Two weeks ago, my family made the big move from Phoenix, Arizona to New Hampshire. In case you're wondering, it was about 2,700 miles. Now, for those of you who have done a cross-country move before, I commend you! Those 4 days were the most exhausting, patience-testing days of my life. Not only did we have a van full luggage, 2 dogs, and our 10-year- old daughter, but we also had our daughter's harp (why should couldn't play something compact like the harmonica or recorder, is beyond me!), miscellaneous items that we couldn't live without for a week ,and lots of snacks for the long drive.
After going through the ordeal of driving 12-13 hour days with lots of stops along the way, I compiled a list of things from Zappos.com that would have made the drive so much easier:
Kavu Mini Travel Bag - First of all, isn't the pattern the cutest? You won't have to go groping through your entire suitcase for your toiletries, encountering items that you probably didn't want to touch along the way, and everything will stay nice and neat. Love it.
Eagle Creek Sandman Travel Pillow - My neck is still tilted towards my shoulder from taking naps while my husband was driving. I’m definitely using this travel pillow on my next trip!
Eagle Creek Quick View Travel Clock - I hate waking up in the middle of the night in a strange place and madly searching for my phone or watch to check the time. This portable alarm clock glows in the dark, and is perfect for checking to make sure you haven't overslept. And the alarm function is an added bonus to avoid having to remember to call in those wake-up calls, like a certain someone might have forgotten a time or two.
Eagle Creek Travel Ear Plugs - I wouldn't know what it's like at all, but I hear that some people have spouses who snore. These ear plugs might be really good for those people. They're also great for keeping the noise out when catching a snooze while on the road.
Tumi Flashlight Key Fob - I can't tell you how many times we had to run to the car in the dark to grab something essential that we forgot to bring into the hotel room. Of course, it was never my fault that this happened, since I knew where everything was located! It was those other family members who wouldn't listen to where I said this or that was located. But I digress. This flashlight fits easily on your keyring so you'll always have it with you, and will help you avoid falling over curbs. Not that I did that!
I'm still at the point where I curl into the fetal position upon seeing a car, but eventually I'm hoping to overcome that and take a roadtrip again. I'd love to know what travel accessories are on your must-have list!
Amy Lowe is founder of The Mom Hood, a blog about all her new (and entertaining) experiences living the country life in New Hampshire. She can be reached at themomhood@gmail.com.
