Rugged Road Trip Companions

There’s something satisfying about hitting the open road on vacation, taking in the sights and sounds of the country with only you and those others in your vehicle to call the shots. You can chart your own course, decide when to stop and make fantastic memories along the way – you’ll wonder why you limited yourself with tour groups and rail journeys before!

These days exploring the untamed wilderness is all the rage, thanks to advances in technology and reliable vehilces. With the many Hollywood hits and nature documentaries out there showcasing the majesty of the Earth, you’d be forgiven if you didn’t just jump in your car and drive to those far away points (or fly there first – as many of them are very far away). Regardless of if you’re heading to New Zealand to find your own Middle Earth adventure, or if you’re just taking a drive through the rugged and rural backyard of your own country, there are some essentials you shouldn’t leave home without.

Below are a few suggestions for gear every road-tripping adventure seeker should have in their car to be sure they make the most out of their trip.

Safety Supplies

This includes the basics from a first aid kit to jumper cables and even a spare can of gas. If you are off the grid so to speak, the last thing you want is for calamity to strike and you to be too far away to have help reach you. You can’t bring everything, but it’s a good idea to at least have the bare essentials.

Navigation Tools

These days people think so long as they have a GPS navigation system, they can take on the world – and for the most part, they are right. But what happens when bad weather or other technological glitches render it useless? A good old fashioned map is never a bad thing to have and can usually be picked up pretty cheaply. Don’t rely on your phone to get you everywhere either – often these remote areas don’t have the best cell reception.

Camping Supplies

If you’re really looking to get out into the wild and away from civilization, be sure to pack the right stuff to fully immerse yourself in it. Depending on the country you’re in, you may be able to pull over on almost any side of the road and camp for the night – what could be better? Bring a tent, sleeping bags, maybe someting to cook out (depending on whether it’s safe to do so) – oh, and be sure to watch out for wild animals looking for a snack. No seriously – you can’t have the majesty of the great outdoors without those who dwell in it.

Audiobooks

When it comes to entertainment while you’re driving, there are few better companions than an audiobook. Why not pack the ultimate wilderness inspiration – the Hobbit audiobook? This is a must-pack if you decide to take on a New Zealand road trip, passing over the rivers, through the mountains and staring in awe at the phenomenal country that held J.R.R. Tolkein’s masterpieces?