10 Essentials for a New Zealand Summer Roadtrip

I don’t know about you, but I love summers in New Zealand! With a beautiful backyard like our own, what’s not to love? And with overseas travel off the cards this year, it’s time to pack your car for a road trip to uncover all the hidden gems our country has to offer. Whether you're heading away for a day-trip to your local beach or venturing off to somewhere new, there’s a few essentials you don’t want to forget.

Here are my top 10 road trip essentials to help you get the most out of your summer adventures...

 

Sunblock

ALWAYS pack sunblock! It’s as simple as that. If you’re like me and often forget, I recommend buying one especially for the car so that you never have to go without.

Music

It’s not a road trip without some groovy tunes to sing your hearts out to as you cruise our coastlines. Here are three of our favourite playlists on Spotify if you need some music inspo (yes I am recommending our Warm Weather playlist because it’s just that good!).  

Playing Cards

Who doesn’t love a bit of friendly competition while playing a game of cards at the beach? Whether you’re playing with your friends or enjoy some wholesome solitaire, cards are the new essential you don’t want to forget to pack!

 

Books

Immersing yourself in a fictional world and befriending the characters, or learning about your idols life in an autobiography is even more fun when you’re exploring new places. If you forget, or don’t have any lying round, you can stop off at a local second-hand store and choose from an often diverse collection for as little as $2.00!

 

 

Pillow

Because who doesn’t love a sneaky snooze on the beach? I even have a pillow in my car dedicated for the beach; it's like an outdoor couch pillow so sand falls right off it! 

 

Denim Shorts and a Long-sleeve Button Up

It’s a classic summer look to pair your favourite denim shorts with a linen top and for good reason too. It’s comfortable, classy, and versatile as you go from car, to beach, to lake and beyond… you really can’t go wrong!

 

Reusable Water Bottle

Water is ESSENTIAL on a road trip in order to keep your mind fresh and body hydrated. We’re lucky enough to have some natural springs all over the country so you can refill your reusable bottle straight from the source. You can also head to Refill NZ’s website to check out what local businesses let you refill your bottles for the road.

 

Snacks

If you’re anything like me, you won’t have to second guess this as a road trip essential. Being stuck in a car with no food is not a fun summer roadie activity. I recommend stopping at berry farm’s wherever you can, cutting up fresh pineapple and watermelon, and of course, some sea salt Proper crisps and hummus for some delicious treats. Be sure to have as many real fruit ice-creams as possible – it’s essential to having a positive summer experience!

 

Nail Polish

Pick your favourite colour and leave it in the car for those spontaneous manicure moments. We’re all guilty of them and usually unprepared, so adding nail polish to your list of essentials will solve this problem for good!

 

Camera

When summers over, it’s our photos that provide us with a beautiful sense of nostalgia as we look over the adventures and remember the fun we’ve had… so a camera (whether its film, digital or your trusty phone) is essential!

 

Remember that you’re not the only one on the road this summer. Drive with care and be safe xx