As the world opens up a little bit more this summer, a road trip with precautions just might be in order. Here’s the gear that will get you traveling safely this summer.
Zing Energy Patch
Red Bull and old, chewy gas-station coffee are usually your best bets to keep alert when you are behind the wheel late at night and the rest of your crew is asleep, but, gross. No fears. This device, which you place behind your ear for five minutes, sends out a small, safe electric current which ups your energy levels for the next four hours. It works shockingly—ha ha—well, providing a boost that feels like a few cups of java minus the shaky edge. Each patch can be used twice. $29 for six pack; feelzing.com
Thule Tepui Hybox Wedge
In the age of social distancing regulations, scoring a campsite is not easy. The answer? Carry your tent on your truck. Swedish rack and bag brand Thule recently acquired rooftop tent brand Tepui and the latest offering from the two is a cinch to pop open and sleep two on a built-in mattress. Plus, it converts into a cargo box when you don’t want to sleep in it. $2,000; thule.com
Yeti Rambler 18 oz. with Chug Cap
The perfect travel cup is a faithful companion when you hit the road—meet your new best friend. This multi-use double-wall vacuum insulated bottle keeps coffee warm (and beer cool) when you’re in camp and can withstand a beating. But the Chug Cap seals the deal since it makes it easy to drink water without spilling it all over yourself when you’re driving. $35; yeti.com
Helinox Table One
This easy-to-set-up table weighs just 1 pound, 8 ounces and packs away small and simple. It’s a godsend when you stop in a scenic pullout for lunch or to set up camp, unfolding into a stable, spacious tabletop. Bonus points: It’s just as useful on your deck. $120-$140; helinox.com
Smith Lowdown 2 Core
Sunglasses are mandatory when you are staring out at the glare of the open road for hours on end in the summer. Smith’s latest polarized shades give your eyes all the protection they need and do some good for the planet: The recycled material in the frames saves five plastic bottles from the landfill and the lenses feature a castor-oil-based material. $129; smithoptics.com
Yakima HoldUp EVO
Effectively transporting your bikes is always an ordeal when your vehicle is packed to the gills for a big jaunt. This rack will accommodate everything from fat e-bikes to your precious Colnago and tilts back with an easy-to-operate lever so that you can access all your camping supplies in the back without taking the bikes off the rack. $549; yakima.com
Benchmark Maps Southern Appalachians Road Atlas
With so much digital onslaught out there, it’s comforting and sane to open up a good, old fashioned analog map. This new atlas covers the best of the Blue Ridge region, covering ten states with a 48-page recreation guide and 88 pages of landscape maps to get you out exploring. $27; benchmarkmaps.com
Black Strap Civil Facemask
You should keep a mask in your car at all times on a road trip for stops at gas stations and convenience stores—or times outside when you will be near other people. Available in a wide range of colors, these dual-layer masks include a breathable mesh liner and wicking fabric, making them perfect for hiking. $16; bsbrand.com
