When it comes to long distance road-trip, there are two main things you need to take care of ahead of embarking on your next adventure:

1) You need to find a car that you can trust

2) You need to pack the right way

Here are some tips to help you pack your car and bag to help you make the most of your experience on the road!

Finding the Perfect Car

Before packing become a thing and absorb all your energy and time you need to find a cheap car hire to make sure you can get started with your adventure. You can check out Holiday Autos as this is a top choice to compare and save while exploring many options, car models and excellent customization for road-tripping.

Packing Like a Pro

backpackers

Packing can prove to be difficult (AKA I HATE PACKING). In addition to deciding what to wear, it is also necessary to consider how to arrange the items in a smart way inside the backpack. When the fateful moment arrives, these simple steps could help you:

  • Put all electronic devices in one spot (or put them in a dry bag). If it rains your backpack could get wet and as a result, the water can ruin your equipment; the dry bag will keep them dry.
  • Use containers and bags. Divide the objects by placing them in containers or bags, marking on each container what it contains: in this way it will be easier to find the objects.  Check out these packing cubes.
  • Put the biggest and heaviest objects first. To prevent the weight of the backpack from unbalancing you, place the largest and heaviest objects on the bottom.
  • Put the things you use frequently on top. For example, if you bring the sleeping bag, remember that you will have to use it every night, so put it in an easily accessible place.
  • Put the emergency kit on top. If you have an insect bite or if you have to catch a ferry and suffer seasickness, you could spend hours looking for pills and creams at the bottom of your backpack, so place them on top.
  • Never fill the backpack completely. If the backpack is overflowing, you will not have space for souvenirs or other items that you will purchase on the road.
  • Use the space and be creative. Try to prepare the backpack using every little space: put the items in your shoes, remove the bulky packs and take advantage of every corner.
  • Do not put valuables in the outer pockets. They are the ones most accessible to thieves and pickpockets.
  • Once you have finished preparing your backpack to check this packing list quickly to make sure you have taken everything you need. Even if you have forgotten something, don’t worry, you can always buy it during the trip.

The great thing about going in a car means that can also use space within the car. You can then leave the stuff you often use in the booth or in an accessible spot.

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015 and has been living abroad since 2014. Originally from Canada, she has embraced a digital nomad lifestyle, working online from various destinations worldwide. Melissa is passionate about travel, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit. Her extensive travels have taken her across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. Currently, she resides in Thailand.


☑ Book your flight: Who said you won’t be able to find cheap flights? My top saving tip is flexibility. If you're flexible, you should be able to find a cheaper flight. Check out Skyscanner or Google Flights for the hottest deals.

☑ Book your accommodation: Want the comfort of being at home or the luxury of a hotel? I love using Vrbo and Booking.com for those very reasons. If you're a solo traveler, Hostelworld offers a wide variety of hostels you should take a look at. Alternatively, if you're a budget traveler, sign up for Worldpackers to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work.

☑ Rent a car or an RV: Make your trip more comfortable by renting a car with DiscoverCars.com. This website allows you to compare car rentals around the world. If you're traveling in the United States, find an RV rental on RVshare.

☑ Stay safe: Travel mishaps happen – so, better be safe than sorry by covering your back with travel medical insurance. I would suggest SafetyWing, Genki or Heymondo as they offer the best rates, especially for long-term travelers.

☑ Pack the essentials: Universal charger, check; power bank, check; passport, check! What else could you forget? I've put together this ultimate packing list just for you!

☑ Do you need a visa? If you aren't sure if you need a visa, it’s highly recommended for you to double-check. You can use iVisa - it's super useful and easy to use.

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