fees. ATM fees charged by other banks are refunded monthly. Capital One does not charge international transaction fees on any of their credit cards. Many rewards cards are starting to do the same.

Most U.S. health insurance policies offer limited coverage abroad. Invest in a good travel medical insurance plan that covers emergency evacuations, adventure sports, short visits to your home country, and end-of-trip home coverage. If you have a serious preexisting condition, research your options thoroughly. Some policies will cover an “unexpected occurrence” of these conditions.

Consider a policy or additional insurance that also includes trip delays, lost luggage, and electronics. I insure my camera gear through State Farm’s Personal Articles policy. Be aware that most policies will not cover smart phones.

Get Healthy

Hit the gym and cut the caffeine. Traveling can be physically exhausting. Carrying a 30-plus pound backpack around airports, city streets, and hiking trails for months will take a toll on your body. Six months before my recent trip, I focused mostly on strengthening my upper body since my lower body was fairly strong from being an avid runner.

Before my first big trip in 2008, my caffeine addiction was causing havoc on my health, with horrible withdrawal headaches and pain from dehydrated muscles. I didn’t want caffeine to control my mood while traveling so I weaned myself off six months prior.

Keep in Touch

Distance doesn’t have to affect your relationships or love for sports. My closest friends live on three different continents. I talk to them regularly through various apps like Skype and WhatsApp. I share my adventures with friends and family through regular updates on Instagram and posts on my travel blog. When I’m lucky enough to have fast internet, I stream football and baseball games.

Send postcards. Everyone loves real mail. Set reminders for birthdays. If you can’t find stamps, use the Postagram app to send a postcard with your travel photos!

Sell Everything

Think like a Buddhist and rid yourself of attachment to your possessions. It’s better to invest in experiences than things. Ebay is always great for selling collectable items like my childhood Hard Rock Café shot glass collection, which sat in boxes at my parents’ house for years. It sold instantly and covered the cost of the first week of my trip! Consignment shops are great outlets to sell clothes, housewares and art. Donate everything else to charities.

Set a deadline three months before your trip. After this deadline, you can’t buy anything that isn’t for your trip.

Eliminate Bills

You should have no bills while you travel. That’s right—none! Cut off your Pandora, Netflix, Amazon Prime, etc. Sell, rent, or have a friend list your house/apartment on Airbnb for a small commission. Sell your car or rent it to Relayrides.com or Flightcar.com . Several cell phone carriers will allow you to suspend your service without billing or for a small fee. For student loans, save enough money to cover payments for the entire duration of your trip plus an additional two months after you return.

The movie Fight Club was right: The things you own, own you.

Pack one week’s worth of clothes and do laundry often. It’s that simple. Trust me, your back will thank you.

Here is a short list of my top five essentials to pack from eight years of wandering the globe:

1. Quality Rain Gear

Invest in a quality raincoat with zippered underarm vents for hot conditions. It also serves as a top layer for insulation in cold weather and helps with wind.

2. Headlamp

The headlamp is the single greatest invention after the burrito.

3. Stainless Steel Water Bottle and Water Filter

Save the environment and your health by investing in a stainless steel water bottle and chemical-free water filter. I use a Klean Kanteen water bottle and a Sawyer Mini Water Filter. Both are great for your bank account and pack easily.

4. Dr. Bonner’s Soap

Dr. Bonner’s is organic, biodegradable, and smells great. Use it as body wash, dish soap, and laundry detergent.

5. Quick-Drying Towel or Sarong

A small quick-drying hand towel will dry your entire body. Sarongs are great multipurpose items; they are a towel, dress, skirt, blanket, and mop all in one!

Additional Packing Tips:

• Consider the cost of renting camping gear versus the burden of carrying your own gear for the duration of your trip.
• Make sure all electronic chargers are dual-voltage . Don’t forget plug adapters.
• To avoid over packing, don’t wait until the last minute . Start a few days before you leave. Then, go back and eliminate items. Make sure the majority of clothing matches to maximize options.
• Pack for one season . I packed mostly for summer on my trip and spent $20 on a llama sweater with matching gloves and socks when I got to colder weather in Bolivia.
• Don’t forget a good paperback travel book for long bus rides. When your Kindle battery dies, you’ll thank me. I recommend anything by Pico Iyer or Paul Theroux.

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The Best Destinations for an Extended Trip in 2022

Still holding off on taking your next big vacation? Whether you have a backlog of PTO, a remote job, or just retired, here are the best places to spend your extra time in 2022.

For many of us, a long weekend or short vacation trip squeezed into a busy work schedule is a thing of the past. You may have retired from full-time work or discovered by way of COVID quarantine that you can work remotely and take your job wherever you go.

Still others are resisting the return to office after becoming accustomed to working at home. According to the Wall Street Journal , more U.S. workers are leaving their jobs than at any time in more than two decades. Some are seeking new positions that allow remote work beyond the pandemic while others are using their skills for independent work instead.

If you're someone whose life has become more flexible for any reason, you're probably thinking about places you've wanted to visit but may have postponed due to lack of time. Perhaps you'd like to get on the open road and explore the country or travel to a far away place. You'll want appealing surroundings and a variety of things to see and do in your free time. An extended trip is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture or learn a new language.

Here are some ideas to inspire you to pack up your laptop, sandals, hiking boots, and whatever you'll need in your home away from home.

Australia's borders may not open until next year , but the massive country is full of diverse landscapes and experiences that make it worth the wait — and worth staying a while. A trip " down under " is your chance to see kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies in their natural habitats. In South Australia , swim on Adelaide's beaches or taste the wines of Barossa and the Clare Valley. Explore the Flinders Ranges in the Outback, grab a ferry to Kangaroo Island, or relax on a houseboat on the Murray River.

Thrill to the scenery of Sydney with its iconic Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and famous beaches. Feed kangaroos at one of several wildlife parks, and explore Australia's Aboriginal culture in the New South Wales Outback and Mutawintji National Park. Dive, snorkel, or cruise the Great Barrier Reef , visit Perth in Western Australia , and explore the Outback in the country's largest state. Don't miss cosmopolitan Brisbane , capital of Queensland, and a visit to nearby Lone Pine , the world's largest koala sanctuary.

Start with a week-long river cruise along the Rhine or Danube in Europe or, for an extended experience, combine several European river cruises. You can venture to Africa for 10 days of exploring the " Secrets of Egypt and the Nile " or 17 days in Africa's national parks, Victoria Falls, and Serengeti.

For an even longer getaway, world cruises can keep you on the sea for the better part of a year as long as your bank account can handle it. Regent Seven Seas , Seabourn , and other cruise companies offer a variety of itineraries. You can experience the Galapagos in a luxury yacht or on one of several adventures offered by Celebrity Cruises . If sailing among the islands of the South Pacific sounds dreamy, check out Paul Gauguin Cruises , Regent Seven Seas , and Cunard Line's 20-day cruise boarding in Sydney, Australia.

By the way, most cruise ships offer internet and Wi-Fi with varying prices, bandwidth, and speed, so if you're planning to be productive on your cruise, check that out first.

California's Highway 1 is one of the best known drives in the country, and rather than just cruising the road, you have time for leisurely stops along the way. Spend time in San Diego if you're starting on the southern end, enjoying downtown's restaurants and the coastal beaches. Orange County offers picturesque beach towns, Disneyland, and artsy Laguna Beach. You can spend a week in Los Angeles and not see all the city has to offer.

Drive up the Central Coast through wine country in Paso Robles , Santa Barbara , and Edna Valley , continuing on the Highway 1 Discovery Route . Spend a few days in the area's charming towns to get the real flavor of California's history and agricultural bounty. Big Sur , the Monterey Peninsula, redwoods, and the rugged northern coast will keep you fascinated for days. Make some time for inland detours too.

On the East Coast, starting around Jacksonville near Florida's border with Georgia, charming Amelia Island is just offshore. Head south from there on Scenic Highway A1A , a two-lane road lying between the Atlantic and the Intracoastal Waterway along beaches, nature trails, estuaries, and preserves. Spend some time in luxurious Ponte Vedra Beach and America's oldest city, St. Augustine. Continue south surrounded by the sea for spectacular views, delicious seafood, and a leisurely drive. Tour the Kennedy Space Center and perhaps take a detour to Orlando where you'll find theme parks and lots more. Take your time and stay on Highway 1 clear down to Key West where you'll want to kick back and enjoy sunset in the southernmost point of the U.S.

Singapore and Maldives

Halfway around the world and worth every minute of flight time, Singapore is one of the most exciting cities (it's a city, nation, and island) in the world. The airport alone is a wondrous destination with gardens, fountains, restaurants, shopping, and ever-changing attractions. From there, you'll find fascinating culture, delicious food at hawker markets, the stunning Gardens by the Bay , and lush Botanic Gardens . Be sure to sip a Singapore Sling at historic Raffles Hotel's Long Bar where the cocktail originated.

Republic of Maldives , an archipelago of more than a thousand tiny islands in the Indian Ocean southwest of India, offers an island lifestyle and clear turquoise seas. Upscale resorts are set on their own islands, but it's also possible to enjoy the islands on a budget by staying in one of the many guesthouses . You can truly experience the local culture, cuisine, and lifestyle in an informal setting. Snorkeling, diving, surfing, fishing, and boating among the islands are just a few things to do, and there's always time to work on your tan.

You Can Work From a Dreamy Luxury Tent With a Private Pool in the Costa Rican Rain Forest

Looking for "pura vida?" You'll find it in Central America's Costa Rica where it's more than just a phrase — it's a lifestyle. The country's natural beauty, geographical variety, and biodiversity make it a perfect place to spend a long visit. Beach lovers can choose the Caribbean's clear waters, sandy beaches, and shorefront hiking trails or the Pacific's surfing, diving, snorkeling, and fishing on Golfo Dulce and the Osa Peninsula.

Explore Costa Rica's national parks, wildlife refuges, biological reserves, and protected areas for hiking, bird watching, and learning about the country's flora and fauna. Arenal Volcano National Park in the northwest and Ballena National Marine Park on the west coast are just two of the country's 29 national parks.

Stay in a luxury resort, a hillside retreat in the central valley, or an eco-lodge set in a jungle rainforest. Wherever you decide to make your temporary home in Costa Rica, you'll quickly understand the meaning of pura vida.

Trading Places

Well, not literally, but if you live in an urban environment, you might want to experience life in a small town. And, if your home is in a small town and you wonder what life is like in the big city, you can find out with an extended visit. Short vacations as a tourist don't quite provide a true picture of daily life.

America offers quaint towns from coast to coast and north to south, most with Airbnbs available for extended stays. Towns you may not have heard of like Greenville , South Carolina; Chatham, New York; and Shelbyville , Kentucky might surprise you with the richness of life there.

On the other hand, you've heard of most of the cities , but what is it like to really live in one? Pack up and experience the restaurants, museums, attractions, and lifestyle of the city. If this is beginning to sound like the fable of the town mouse and the country mouse , it's close, but you won't know how your story will turn out until you give it a try.

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Long trips & tours

When was the last time you took a really long trip? Just told the boss you need a few months, packed your bags and aimed for the horizon?

True, it’s not always so easy. But if you take the time, and find a way, you'll discover big trips equal big rewards. 

Combining short and sweet trips in different countries is the perfect way to take the work out of planning a globe-conquering trip of epic proportions without the hassle. So if you're looking for a day of beach hopping in Greece with a Game of Thrones experience in Dubrovnik or a giant bowl of Pho in Hanoi with a scramble over mighty ruins in Cambodia, we've got trips in different countries that will let you do just that.

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

If you don't plan on having a large part of your diet consist of airplane food and want to keep those long-haul flights to a minimum, why not fully immerse yourself in a country on one of our longest trips? You'll uncover the heart of a destination, find out what makes it tick, and learn in-depth about its history, culture and people. You might even pick up some of the language so you can say more than "thank you" to your new local friends.

What is long travel?

Intrepid was founded on the premise of long travel when our two owners – Darrell and Manch – set off across Africa with a bunch of friends and no plans to come home anytime soon. It didn't take them long to discover that when you stay a little longer in a destination, you can make the most of every mile and really immerse yourself in the heart and soul of a place and its people.

With borders reopening around the world, Intrepid is celebrating by curating a new range of ‘long’ trips. These epic adventures span over three weeks, a smorgasbord of cities, regions and countries and encapsulate the essence of Intrepid travel. 

Why long travel?

Long travel means a true break from your day-to-day, with time to properly wind down and disconnect. It gives you the chance to really get to know each destination better. Not just see a place, but really live it. You can slow things down. Dig a little deeper. Not just see the highlights but find those places and meet those people you might not have otherwise. Time to lose yourself on a real adventure.

And by skipping internal flights for public transport (think epic train trips across multiple countries), you'll find yourself with journeys that become trip highlights, and come with the added bonus of helping reduce your carbon footprint. Taking a long trip is easier than you think when you let us take care of all the planning and research, so find your next big adventure below. 

How to plan for a long trip

Trading in your "real" life and routines to travel the world is one part exciting, one part scary, and two parts liberating. And while dreaming of what your next couple of months will hold is almost as good as actually going, the planning process can be trickier than cracking the fictitious Da Vinci Code. Let us help you. Here are our pro tips on how to make long trips a breeze.

It's always a good idea to set and stick to a budget. Converting dollars to pesos, rupees, euros, riel, and a dozen other currencies makes it tricky to keep track of the dinero you've actually spent. We recommend setting budgets per country visited and keeping track of those pesky expenses.

Choose your must-sees and you're nice-to-see's. Once you've mapped out the musts that you absolutely have to visit (as in, you refuse to go home until you do), you can start to connect the dots and find a logical and affordable travel route.

Expect plans to change. Travel rarely goes 100% to plan, so expect and welcome the unexpected. Sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you never planned on having. 

How to pack for a long trip

Long travel is all in the planning. But strangely, it’s the opposite of what you think. Months on the road and you’re probably thinking ‘Dear God, I’ll need a suitcase just for the underwear!’ But really, when it comes to long vacations, less is more. Watch our ultimate packing guide on the right-hand link, or check out the tips below.

Pack for one week at a time. You only ever need enough clothes to last you a week. Depending on where you are, by that time you’ll either a) have found a Laundromat, or b) be so far off the beaten track that no one will care if you smell. Either way, you save on trunk space.

Roll, don’t fold. It’s counterintuitive, but you’ll actually fit more in if you roll your clothes, rather than folding them. Make sure to use up all available space too – that means squashing socks and underwear into empty shoes.

Wear clothes that go together. Since you’re packing smarter, not harder, pick clothes you know will already match. A few t-shirts that go with your jeans, and a neutral pair of shorts that goes with anything. Shoes for all climates (or at least as many climates as possible) and a pair of flip-flops. That’s all you need.

Pack for the climate. Long travel means you might pass through different climactic zones. And that means layers are your friend. Lightweight, breathable fleece or woolen layers will block out the cold but not take up too much space in your pack. Leave the three different jackets at home. One waterproof option should do it.

Invest in a good suitcase, and stick to it. With long travel, you have to think ahead. You’ll be tempted to buy souvenirs and things everywhere you go, but if you don’t want to make your chiropractor rich, be ruthless. Don’t accumulate stuff as you go. And invest in a good quality, lightweight suitcase and a lock.

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Road Trip Essentials to Pack for a Long Drive

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There is certainly something to be said about the magic of an open road no matter where in the world you are. Near or far, long or short, road trips offer a sense of freedom and adventure and are often the most satisfying of journeys. While technically you just need keys, a driver's license, and a set of wheels, these road trip essentials—from the best car organizer to comfortable shoes and coffee kits to keep you caffeinated on the go—will make your journey that much more enjoyable, whether you're heading to a national park , cruising along Route 66 , or taking in fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway .

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Organization and luggage

No matter how big or small your vehicle is, being organized is key to maintaining your sanity as you travel, especially during a long road trip, or one with kiddos in the back seat.

The Duluth Trading Seat Back Bunker neatly organizes all your essentials, from road trip games, snacks, and Kindles to emergency preparedness kits, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, repair tools, and more. It has three tiers of storage including mesh pouches, see-through zippered pockets, and a full-width zip pocket. Collapsible aluminum poles provide a strong-yet-lightweight framework and keep the organizer secure as you drive.

A good duffel bag is worth its weight in gold, especially on road trips where space may be limited, depending on the vehicle and the number of passengers. Filson’s versatile, lightweight bag pulls double-duty as a duffel or a backpack for hands-free carry. The zippered lid is U-shaped so you'll have easy access to its contents. It has one exterior zippered pocket with an internal zip pocket to keep small gear and accessories like keys or a wallet easily accessible. The other nylon-coated pocket expands into the main compartment to keep shoes or wet or muddy gear separated from the rest of your load.

If a roller bag is more your choice of luggage, Yeti’s Crossroads 22-inch suitcase is perfect for road trips. It is made with rugged nylon material that can take any adventure thrown its way. It has removable modular compression straps that can be used internally to pack down gear or externally to compress the luggage overall, making it fit neatly in small spaces like car trunks or overhead car racks.

Packing cubes are just as helpful in keeping your backseat or trunk organized as they are your suitcase. Get a few different sizes with this Paravel quad, and assign each one a different purpose to store supplies, tech accessories, bug spray and sunscreen, toiletries, or anything else you don’t want rolling around. 

Tech and roadside emergency

Whether you are driving cross-country or just across the state line, there are certain tools, gadgets, and tech items that are absolutely required to make sure you get where you are going safely and on time, whether you're in your own wheels or a rental car .

Rule number one of any road trip is to always be prepared for any emergency that could happen and derail even the most well-prepared travel plans. The Always Prepared Roadside Emergency Kit will ease your mind when it comes to any potential car troubles. It contains more than 100 useful (and neatly organized) items, including jumper cables, a reflective safety vest and warning triangle to keep you safer if you have to pull over at night, a self-powered flashlight, two light sticks, an emergency rain poncho and mylar blanket, a full first-aid kit, a tire pressure gauge, and more. If there's one thing you add to your road trip packing list, make it this kit.

For something a little smaller and more compact, Leatherman’s Free P4 multi-tool is perfect for all the little things that need to be fixed. With over 20 tools all packed into one, the Free P4 is a must have for any road trip. Whether it’s used to replace a dim headlight, fix a broken antenna, or even cut open a snack packet without having everything spill onto the seat, the P4 rises to the challenge.

Whether you’re embarking on a solo road trip or have a travel companion who’d rather not dictate directions, a phone mount is a key road trip packing list item that makes it easier to keep an eye on your route safely. And since doing so can quickly drain your battery, we recommend one that doubles as a phone charger (this one has two USB charging ports, so you can charge it and other devices simultaneously). This one has an adjustable width to fit most cell phones, and a flexible gooseneck to angle it however you prefer.

In the interest of safety, you may want a dash cam in your car, should you get into an accident or pulled over. This one records clear, crisp video that syncs to your phone through the Nextbase app, allows for voice control commands thanks to connected Alexa technology, and offers a unique Emergency SOS service, which detects serious collisions and alerts emergency services of your location if you are unresponsive. You'll need to buy a Nextbase U3 microSD card to use with it, and use the included charger to keep it juiced up. The camera records continuously when it is plugged in and the car is on, and has an optional intelligent parking mode that automatically records any bump or physical movement on the vehicle when left unattended using the camera's internal battery.

If you're driving more than a few hours and have a car full of fellow travelers, keep a  headphone  splitter in the glove compartment. This one has five jacks, which means everyone can pull up a movie, music, podcast, or an audiobook on the same device—and when you're tired of the road trip playlist , you don't have to hear a thing.

Comfort and seating

Long hours of sitting upright can do a number on your back. Do yourself a favor and add a seat cushion or some lumbar support to your car setup. Plus, a few more creature comforts you might want to have on hand.

Just as handy for sitting on an uncomfortable dining room chair  while working from home  as it is on long car rides, this gridded seat cushion will make sitting for extended periods of time comfier—plus the design leaves room for air circulation. It comes with a zippered case for easy transport, too. The Simple cushion should be plenty for your average road trip, but if you’re heading cross-country or planning to make very few stops, pick up the more supportive  Ultimate cushion , designed specifically for truckers and long-haul drives.

Several hours behind the wheel can leave your back feeling less than stellar. Strap one of these lumbar support shells around your seat to make your ride more comfortable: It cradles your back, helping to improve your posture and keep you from sinking into the seat, with the added bonus of a mesh fabric to keep your back cool.

If you’re not too tight on space, consider adding a compact, foldable chair to slide into your trunk. You never know when you'll find yourself in need of a dry, comfortable chair on the fly—be it for extra seating at a roadside picnic table or to enjoy a secluded viewpoint at sunset. REI’s Camp X chair is made of quick-dry mono-mesh and polyester material and comes with a carrying case and two cup holders for impromptu lunch breaks.

If you’re not the only driver in the car, you’ll be happy to have a  neck pillow  while napping during your off shifts. OstrichPillow makes all kinds of interesting contraptions to help you get some sleep wherever you are, but we like the memory foam, velcro-close OstrichPillow Go travel pillow best for car rides.

If you still have a Little Trees Black Ice hanging from your rearview mirror, it's about time you elevate your air freshener game. Pop this inconspicuous diffuser onto one of your car's vents to make the space smell just like a Diptyque 34 Boulevard Saint-Germain candle. Another fresh-smelling option: this under-$20 essential oil diffuser , which  Traveler  editor Rebecca Misner is a fan of.

A lightweight towel comes in handy during any number of road trip situations: Use it for spontaneous swims, roadside picnics, or as a buffer between the hot leather seat and your legs in the car. This extra-smooth Turkish cotton towel is as absorbent as a standard bath towel but much more compact.

Clothing and accessories

When dressing for a road trip, you want clothing that is comfy, breathable, and works in various climates. Bonus points for pieces that are stylish, too.

We love a good pair of compression socks for long travel days . And during pandemic-era road trips, when stops might be less frequent than usual, they work well at keeping the blood flowing and reducing swelling during long seated stretches in the car. Our favorite brand, Comrad, makes knee-high socks that come in 10 different colors and can be worn three to four times before washing, so you can throw 'em on more than once during multi-day trips.

No matter the excursion, Viev’s Gemma Mid Jacket is a great outer layer. It is lightweight and made with durable Gore-Tex fabric. Its design optimizes breathability to the torso and softness in the arms, back, and hood, making it extremely comfortable to wear even when you are driving. Plus, there are multiple pockets to securely store keys, a wallet, or phone, so your hands can rest comfortably in the outside pocket when you step out to take a break and stretch your legs at rest stops. The rain jacket's bonus is the storm hood brim, which maintains its shape when activated and lays flat when down without being overly rigid.

Along with a good pair of socks, a versatile boot that offers all-day comfort and durability is another must for long road trips. Red Wing Heritage boots are comfortable enough to keep on during long car rides and easy to pair with any outfit or climate, no matter where the road takes you. The Classic Moc is made with soft leather and a polyurethane traction tread outsole for faster break-in and comfort. Wear them in and out of the car, in all kinds of weather.

Drinks, snacks, and hydration

Another must on our list of road trip necessities: food and drinks. And while road travel is often synonymous with gas station coffee and oversized sodas, it doesn’t have to be so. There are plenty of healthy hydration options that change the relationship between road trips and caffeinated drinks.

You've got your insulated reusable water bottle , but if you want to keep your coffee hot, you're going to need a reusable thermos. Zojirushi’s stainless steel travel mug keeps hot drinks warm for up to six hours, and it has a slim design that allows it to easily fit in your car's cup holder. (And if you need to throw it in your bag, it won't leak either.)

The Pakt Travel Mug is in the running for perfect travel mug, too: It is a leak-proof vacuum-insulated double-walled mug that keeps beverages securely sealed and the perfect temperature (8 hours for hot and 24 hours for cold), making it an ideal travel companion. Plus it is sized to fit into most any cup holder.

If you are tired of terrible coffee on the go, the Pakt Coffee Kit has everything you need to make quality coffee in one sleek, portable package. All you need is water and electricity, so you can use this with an adaptor in your car’s charge port, at a rest stop, or at your accommodation. The pour over kit comes with an electric kettle, travel mug and lid, coffee grounds container, and collapsible stainless-steel dripper that packs down into a compact carrying case. All you need is to bring your favorite beans .

It is crucial to stay hydrated on the road, especially when you’re sitting still for hours at a time. Nuun offers a potent blend of electrolytes, vitamins, and botanicals that help with blood flow and support everyday health. The drink tablets are fizzy, tasty, and loaded with electrolytes that keep you healthy and hydrated. Plus, they are certified vegan and gluten-free and have a net-zero carbon emission footprint—good for you and for the environment.

Ritual coffee, based out of San Francisco , sources sweet, clean, single-origin coffees that are simply delicious. They have an ever-changing seasonal espresso blend, the best decaf around, and a single serve instant coffee mix for those times when the cup of gas station coffee just won’t do.

For something to carry, store, and keep all your drink options cool on your next road trip: the soft-shell Yeti Hooper Flip 12 cooler tote. It is leakproof with a wide mouth opening that makes it easy to access food and drinks. It even has a hitch point grid on its sides to help attach it to other gear for more compact packing options in the car.

While most of our favorite  road trip snacks  come in pre-packaged containers, for anything fresh or homemade (like trail mix, sliced fruit, or overnight oats), we turn to containers like S’well’s spill-resistant snack bowls. For those embarking on family road trips, there are plenty of kid-friendly patterns , decorated with Disney characters, dogs, pretzels, and more, all of which have a pull-out handle. For adults, there are  neutral colors like teak wood and marbled patterns available in 16- and 21-ounce sizes.

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Vacation packing lists: essentials you can't forget.

These vacation packing lists can help you prepare for any type of trip.

Vacation Packing List

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Getting ready for a vacation is a fun yet at times daunting task. But with some preparation and a comprehensive checklist, the packing process for any adventure can be easy. To make it smoother, our editors compiled these vacation packing lists, using insights from their own experiences and advice from travel experts.

Vacation packing lists:

Beach packing list, cruise packing list, international trip packing list, road trip packing list, weekend getaway packing list.

Time by the water and sand calls for cool and comfortable attire that dries fast and works for the types of activities you're planning to do. When planning your beach packing list , check with your accommodations to see what they will have available to use during your stay.

Start with a beach bag that perhaps can double as a personal item bag. Beach days call for sun protection, so you'll want plenty of sunscreen – and depending on where you're going, reef-safe sunscreen may be required, so do your research before you pack. Beach towels or blankets , chairs , umbrellas or beach tents , toys , and games are all items that you might be able to use during your visit, but may not need to pack in your suitcase.

Clothing and shoes:

• Beach cover-ups
• Dinner attire such as linen shirts, skirts or pants
• Water shoes
• Undergarments

Toiletries:

• Conditioner
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush or comb
• Razor and shaving cream
• Lip balm with SPF
• Medications
• Cotton swabs
• First-aid kit
• Aloe vera or after-sun lotion

Beach gear:

• Beach wagon
• Beach towels
• Towel clips
• Umbrella or beach tent
• Reusable water bottle
• Prescription eyeglasses or contacts
• Beach games
• Portable speaker
• Reading material

When creating your cruise packing list , keep in mind that you'll have limited space in your cabin, so it's essential to plan a wardrobe that is concise and multipurpose. Consult your itinerary to see what specific items you may need for any theme nights or dress codes for dining reservations. Select a personal item bag that you'll carry on the cruise with you, equipped with essentials like your passport, money, medications, a change of clothing and anything you may need while you're awaiting your bags.

For daytime attire, consider the climate, as well as excursions and activities so you know what items you'll need. Check out our guide on what to wear on a cruise for more inspiration.

• Mix-and-match clothing
• Formal attire
• Themed party attire
• Travel wrap
• Packable jacket
• Packable hats
• Underwear and necessary undergarments
• Comfortable walking shoes
• 2-3 pairs of pants
• 2-3 pairs of shorts
• 5-7 tops or shirts of different styles
• Swim cover-up
• Sea-Bands and/or Dramamine for nausea
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• After-sun lotion
• Face cleanser
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet spray like Poo-Pourri

Cruise gear:

• Credit cards and local currency
• Carry-on bag
• Packing cubes
• International travel adapter or converter
• Magnetic hooks
• Garment bag and wrinkle release spray
• Beach bag or backpack
• Over-the-door organizer
• Digital luggage scale
• Collapsible luggage
• Luggage tracker
• A good book or e-reader

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Traveling abroad is exciting, but it can also bring long travel days with more walking than you may anticipate. Having a broken-in pair of comfortable walking shoes is key, and you may want to consider a pair of compression socks to keep you comfortable on the long flight.

A carry-on suitcase that can accommodate everything you need will be helpful when you're trying to navigate through airports and train stations – and it'll make it easier to get to your room if there's not an elevator. You may also want to consider a foldable tote for daytime trips and shopping, which you can also use for any souvenirs you want to bring home.

• Walking shoes
• Rain jacket
• Sweater or cardigan for layering
• 2-3 pairs of pants with pockets
• 2-3 pairs of shorts (depending on climate)
• 3-6 shirts or tops
• An evening/dinner outfit (such as a dress or skirt and top for women, and pants and a button-down shirt for men)
• Facial cleanser and moisturizer
• First-aid kit with bandages

Travel gear:

• Passport wallet
• Travel documents
• Travel adapter or converter
• Neck pillow

Hitting the open road is a fun adventure, though it requires some preparation. Since you're driving, you'll have extra room for bags and gear, but you'll also want to pack road trip essentials . Climate will play a big role in the types of clothes you'll want to pack, so look at the forecasts for weather on your entire route. In addition to temps, you'll be sitting in the car for long periods of time, so your travel outfits should be comfortable and easy to wear (for those quick bathroom breaks at a wayside rest).

• 2-3 pairs of pants or shorts (depending on climate)
• Light jacket or sweater
• Comfortable shoes
• 4-6 pairs of socks
• Specific clothing for plans along the way, like hiking boots for hikes

Road trip gear:

• Car emergency kit
• Solar rechargeable power source for phones
• Neck pillow(s)
• Book or tablet
• Packable tote

Preparing for a quick weekend getaway might seem like it'll be easy, but since you'll only be gone a few days, you might find it difficult to decide what to pack. Finding a functional weekender bag can help you make the packing process easy. Choose a pair of shoes to travel and a second pair to change into for the evening or specific activities. When planning your outfits, create a mix-and-match capsule wardrobe so you're not overpacking for a quick getaway.

• 2-3 shirts or tops
• 2 pairs of pants or shorts
• Dress or dress pants and dress shirt for evening
• Light jacket or cardigan
• Versatile shoes that can be dressed up or down
• Toiletry bag
• Weekender bag or carry-on suitcase
• Travel journal
• Packable tote for shopping
• Refillable water bottle

Vacation essentials:

• Purse or tote
• Book or e-reader

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're traveling for a week or longer, you may want to bring a large suitcase that can be checked in at the airport, or perhaps a complete luggage set . For a shorter trip, a carry-on and personal item (such as a backpack or small weekender bag) should be sufficient.

For cold weather vacations, consider stuffing all of your outdoor gear into a rolling duffel bag . If you'll be attending dinners or formal celebrations, you might want to use a garment bag to prevent wrinkled clothing.

Check carry-on size requirements for your specific airline to ensure your luggage will fit in the overhead bin. Cruise lines also have weight and quantity restrictions for luggage, so consult your cruise line's website for additional details.

Rolling method Ideal for saving space and helping prevent clothes from wrinkling, this method involves rolling each piece of clothing. You begin this process by laying each item at flat as possible, and then roll the piece of clothing into a log shape. Repeat the process for each item and place them into your suitcase.

Packing cubes If you like to save space and keep your items organized while traveling, packing cubes are the perfect multitasker. Purchase a mix of packing cubes in various sizes or colors (or both) and decide if you want to arrange clothes by type or by outfit. Pack the cubes accordingly, and if you really want to save space, consider compression packing cubes .

Bundling method This way works well for those who like to pack outfits together. You'll put together an outfit, starting with the smallest items first (like socks and underwear), then wrapping the shirt/top around it. Next, wrap the pants, skirt or dress to create a folded bundle that you will then pack. You'll then repeat the process for each outfit. When you're on vacation, you can select the outfit you want to wear and have all of the items in one place.

Wrapping method This works best if you have clothes of mixed lengths and widths. You begin by placing the longest or widest clothes at the bottom of your suitcase, layer clothes in order of largest to smallest. Once all clothing is in, take the ends of the largest layers and wrap inward to encase the clothes within your suitcase.

When packing for a week, consider the climate, activities and styles of clothing you'll need. As easy as it is to overpack, it's also easy to leave a key item at home that may have you frustrated or unable to do something you really wanted to do.

Clothing for a seven-day trip:

• 3-5 outfits
• 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
• 1 pair of versatile shoes to wear at dressier meals or locations
• Activity-specific shoes for hiking, biking, working out or doing water activities
• Cardigan or layer piece for temperature variances
• 7-10 pairs of underwear
• Required undergarments like a strapless bra or nylons
• 5-7 pairs of socks
• Rain jacket or warm coat (depending on climate)
• Personal item bag that can double as an in-destination tote
• Passport (if leaving the country)
• Wallet with driver's license or identification
• Credit cards

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves the entire packing process. From finding the right suitcase to curating the ideal wardrobe and accessories for every trip, Hood has been perfecting her vacation packing list for years. Her must-pack items include a TUMI handbag , a Lug cosmetic case and a CALPAK packable tote . She used her personal experience along with her retail merchandising background and research skills to create this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• What to Pack in a Carry-on
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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Road Trip Packing List

The ultimate packing list including all of the road trip essentials you need to travel by car. We cover it all: men’s and women’s focused items from bags, to clothing and toiletries, to cooking supplies, and more.

The Road Trip Essentials: Gear for An Epic Road Trip

Welcome to the Road Trip Packing List where we’re going to cover everything you need to make your road-tripping adventure worthy of the big screen. While road trips can last anywhere from a weekend to a year or more, we’ve formulated this list to work for trips that span from a week to a month or so. (But you can adapt it to fit your needs.)

Now, it can be tempting to pack a lot of gear for a road trip—you’re not limited by airline restrictions, after all—but we suggest packing the least amount of stuff possible. Beyond ensuring more legroom, we’ve found that packing minimally helps to keep a clear mind. Additionally, you won’t have to go digging through a trunk full of stuff to pull out the few things that you actually use.

On that note, we’ve kept this list as minimal as possible while keeping comfort and convenience in mind. We don’t guarantee that this packing list will prevent misadventures—which are part of the fun, anyway. But we believe this list will help you pack what you need (while staying comfortable) without being burdened down with a bunch of excess gear. That way, you can worry less about rummaging through your stuff and focus more on those classic road trip experiences.

Collectively, our team has driven thousands and thousands of miles. We’ve taken what’s worked and what hasn’t and distilled all the gear you need down into one mega list—with one exception.

We haven’t included a section on vehicle specific items because what you need differs from vehicle to vehicle. Make sure you consider these vehicle-specific essentials before you take off, including tools, battery cables, a spare tire, nice windshield wipers (splurge on these, trust us), windshield washer fluid, etc. Plus, you need to pack your driver’s license, insurance, registration, passport, car manual, and other like items. (And, if you’re going abroad, there may be additional things you need to pack.)

Of course, we know that what works for some isn’t going to work for others (even the Pack Hacker team differs). So, if the items on this list aren’t your thing, don’t worry. We have other packing lists , guides , and reviews to help you find gear that works for you.

We’ve also written up a massive road trip guide to help you navigate all of the other aspects of a road trip (safety, finding accommodations, the best way to pack your car, and more), so check it out if you’re so inclined.

With all of that said, let’s get packing.

Standalone Bags & Organizers

We’ve found that the classic duffle, backpack, and sling bag combo (DBS, for short) is the best for road trips. Duffles are great for hauling the majority of your clothes as they’re typically easy to pack—both in terms of throwing your stuff into one and Tetris-ing in the car. The backpack can act as an overnight bag or daypack while exploring whatever zany attraction you’ve stopped at. And the sling bag is for the essentials and quick stops.

A classic duffle that’s ideal for road trips in its simplicity. It’s easy to dump all of your stuff inside the one compartment—basically a giant, cavernous bucket—so you can spend less time packing and more time enjoying the wind in your hair. Its soft sides will squish into the nooks and crannies leftover in your fully packed car. Plus, you can easily grab the comfortable handles and take the duffle into the laundromat (or the hotel if you’re staying more than overnight). Tom Bihn is also known for the quality of its gear, so while this thing doesn’t have much weather-resistance, it’s highly durable in all other regards.

Versatility is key when it comes to choosing the right backpack for a road trip—and that’s why we’re recommending the Borealis. At 28L, this pack is large enough to hold all of the clothes and toiletries you need for a weekend trip, but small enough to act as a daypack for those longer drives. Plus, its dedicated laptop compartment means it’ll work as a laptop bag if you need to head to the coffee shop to get some work done. It’s also a great bag to take on hikes due to its comfortable harness system and durable, weather-resistant exterior.

A sling bag is a perfect place to stash your wallet, phone, and keys on the road. Not only so you know where all that important stuff is when not directly using them (trust us, there’s nothing worse than losing your keys in a packed car), but so that you can easily throw your sling over your shoulder and go buy a cup of coffee. It’s also nice for day trips and quick hikes. We’re digging the Atom Sling due to its simple, effective organization as well as the soft mesh on the back panel and shoulder strap, which makes it super comfortable to carry. Plus, it’s a great size—large enough to carry the essentials and a water bottle or packable jacket on day trips/hikes.

Clothing & Accessories

Road trips frequently involve a variety of scenarios: sitting down to a fancy dinner with your grandpa, camping at a goat farm, or spending the day at the beach to name a few. (And, of course, lots and lots of driving.) We suggest versatile, durable clothing that can keep up with whatever life on the road throws at you. Comfort is also key. Who likes sitting in a cramped car for eight hours wearing skinny jeans? Nobody, that’s who. Additionally, we prefer clothes that feature antimicrobial properties or anti-odor treatments (for what should be obvious reasons).

• Men's Focused
• Women's Focused

You can wear these boxers multiple days in a row without being gross. That in itself makes us like them for life on the road, but they’re also breathable, soft, and moisture-wicking. Plus, the direction of the fabric on the legs runs vertically, so it stretches with your natural movement. Translation: the stretch on these boxers is fantastic. We’re also digging their clean, sophisticated look (no branding on the waistband...yeah, we know!).

These pants are sleek and polished enough for the city, but versatile enough to work for an eight-hour drive, fast food eating session, or day on the trails. Yes, these pants do it all. We’re huge fans of the crotch gusset, which gives these pants extra flexibility and breathability (two must-haves for long days in the car or hot afternoons exploring).

With a techy, almost sweatpants-y vibe, these pants are ideal for long driving days, traipsing through the forest, or lounging at your Airbnb. We like the technical fabric, which is thin enough that you won’t overheat, but still nice and durable. We’re also digging that the pockets zip all the way up, so you’re less likely to have your phone and/or lucky charm slip out of your pocket and get lost between your seat and the middle console (you know what we’re talking about). The waistband is also very forgiving, meaning you can go ahead and order the french fries and the onion rings.

Shorts that double as swim trunks—sometimes it’s awesome to be living in the 21st century. These shorts are also comfortable, breathable, and stretchy. Plus, they’re available in a variety of subdued and stylish colorways, and won’t break the bank.

This tee boasts all of the magical properties of Merino wool, including odor-resistance, temperature-regulation, and a fast drying time. It also feels nice—lightweight and breathable, but not thin. All of these features, paired with its simple aesthetic, mean that it’s quite versatile—wear it driving, hiking, lounging, or bar-hopping.

With a sporty, outdoorsy vibe, this tee may not be perfect for a five-star restaurant, but it’s great for pretty much everything else. It has built-in UPF sun protection and odor-control that’s comparable to Merino wool (not quite, but close). We like that it’s moisture-wicking and lightweight, so you can turn off the air-conditioning and still keep cool. It’s also quick-drying, so you can use it during any water-activities that may arise on your trip. NOTE: Patagonia is in the process of updating the Capilene line to provide 50+ UPF protection, so availability may be limited.

Made from a blend of Merino wool, the Icebreaker Siren Hipkini Briefs are ideal for life on the go. They’re breathable, quick-drying, comfortable, soft, and more importantly, odor-resistant, so you can go longer between washes (or opt for a quick sink wash instead). Bring two, so you can let each pair breathe between wears.

These pants offer great versatility. They’re comfortable and lightweight enough to wear on driving days, breathable enough to wear on trails, and polished enough to wear to happy hour. We also like that they’re wrinkle-resistant, so you can crumple them up and toss them in your duffle without worrying how they’ll fare. The only downside is that the pockets aren’t as usable as we would like.

All you need to know about the Encircled Dressy Sweatpant is in the name. These sweats are oh-so-soft and stretchy—perfect for long drives—yet dressy enough you can step out of your car without being embarrassed. They’re also relatively thin, so you’re not likely to get overheated, and feature a secret zippered pocket that’s actually hard to spot (unlike other “secret” pockets out there). So we guess it’s not all in the name, after all.

Breathable and short (without looking excessively short), these lululemon shorts are great for hot days exploring the city, hiking up a mountain, or getting your exercise on. We like that they have two pockets—one zippered, one stash—for extra cash or cards. Plus, they’re available in a range of colors, so you can (hopefully) find one that you like.

The odor-resistant, temperature-regulating, and moisture-wicking properties of this Merino wool t-shirt are a must for long days in the car or out exploring—plus it’s nice enough you can get away with wearing it out to dinner. It’s wrinkle-resistant too, so you can pull it out of your duffle, throw it on, and look sharp. Need we say more?

This tank is quick-drying, so you don’t have to sit in discomfort after spilling your water bottle all over yourself when driving over a pothole. Plus, it’s moisture-wicking and has solid odor control. As its name suggests, it’s best for active days on the trails, but all of those aforementioned features mean it's great for driving days too. You can also rock it in the city if you’re going for a sporty look. NOTE: Patagonia is in the process of updating the Capilene line to provide 50+ UPF protection, so availability may be limited.

Perfect for those days when you can’t be bothered to wear separates, this romper is soft, stretchy, and comfortable. It has also been treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) to repel moisture. The small details—like the crisscrossed straps on the back, scalloped hem, and draped waist elevate the romper’s look and make it easy to dress it up. So, you can wear it both on a lazy day at the campground and a night out on the town.

A versatile sports bra that will work for low-impact activities, including hiking, yoga, or a bike tour through the city. You can wear it beneath a tank or on its own. In fact, we think it’s sleek enough that you could get away with wearing it with a jacket and jeans for a night out (of course that depends on your style preferences). It's also double lined for extra support, quick-drying, and has UPF50+ protection.

A headband is a versatile tool to have in your arsenal. It can help out a bad hair day, keep your hair out of your face, and elevate an outfit. We’re digging this one as it can be worn in two ways (more versatility!) and has a soft, silky material. Plus, Breezy Tee uses 100% recycled materials in its packaging, which is a huge plus in our books.

Perfect for stargazing on chilly nights or when sharing a car with someone who loves to blast the air conditioning, this sweater is the epitome of cozy. It’s soft and warm, yet breathable. You’ll likely never want to take it off. And, of course, being from Patagonia, it’s also made from 100% recycled polyester and is Fair Trade Certified™ sewn.

Also, make sure to pack:

• Additional pairs of underwear (x 3)
• Pair of jeans
• Nice shirt for fancy dinners with Grandpa, walking through art museums, etc
• Packing cubes
• Hat (baseball cap style)
• Athletic shoes
• Cheap flip flops for showers
• Socks (x 4)
• Rain jacket
• Cold weather clothing—warm jacket, hat, gloves, and long underwear—if you will be driving to chiller climates or camping

Productivity & Tech

Road trips are a great way to unplug and recharge. But a little technology can go a long way in making your time on the road less of a mis adventure and more of an epic adventure.

And, if you’ll be working on the road, check out our Digital Nomad Packing List for all the tech you need to be able to do your job on the go.

While you can hit the road without a phone mount, we don’t suggest it. Not only is it more convenient to follow GPS directions with your phone mounted, it’s safer to boot. We’re digging this magnetic mount, which is pretty universal and will work with most smartphones, cases, and GPS devices. Plus, the magnet is super clean compared to other mount styles: no adhesive to stick to (and damage) your dash, no bulkiness, and easy to use one-handed.

An excellent tripod to keep your phone steady, so you can take photos or videos of your legendary trip. The flexible legs wrap around a variety of surfaces, allowing you to capture moments you would otherwise miss. Plus, it’s so small, you’ll hardly notice it in your car.

We probably don’t need to convince you that a USB car adapter is a useful tool to have on the road. We like this one since it’s small and has two outlets, so you don’t have to fight over who needs to charge their phone the most…Unless there are more than two of you in the car. In which case, may we suggest rock-paper-scissors?

You need a phone cable to go with the car charger—or plug directly into your head unit. Anker is a brand we’ve had good luck with. Three feet is a great size as you don’t want anything too long—all the extra cable will get annoying. Conversely, too short will also be annoying. We like to pack multiple cables, either for sharing with car mates or to keep one in our tech kit and a couple in the car.

If you’re the type of person who likes to put pen to paper, you’ll likely love this travel journal. It helps you plan your trip—with spots to jot down research, keep track of reservations, and budget. Plus, there’s a travel log to memorialize your epic adventures. There’s enough space inside for twelve (!) dedicated trips.

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A headlamp is essential for camping and hiking—unless you have special night-vision magical powers, of course. But it’s also nice-to-have in other situations (say if you want to stay up reading all night, but your roommate wants lights out). We like that this one has a variety of brightness settings, an option for red light, and a “memory” that lets you turn on your chosen brightness without cycling through all the options. Plus—it’s highly water-resistant (rated Rated IPX4), so you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a storm.

A dedicated alarm clock is a weird and specific thing to pack, we know. But you don’t want to leave your phone on at night—say if you’re camping or sleeping in your car—because it will kill the battery (or drain your battery bank). This is a solid workaround. It’s small, somewhat durable, and totally silent (as in you won’t hear it tick, not that the alarm itself is silent).

There are lots of power inverters on the market, but we’re digging this middle of the road option. It has decent wattage—it will charge most things that need charging (laptop, e-reader, phone)—but isn’t overkill. The two outlets and two USB ports are helpful to have, plus there’s a built-in fuse for safety. It’s also relatively compact, so it won’t take up too much space in your car.

• Headphones (noise canceling is clutch)

Toiletries & Personal Care

As far as we’re concerned, smelling of sweat and sunscreen is a part of the fun of road trips (…right?). But your car mates—and grocery store clerks, baristas, park rangers, and everyone else you come in contact with on your travels will thank you if you freshen up from time to time.

Unlike the Toiletries & Personal Care sections in our other packing lists, not everything we list here will fit into your Dopp kit. In fact, we recommend only keeping the toiletries you’ll need for showers and your morning/evening routines in your Dopp kit. Everything else—think toilet paper roll and coconut oil—can and should be tucked out of the way in one of the plastic bins we mention later on in this packing list. That way, you can get to said items when you need them, but you don’t have to sort through them to get to your toothbrush every morning.

Cologne won’t completely mask your haven’t-taken-a-shower-in-a-week odor, but it will help. Fulton & Roark offers several scents to choose from, so you should be able to find a fragrance that suits you. (Check out the full review for our team’s favorite scents.) And, because it’s solid, you don’t have to worry about spills.

If you haven’t used a menstrual cup before, it may take some time to get used to (we suggest trying it out before your road trip). But, once you get used to it, it’s amazing to have on the road. You can use it for up to 12 consecutive hours, so you don’t have to clean it at questionable rest stops. Plus, the Blossom Cup doesn’t use any harmful rubber or plastics and comes in at a super affordable price point.

Perfect for those days you want to smell extra nice (or when your deodorant needs some help in masking your haven’t-taken-a-shower-in-a-week odor). Lush offers several different fragrances, so you should be able to find a smell that works for you. Plus, it’s solid, so you don’t have to worry about spills.

We like this Dopp kit for a couple of reasons. 1) It hangs up, which is an important feature for showering at gyms or campsites, and 2) It has a highly water-resistant pouch that you can take out of the kit and into the shower without worrying about it taking forever to dry. Note that there is a ton of organization inside of this bag, which may be right up your alley or feel limiting, depending on your travel style.

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You don’t need to abide by airline liquid rules, but we still prefer to put our liquids into small containers to save space. These toiletry bottles have been designed to fit perfectly inside the Gravel Toiletry Bag, but their unique shape means they fit together nicely to save space inside of any Dopp kit. We suggest using them for whatever liquids you plan to take with you on the road. Say conditioner and hair gel.

Sure, you don’t need a fancy soap case, but this thing is super nice to have. It’s not rigid like a hard-sided case—so it’s easier to pack—and it’s also way better than a plastic bag. The technical makeup of the case also allows the soap to dry out while being totally watertight, meaning your Dopp Kit and all your gear stays dry. Yeah, it’s basically magic.

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A microfiber, antimicrobial towel is about the most massively useful thing a road tripper might have (any Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy fans out there? No?). In all seriousness, this microfiber towel is super handy. It’s necessary if you plan to shower at a campsite or gym, but also nice-to-have in case your Airbnb forgets to supply a towel. It’s also great for beach trips or picnics. The antimicrobial properties of the towel mean that smells are kept to a minimum and that you don’t have to wash it as frequently as other towels. Plus, this towel dries really, really quickly. Additionally, it packs down into a small carrying case that won’t take up much space in your car. There are a few different sizes available, so you can grab what you need—we recommend the XL.

You might not know, but coconut oil is a triple threat. It’s a great way to moisturize your skin after spending all day in the sun. Plus, you can use to strengthen and de-frizz your hair, and, finally, you can cook with it. We like that this one is organic with no added chemicals.

While this first aid kit doesn’t have a bunch of trauma stuff, it should take care of most minor ailments (and if you need trauma supplies, you should probably seek medical attention anyway). We like the extra hand-sanitizer and the addition of the anti-itch ointment. It’s also relatively small, so you can easily keep it in your middle console or glove box.

Stains happen on road trips. Like a lot. Whether it’s dropping melted chocolate onto your shorts while making s’mores around the campfire, spilling coffee on your shirt after hitting the road early, or rubbing dirt into your sweater on a picnic. A Tide to Go Pen won’t alleviate every stain out there, but it gets rid of most stains with just a few pats.

• Toothpaste or powder
• Hand sanitizer
• Shampoo bar
• Powder laundry detergent
• Hair creams or pomades
• Nail clippers
• Lip balm (road trips lead to cracked lips…trust)
• Toilet paper
• Gallon plastic bags

Cooking on the road is a great way to stretch your budget and stay healthy, whether you’ll be road-tripping for a weekend or six months. While the idea of cooking over a campfire is romanticized in that whimsical living-off-the-land kind of way, it’s not practical for a road trip that lasts any length of time. But you also don’t want to take the finest chef’s knife and ceramic pot and pan set from your kitchen either.

Finding the best supplies to spin up tasty meals out of your car—without taking up too much room in your trunk—is a difficult dance. Luckily, through lots of trial and error, we’ve come up with a list of what we find useful, but not overkill (of course, tailor it to your preferences).

YETI made a name for itself by taking the cooler world by storm, so, yeah, we’re going to recommend a YETI cooler. It keeps ice really well—we’re talking days in the right conditions—so you don’t have to continually buy ice. We recommend this soft-sided style as it can kind of expand or contract based on how full it is, can be jammed into places, and has a flat top, so you can throw some stuff on top of it. YETI also offers larger sizes if you think you’ll need that extra space.

You can use this lightweight tea kettle for far more than making tea. Boil water for instant oatmeal, coffee, sanitation purposes, etc. The one-liter size of this kettle is large enough you can boil enough water for the aforementioned activities (you can always fill it and boil it twice if need be), but not so large that it will take up precious space in your car. The coated handle is nice to grip.

This stainless steel bowl is great for eating on the road. First of all, it cleans up ridiculously easily. If you’re in a pinch, you can pour a little water into the bottom, clean off any gunk with your finger, rinse, and you're good to go. It’s also lightweight and small, but deep enough that you can fit a good amount of food inside. And, if you need more than one, they stack into each other nicely. Our only caveat is that it can get hot to the touch when you fill it with hot food, so keep that in mind.

Yes, we’re telling you to pack everything and the kitchen sink (ha!). But, seriously, you can’t actually travel with your sink, so this is the next best thing. You can fill it up with soapy water—or just use it to catch your dirty dishwater—to clean up your cooking mess while at a campground, rest stop, or super cheap Airbnb that doesn’t have a kitchen. Just make sure you properly dispose of the water.

If you’ve spent any time in a kitchen then you probably know why a towel is handy when it comes to cooking. The same is true on the road. (Hint: it’s primarily for drying dishes and your hands. You can also use it as an oven mitt to hold your stainless steel bowl when it’s super hot.) This microfiber towel is perfect for travel as it dries quickly, so you can throw it back in the car after a quick pit-stop without having to worry about weird damp towel smells.

It’s super convenient to have a big ole mixing bowl while cooking on the road. You can use it to store chopped up veggies before sautéing them, to hold giant salads, or do other large mixing bowl activities. We like that this one collapses into a small size, so it won’t take up space whenever not in use.

Plastic and paper grocery bags can make your car dirty in the blink of an eye. Plus, they’re not great for the environment. We’re digging this tote since it packs into a tiny size to stay out of your way when not in use. The included carabiner clip is also handy—you can clip it to your keychain, the exterior of your bag, or wherever else to ensure it doesn’t get lost in the black hole that is your trunk. And it works for far more than groceries—take it to the beach, on a picnic, or wherever else you don’t want to lug your day pack.

Cooking on the road can be a hassle, so it’s important to keep leftovers when you can. Stasher Bags are a great way to do that. First of all, they’re better for the environment than disposable plastic bags. But they also work better—you can throw them in the cooler without worrying about melted ice water penetrating the silicone exterior and turning last night’s dinner into water-logged mush. Additionally, you can eat straight out of them. These bags also work well for snacks—you can partition out serving sizes of trail mix, pretzels, or [insert-your-favorite-snack-here]. Stasher sells a variety of sizes and colorways, so you can find one (or several) that works for you.

You may not be able to make intricate, complicated meals with this cook set, but the two pots and pan allow you to cook a good variety of things. They nest inside of each other and tuck into a handy carrying bag, which makes for easy packing. The pots also have a strainer built into the lid, so you can drain pasta (or other things) without having to pack a separate colander.

When it comes to camping stoves, this one from Coleman is luxurious. The two burners allow you to make meals that require cooking multiple things at the same time—think grilling up veggies and cooking rice. It’s also durable, simple to use, and has a range of flame size. Plus, it packs up nicely.

Fuel for your stove—need we say more? Actually, yes, we do have more to say. Make sure you keep an eye out of how much propane you have left, so you don’t roll up to your campsite hangry and tired only to realize you can’t use your stove. Also, be sure to responsibly dispose of empty canisters.

There are several ways to make coffee on the road, but we’re partial to an AeroPress. Sure, it’s not the easiest option out there, but it makes such exceptional coffee that we think the trade-off is worth it. And, yeah, it may not be as easy as a pour over, but it’s also not rocket science.

These plastic bins are a great, affordable option to organize your cooking supplies. You can easily grab them from the backseat of your car and set them on a picnic table whenever you’re ready to fire up the stove. Use one for traditional supplies—think chef’s knife, bowl, spork, lighter, etc. Use the other for bottles—olive oil, soy sauce, etc—and spices that you’ll want handy while cooking (note that if you want to store taller bottles standing up, you won't be able to keep the lid on).

This flat storage bin easily slides into backseats and trunks, so it’s a good place to keep all of your non-perishable food (cans of beans, boxes of pasta, etc). Plus, it’s clear, so you can see what food you have and how much you have left at a glance.

Not only do you need water for drinking, but it’s necessary for cooking and cleaning up too. We like this container because its shape is designed for easy pouring, the spigot makes doing dishes easy (well, easier), and 7L is a great size.

• Titanium spork
• Wooden spatula
• Vegetable peeler
• Lighter and/or box of matches
• Thin, flexible, plastic cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Paper towel roll

Sleeping & Camping

If you’ll be sticking to hotels and Airbnbs then this section doesn’t apply to you. But if you plan to spend some (or all!) of your trip camping and sleeping in your car, then you’re gonna need some stuff to help you get a good night’s sleep.

If you’ll be spending a lot of time in your tent, you’ll probably appreciate the space this tent provides. There’s enough room inside that you can stand up (!)—plus the fly goes all the way down for solid weather protection. That said, it’s going to take up more space in your car than a smaller tent and isn’t going to be great in heavy winds. Based on the length of your trip, how frequently you’ll be camping, and your personality, you can decide if the comfort and hangoutability (not a word, but go with it) of the Grand Hut is worth sacrificing some durability. Or if you would prefer something smaller. And, because REI will likely have REI-branded stuff at most of their locations, you should be able to drop by any REI store and easily get replacement parts or a new tent if your first one fails on you (within the scope of the one-year warranty).

You probably don’t need this technical of a sleeping pad, but it’s one of those things that are nice to have—especially if you’ll be sleeping on it nearly every night. It’s thick (for a sleeping pad) with great insulation to keep the cold from the ground from seeping into your body. Plus, it rolls up into a small size, so it won’t take up too much space in your car.

There’s a variety of highly technical, specialized, expensive sleeping bags on the market. This one is not one of them—but it’s all you (likely) need for basic car camping. It’s rated to 35℉, which is pretty dang cold, especially since most road trips take place in warm weather months (or involve chasing the sun). Plus, it’s not likely to make you too hot. It comes in two sizes (regular and long) and you can pick up a left-handed version if you’re left-handed. We also want to mention that it’s made from 100% recycled fabrics, which is, frankly, awesome.

While you could bring the pillow off of your bed, we suggest packing a specific pillow for camping. Just think of all the dirt and grime that camping involves. We’re digging this pillow since it’s made of soft, comfy, and up-cycled foam—perfect for camping and car naps. Plus, it’s compressible, so it won’t take up much space in your car when not in use. There are a few different sizes to choose from and plenty of colorways.

If you’re sleeping in your car—or even just lounging in it—you’ll want to be able to roll down your windows without inviting mosquitos inside to sleep with you. This netting will get the job done. Simply drape it over your windows and secure it with magnets. You only need one package if you want to cover two windows, but you’ll want two if you have large windows or several you want to cover.

These are the magnets you’ll need if you're draping mosquito netting over your windows. They may look tiny, but they are seriously strong. You may want to wrap these in duct tape before using them because, otherwise, they can rip the paint off of your car. Also, you can create little handles/pull tabs with the duct tape, so you can actually pull off the magnets.

This tarp isn’t durable enough for heavy lifting, but it’s a good all-around tarp to set your tent on to protect it from a wet ground/help extend its life. Additionally, you can tie the tarp over the windows if it’s raining and you need to sleep in your car (so you can keep the windows cracked without worrying about getting wet).

Rope is one of those things that seems to come in handy at random intervals. Say to help you tie your tarp over your windows in the aforementioned it’s-raining-while-you’re-sleeping-in-your-car scenario.

Miscellaneous

Not everything we recommend fits neatly into the above categories. While not as necessary as, say your toothbrush, these miscellaneous items will help you take your road trip to the next level. You know, the kinds of things you’ll be really glad you packed after a few days on the open road.

Road tripping with a reusable water bottle is the way to go (beyond environmentalism, who wants to drink lukewarm or, even, hot water from a plastic disposable bottle that’s been sitting in the car all day?). This bottle has double wall vacuum insulation to keep cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot. The 18oz size is big enough that you should be able to quench your thirst, but it still fits inside most cup holders.

If you’re a coffee drinker you’re going to need a separate bottle for the delicious drink (for obvious reasons). This one seals, so you don’t have to worry about spills in between sips. And, because of its trigger-action lid, you can easily drink your coffee one-handed, which is ideal (and necessary) for driving.

This seven-in-one multi-tool isn’t going to be handy for any big things. In fact, we recommend you bring an actual tool kit for that kind of stuff. But the Shard is perfect for quick jobs like opening bottles or tightening the screw on that wobbly Airbnb chair. Plus, this little fella is small and inconspicuous enough to fit nicely on a keychain.

Part carabiner, part clip, the Heroclip is a handy tool to have around. Use it as a clip to hang things up. Or use it as a carabiner, which has a million different uses, from keeping your keys more secure inside of your bag, to clipping your water bottle to your pack. It’s available in a few different sizes and a variety of colorways and patterns.

This travel wallet is a great place to stash and organize your roadside assistance card, insurance, registration, America the Beautiful pass, passport(s), emergency cash, etc. All of the things you may need occasionally on the road, but don’t want to keep in your everyday wallet. And, because the wallet will mostly stay out of sight, you don’t need anything fancy looking. Plus it has a spot for coins (for showers!).

Between stopping for smoothies, enjoying a creamy milkshake, or slurping down ice water at a restaurant, road trips involve a fair amount of straw action. This stainless steel reusable straw is a great alternative to plastic straws. It folds down to a small, packable size, ends up being more fun to drink out of than disposable straws, and will help mitigate your environmental impact. That’s a win, win, win right there.

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This camping chair is a great middle-ground between a traditional big camping chair, which will take up precious space inside of your car, and something ultralight, which usually involves sacrificing comfort. Use it at a campground or sitting around a fire pit in the backyard of your Airbnb.

This thing is only necessary if you’ll be road tripping to a place without easy access to washers and dryers (or sinks). A simple concept, we’ve been impressed with how effective it is at cleaning clothes (the interior washboard makes all the difference). It does leave your clothes sopping wet, but as long as you keep drying time in mind, that’s not a huge problem.

These plastic bins are a great way to keep your stuff organized—whether that be camping stuff, paper towels, coconut oil, plastic bags, and other things of that nature. The lids clip into place, ensuring that whatever you have inside won’t fall out, plus they’re stackable to make for a nicely organized car.

These convenient little tubs work well for storing those random small items you want to take on the road. Say ibuprofen, vitamins, or jewelry. We like to fill a second one with snacks (think almonds) to take on quick hikes or day trips. Plus, they’re available in different sizes, so you can mix and match.

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• Playing cards
• Yoga mat (if you’re in to that sort of thing)
• DSLR camera
• Combination lock

Ready, Set, Drive.

So there you have it—everything we’ve found that you need for a successful road trip after years of trial and error by members of our team. We hope this list has helped ease any of your pre-road trip stress. Remember, this list is more of a guideline. Please adapt it to your trip and preferences ( our reviews may help you find gear that suits your needs).

And don’t forget to check out our Road Trip Guide for more advice, including tips on how to pack your car. Now, crank up that music, roll down your windows, and hit the road.

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A deadly crash on a Long Beach sunset cruise. Then, the fight to save survivors

Video taken aboard the Four Kings boat shows the mellow waters hours before the fatal crash.

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The summer sun had set, and it was dark on the waters of Alamitos Bay when 12 friends aboard the 48-foot Four Kings sportfishing boat arrived back at harbor after a day of cruising, eating and drinking around the Long Beach coast.

Then, the passengers — half of whom were on the control deck while half were in a room below — felt a massive jolt.

The people below were knocked down, thrown forward and dazed, but one man was able to gather himself and go up to the flybridge to survey the damage.

He emerged to a horrific scene. There was blood everywhere and bodies not moving splayed out on the ground.

And it was about to get worse. The boat had hit the jetty, was taking on water and was drifting back out to sea. So he acted.

That’s how one of the biggest maritime emergencies in years began in Long Beach’s harbor, a hot spot for pleasure boating. The July 3 crash injured nearly everyone on board and killed John Correa, a former UC Berkeley baseball player who worked in real estate. He also volunteered as a coach for Millikan High School in Long Beach, where he helped lead the team to a 1983 state championship in its division.

The incident is now under investigation by the Long Beach Fire Department’s Marine Safety Division, which has released few details other than to say speed was probably a factor . There have been no arrests made or charges.

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But how could the boat, piloted most of the evening by an experienced boater, have slammed into the jetty just outside the slip at such a high speed? Those waters are navigated by hundreds every day in a city where 4,000 pleasure boats are docked at marinas.

“Fatalities are extremely low frequency. I can’t remember the last time we had a fatality on a recreational boat,” said Gonzalo Medina, the marine safety chief of the Long Beach Fire Department.

The last fatal crash on the water was in 2021, Medina said, when a racer going more than 100 mph flipped his boat during the Long Beach Sprint Nationals.

Whatever caused the crash is still a mystery. But passengers on the boat described to The Times how the evening turned from a calm, pleasant cruise to a bloody nightmare that could have claimed even more lives if it weren’t for the quick thinking of a few people on board.

One of the owners of the boat, Kevin King, who was captaining the ship that night, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Times reached out to the other 10 survivors as well; three shared their recollections while the rest did not respond.

Attempts to reach Correa’s family, who have started a GoFundMe page for the Millikan baseball program in his honor, were also unsuccessful.

King, the owner of the Four Kings, knew the waters around Long Beach well, said the three people who were on the boat and spoke with The Times.

He is an experienced boater and knows his boat like “the back of his hand,” said Barry Vince, one of the passengers.

“He’s been out on that ocean, on that jetty thousands of times,” Vince said. “I had full confidence in him.”

Two weeks before he got on the Four Kings boat with his wife, Erin Earlywine, Vince nearly died. The ultramarathon runner was taking part in a race in the Pyrenees in Andorra when he fell and rolled down part of a mountain. He broke three ribs and dislocated his shoulder.

“I was so grateful to live through that,” Vince said. “Then to have this happen right after is trippy.”

Vince and Earlywine had no plans to be out late. Vince is sober, and Earlywine had an early cycling event in the morning.

“Kevin assured us we’d be home right when sun is going down,” said Earlywine.

But they weren’t.

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The Long Beach Fire Department responded Wednesday evening to reports of a 48-foot boat that had crashed into the Alamitos Bay jetty.

July 4, 2024

After leaving Alamitos Bay, the boat cruised past White Island, where the 12 friends were unable to get a mooring to sit and eat. King steered them on to Shoreline Village, then went out past the breakwater. Then they came back in and floated and ate and drank, according to the people who were on the boat.

“Sunset came. It was getting dark so we headed back,” Vince said.

At that point, the group of 12 split into two. One group of six remained in the upper level where the boat’s controls are. The other six hung out below in the interior room, which has no front-facing windows.

Down below, the group, which included Vince, was eating cookies, sitting around and chatting about everyone’s plans for the Fourth of July, Earlywine recalled.

“Then we hit,” she said. “I didn’t really realize what was going on.”

Vince turned to his wife and told her she was bleeding from her head.

Others recalled more clearly the moment of impact.

“It was just a horrific, massive impact. The sound was just something I’ve never really heard before,” said one member of the group, who requested anonymity to discuss the sensitive event.

After the boat crashed it came to a stop, but the engines had not. They were roaring.

The man didn’t understand why the engines were still going. They had crashed. Shouldn’t someone upstairs be slowing down the engines?

“The first thing I questioned was, like, why isn’t the driver, why aren’t we backing down on the throttle?” he said. “I didn’t know what we hit — a boat, the pier — I didn’t know. ... I went outside and up top.”

What he found up above was a disturbing scene.

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All six people on the upper level were down, apparently knocked unconscious. The entire deck was covered in blood, he said. From up above, the man could tell that the boat had crashed into the jetty, an outcropping of rocks that extends from the shore into the ocean.

Before he could deal with the injuries, the man realized that there was an even more pressing issue. With the engines still on, the boat was drifting from the jetty and heading back into deep water. He quickly took control of the boat and reversed it back into the jetty so its swim deck was on the rocks, which would allow people to get off the boat.

“If I had been knocked out, the boat would have gone out in deeper water,” the man said.

Down below there was another issue.

“I’m standing and looking around and the room downstairs is filling up with water,” Earlywine said. “I’m like, ‘Oh my God, why is there so much water coming in?’”

To stop the boat — which had a massive tear in its hull — from drifting into the water and potentially sinking, the man who had steered it back into the jetty found a few ropes.

He used one to secure a corner of the boat to a large rock on the jetty. A second rope attached to the boat was held by an onlooker who’d been fishing on the jetty before the crash.

Stopping the engines and bringing the boat back onto the jetty “saved the day,” Vince said. “He saved lives on this boat. He went up to the flybridge where the other six were. He had wherewithal to reverse the boat back into the rocks. We would have sunk in deeper water.”

Vince and his wife called their daughter, Abbey Vince, a lifeguard in Los Angeles County. She was at dinner nearby when the crash occurred.

“‘We hit something,’” Abbey recalled her stepmother saying.

She called 911, alerted the Coast Guard, got in her car and drove to the jetty. She knew where it was because her father’s phone alerted her after the impact.

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On the boat, the man who steered the boat back onto the jetty was surveying the damage.

“It was just bad upstairs. There wasn’t any movement from most people up top,” he said. “They woke up after the people downstairs.”

There was a country song playing. It sounded eerie and discordant amid the frantic, somber mood on the boat, but he could not figure out how to turn it off.

Then he saw John Correa.

“John never woke up,” he said.

“I saw John. I checked his pulse. He was passed away,” Vince said.

Correa had broken his neck after being thrown into the control console of the boat, Vince said.

First responders began to arrive at the scene. One woman had her teeth knocked out by the crash. Vince initially thought the boat owner, King, was dead too. People were waking up, looking dazed and unsure of their surroundings.

“Their eyes were open, but they didn’t know what was going on,” Vince said.

As the boat sank lower and lower into the water, they were able to offload people from both areas. Finally, when the skybridge was at water level, first responders were able to retrieve Correa’s body.

Speculation and rumors swirled following the boat’s crash.

The three people who spoke with The Times sought to dispel the notion that Correa could have been piloting the boat. Correa did not know how to operate it and had spoken to people earlier about that, witnesses said.

All three people who spoke with The Times said that the owner of the boat, King, had been steering it earlier in the evening. But all were on the lower level when the boat hit the rocks, so none of them saw who was at the helm then.

“It’s not like he’s a rookie pleasure boater,” said the man who steered the boat back onto the jetty. “King spends a lot of time on the water. It’s something that we all are like, how did this happen?”

Times intern Sandra McDonald and Times staff writer Richard Winton contributed to this report.

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Noah Goldberg covers breaking news for the Los Angeles Times. He worked previously in New York City as the Brooklyn courts reporter for the New York Daily News, covering major criminal trials as well as working on enterprise stories. Before that, he was the criminal justice reporter for the Brooklyn Eagle.

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13 Cheap and Free Things to Do In Montréal Year Round

Updated : August 07, 2024 |

AAA Travel Editor, Katie Broome

Montréal is filled with fun things to do, including scenic natural parks, excellent museums and exciting attractions. But if you're wondering how to make the most of your time in the city without breaking the bank, have no fear. There are plenty of free things to do in Montréal that double as some of the city’s best tourist experiences. 

Check Out the Art Scene

Every city has its creatives, and you don’t want to miss Montréal’s museums, artists, and performers. Whether you prefer classic painters or modern dance, there’s something for everyone. 

1. Get Inspired at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts

With five pavilions featuring Québec and Canadian art, ancient and modern international art, decorative arts and design and more, the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts is a must for art lovers visiting the city. If your trip includes the first Sunday of the month, you're in luck—admission is free, and it's always free for kids up to age 20. Admission is half-price on Wednesdays after 5 p.m. for the museum's major exhibition. 

2. Enjoy Murals on St. Laurent Boulevard

Graffiti is celebrated as an art form in Montréal — in fact, the city holds an annual MURAL festival in June that brings artists from around the world to create murals at intersections along St. Laurent Boulevard. This is the city’s main drag, dividing east and west, and it’s lined with shops and restaurants that are fun to check out as you look for the giant, colorful works of art between Sherbrooke and Mont-Royal avenues.

3. See Contemporary Art at the Belgo Building

The Belgo Building downtown is Montréal’s go-to stop for contemporary art. It’s currently home to 13 galleries and the city's largest center for visual arts. Visit to discover new artists, plan a trip to an art show, or attend an artist workshop for a hands-on art experience. 

4. Join the Circus

Montréal is the circus capital of North America . Home to the National Circus School, Cirque du Soleil, and several independent circus companies, Montréal offers high-flying performances year-round. Many are paid, but there are chances to catch free shows at events and special showings. 

Enjoy Some Fresh Air

The city has plenty to see inside and outside all year round. You’re likely visiting during the warmer months when Montréal is most active. So rent a bike, lace up your tennis shoes, and enjoy the great outdoors. 

Of course, there are beautiful seasonal fall colors and plenty of winter activities to keep you warm in the snow. So don’t hesitate to explore all Montréal offers. 

5. Take in the City From Parc du Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Park)

Escape into nature along miles of scenic trails that wind throughout Parc du Mont-Royal Park (Mount Royal Park) and lead up to lookouts offering spectacular views of the surrounding city. A welcome center on the ground level of Smith House offers information about the park as well as an exhibit about the mountain’s history. 

If you're not up for a hike to the summit, take advantage of one of several bus routes that travel to the welcome center throughout the day.

6. See the Sights in Downtown Montréal

Visit Saint Catherine Street to experience all downtown has to offer. There’s plenty of window shopping and restaurants, and the busy street often features street performers and musicians. This nine-mile stretch weaves through multiple iconic neighbors and has several metro stops, so you can easily travel to your next destination. 

7. Play In the Parks As a Family

Local parks and green spaces are a great way to relax outside of your hotel room and let the kids have some fun. Montréal has acres of parks and miles of trails to explore in every corner of the city. 

Parc La Fontaine is an excellent stop between shopping trips in Saint-Denis. The park has plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including an ice skating rink in the winter. 

Are you more interested in blooming gardens? Try Parc Maisonneuve, which features multiple gardens and even sheep grazing on the north side. Plus, the park is conveniently situated next to the Montréal Botanical Garden .

Take in the History

Montréal was established over 300 years ago, in 1642, so there’s plenty for the history buffs to enjoy. Take in stunning architecture, visit the city’s top history museums, and learn something new before you head home. 

8. Travel Through Old Montréal

Strolling along the cobblestone streets of Old Montréal is an essential experience during a trip to this destination. It's filled with historical buildings, museums, cozy restaurants and quaint shops—some dating back to the 17th century. 

Pro tip: Don't drive here—parking is scarce. Take the metro and be sure to stop by the tourism office for a map of a self-guiding tour so you don't miss any key attractions. Free guided tours are available from Free Montréal Tours; phone (514) 613-1940.

9. Learn at the Redpath Museum

The Redpath Museum is a fascinating natural history museum on the McGill University campus. The unique Greek Revival building houses one of the oldest museums in Canada and displays a vast collection ranging from dinosaur skeletons and ancient sea creatures to Egyptian mummies. Admission is by voluntary donation, and children and students are admitted free.

10. See Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal

Said to be the largest shrine in the world dedicated to St. Joseph , this Catholic sanctuary sits atop Mont-Royal and offers spectacular panoramas from its front steps. 

The grounds feature the Garden of the Road of the Cross and a forest preserve. Inside, you'll find a votive chapel with thousands of candles. For a $4 admission fee, you can visit a museum featuring nativity scenes from around the world as well as works reflecting the religious heritage of Québec. This is a must-see destination for our three-day Montréal tour . 

Free Events Year Round

Montréal loves a good festival, so there are plenty of annual events to catch if you’re in town — especially if you’re visiting during the popular summer months. 

11. Dance at Montréal En Lumières

This winter festival kicks off in February and features a variety of local and traveling musicians, from folk to symphonic. New restaurant pop-ups keep visitors fed while creative light installations dazzle the senses. This is just one of the amazing things to do in Montreal that both kids and adults can enjoy. 

12. Open Up to Opera

Montreal’s Little Italy shuts down the neighborhood for one week every August to celebrate live opera. Free performances outdoors near the Notre-Dame-de-la-Défense Church are the main attraction, but there’s also plenty of food and shopping. 

13. Walk the Summer Street Fairs

Local markets and fairs feel like hidden gems — these are excellent ways to get a sense of a city and its culture. Montréal isn’t an exception, with multiple streets closing to traffic to host artists, makers, and market stalls of every variety. Buy your souvenirs, enjoy local art, and connect with the locals all in one stop. 

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If you have a long layover, look for a transit hotel. They're my low-cost secret to not having a miserable trip.

• I stayed at a Yotelair transit hotel for the first time during a long layover in Istanbul.
• They're inside airports, past immigration and security, so they're super convenient for travel.
• I wish more airports had transit hotels. This one helped me have the best, most stress-free layover .

As a frequent traveler, I sometimes take flights with long layovers .

They can be miserable, but they can also be a great deal, which is why I recently brought my kids onto a flight with a 32-hour layover in Istanbul.

An upside of this odd itinerary was that it gave us a full day in Istanbul , where we caught our connecting flight home. A downside was that our first flight landed close to midnight, and our connecting flight left early in the morning.

I frantically searched for somewhere to stay during our two-night stopover that was both conveniently close to the airport and would give us easy access to the city, about an hour away.

My search led me to a fantastic new-to-me concept: transit hotels.

Transit hotels aren't the same as airport hotels — they're way better

Airport hotels are close to or connected to airports, but transit hotels are inside airports. Many are in the airport's transit area, where duty-free shops are usually located.

Unlike airport hotels, transit hotels are usually beyond airport security and immigration. Not having to get a passport stamped before checking in or boarding the plane saves a ton of time for travelers who don't leave the airport.

Because of their unique location, transit hotels are often limited to international passengers who have a boarding pass for an onward flight anywhere from a few hours to a day or two later. Rooms can typically be booked for several hours or overnight.

Many transit-hotel guests never leave the airport. However, some passengers, like me, find that transit hotels make sense even if they plan to leave and explore.

My first transit-hotel experience was incredibly stress-free and relaxing

My family stayed at a Yotelair transit hotel in the Istanbul Airport for about $236 per night.

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Before checking in, we had to scan our boarding passes and go through an additional level of airport security. However, this was a quick process.

Since the hotel was inside the airport, we were in our room within 40 minutes of our plane landing.

If I'd booked a hotel outside of the airport, I would've had to go through immigration, take a cab, and navigate the city late at night with my kids to find it. I would've been exhausted for the one day I had in Istanbul to explore.

When we arrived, I was pleasantly surprised to find the hotel was more than basic and much nicer than a sleeping pod.

Our modern room also had great amenities.

It had outlets that could accommodate American plugs without a converter and toiletries. We also got a towel warmer, cozy slippers, and a free toothbrush.

I could also change the room's vibe by adjusting the lighting to blue or purple.

There was plenty of space for me and my two kids to sleep and our shower was spacious, too.

When we headed out the next morning, we had to go through immigration, but it was a fast process. When we returned to the hotel, we went through immigration and security once more.

I was glad to get that out of the way at night so we could sleep in before the 11-hour flight early the next morning.

Instead of waking up at the crack of dawn to get to the airport by 7 a.m., we slept in until 7:45, grabbed a quick breakfast to-go, and got to our gate with plenty of time to spare.

It was the most relaxing and stress-free travel day I have ever had.

These hotels solve a major travel problem, and I wish more airports had them

Although I could've found a cheaper hotel in the city, paying a little more was well worth the convenience and allowed us to maximize our short time in Istanbul and still get plenty of rest.

After all, a long layover is draining and can exhaust and stress out any traveler. I've spent too many layovers trying to sleep on the floor or wandering aimlessly. Transit hotels are the perfect fix.

Unfortunately, they aren't as widespread as I think they should be and can be tough to find. Yotelair has airside transit hotels in Paris, Singapore, and Amsterdam. Airports in places like Oman and Malaysia also have transit hotels under other brands.

In the US, the closest thing you'll find to transit hotels are usually sleeping pods or short-term suites for rent in select major airports.

Now that I know how fantastic transit hotels are, I'll actively look for them whenever I have a long layover — and I hope one day to see them in every airport.

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

• Main content

My bags were packed, then I got COVID. What should I do? Travel options to weigh.

I just tested positive for COVID-19. Should I travel anyway?

Variations of that question are spiking on Google Search ( as we experience a significant surge in both summer travel and new coronavirus cases.

If you travel for work or pleasure and haven’t yet dealt with the question of whether to fly with COVID-19, chances are at some point you will. 

President Joe Biden just tested positive while campaigning in Las Vegas. Several Tour de France riders are also dealing with the latest bout of COVID-19. And I picked it up earlier this month during a recent cross-country trip, testing positive just two days before I was supposed to fly to Alaska to help my parents − ages 79 and 85 − move out of their recently sold family home. 

Ethically, I didn’t feel right about getting on a plane knowing I had COVID-19 and certainly couldn’t show up to my parent's house with the virus. But the last-second scramble to rebook the trip, with our dog, my husband, and my parents still needing my help, was super-stressful. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Should I fly if I just tested positive for COVID? 

Technically, you can fly sick − no one is going to stop you at the gate and swab your nose − but you shouldn’t. 

Just because the airlines no longer require you to show proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test ahead of your international flight, as they sometimes did during the earlier years of the pandemic, doesn’t mean travel should be a germ free-for-all. 

“I suggest that you not fly,” Vicki Sowards, director of nursing resources at Passport Health, wrote via email. “You can expose the other travelers on your flight, and the process of traveling can contribute to fatigue and an increase in symptoms.”

If you know you have COVID-19, or think you might, you should not get on a plane, according to health experts, the CDC , and everyone who weighed in on my social media pages this past week. 

“Should you travel if you have COVID? Absolutely not. Other people are immunocompromised, so essentially, you could kill innocent people,” says 56-year-old Nick Longo from Corpus Christi, Texas. Longo travels outside America “at least once a year” and flies within the U.S. frequently. “Do I think a lot of people are flying with it right now? Yes. People who don't care about others are (flying).That's why it spread.” 

Mike Hensley, 54, of Northern California, agrees.

“It's a simple answer,'' he wrote. "No. You should not travel. That's how viruses spread quickly. But yes, I am sure people are traveling while positive because they think it's a seasonal allergy or cold, have convinced themselves they don't feel that bad, or are already on the upswing (and don't know/care about how viruses work) or are simply just selfish and don't care about the people they are exposing.”

I’ve been on a dozen planes over the past few months, and anecdotally, it’s true that a lot of people are sniffling, sneezing and coughing − with nary a mask in sight. 

Another traveler told me she knew three people who flew to Europe from California even though they had COVID-19. She and her parents, on the other hand, changed their travel plans last month when they came down with the virus, delaying their flight until they had tested negative for three days.

Should I wear a mask on the plane? 

The CDC , World Health Organization , Mayo Clinic and many other medical professionals agree masks help lower the risk of respiratory virus transmission, especially in tight quarters, like planes, trains, buses and automobiles.  Officials say N95 masks are the most effective. 

Anecdotally, there seems to be a lot of people choosing to fly unmasked − either knowing they have COVID-19 or not testing to find out when they have symptoms. There’s no doubt people are tired of masks and the pandemic, and many are likely treating COVID-19 like the seasonal flu or a cold − something they’ll just have to deal with when they get it. 

Some people even wrote on my social media pages that when it comes to travel, they are not concerned about passing the virus on to others because they feel it's a risk people knowingly take when they get on a plane these days. 

That last sentiment struck a nerve with me because I suspect that's how I contracted COVID-19 two Julys in a row, right after cross-country work trips that coincided with peak summer travel and virus spikes. 

What should you do if you are COVID-positive right before a planned trip? 

Even though I’m vaccinated and received my last booster in December 2023, I have some risk factors and got so sick from COVID-19 last summer that I couldn’t do much of anything for about two weeks.

I initially thought I was experiencing seasonal allergies and waited a few days before testing. By the time I did, I was already pretty sick. I had extreme headaches, head and chest congestion, muscle aches and fatigue, and I lost my sense of taste and smell for almost two months.

This summer was different. Even though I barely had a tickle in the back of my throat, I was tired and achy and knew something was off, so I took a test right away. When it came back positive, I started on Paxlovid immediately and pushed the trip to Alaska back. 

I didn’t fly until my test was negative, and I still wore a mask the entire time I was on the plane. (I didn’t eat or drink the entire flight.) I will continue to wear one indoors until every last symptom (I still have slight sniffles) goes away, even though I’ve now met the latest guidelines of having two negative tests 48 hours apart. It’s not worth the risk of getting my parents − or anyone else − sick. 

I admit, I’ve gotten much more lax about masking up on planes this past year. I often feel a little self-conscious being one of the only people wearing one, but getting sick isn’t worth it. I plan to wear one on all upcoming flights. 

What are the latest CDC guidelines? 

I have several friends who, as long as they are feeling well enough, are expected to put on a mask and go back into the office for work, even with COVID-19. What exactly are the rules now?

The latest CDC guidelines , updated in March, say you can go  back to your normal activities if you meet two requirements:

• You have been fever-free for at least 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medications) .
• Your symptoms are improving overall.

You might still be contagious, however, and the CDC recommends that for at least five days after resuming your routine, you:  

• Wash your hands frequently.
• Practice physical distancing (especially from people with risk factors from respiratory illness).
• Take additional steps for cleaner air .

In addition to the CDC guidelines,  the FDA recommends “2 negative antigen tests for individuals with symptoms or three antigen tests for those without symptoms, performed 48 hours apart” before you go back to being around people. 

Travel insurance: What are the most affordable options?

What if I can’t afford to quarantine or be sick away from home? 

The costs of flight changes, extended stays, and even additional time away from work add up. Does that mean you should stop traveling? No, but you should have a COVID-19 plan that protects others, Richard Martinello , medical director of infection prevention at Yale New Haven Health in Connecticut, told Outside Magazine recently. 

Martinello urges people to consider the moral and ethical ramifications of putting other people in harm’s way, “like not drunk driving,” he said. “Putting yourself in prolonged close contact with fellow travelers when you are knowingly sick, whether with COVID or any other contagious virus, is irresponsible. You never know who you’re sitting next to on a plane. If they’re immune-compromised, even a cold could push them over the edge to serious illness.”

Be sure to check your airline’s COVID-19 policies before you buy your ticket. Many still waive change fees for travelers who need to reschedule because they have the virus. For even more protection, book a ticket that can be changed or credited if you have to cancel your flight, and look into travel insurance . 

I almost always fly Alaska Airlines and usually pay a little extra to make my trip 100% refundable, no matter what. I didn’t do that for this latest flight (to save $280 for my husband and me) and ended up paying one $37 change fee for the difference in ticket prices between the day I was supposed to fly and the day I did. Many airlines will also give you full credit for a future flight if you have to cancel because of illness. 

How can I stay safe while traveling?

Passport Health’s Vicki Sowards says being prepared is vital. She urges travelers to get vaccinations like COVID-19 boosters before travel and pack a first aid kit, including any medications they use when they’re ill. 

“You want optimal health when going on the ‘trip of a lifetime,’” she said. Because COVID-19 spreads through airborne particles and droplets, “take a mask and sanitizer on the plane, just in case you have a seatmate or other traveler close by who is coughing and appears to be ill. Use hand sanitizer before eating or when you know you will be touching your face.”

Jennifer Jolly is an Emmy Award-winning consumer tech columnist and on-air correspondent. The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. Contact her at [email protected] . 

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NASA Says Boeing Starliner Astronauts May Fly Home on SpaceX in 2025

The agency had insisted for a couple of months that it was confident that Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore would return on Starliner.

By Kenneth Chang

For weeks, NASA has downplayed problems experienced by Starliner, a Boeing spacecraft that took two astronauts to the International Space Station in June.

But on Wednesday, NASA officials admitted that the issues might be more serious than first thought and that the astronauts might not return on the Boeing vehicle, after all.

The agency is exploring a backup option for the astronauts, Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, to instead hitch a ride back to Earth on a spacecraft built by Boeing’s competitor SpaceX.

The astronauts’ stay in orbit, which was to be as short as eight days, could be extended into next year.

“We could take either path,” Ken Bowersox, NASA’s associate administrator for the space operations mission directorate, said during a news conference on Wednesday. “And reasonable people could pick either path.”

The announcement adds more headaches and embarrassment for Boeing, an aerospace giant that has billions of dollars of aerospace contracts with the federal government and builds commercial jets that fly all around the world.

In addition to the woes faced by the company’s civil aviation division after part of a 737 jet’s fuselage blew off during flight in January, Boeing announced on Aug. 1 that it was writing off $125 million of unplanned costs spent on the Starliner program, adding to $1.5 billion of earlier write-offs.

NASA and Boeing officials had maintained that the crew members who launched with Starliner on its first crewed test flight were not stranded in space. Ms. Williams and Mr. Wilmore have spent two months aboard the orbital outpost while engineers continue to analyze data about the faulty performance of several of the Starliner’s thrusters when it approached for docking, as well as several helium leaks.

NASA typically sends a contingent of four astronauts to the space station every six months to replace an earlier crew of astronauts who then return to Earth.

Under the contingency plan, the next SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule would travel to the space station with only two astronauts instead of four. Ms. Williams and Mr. Wilmore would then join as full-fledged members of the space station crew for a half-year stay and return on the Crew Dragon around next February.

“In the last few weeks, we have decided to make sure we have that capability there, as our community, I would say, got more and more uncomfortable,” said Steve Stich, the manager of the commercial crew program at NASA.

Mr. Stich said that no decision had been made but that one would have to be made by the middle of this month.

That Crew Dragon launch has been pushed back to no earlier than Sept. 24 to allow more time for NASA officials to contemplate what to do with Starliner. The launch had been scheduled for Aug. 18.

On Wednesday, a Boeing spokesman said in a statement: “We still believe in Starliner’s capability and its flight rationale. If NASA decides to change the mission, we will take the actions necessary to configure Starliner for an uncrewed return.”

During earlier news conferences, Mr. Stich and Mark Nappi, who runs the Starliner program at Boeing, portrayed the delays as prudent engineering measures.

Mr. Stich also downplayed the possibility that the astronauts would not return on Starliner. On July 10, in response to a question about whether NASA was looking at using Crew Dragon as a backup, Mr. Stich said, “Certainly we’ve dusted off a few of those things to look at relative to Starliner, just to be prepared.”

But he added that Starliner remained the “prime option.”

In the background, NASA had already started working on the backup plan. “We started in early July, doing some early planning with SpaceX for some of these contingencies,” Mr. Stich said on Wednesday. “Then as we got closer and a little bit more data, we started to put a few more things in place.”

A turning point was the ground testing of a similar thruster at NASA’s test facility in White Sands, N.M.

The thruster showed noticeable degradation after the tests. “A bit of a surprise to us,” Mr. Stich said. “And so that, I would say, upped the level of discomfort.”

A buildup of heat appears to have caused Teflon seals in the thruster to bulge and constrict the flow of propellant.

Another test, briefly firing the thrusters on the Starliner in orbit, went smoothly. Indeed, even the ones that had previously lost significant thrust performed close to normal.

That, however, was perplexing, as engineers could not immediately understand how Teflon seals would revert to their original shape, leading them to wonder whether they had missed another issue with the faulty thrusters.

“We can’t totally prove with certainty what we’re seeing on orbit is exactly what’s been replicated on the ground,” Mr. Stich said. “People really want to understand the physics of what’s going on.”

That spurred NASA to work more diligently on the backup plan.

That includes identifying Crew Dragon spacesuits that would fit Ms. Williams and Mr. Wilmore and making preparations so that the Crew Dragon could launch with fewer passengers. (The empty seats would carry ballast to replace the weight of the astronauts.)

Mr. Stich declined to say which two astronauts currently slated to fly on that mission, known as Crew-9, would lose their ride to orbit.

If NASA decides to go with the backup plan, Starliner would still return to Earth in early September, but without anyone aboard. That would free up a docking port on the space station for the astronauts on the next Crew Dragon. Then a Crew Dragon currently docked at the space station would return with four astronauts ending their stay at the space station.

With the delay of the next mission to the space station, the next people headed to orbit could be four private astronauts led by the entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, no earlier than Aug. 26. Their mission, named Polaris Dawn, is to take Mr. Isaacman and a crew to an orbit that stretches 870 miles above the surface, the farthest anyone has been from Earth since NASA’s Apollo moon missions more than five decades ago. Two members of the crew may also attempt the first commercial spacewalk .

Starliner is not the only spacecraft to experience problems en route to the space station this summer. Cygnus, a Northrop Grumman cargo spacecraft, launched on Sunday. But an engine burn to push it on a trajectory to meet up with the space station was canceled because of low pressure in the propulsion system. After analyzing the readings, Northrop Grumman engineers concluded the pressure was adequate and rescheduled the engine burns. Cygnus arrived at the space station early Tuesday at the originally scheduled time.

Kenneth Chang, a science reporter at The Times, covers NASA and the solar system, and research closer to Earth. More about Kenneth Chang

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