7 Things Families Forget to Pack for Summer Road Trips

Summer road trip season is finally here. Families are loading up SUVs, planning vacations, heading to campgrounds, visiting relatives, and making memories on the road. But even well-planned trips can quickly become stressful when important items get forgotten.

Whether you are heading across Iowa for a weekend getaway or taking a longer family vacation, a little preparation can make the drive much smoother and far more enjoyable.

If you’re still looking for the right road trip vehicle, you can browse available new SUVs here, compare used SUVs here, or check out our guide on the Best SUVs for Summer Road Trips in 2026.

Brad Deery Motors is proud to be recognized as a 2025 CARFAX Top-Rated Dealer, based on verified customer reviews and ratings. Combined with strong Google reviews from drivers across Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin, many families choose Brad Deery Motors because they feel comfortable and confident throughout the shopping process.

1. Phone Chargers and Portable Battery Packs

One of the most common things families forget is backup charging equipment. Phones, tablets, gaming devices, headphones, and navigation apps drain batteries quickly during long drives.

Having extra charging cables and portable battery packs can save a lot of frustration, especially during long stretches between stops.

2. Snacks and Water

It sounds simple, but snacks and drinks can completely change how smooth a road trip feels. Unexpected traffic, road construction, or long stretches without gas stations can make everyone uncomfortable fast.

Keeping bottled water, easy snacks, and small coolers in the vehicle helps keep everyone happier during the drive.

3. Emergency Supplies

Most families do not think about emergency supplies until they actually need them. While roadside issues are rare, being prepared gives peace of mind.

Helpful items to keep in the vehicle include:

• Flashlight
• Jumper cables
• Blankets
• Basic tools
• Tire pressure gauge
• Emergency contact information

4. A Basic First Aid Kit

Small cuts, headaches, bug bites, or upset stomachs can happen anytime during travel. A small first aid kit is easy to forget but can make a big difference when you need it.

Even a simple kit with bandages, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and allergy medicine can be incredibly helpful during long trips.

5. Entertainment for Kids

Long drives feel even longer when kids get bored. Downloaded movies, books, travel games, headphones, and coloring supplies are often forgotten during the rush to leave.

Having entertainment ready before the trip starts can help make the drive far less stressful for parents and much more enjoyable for kids.

6. A Quick Vehicle Check Before Leaving

Many people spend so much time packing that they forget to check the vehicle itself before hitting the road. Summer heat and long highway drives can put extra stress on your vehicle.

Before leaving, it is smart to check:

• Tire pressure and tread
• Oil levels
• Brake condition
• Battery health
• Coolant levels
• Air conditioning performance

You can schedule service here: Schedule Service.

7. Enough Cargo Space

Many families realize too late that they simply ran out of room. Between luggage, coolers, camping gear, sports equipment, and passengers, cargo space matters more than expected during road trips.

That is one reason SUVs remain so popular for family travel. They offer flexible seating, extra storage, and a more comfortable ride for long-distance driving.

You can browse available new SUVs and used SUVs to compare road trip-ready options.

Why the Right Vehicle Makes Summer Travel Easier

Comfort, technology, passenger space, and cargo flexibility all play a major role during long drives. Families often discover that the right vehicle makes vacations less stressful and far more enjoyable.

At Brad Deery Motors, we help families compare SUVs and travel-ready vehicles every day so they can find the right fit for their lifestyle, budget, and summer plans.

Why Families Shop Brad Deery Motors

• Large selection of family SUVs and road trip vehicles
• Helpful team focused on real-life needs
• Strong Google review reputation
• 2025 CARFAX Top-Rated Dealer recognition
• Serving drivers across Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin

Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Road Trips

What should families pack for road trips?

Families should pack chargers, snacks, emergency supplies, first aid kits, entertainment, and important travel documents.

What vehicle is best for family road trips?

Many families prefer SUVs because they offer passenger space, cargo room, and comfort.

Should I service my vehicle before a road trip?

Yes. Checking tires, oil, brakes, battery, and fluids before traveling is highly recommended.

Are SUVs good for long drives?

Yes. Many SUVs are designed with comfort, storage, and travel-friendly features in mind.

Where can I shop family SUVs near Davenport IA?

Brad Deery Motors offers a large selection of SUVs for family travel and everyday driving.

Brad Deery Motors proudly helps drivers from Davenport, Dubuque, Clinton, Bettendorf, Maquoketa, and surrounding communities find vehicles ready for summer travel, family vacations, and everyday life.