Fall season is in effect and it is an ideal time to get away. I recently took a road trip with a few friends in the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. The ride was comfortable, stylish, and I felt equipped to take on the long drive during our weekend trip. I was also ready because I had the essential items one needs when road tripping.

So, what are the essential items for a road trip? Check out my top 5 below!

1. First Aid Kit

I know, who wants to think about hurting themselves while on vacation? But it can happen, while moving luggage around in your car or even while you are exploring some new surroundings. A first aid kit is a proactive attempt to be prepared for a little boo boo. Think about what type of trip you are taking and then choose a kit that fits the needs of the trip, the number of people you will be with and how long you will be gone. Add some Kleenex to the kit too!

2. DIY Hand Sanitizer

Washing hands is best; but if you don’t have access to water and soap, natural hand sanitizing wipes (formulated without the harmful stuff—like artificial dyes, fragrances, and chemicals) or DIY hand sanitizer is a great alternative. Check out Pinterest for quick and simple recipes that would be a safer and natural alternative when you need to practice good hand hygiene.

3. Snacks & Water

Long road trips require nutrition and hydration. Make sure to pack your favorite snacks, as well as water to drink. You should have more than enough to cover your trip departure and possibly your return trip. Who knows if you will have access to refill your supply at your destination? Also, depending on how long you will be gone, bring a nice supply of non-perishable items.

4. Safe & Reliable Vehicle

I know this may seem like a no-brainer, but you truly need a safe and reliable vehicle when you travel on the road. Make sure to audit your vehicle before you hit the road and check the tire pressure, spare tire, brakes, and fluids. Do you have the number to your roadside assistance service? More importantly, do you have your driver’s license and insurance card?

Driving the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox AWD Premier 2.0T

On my recent road trip I was able to test drive the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox. What I appreciated the most about this vehicle was all the state-of-the-art safety features—specifically the antilock brake system, side blind zone alert, automatic high beam control, and the assistance with rear parking. My friends were impressed with the OnStar services, which provided navigation throughout the trip. They also loved the alert system which notifies you to check the rear seats each time you exit the vehicle. While we didn’t have any little ones on this trip, the reminder is helpful when driving your family in this vehicle. The orange burst metallic color of the car also complemented our fall road adventure.

This small SUV seats five and the standard vehicle price is $35,600—our vehicle had additional options, so the total price is $39,135.

Some notes about the vehicle include: Fuel Economy -> Gas Mileage 24 MPG (combined city/hwy) Safety & Security Airbags, Antilock Brake System, Headlamps- Intellibeam Auto High Beam Control, HD Surround Vision, Keyless Open, Keyless Start, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Park Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Tire Pressure Monitor, Safety Alert Seat Comfort -> Audio System- 6 Speaker, Wireless Device Charging, Driver Info – Color Display, Onstar Services, Driver & Front Passenger Heated Seats

5. Car Charger

When I took my trip, my friends and I used our phones to listen to several podcasts on the way to our destination. We also checked in with loved ones while on the road. Remember to pack your phone charger so that you won’t lose battery power. Your phone is helpful if there is an emergency, so having the ability to charge it isn’t optional.

I just shared my top 5 essentials when taking a road trip. What are your most important items to bring on a road trip? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

DISCLOSURE: I did not receive any compensation for test driving this vehicle and providing a review in this blog post, nor did I receive payment in exchange for participating. The opinions expressed herein are my own and don’t reflect the views of Chevrolet or any of its brands.