Jessica Polizzotti and 10Best Editors for USA TODAY 10Best
Make a playlist for your road trip with old favorites, new hits and maybe even some audio books to entertain along the way.
If your car has a media player, bring a few movies along! Let your passengers relax in the back.
Reduce the number of stops by filling a cooler with drinks and frozen water bottles. They act as ice packs and eventually melt so you can drink them later.
Pack a box of single-serve pantry items, bread and treats to get you through a long stretch.
Nature calls, even when there isn’t a restroom for miles. Be prepared.
After long drives, the car can get surprisingly messy. Bring carpet cleaner, air freshener, paper towels and all-purpose cleaner in the car.
Bring along jumper cables, and make sure you have the tools you need to change a tire. Signing up for a roadside assistance plan if you're able is also a good idea.
Make sure your license, registration and insurance are all up to date.
Believe it or not, there are some parts of the country that don’t get cell reception and are dead zones. Don’t rely too much on GPS or Google Maps.
Don't forget to take your car in for a tune-up before you leave town.
USA TODAY 10Best