For many of us, a spontaneous road trip offers an exhilarating sense of freedom. The open road, no fixed schedules, and the thrill of discovering new places make it an ideal form of travel.

But before we hit the road, one question often looms large: How do we pack everything we need into just 20kg?

Don’t worry, packing light doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or essentials. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to pack for an unforgettable road trip—full of adventure—without overloading your car or bag. Let’s explore how to get the best out of every item we pack.

Reimagining 20kg: The Weight of Freedom

When we think about 20kg, it may seem like a tight limit. However, on a road trip, this 20kg isn’t a burden—it’s a gateway to adventure. Without the usual restrictions imposed by airlines, we can carry exactly what we need for comfort, exploration, and relaxation. But what do we bring? A few changes of clothes, essential toiletries, camera equipment, a portable charger, and a selection of snacks—everything we need to make the journey comfortable. Here’s the key: prioritize versatility and compactness.

Clothes That Serve Us Well

Choosing clothes for a road trip should focus on practicality, comfort, and versatility. Instead of overpacking, we stick to the basics: three or four versatile outfits that we can mix and match. For example, a lightweight waterproof jacket (around $50), two pairs of comfortable jeans or pants (approximately $40 each), and a couple of quick-dry t-tops (around $25 each). Comfort is key, especially for long hours on the road, so packing a pair of supportive shoes (roughly $60) is a must.

Additionally, compression packing cubes help us save space by compressing our clothes, so we can fit them neatly into the suitcase without taking up too much room. We also pack one or two stylish yet practical pieces, such as a long-sleeve top that can be worn during sightseeing in town or as an extra layer for chilly evenings. Overall, these items add up to about $200 for clothes that are both functional and stylish for any road trip.

Toiletries: Keep It Simple and Smart

Toiletries can take up a lot of space, so it’s important to choose travel-sized versions of your favorite products. A good way to save space is by opting for multi-purpose products. For example, a 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash (around $6 for 200ml) can do the job for both hair and body. A compact toothbrush and a travel-sized toothpaste tube ($3), a small deodorant stick ($4), and sunscreen ($8 for a small bottle) are also key items.

A foldable water bottle (around $12) that takes up minimal space is a great investment as it can be refilled throughout the trip. It’s also eco-friendly, reducing the need to purchase single-use plastic bottles. The entire toiletries kit should cost about $35, making it affordable and practical for the road.

Organizing the Car: Efficiency and Safety

When it comes to organizing the car, we need to think about safety, accessibility, and comfort. A GPS system (if not using a phone) can be rented or purchased for about $100, ensuring we never lose our way. A car charger for our devices ($15) and a first-aid kit ($20) are essential, especially for longer drives in remote areas. Snacks like nuts and granola bites (around $10 for a few packs) and bottled water ($5 for a 12-pack) should be easily accessible, preferably stored in a small cooler or insulated bag.

For the car’s trunk, it’s helpful to have a small tool kit ($25) and tire repair kit ($20) in case of any roadside emergencies. We also keep a small foldable chair ($25) for picnics and a blanket ($20) for impromptu rest stops or stargazing. These items should fit comfortably in the car without crowding the space.

Multi-Functionality Is Key

Investing in a multifunctional bag is a smart move. A good-quality, multi-pocket backpack ($40) can carry all your valuable items like a camera, wallet, and smartphone, and also serve as a temporary seat or shade when needed. A bag with compartments for your electronics, snacks, and a rain poncho ($15) ensures everything stays organized, accessible, and easy to reach while on the move. This approach adds to the flexibility of the trip, making it easier to adapt to changing situations.

Stay Environmentally Friendly

As we pack, we make sure to consider the environment. We avoid single-use plastics by bringing along reusable bags ($5), collapsible cutlery ($10), and reusable snack containers ($8). A small trash bag (around $2) is essential to keep the car tidy and make sure we leave no trace behind. This eco-friendly approach is not only better for the planet, but it also adds convenience and sustainability to the trip.

Flexibility and Room for Surprise

No road trip is complete without a few surprises. Whether it’s discovering a hidden spot worth exploring or finding an unexpected local market, it’s important to leave room in your bag for new purchases or extra gear. We recommend leaving about 3-5 kg of space in your suitcase, just in case. This extra room will allow you to buy souvenirs, local snacks, or even an extra jacket if the weather changes unexpectedly.

What Happens When We Overpack?

While road trips offer more freedom with packing, there’s still a temptation to overpack. If we find ourselves with more than 20kg, we reevaluate what’s truly essential. If there’s an item that hasn’t been used in the first few days of the trip, it’s probably safe to leave it behind. Also, take advantage of local stores or roadside markets to pick up any items you forgot or want to add to your collection. For example, a local souvenir like a handwoven scarf might cost $15-20, and that’s an easy addition to your travel experience.

Special Items: Handling Unique Gear

For road trippers with specialized gear, like a camera, a portable camping stove, or a drone, it’s important to plan ahead. Camera gear, for instance, should be stored in a waterproof bag ($50 for a good-quality one) to protect against rain. A drone, if part of your journey, should be securely strapped down and kept in a protective case ($70). Similarly, if you plan to camp, a lightweight tent (around $100) and sleeping bag ($30) can fit neatly in the trunk, leaving room for other essentials.

The Journey is the Destination

Packing for a road trip is all about striking the right balance between comfort, practicality, and freedom. By planning carefully, we can make the most of our 20kg and create an adventure full of memories. From organizing the car to packing versatile clothes and making eco-friendly choices, every step contributes to a smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, we can carry everything we need without overpacking. Remember, it’s not about how much we carry—it’s about how much we experience along the way.

Lykkers, what are your must-have items for a road trip? Do you have any packing tips or stories you’d like to share? Drop your comments below and let’s make our road trips even better together!