Pack Right

You're going on a road trip. You've packed your camera, tent, sleeping bag, travel journal, and portable battery station. You've scoured the internet for all the essentials...but let me tell you something, friends: You've missed a few. Don't worry, though. I gotchu.

1. Stanley Thermos

My dear chums, this was life-saving. My thermos holds 1.1 qts and keeps water hot for 24 hours, which was absolutely perfect for making a fresh cup of tea while out on a trail. There are larger sizes available as well, which will keep your beverage of choice hotter or colder for even longer. Most mornings I was able to boil water at our campsite, but for the mornings there wasn't time I managed to stop at a gas station to fill up there.

2. Wet Wipes

To all my friends with uteruses out there, this one is essential! Nothing is worse than waking up in a tent covered in your own 'perfectly natural' blood with nothing to be done about it. Don't end up in that situation! Throw some wet wipes in that bag! They're also handy for faking showers.

3. Can Opener

This one may seem unnecessary when packing room is at a minimum, but if you're roughing it, be ready to accept whatever food comes your way, and in whatever container. I call this 'opportunitarianism.' It's one half-step away from dumpster-diving, really.

4. Trash Bags

Keep these with you so you don't leave a trail of garbage crumbs in your wake. If you're camping, make sure to dispose of any food scraps properly because BEARS.

5. Rags

Dead bugs are going to get on everything, no matter how hard you try not to kill them—and those aren't the only things that will cover you, your car, your tent, your cat, your dog, and your goldfish in gunk. Be prepared. Bring rags.

6. More Socks Than You Think Are Reasonable

Your feet are about to go through some CRAP. You gotta have their back- just like a baby, don't leave them sitting in their soiled wrappings. If your socks get soaked, change them as quick as you can or else your toes will fall off and you will die.

Just kidding. But you will get blisters and maybe even fungus. Please bring extra socks.

7. A Boatload of Batteries

I know, everything's rechargeable these days, right? WRONG. Flashlights, folks. Flashlights are not rechargeable (unless you pulled out all the stops and got the super-fancy dad-hunts-bears variety). Stock up on those AAs!

Pack those seven things up, have fun, and don't forget to call your mom! She worries.