Ain’t nothing like a road trip.
A lot can be said for the sensation that comes from setting out on the open road, escaping the daily grind, music blasting, windows rolled down; topped only by the feeling of pure freedom as the cityscape becomes but a mere speck in your rear vision mirror…
Yep, road trips can be ace. But only if you’ve equipped your trusty vehicle with all the essential items (that you may or may not realise you need).
Stock up on these must-have accessories for yourself or a pal (hello, perfect gift!) and prep like a pro for your next exciting four-wheel adventure.
Because there’s nothing fun about neck cramps, getting lost at night or god forbid, a flat iPhone battery.
1. Portable speaker dock
It’s common knowledge that once you hit the open road, radio coverage dissipates. So unless you’re driving a car with an MP3 input, chances are the only sound you’ll be listening to will be your tyres treading the asphalt. Enter, this nifty device. Battery operated, this speaker system allows for music to be amplified by simply placing your smart phone device up against it. Best thing is, it’s cheap as chips.
2. Road map
Google Maps is easily one of the best inventions ever (behind cronuts and the NutriBullet™) but there will come a time when that handy little smart phone of yours just can’t muster the reception needed for the app. This is where a road map comes in handy. Remember those things? Giant, printed geographical drawings that fold out to be the size of a card table? For only a few bucks, you can pick one up for your chosen destination from stores like RACV.
3. Torch
Whether you decide to pitch a tent roadside overnight or you just lost that red Starburst to the crevice under the back seat, a torch will always come in handy. Make it a durable, water resistant LED torch, if possible. LED bulbs can last for up to 50,000 hours, which is much longer than a traditional bulb.
4. Picnic basket
It’s not just Yogi Bear who loves a good “pic-a-nic” basket. These handy hampers make charming gifts and provide every road tripper with the necessities for the perfect roadside snack. To achieve true hipster style go for a traditional wicker basket with leather trimmings, or for convenience opt for a backpack with padded straps. Make sure it includes cutlery, crockery, corkscrew, wine glasses (albeit, plastic), salt and pepper pots, chopping board and a cooling section (if possible).
5. Head cushion
Eliminate the need for a dodgy Thai massage at your final destination by ensuring you’ve got a quality head cushion for your journey. The cushion’s design is used to support the head and neck, which allows you to enjoy the fun of driving, sans the future back issues. A memory foam version will provide optimum comfort.
6. Universal charger
Weighing less than a few coins, a universal charger is guaranteed to save a few mid-trip meltdowns. With a standard USB output, this genius contraption can charge phones, cameras, music players and more (just make sure you pack the necessary cords). Simply plug it in to your vehicle’s cigarette lighter and be freed from DBSD forever (Drained Battery Stress Disorder).
7. Thermos
The only thing scarier than a flat tyre in the middle of nowhere? The idea of being stuck in the middle of nowhere. Without. A. Decent. Coffee. That’s right, chances are you’re going to have to withstand long bouts of driving without passing a single café, servo or truck stop, so be prepared – pack a thermos. Filled properly, a thermos of boiling water can last up to eight hours. That’s a lot of mileage.
8. Phone cradle
Safety first, kids. Eradicate the need to use your hands when navigating the road and kit your car out with one of these. Remember, it’s mandatory in all Australian States and Territories for drivers to have their mobile phone completely hands-free or mounted in a dock or cradle affixed to the car if they want to talk on the phone or use their mobile-based GPS while driving. Do the right thing.
9. Deck of cards
Everyone knows at least one card game. Delve into your repertoire and enjoy a friendly challenge while pulled over for a rest or while you’re waiting for your hearty roadside tucker to cook. For only a couple of bucks, a deck of cards can keep you entertained for hours (and settle any mid-journey disagreements).
10. Portable stove
The benefits of a portable stove are well documented, right? Lightweight, able to burn multiple fuels, best cost to heat ratio, perform well in cold weather…I could go on. But the main advantage? Eggs and bacon on the side of the road, obvs.
If you need a flight before you start your road trip…
(Feature: Michael Theis)
