Packing Hacks and Self Storage Tips for Your Summer Adventure

Planning a summer road trip? This helpful guide will show you how to pack for a road trip and provide tips on what to pack for a trip during the summer. A family happily packs their car for a summer road trip.

When the weather warms up and the sun starts to shine brighter, there’s no better way to soak it all in than heading out on a road trip. Planning an adventure for the summer opens the door to opportunities for fun and memories that will last forever, no matter if you’re heading somewhere new or your favorite destination.

However, enjoying a summer road trip isn’t as simple as jumping in the car and hitting the highway. You must make sure to properly prepare ahead of time to ensure you have everything you need to get the most out of the experience. This blog from the experts at All-Purpose Storage will explain how to pack for a road trip and provide examples of essential things to bring.

How To Plan a Summer Road Trip

Planning a road trip can be fun by itself! Before you begin, establish key things like your budget, where you want to go, and how many days you want to travel. Once you’ve picked a destination, use the internet or a road trip app like Roadtrippers to search for restaurants, landmarks, and attractions along your route.

Before you leave, plan on tracking your expenses, especially if you’ll be splitting things like tolls and parking fees with your co-pilots. An easy method is to use an app like Splitwise, which helps you divide your group bills and checks however you see fit. While paying with your debit or credit card is convenient and secure, you should pack some emergency cash in your bag or car in case you lose your wallet.

Speaking of paying with cards–depending on how far you plan to travel, give your bank or credit card service a heads-up before your trip. Financial institutions often freeze cards if they detect unusual purchases outside your regular stomping grounds.

Summer Trip Packing List

You’ll likely want to make a trip to the store for items like toiletries as you build your road trip packing list. In general, you should try to buy all of the essential items and snacks you need in advance, as rest areas and truck stops near the highway can be quite pricey. Here are some essential things to pack for a trip:

  • Snacks, water, and caffeinated beverages
  • First aid kit
  • Emergency gear like jumper cables and cash
  • Sunscreen and bug spray
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Map or GPS app
  • Charger cords or power banks
  • Downloaded movies, music, or podcasts
  • Recreational gear for your destination
  • Comfortable clothing and shoes

Packing Tips for a Weekend Trip

Heading out for a quick weekend trip? You’ll want to follow our general advice, but there are some tips to keep in mind for a shorter adventure as well. Try to hit the road as early as possible when you leave to maximize your time at your destination. Crafting an itinerary can also help cut down on wasted time once you’ve arrived. You may even save some money by packing meals for the road or by exploring free attractions like parks and museums.

How To Pack for a Road Trip

Depending on how many people are riding in your vehicle, it can help to fold down or remove seats before you begin packing. Once you’ve cleared out some room, pack things that you won’t immediately need while driving, like extra clothes and beach gear, as your “base” layer. Next, put things you’ll need more readily accessible, like snacks and chargers, somewhere in the middle of your packing pyramid. Make sure to keep emergency and first aid supplies the easiest items to reach.

Rent Seasonal Storage From All-Purpose Storage

Summer can’t last forever. As the leaves start to change color and the road-tripping season ends, consider renting a seasonal storage unit from All-Purpose Storage. We offer self storage units in several convenient sizes to help you find a reliable and secure place for things like beach gear, skis, fishing rods, and whatever else you take with you to your summer destinations.
Ready to get started? Find an All-Purpose Storage facility near you today! Additionally, our list of frequently asked questions and blog can provide additional information and resources.

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