Essentials for Your Road Trip Safety Kit
How to pack peace of mind for your drive.
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The joy of a road trip is the discovery of what’s around the next corner. But these days call for extra precautions for your health and safety. Here is what to put in your road trip safety kit.
“New” essentials
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends bringing a sufficient amount of alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) and keeping it somewhere that is easily accessible. You also should bring face coverings and disposable gloves. If you plan to stay overnight, the CDC recommends bringing supplies to clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces.
Keeping up with the latest news and travel information will be important too. Bookmark helpful websites on your phone so you can review current regulations for each city and state you plan to visit. (See these resources for detailed information on U.S. travel restrictions.)
Other health necessities
Bring enough medicine for the duration of your trip. Also travel with a well-stocked first aid kit, which you can use for everything from bandaging minor nicks and scrapes to fishing out a splinter.
Print and use our road trip safety planner checklist.
Get it NowA road trip safety kit for your car
Prepare your car for the unexpected. Battery booster cables; emergency flares, reflectors or battery-powered LED beacons; and a portable tool kit are important to bring along. A flashlight with extra fresh batteries, rags or paper towels, and a tire gauge can also prove handy. Here is more about preparing your car before your road trip.
Weather basics
Raincoats and umbrellas are always a must. So too is a heads-up when ominous weather is headed your way. AAA Members can sign up to get emails about extreme weather for up to five locations (including your destination and any stops planned along the way).
AAA Mobile
If you face a roadside emergency, our app lets you easily request roadside assistance. You can also download the app to find trusted AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities near you, and use AAADrive to monitor your driving habits and find out how you can improve.