If there’s one thing I love to do in the summer, it’s go on a road trip. I would even consider myself to be a road trip warrior; I have been on more trips than I can count, some of which were half way across the country and back. That being said, I have a pretty good grasp on what you need to have with you to make your adventure a success. If you’re planning on taking a road trip this summer, hopefully this list of commonly forgotten essentials will help you have a blast!

1. Sunscreen and bug spray

These two items are always must haves. No matter where you’re heading, skin protection is always needed.

2. Picnic food and snacks

What’s a road trip without snacks? But better than that, I’d recommend bringing a picnic basket and a cooler full of food that you can eat no matter where you are (especially if you’re someplace that’s really pretty!). If you’re out in the middle of nowhere, you won’t have the option to go anywhere for lunch. Besides, less money spent on lunch equals more money for souvenirs!

3. Music

Trust me, the radio is going to get really boring really quickly. Bring along an iPod, or some CDs, or a special playlist with great driving music, and you’ll be all set for a nice long drive.

4. Rain jackets and sweatshirts

Are you caught in a sudden rain storm? Has it been in the 60s all week when you thought it would be in the 80s? Aren’t you glad I reminded you to bring your rain coat and sweatshirt?

5. Water

I can’t possibly stress enough the importance of having enough water with you. Bring a thermos, bring reusable water bottles, bring an entire case you bought for $5 at Walmart, I don’t care. Just have water.

6. Toothbrush

Let’s face it: everyone has forgotten their toothbrush at some point and has been forced to use the terrible freebees from the hotel. Don’t be that person again. You’ll thank yourself for remembering.

7. Maps

This may seem out of date, but a good old fashioned map can be your best friend sometimes. If you’re stuck up in the mountains or are lost in the middle of nowhere, you won’t have internet connection. A map will save the day when Google can’t.

8. Cash

It’s always a good idea to have extra cash on hand. From tipping the waiter to frantically fishing money out of your pockets if your card gets denied, you never know when it will come in handy.

9. Extra batteries and chargers

We all know what it’s like to have a phone on low battery with a charger nowhere to be found. Avoiding that panic on your trip will make it much easier to enjoy yourself.

10. Tickets and printouts of hotel information

Getting to an event and realizing you don’t have your tickets would be a huge downer. You definitely want to remember to put those in your car before you leave. It’s also a good idea to print off information about your hotel reservations and bring it along. That way, you know the address right off the bat and know what the check in times are.

11. Sunglasses and hat

Once again, it’s all about the protection. Plus, you’ll be glad when you don’t have to squint at everything the whole trip.

12. Camera

Last, but most certainly not least, remember your camera and take lots of pictures! There’s no better way to remember and savor your trip, even long after it’s over.