Summer is nearly here, and if you’re anything like me, the thought of lazy, warm beach days, backyard BBQs, and long weekends at the lake are making you drool as much as an ice cream treat drips in the hot summer sun. High on many people’s lists for summer fun is a road trip down the coast, up the mountains, and everywhere in between. That’s why we’ve rounded up the ultimate road trip essentials you need to make the most of your journey.
We tapped the experts at Bass Pro Shops—home to the mecca of outdoor recreational gear—to put together this comprehensive list that will make sure your trip is as jampacked with fun as it is with the right gear.
Yeti Rambler Tumbler with Magslider Lid
The Yeti Rambler Tumbler is perfect for road trips because it keeps your beverages hot or cold for a long time. Its stainless steel construction ensures it can handle the rigors of the road, and the Magslider Lid prevents spills. You can take it with you to keep your coffee hot in the morning or enjoy an ice-cold drink in the afternoon.
Cabela’s Polar Cap Equalizer 22-Qt. Cooler
This is a great cooler for keeping your food and drinks cold on a road trip. It’s made with thick walls of foam insulation that will keep ice frozen for up to 10 days, so you don’t have to worry about constantly restocking ice. It has a durable build and can handle being bounced around in the car or on outdoor adventures.
Hydro Flask 40 oz Wide Mouth Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential during a road trip, and the Hydro Flask 40 oz Water Bottle ensures you have plenty of water with you at all times. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours.
Yeti Panga 28L Waterproof Backpack
This waterproof backpack is perfect for your road trip essentials where you may encounter wet weather or water activities. It’s made of a high-density nylon shell with a waterproof zipper to keep your gear dry. The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to carry, and it has a capacity of 28 liters.
Truck Tents
Truck tents are perfect for road trips because they provide a convenient way to camp in the back of your truck. Bass Pro Shops offers a variety of truck tents that fit different truck sizes and budgets, so you can find one that works for you.
Bass Pro Shops Mesh Back Eclipse Canopy Chair
Enjoy relaxation no matter where you are with this canopy chair. It’s a great addition to your road trip essentials because it’s easy to transport and comfortable to sit in. It has a mesh backrest for breathability, a cup holder for your drink, and a canopy to provide shade.
Thermacell Radius 2.0 Zone Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance during a road trip, but the Thermacell Radius 2.0 Zone Mosquito Repellent can keep them at bay. It creates a 110-square-foot mosquito-free zone, so you can enjoy the outdoors without getting bitten.
Ascend Alafia Hybrid Bike
The hybrid design of this bike allows it to handle a variety of terrain, while its lightweight frame and reliable components make it easy to transport and maintain. Its comfortable design also makes it an excellent choice for long rides, allowing you to explore the great outdoors on your road trip with ease.
Thule Apex XT 2 Bike Hitch Mount Bike Rack
This rack can hold up to two bikes securely and has an easy-to-use hitch design that fits most vehicles. The rack is also lightweight and easy to install, making it a great option for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time setting up their bike rack.
Brok Tri-Ball Ball Mount
This ball mount is perfect for road trips because it allows you to tow different trailers with ease. It has three different hitch ball sizes, so you can use it with a variety of trailers.
Oru Kayak Lake Foldable Kayak
Kayaking is a fun way to explore bodies of water during a road trip, and the Oru Kayak Lake Foldable Kayak makes it easy to transport. It folds up into a compact size and weighs only 26 pounds, making it easy to store in the car trunk.
Ascend Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard Package
A great option for those who want to explore the waterways on their road trip, this inflatable paddleboard is easy to store and transport, and it comes with a paddle, pump, and carrying bag. It’s made with durable materials and can support up to 275 pounds. The paddleboard is also easy to inflate and deflate, making it a convenient option for those who don’t want to deal with a bulky hard-shell board.
Cabela’s TrailGear Roof Cargo Carrier
The granddaddy of essentials for your road trip is Cabela’s TrailGear Roof Cargo Carrier. A great option for those who need extra space for their road trip gear, this weather-resistant carrier can hold up to 150 pounds of cargo and is easy to install on most roof racks. It also features a dual-sided opening for easy access to your gear and includes tie-down straps to keep everything secure during transport.
Cabela’s Weatherproof Truck Cargo Box
For extra storage space in your truck bed, add this cargo box to your arsenal. This weatherproof box can hold up to 16.4 cubic feet of cargo and is designed to fit most full-size trucks. It features a locking lid to keep your gear secure and dry, and it’s made with durable materials that can withstand the elements.
Bass Pro Shops Backpacker First Aid Kit
Safety is always a concern on a road trip, especially if you plan on spending time in the great outdoors. The Bass Pro Shops Backpacker First Aid Kit is a comprehensive kit to add to your road trip essentials. It includes everything you need to treat minor injuries while on the road. The kit is compact and easy to pack, making it a great addition to any road trip.
Trustmade 6 x 6 Car Side Awning Rooftop Pull-Out Tent Shelter
An ideal addition to any road trip that involves camping, this shelter attaches to the side of your vehicle and provides a covered area for camping, cooking, or just relaxing. The shelter is easy to set up and take down and provides plenty of space for you and your fellow travelers.
by travelers, for travelers.
