How to Pack for a Family Winter Road Trip In 15 Minutes

Packing for a road trip can be a daunting task. There are those few lucky people capable of throwing a few items in a bag and head down the road with the appearance of having everything they need. On closer inspection, these people usually wind up shopping and spending money on necessities that could have been packed at home. Of course, the season makes a difference when packing for a trip. Summer’s necessities are different than those needed in the winter.

 

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In the wintertime you'll need to pack some specifics for the snow. You may also want to consider taking your older car, depending on the road conditions. If you have a car that you are close to paying off the car loan on, then maybe take that one before you drive your new Lexus on icy roads.

It is possible to pack for a winter road trip in 15 minutes. Preparation ahead of time is the key.

Pre-pack Emergency Supplies

Driving in winter has hazards like ice, snow and freezing temperatures. Pack a box with items such as snow chains, emergency Mylar blankets and sleeping bag, camping food, water, flares and other supplies. Load this first into the truck or back of your vehicle. If something happens, you are ready. Include a couple of wool blankets or a water resistant sleeping bag. A small camping stove such as butane with a few extra bottles and lightweight cookware can be a lifesaver.

Pack a Wardrobe Ahead of Time

Take a few minutes to think about what you typically wear during a road trip or on vacation, like your favorite hat or Oakley sunglasses. Gather a few tops and bottoms such as pants and lay them out. By mixing and matching, you should be able to create several different looks with a few clothing items. Carefully fold these clothes and place them in vacuum bags and seal. Do the same with underclothing and pack a pair of day and evening shoes in drawstring bags.

Pack the vacuum bags in a designated suitcase and label it for winter road trips. Choosing items with classic lines means you will never be out of style by grabbing this bag, no matter how long it stays in the closet.

Make a Toiletries Bag Ahead of Time

Buy a small toiletries bag and fill it with items such as travel-sized versions of your favorite shampoo, conditioner, skin lotion, razors and so on. Keep this with your clothing grab bag for easy access. Once a year, change out the items for fresh ones. By keeping a list of items inside the bag, you will never have to replace anything on the road because you forgot it.

Ladies can pack makeup items in this bag as well; rotate them out every six months. This will ensure always having up to date and fresh items to use.

Create a Snack and Drink Bag

Hotels with honor bars charge an arm and a leg for small drinks or snacks. Keep a small bag in your closet next to the first two filled with travel-sized drinks, cans of soda and snacks to munch on your road trip. Rotate food items out once a quarter and the drinks twice a year. You will never go hungry or have to shop at late-night convenience stores for something to eat.

When Road Trip Time Comes

Begin by grabbing the emergency road box and put it in the back. Next, pack the clothing, toiletries and snack bags. Lastly, pack any medications in a last suitcase along with extra clothing you might need for your trip. This could include swim suits for hot tubs, ski gear, suits, dresses or other specialty items for going out to dinner, the theater or having outdoor fun. And remember to drive safely and try to conserve fuel, you never know what conditions will be like during the winter in colder states.

The last suitcase should take no more than five to ten minutes to pack. Once that bag is loaded, turn off the lights and appliances, water the plants and you are on your way.