Going on a road trip is the ultimate adventure. Whether it’s a fun girls weekend, a romantic journey with your other half, or a stint at solo van life, you want to nail the aesthetic while still feeling comfortable and confident.
Preparation is key, so before you hit the tarmac, you should pick the right outfits, pack key beauty essentials, and plan a few safety measures. With these things in place, your experience will be much smoother, leaving more time for fun, photos and creating memories. This simple style guide lays down the basics about prepping for a road trip where you’ll look and feel like your best self.
Begin with a full vehicle check. Fuel the tank, check tire pressure and top up windshield washer liquid and oil levels if needed. Make sure legal documents are up to date and in the vehicle, along with a spare tire, jack and wrench, plus the lug nut key if you have one. You should also have an emergency roadside kit with a flashlight, portable charger, jumper cables, and ideally, a warning triangle.
It’s also a smart idea to save the number of a trusted roadside assistance service in each state you pass through. For example, if you’re roadtripping from Texas to California via the I-10, you should look up a towing company in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
Road trip fashion is all about picking smart pieces that are both practical and functional. Get the balance right, and you’ll be able to pull off stylish looks while being as comfortable as if you were chilling at home. Since there will be a lot of driving, you’ll be sitting for hours on end, so breathable fabrics are essential. These include cotton tees, relaxed denim, soft-knit tops, and lightweight button-downs. Avoid anything tight and restrictive, or with sharp features like zips or diamantes that could dig in or scratch you when you’re trying to rest.
Footwear that slips on and off is ideal for long journeys. This makes it easier to take them off so you can curl your feet up on the seat. Then, when you stop for breaks, it only takes a second to put them back on. Finally, keep jewellery minimal so nothing gets tangled or spikes you; think huggie earrings rather than studs.
Depending on when and where you’re driving, you may encounter a lot of different temperatures. The car may be cool from the AC while outside is scorching. Your environment will also change as you lose and gain altitude. If you’re sleeping in your vehicle, nights may also get cold, even if the days are balmy.
To give yourself some flexibility and avoid overheating or freezing, layer your clothes. Start with a base layer or two, then add a tee and cardigan, sweatshirt, or hoodie. A scarf can keep you warm, become a shawl, be used as a blanket, or be folded into a makeshift pillow. In warmer climates, a thin scarf can also become a headscarf, neck-tie, belt, or hair accessory.
You don’t need a full makeup routine for a road trip, so forget about baking your under-eye, and leave your 24-color palette at home. Instead, prioritize a few key products, simplify, and condense. Start with a good SPF since sunlight can hit your skin directly through the windows.
Add a hydrating lip balm and light moisturizer. If you are bringing makeup, just go for the basics and make sure they fit into one manageable bag. To stop your brushes from getting ruined, make sure to bring them in a folding travel pouch. Don’t forget cleansing wipes and face wash, deodorant, spare hair ties, and a mini atomizer in case you need a spritz of perfume.
Keep your hairstyles simple. A braid, French braids, a bun, or a headband are all great options for surviving wind, naps, and humidity. If you’re unsure about what kind of facilities you’ll find along the way, wet wipes and dry shampoo will help you feel refreshed even if you don’t have access to a full bathroom.
It may be tempting, but don’t just take the biggest bag you have and stuff it with everything you could possibly want. When you’re jostling for space in a cramped car or searching for something you need, you’ll regret bringing so many items. Stick to what you’ll actually use and pack smart. A bigger bag for clothing plus a smaller day bag for excursions makes sense. Something with easily accessible pockets is great, so you can always keep your sunglasses, charger, tissues, phone, snacks, and water within reach.
The last thing you want is to be hangry and stuck in a traffic jam, or worse, broken down by the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. When you’re hungry and in an enclosed space like a car, arguments can happen quickly, even with your bestie. Keep some healthy snacks stashed for emergencies or breaks; options such as fruits, nuts, and snack bars are great choices.
Avoid heavy or oily foods that make you feel tired or bloated. Even more importantly, bring a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. This will also keep you alert for driving long distances. A small cooler bag is inexpensive and will help keep drinks cold and snacks fresh for longer.
A road trip may not be the time for high fashion, but if you want to look effortlessly stylish, there are still many things you can do to prepare. With a travel-friendly beauty routine, a selection of cute, comfortable outfits, and some simple safety planning, you can look and feel fabulous, no matter how far you are from home. Learn to pack sensibly but stylishly, and you’ll arrive feeling fresh, relaxed, and ready for whatever adventure comes next.
The Fashion and Style enthusiast with a flair for drama and entertainment! A millennial on the lookout for the trending styles inspired by and believes in: “You can get anything in life if you have the right dress for it!” Adding a little magic through the power of words and not holding back on fashion and styling opinions! Let’s connect to stay on top of trend alerts and the who is who of Fashion world and get inspired to give your personality the styling oomph you’ve been craving for! Nageen Abbas at Vogue Vocal is the brains behind our Woke Vogue and Lifestyle Library!
