Road trip essentials for you and your car
Start the car! Here’s a list of our top recommended things from maps to USB chargers that will make your next road trip as enjoyable as possible.
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Road trips are a great way to explore our country and capture a true sense of adventure. Once you’ve packed your personal belongings and your snacks, turn your attention to this list of essential items that will help make your trip go as smoothly as possible. And before you pull out of the driveway, make sure you stock your vehicle’s emergency kit using our trustworthy guide too.
Michelin North America Road Atlas 2023
Amazon.ca
Even though everyone has access to maps on their phones nowadays, there are moments of navigating the old-fashioned way that bring back all the nostalgia of road trips from your childhood. Dog-earring important pages, coffee stains, and hand-written notes along the edges all have that throwback feeling that makes trips memorable. The well-known Michelin Road Atlas will accomplish that for you, as well as steer you in the right direction to your destination!
What we like:
This edition is from 2022, the most updated roadbook we could find on Amazon.ca
Includes accurate mapping covering the USA, Canada, and Mexico with information about visiting national and provincial parks
Rated 4.5 out of 5 based on Amazon.ca customer reviews
Lonely Planet Canada’s Best Trips
Amazon.ca
Looking for a little inspiration before committing to where you’ll be going? The Lonely Planet’s Canada’s Best Trips book highlights 34 incredible road trip ideas. This book includes ways you can tour the Sea to Sky Highway, the country’s stunning coastline, and the Cabot Trail. Think of it as your new best travel companion!
What we like:
Itineraries and planning advice to pick the right tailored routes for your needs and interests
Keeps insider tips and essential information about destinations at your fingertips
Rated 4.5 out of 5 based on Amazon.ca customer reviews
Like what you see? Check out our Shop the Weather articles for more must-have product recommendations.
Magnetic Car Charger for iPhone
Amazon.ca
For safety and emergency reasons, you’ll want to ensure your phone keeps a good percentage of its battery life while you’re driving to your destination. With this air vent mountable charger, you won’t have to worry about packing a USB cord as it simply clips to your vent for fast, wireless charging. This charger is compatible with specific Apple products only.
What we like:
Powerful magnets make this charger non-slip, even when driving on bumpy roads
Easily flips between horizontal and vertical use
Rated 4.4 out of 5 based on more than 11,500 Amazon.ca customer reviews
Car Dual USB Charger
Amazon.ca
For something a little more universal, try this dual charger that works with Apple and Samsung products. New cars often have a USB port built in, however, a lot of older vehicles do not. Plus, you might be carting a van full of friends and family members on your road trip with multiple phones to power up. This charger is a compact size and fits most car lighters.
What we like:
Compatible with an array of devices including iPhone and Galaxy products
Certified safety with multiple protections against over-current, overcharging and overheating
Rated 4.4 out of 5 based on nearly 40,000 Amazon.ca customer reviews
Battery Operated Flexible Fan with Tripod Clip-On
Amazon.ca
Get some extra cool air in the car with this fan designed for babies but suitable for all ages. When your baby rides in a rear-facing car seat, they don’t get the same flow of air conditioning that other passengers have. This flexible fan easily attaches to your car’s headset for a cool breeze. Similarly, you can attach it to just about anything to achieve 360-degree air circulation for adults, kids, or pets.
What we like:
Cool air anywhere you go
Cordless and powered by a rechargeable battery
Rated 4.2 out of 5 based on more than 33,000 Amazon.ca customer reviews
READ MORE: The best fans for summer 2022
High Road SnackStash Car Cooler Bag
Amazon.ca
Road trips call for fun snacks, so fill up this insulated car cooler bag with all the food and drinks you’ll need along the way. It saves space in your car as you can attach it to the back of the front seat. It’s also fully lined and leakproof and claims to keep things chilled for up to 36 hours. When you’re ready to take a swig of ice-cold water, it’s waiting for you.
What we like:
Holds up to eight 16 oz. bottles or 15 cans with additional pockets for storage
Adjustable straps for higher or lower reach
Rated 4.4 out of 5 based on more than 800 Amazon.ca customer reviews
READ MORE: How to keep you and your car cool in hot temperatures
Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Travel Pillow
Amazon.ca
When you’re ready to relax or take a short nap in the car, this memory foam travel pillow will do wonders for your comfort. Rather than one-size-fits-all, it adapts to your own shoulders and neck to support your upper body and comes with a few great accessories to sweeten the pot.
What we like:
Comes with memory foam earplugs, sleeping mask, and carrying bag
Side storage pocket lets you stow glasses or keys while snoozing
Rated 4.4 out of 5 on Amazon.ca, based on more than 6,400 reviews
READ MORE: The top products for relaxation this summer
Like what you see? Check out our Shop the Weather articles for more must-have product recommendations.
Our trusted Product Specialists recommend high-quality items that we think will enhance your experience with Canadian weather conditions. Prices and availability of items are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
With files from Daniel Martins
Thumbnail image courtesy Joshua Woroniecki/Unsplash
