Consider this article as a tribute to all those times when you planned a road trip with your friends back in school but it never actually happened. Road trips sound marvellous, don’t they? Ever moving to a strange destination, trying the food and learning the culture of all the places that fall on the way there. It is exciting. And it is not just the destination but the journey that matters. Many a person has called their first road trip life-changing. The people, the special road trip music, the bad pizza everyone shares at some roadside place in the middle of nowhere- everything about a road trip is different and exciting. And while the urge to throw all plans out of the window is overwhelming, there is still a little bit of preparation involved. Use a camera like this, carry that, don’t forget a portable charger – the usual.

So, in case you are planning your first such adventure, here is a list of some things you should not forget to carry:

1. Chargers

You would think that this doesn’t need to be mentioned but, remembering all the times we tend to forget to carry the simplest things, we thought we should mention it anyway. We millennials rely so much on our smartphones, iPads and laptops that it is impossible to think of a life without them. That’s why when packing for a road trip, throw in the chargers into the bag first. While you should obviously try to enjoy the experience instead of looking at a screen the entire time, do remember to keep your smartphones charged, just in case of an emergency.

2. Camera

As the car meanders along a long road, amidst crop fields, quaint farms and villages, you would, of course, want to capture some moments from it. However, only a camera might not do. You should also include the entire range of accessories, like a tripod stand, lens cleaner kits, extra pack of batteries and a memory card as well. If you want to go shooting at night, you will need a camera equipped with night vision.

3. Maps and Guides

‘The best thing about road trips is the thrill of exploring new roads and places. However, you can’t just wander off the main track and maybe end up at a haunted villa to spend the night. Maps and guides are needed to help you to understand which roads to take, which places you can stop to eat and replenish your snacks or simply to get some fuel for your car. It would also tell you about the best times to visit a particular place and spots that you cannot afford to miss out.

4. Snacks and finger food

You cannot expect to travel and not eat something. Chips, fries, snacks, muffins, cupcakes – keep them in abundance as you might need them anytime. In case of emergencies, keep a separate ration of biscuits and fries. Take ready-made foods only. You won’t always have access to a stove or hot water to even make instant noodles or pasta. Also, remember to keep an ample amount of water around and keep replenishing the stock whenever you can.

There are many other things that you should carry of course, including first aid kits and portable music players. Also, keep your medicines and other individual necessities with you. But, most of all, remember to enjoy the view. Because adventure is for the soul what food is to the stomach. And that is something that cannot be replaced.