The 25 Best California Road Trip Essentials For Every Itinerary

I’ve had some of my best travel experiences on the ground, rather than in the air. When I could, I would set out on a road trip whenever I could. California’s Pacific Coast HighwaySanta Barbara was the first place I visited. Then, I would wind my way through Carmel-by-the-Sea, and along Mendocino’s rugged coast, wishing to spend more time at each location. As one road trip turned into a dozen, I quickly learned that packing well was key—whether it was choosing the right pair of pants For long hours behind the wheel or remembering essentials such as a first-aid kit, water bottleYou can also use chapstick.

Most of my road trips now revolve around wineries. Over time, I’ve learned to pack smart—comfy boots A stain remover pen is also recommended for the walking terrain of vineyards. sturdy tote The bottles that I bring home are always a good investment. I’ve used these essentials on many road trip adventures in California, from the breezy beaches to the towering sequoias trees and cliff hugging spruce tree of its incredible national parks. Read on to learn my favorite road trip essentials for your West Coast getaway. beach-ready sandals You can also find out more about the following: moisture-wicking shirts Protect yourself from the desert heat.

Best California Road Trip Essentials Overall

Monos Carry-on Pro

A compact carry-on is essential for longer road trips, which may require outfit changes, tech equipment, and other must-have items. The Monos Carry-On Pro is my go-to thanks to its sleek, dent-resistant polycarbonate shell and built-in front compartment—perfect for keeping essentials like my laptop within reach. It’s great for hopping from one hotel to another without having to lug around a heavy duffel.

Calpak 8L Soft-sided Insulated Cooler

It is essential to have a cooler for snacks and drinks on the road. Calpak’s lightweight soft-sided cooler The bag fits well. The side buckles are expandable, making it easier to get to items. There are also multiple pockets on the exterior to store small items like my favorite nutrition snacks for when I’m hungry.

VanMass Car Phone Mount

The road trip requires easy access to the phone, whether it is for directions or voice-activated stops. The road trip requires easy, hands-free phone access for everything from directions to voice-activated stops. VanMass Car Phone Mount The phone is held securely in place by a strong adhesive, a vent clip and a release button on the lower back. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big impact.

Small Toiletry Bags Are No Longer Needed

It’s important to always have a small bag with you when on the road. The Away Toiletry Bag This bag is perfect for short trips. It has a zip-out pocket on the exterior for easy access and several interior compartments for organizing toiletries.

Yeti Rambler, 26-ounce Water Bottle

What else is a must-have for a road trip? This is a must-have: a reusable water bottle. This is a reusable water bottle. 26-ounce Yeti Rambler This chug-spout lid is easy to use, leakproof and vacuum-insulated.

Wine Country Road Trip Essentials

Callahan Mira Dress

No secret, I like to dress well for my favourite pastime – drinking wine. My favorite retailer for dresses, RevolveCurrently has a page dedicated to winery tour looks. There are sooo many different styles to suit all body types. Callahan Mira Dress is my top pick because it’s black—an ideal color to help mask any burgundy spills.

Athlefit Chelsea Boots

A Chelsea boot is my go-to shoe for vineyard visits—comfortable, easy to slip on, and built with a durable sole for all-day wear. My favorite Toms boot is no longer in stock. this pair from Athlefit This is a great alternative to my winery outfits.

Vin Fresco Wine Tote Bag

You can take your favorite wine bottles home with you without worrying about having to check a bag. Vin Fresco’s Wine Tote Bag It has a leather exterior with padded straps for carrying it as a back pack. The bag has two compartments for wine bottles. Cardinale Winery’s Pour the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon or Intrada Sauvignon Blanc into the tumblers included in the bag.

Spanx Stretch Twill Shorts

I like to wear a pair or comfortable skorts on warmer days. Spanx’s Stretch Twill Shorts They offer a soft fabric and gentle compression for comfort all day. They’re also versatile, as they come in seven colors that are mostly neutral.

Gap Cotton Gauze Easy Barrel Pants

It is important to note that the word “you” means “you”. Gap Cotton Gauze Easy Barrel Pants The pants live up to the name, with a flowy fit made of 100 percent cotton that is breathable and an elasticized waist. They will be perfect for my much-anticipated Napa Dinner at Chef Rogelio Garca’s farm-to table phenom. Auro.

Beach Road Trip Essentials

Quince Open Kit Cover-up Maxi Dress

California road trips are incomplete without a lightweight, versatile coverup. This is a great alternative to my favorite crochet piece. open-knit cover-up maxi dress from Quince This is the perfect piece to pack for a beach getaway. This will go perfectly with my cheeky favorite. Triangl Vinca Bathing suit

Bo Toys Beach Chair, Mat and Tote

Do not leave the house without a way to relax in the sand. Don’t leave home without a comfortable way to lounge in the sand. Bo Toys Beach Mat Lounge Chair This product comes with a convenient tote made from durable polyester and features a reclining backrest that can be adjusted for maximum comfort.

Pleneal Crochet Tote Bag

You’ll also need a stylish beach bag to hold all your essentials. The Aerie Jumbo Crochet Bag This is not only my favorite, but it’s also my go-to. structured woven shoulder bag at Amazon This meal is perfect for a beachfront dinner and costs under $25.

Andrea Iyamah Essi Maxi Dress

The evening dinner is always served. Caruso’sThe restaurant is located on the beach in Miramar Beach. It has a stunning interior with ocean views. You will want to wear your casually chic favorite dress. The Andrea Iyamah Essi Maxi Dress The breathable cotton fabric is adorned with double-rope details along the neckline. A low back closure completes the look.

Franco Sarto Britt Slide Sandal

Packing a pair stylish, comfortable sandals is a great idea for any beach roadtrip. I recommend Franco Sarto’s Britt Slide SandalThe buckle is adjustable and features geometric cutouts. They can be worn with both casual and more dressy looks. They are also durable enough to withstand a beach walk.

Desert Road Trip Essentials

Knockaround Songbirds West End Sunglasses

California’s deserts are no joke, so be prepared. As a Palm Springs resident since childhood, sunglasses and a bucket-style hat are two items that I never leave home without. Knockaround’s Songbirds West End Sunglasses The lightweight glasses feature polarized amber lens and UV 400 protection.

Shinchic Waterproof UPF50+ Bucket Cap

The wide-brimmed hats provide even more protection. Shinchic Bucket HatThe material is made of nylon and provides UPF 50+ protection from the sun. It also allows for comfortable breathing.

Quince European Linen Sleeveless Dress

You’ll find that breathable fabrics are the best option for desert-friendly fashion. There’s no denying that linen has a resurgence, and its lightweight comfort is perfect for desert days. The Quince Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress The fabric is lightweight, breathable and durable. You can wear it while window shopping down Palm Canyon Drive, or dress up to dine alfresco. Le Vallauris.

Goldie Tees Signature Slub Crop Tank

A breathable tee is also essential for desert road trips. Over the years I have learned that not every top is created equal. Goldie Tees’ Signature tees and tanks They continue to be a cut higher than the rest. The tank, made of 100 percent Peruvian cotton pima, has a soft, silky feel that is like a cool embrace on a warm day.

Offline by Aerie Real Me Smocked Flowy Dress

It is important to have a comfortable, versatile sports dress for your desert vacation. This smocked, flowy option from Aerie It is lightweight, quick-drying and buttery soft. Even better? The dress has pockets and shorts built in. The following are some examples of how to get started: Adjustable straps make the 100-degree day a bit more comfortable.

Hiking Road Trip Essentials

Nortiv 8 Waterproof hiking boots

California has a wealth of national parks that stretch from its valleys in the interior to its golden coastline. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to some California’s most popular hiking areas. It’s essential to have a good pair of shoes that will keep you stable on the trail. The Nortiv 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots The midsole is durable and the mesh tongue promotes ventilation.

REI Sahara Shade Hoodie

Sun protection and moisture-wicking materials REI’s Sahara Shade Hoodie No matter how high or far you decide to travel, the hood will never fail. The material is super-soft, stretchy and offers UPF 50+ protection. A three-paneled hood with an internal drawstring keeps your neck protected.

REI Trailmade shorts

Wear the shirt with a breathable shirt REI’s Trail Made ShortsThe consists of a nylon stretch fabric that is water-repellent. It has six pockets where you can store your small items.

Muji Water-repellent Hooded Jacket

A good waterproof outdoor jacket is essential, as temperatures can fluctuate along the coast or in the interior. Muji’s Water Repellent Hoodie It is made of organic cotton, and the shape can be adjusted by tightening up the hems and cuffs. This versatile style is perfect for any outdoor activity, including hiking and biking.

iWalk Portable Charger

It’s a good idea, last but not least to always have your phone fully charged for any outdoor activity, especially if you are hiking for long hours or become lost. The iWalk Portable Phone Charger It is about the same size as lipstick case, and it has a USB port. The battery bank will charge your phone from 0 percent to 50% within 30 minutes.

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