8 Road Trip Essentials to Keep You Cruisin’

Extra Handy if Your Ride’s Got History 🚗✨

Long before “road trip” became a hashtag, it was a state of mind.

You packed a bag, topped off the tank, rolled the windows down, and let the AM radio crackle you into somewhere new.

That magic’s still out there — but the gear’s gotten better. And if you pack smart, the only thing you’ll be stranded with is a killer sunset view.

Here’s your kit for smooth miles, fewer headaches, and stories worth telling at the next pit stop.

1. A Card That Gives Back 💳

Gas isn’t pocket change anymore, and some rides drink it like soda pop at a drive-in.
The fix?

A gas friendly rewards travel card that kicks you cash back at the pump, racks up hotel points, and skips those pesky foreign transaction fees.

Every gallon you buy fuels the next leg of the adventure. Compare the best ones [HERE].

2. Know Before You Roll into the Wrong Pump Price

Stopping blind for gas is like playing the slots — maybe you win, maybe you get hosed.

GasBuddy shows you the cheapest spots before you pull off, so you can save that extra cash for pie at the diner with the neon sign that’s been buzzing since ’72.

3. Eyes on the Road, Memory in the Bank 🎥

A dash cam isn’t just for “gotcha” moments.

It’s a front-row ticket to the road ahead — from the first glimpse of the ocean to that convoy of vintage pickups you passed in Kansas.

And if someone backs into your bumper at the Sonic, you’ve got proof.

4. When the Road Keeps Calling 🏨

Sometimes the miles feel too good to stop — until you hit a “No Vacancy” sign.

That’s when Hotels.com saves the day, serving up last-minute rooms from roadside motels to mid-century resort gems.

Pro move: 10 nights gets you 1 reward night. Nothing beats a freebie.

5. Backup That Doesn’t Judge 🛠️

Even the slickest classic or newest crossover can throw a tantrum.

AAA gets you towed, patched, or boosted without the side-eye. They’ll even give you a deal on that roadside burger while you wait.

6. Find the Roads Worth Driving 🗺️

Highways are for getting somewhere. Backroads are for being somewhere.

Roadtrippers helps you stitch together the scenic byways, mom-and-pop diners, and oddball attractions you’d never find staring at an interstate exit sign.

Especially sweet if your ride prefers a gentle cruise over a freeway flog.

7. Tours in Your Back Pocket 🎧

Pull into a historic town or a city you’ve never strolled?

WeGoTrip turns your phone into a personal tour guide — start when you want, wander where you want, learn a few things worth repeating over coffee the next morning.

8. A Little Game for the Glovebox 🏁

Our free What’s It Worth? QuickStart ValueKit isn’t just for estate sales.

It’s a road-trip game: spot a cool car, guess its value, run the numbers, and see who’s right before the owner walks out with their milkshake.

Grab it here before your next run.

Before You Kick the Tires and Light the Fires

A good trip is part prep, part luck, and part knowing when to take the long way.

Load up your gear, point that chrome nose toward somewhere new, and let the miles do the talking.

Sun on your dash, stories in your rearview.

Founder, Auto: Estate Club

🏁 A Word From Our Sponsor Who Keeps Our Club FREE

Your boss will think you’re a genius

You’re optimizing for growth. Go-to-Millions is Ari Murray’s ecommerce newsletter packed with proven tactics, creative that converts, and real operator insights—from product strategy to paid media. No mushy strategy. Just what’s working. Subscribe free for weekly ideas that drive revenue.

FTC Partner Disclosure: please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you click on them and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our work and allows us to continue to provide valuable content. We only recommend products and we use and love. We will always tell you if you are entering a sponsored or partner section. Thank you for your support!