Texas is beautiful. With its sprawling deserts, rolling hills, and wide-open plains, it’s the perfect destination to escape the daily grind of life. When it comes to exploring the Lone Star State, there are several ways. But nothing beats a good old-fashioned road trip.
You’ll pass the most impressive sights of Texas, from the rugged beauty of Big Bend National Park to the stunning Gulf Coast beaches. And with the right company, there’s bound to be lots of laughter and memories.
But you’ll need one more thing before you set off: the right gear.
So, go through our list of essential items for a Texas road trip and have a blast.
Cooling towel
Texas heat is brutal. In the peak summer months, the temperatures can rise to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. And we all know what heat can do— it causes dehydration and sunburns. So, a cooling towel is a must-have for any Texas road trip. It’s made of a breathable fabric which helps keep you comfortable and cool. And, when soaked in cold water, it can help reduce the body temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Pick a hypoallergenic and machine-washable one for convenience.
Swimsuit cover-up
It’s impossible that your Texas vacation will end without a day (or two or three) at the beach. If you’re staying at the Fire Fly resort, there will also be a lot of splashing in the swimming pool. But if you don’t want to get too much sun, a swimsuit cover-up is a must. Choose one that has lightweight fabric and UPF 50+ protection. You can also go for one that’ll double as an eye-catching outfit. After all, it’s always about traveling light.
Bring boots
You should definitely add a pair of cowboy boots to your packing list when in Texas. They are not only stylish, but also comfortable and versatile. You can wear them to a beach bonfire or while horseback riding on the ranch. And when you’re strolling down the city streets, they will show your Texan pride. Just be sure to break them before your trip so you don’t have blisters. Also, carry sufficient insoles for extra cushioning.
Essential toiletries
Road trips can be surprising; you never know when you’ll need to make an emergency pit stop. That’s why you must have all the necessary toiletries with you. Pack a few travel-sized shampoo bottles, conditioner, body wash, and toothpaste. Since your hair can get messy, we recommend grabbing your dry shampoo and sun hat. Finally, don’t forget to bring along your trusty sunscreen and insect repellent. Texas has many cute critters, so it’s best to be prepared.
Snacks
Mouth-watering Texas BBQ will surely be on the menu, but bringing along some snacks is a great way to keep you fueled between meals. Now, this is an area where you should go all out. Stock up on your favorite chips, cookies, and other snacks that can last the entire trip. But make sure to include some healthy options like nuts and granola bars to keep your energy up.
And don’t forget to bring along a few bottles of water. If you’re fond of fruits, you can always pick some along the way.
Travel pillow
Driving long distances can make you sleepy, especially if you’re behind the wheel. So, if you’re coming from out of state, you might consider taking a break every four to five hours. And when you do, a travel pillow will come in handy. It’ll help you recharge and reduce neck pain. And since it’s compact and lightweight, you can easily store it in the car. Some travel pillows even come with air-circulated foam that keeps you cool and refreshed. Make your pick.
Campsite Chair
Camping is a great way to explore Texas. And if you’re planning on spending some nights under the stars, don’t forget a camping chair. It’ll provide the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy nature. Choose one that’s lightweight yet durable and comfortable to use. And if you’re after convenience, go for a foldable model. It’ll make carrying your chair around much easier.
Windproof travel umbrella
Texas weather can be unpredictable. No one can be sure when a short-lived storm will come. So, keeping yourself protected with a windproof travel umbrella is best. It’ll help you stay dry and ensure that rain never disrupts your plans. When picking an umbrella, choose one with a lightweight frame and durable fabric. That way, you can use it repeatedly without any damage. Of course, it must also be water and windproof.
A portable phone charger
No road trip will be complete without having the perfect soundtrack– and a fully charged phone. Bring a portable phone charger with you to ensure you don’t run out of juice in the middle of nowhere. You can find slim and lightweight ones that offer fast charging speeds. It’s also best to choose one with multiple USB ports so you can charge up to three devices simultaneously.
VPN service
By spending a little extra money on a personal VPN, you can avoid the headache of having your data hacked while using shared WiFi. Too many people have their information stolen because they don’t utilize a VPN, and sometimes hackers can ruin a trip! A VPN will keep your personal information safe and secure. If you’re unsure where to look for one, start with a service like NordVPN.
Adventure medical kit
Vacations can get pretty wild, so it’s best to be prepared for minor injuries. For example, you might sprain an ankle while running to catch a bus or get a nasty cut from hiking. Pack an adventure medical kit to ensure you’re prepared for any such incident. It should have the basics, like dressings and bandages, antiseptics, and other medications for minor injuries. Check it often, as some of the items can expire over time.
Items you can’t leave home without
While the items mentioned above fall under the category of must-haves, there are a few other items you can’t even fathom leaving behind. These items include:
- Driver’s license and vehicle registration
- Car manual and car insurance
- Flashlight
- Paper maps
You must also keep your camera handy as you’ll want to capture the perfect shot of your road trip.
Conclusion
Texas has plenty of exciting road trips waiting for you. But before you hit the open roads, ensure you’re prepared with all the essential road trip items. These lifesavers will ensure your trip is as convenient as possible. Of curse, the list isn’t exhaustive. You’ll have to tweak this guide if you’re traveling with kids or pets. Just make sure you don’t skimp on safety and comfort.
