How to Pack Your Car for a Trip

Jul 13, 2016

This is my plane luggage for my move to New Zealand. Not much because one is only allowed one suitcase instead of two since November 2009. As my carry-on is also a suitcase, that’s all I can carry anyway with 7-10 minutes for changing trains before boarding the plane.

A road trip sounds like so much fun until you remember the hassle that comes with packing your car. Fortunately, there are ways you can make the process a bit less painful. Check out these smart strategies for loading your car.

Big Items on the Bottom

Large suitcases and any other large items get first dibs on space in the trunk or cargo area. These often are the most challenging items because they take up so much space. By positioning them first, you’re ensuring they get the space they need.

Put a Small Overnight Bag in a Convenient Spot

If your road trip involves a night or two in a hotel on the way to your final destination, pack a small tote or suitcase with only the necessities: personal care items, pajamas, and one or two changes of clothes. Put this bag in an easily accessible spot such as the outer edge of the trunk. This prevents you from having to dig out a big suitcase for a one-night stay.

Keep Snacks and Drinks Handy

A soft-sided cooler is better than a bulky, hard-sided one for holding drinks. You want a container you can cram in between two passengers in the back seat or in the floorboard. When you pack snacks, put them in a soft-sided bag that you can keep within arm’s reach.

Don’t forget to pack an emergency kit. Medications, bandages, and any other first aid items need to go in a bag under the front passenger’s seat, inside a side pouch, or in the glove box.

Image via Flickr by 4nitsirk