How I Survived a 7-Day Road Trip With One Tiny Suitcase

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(Image credit: @songofstyle)

Rev the engine, hit the road… it always seems that high summer is peak road trip season. And with out-of-town adventures on the horizon, figuring out what to pack and throw in your trunk can be half the battle.

These days, as a New York resident, I don't have a car to call my own, but each summer I manage to catch a ride out of town with friends for a ride up the east coast. While packing into a car with the windows down and music up is as exciting as Crossroads makes it look, without learning to pare down the packing, the car might never make it out of Manhattan.

Packing for a road trip isn't the same as for a European getaway or a jaunt somewhere tropical. Road trips require a little more practicality—free space is limited, and lugging a bag into and out of the car begs for editing. Knowing that what you wear is comfortable for a few hours sitting shotgun is crucial, but you also want pieces that can survive a short hike or maybe even a nice dinner if you feel like dressing up.

Below, I'm highlighting the essentials I've learned to lug around when I'm headed on the highway. Armed with this packing list, you'll be ready for your next road trip, too.

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Aemilia Madden
Contributor