10 Road Trip Products Essential for Comfort

No matter where you’re sitting in the car, assuming the same position for hours at a time can be a literal pain in the neck. The ergonomic design of this pillow offers a wrap-around shape and a memory foam fill that takes the pressure off your neck and stabilizes your head. Plus, it comes in two sizes to fit your height.

Urinary incontinence (or loss of bladder control which can happen at any point in your adult life) should never stop you from living a full life complete with road trips and adventure—but it can be alarming when you feel a leak without a rest stop in sight. The pads are super absorbent thanks to their RapidDry™ technology that keeps it contained and you feeling content.

Even though you’re not actually outside, the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate right through car windows, scorching your seats and making internal temps soar. Protect your precious cargo (ie the kids and pets in the backseat) with window shades that have a built-in alert (they visibly turn white) when interior temperatures are too hot for comfort. They also feature a retract button to roll up when not needed.

When in doubt, disposable undies are always a good idea, and especially since post-baby leaks can strike at any time. A pair of Always Discreet underwear has got your back, front, and sides covered with a form fit design that keeps you dry. Taking baby on her first road trip to meet the grandparents? You can worry less about showing up a wet mess or experiencing irritation en route. These undies give you up 100% protection, and the discreet fit means almost no one will know you’re wearing them.

Road trips require many things—a free spirit, patience, and the ability to sit for very long periods of time. But staying seated for hours on end can take a toll on your circulation. When your legs are stuck in the same position all day, you may experience swelling, cramps, or worse, a blood clot. Compression socks help increase circulation and reduce the risk of swelling. These provide a snug fit and all day support. Plus, they’re so darn cute, you might want to wear them on the regular.

Whether you’re in the front or the back, meals on wheels are—in a word—chaotic. A tray table is the only way to try to keep food in its upright position. The adjustable design attaches to both the steering wheel, and the back seat (so family members in the rear won’t spill cereal and other items in all over the floor). Plus, there’s a cupholder with spill-proof prowess.

Between the close quarters and vehicle fumes, car air can get stale real quick. A portable air purifier is exactly what you need to eliminate odors and pollutants as you go. The tiny app-controlled device fits right into any cup holder. It has an eight-hour battery life, which can easily be recharged through a USB port, and it even lets you check the air quality in your vehicle—making road trips a breeze (no matter the window position).

When traveling in a vehicle with others, the interior temp is a negotiation. Some like it hot; some like it cold; others are comfy somewhere in between. To appeal to everyone, have a travel blanket on hand to keep chillier family members toasty. This one is roomy enough to cover the entire backseat crew, can be used on the beach, and has a handy carry strap for impromptu picnics.

Being in the driver’s seat, for many, is the preferred spot (less chance for car sickness, total control, best vantage point, etc), but it still doesn’t alleviate back pain. The OPTP Original McKenzie Lumbar Roll easily clips to the driver’s seat (or any seat) ensuring proper spine alignment and minimizing pain. Plus, it’s not limited to the car—you can use it anywhere you could use a little extra support.

If you or a family member is prone to car sickness, stock up on these nausea-busting wrist bands to save the day and your stomach. They target pressure points on your wrist to help quell the queasies and come in super-cute patterns and colorways for a little extra arm candy.