9 Essentials for Any Skateboarding Road Trip

2. Extra Shoes (And Laces)

Chances are you won’t leave home without your current skate shoes, but having a backup pair in your bag, trunk—wherever—is probably a wise choice. Shoes get blown out! They get dirty, thrashed, laces break … you don’t need me to tell you. And while it might be a pain having to break in a new pair of shoes, maybe you have a slightly less-worn pair on deck already? Toss in an extra pair or two if you can. You’ll be stoked you did.

3. Protective Gear

I know there’s still a stigma in the skateboarding world when it comes to padding up, but it never hurts to be better safe than sorry. Plus, you never know if you’re going to stumble across a legit concrete paradise along the way to your destination, and let’s be real, some skateparks come equipped with some pretty heavy terrain. Never hurts to have some battle gear on hand—at the very least, some knee pads and a helmet.

4. Apparel Essentials

Again, like shoes, this one is sort of a no-brainer—I’m sure you’ll be packing some clothes with you on any type of trip. But having comfortable, weather-appropriate options is a must! 

Depending on where you’re going, chances are you’ll want some light tees for day, hoodies and/or flannels for colder evenings, water-proof jackets in case you get hit by some unpredictable weather. And most importantly, I’d personally pack pants and shorts! You never know if you’re gonna stumble upon a swimming hole, hot spring, lake … hey, might as well be ready! Essentials are essential for a reason.

5. Disposable Camera

Every single one of us has a smartphone sitting in our pockets (or at least nearby) as I write this, but in my opinion, there’s still nothing better than having a disposable camera or two on hand when it comes to road trips. There’s no denying they’re way more fun to shoot with, for one, and that feeling you get when developing your film and seeing all those memories come to life again is unmatched. 

Maybe you shoot film already? Even better! But the convenience of a disposable camera is a big part of what make them so rad. Light, durable, easy to carry. Buy a few before your next skate trip and make those memories last.

6. Headphones or Ear Buds

While this one might be case by case, I can't tell you how many times I've been on skate trips and simply needed to shut everything else out. Having a pair of proper headphones or earbuds can really be convenient for those moments of rest and downtime. 

Whether you're the last one up watching a movie or listening to music on your phone, or you're tired of the garbage your homies keep playing (hey, it happens... ha!), it's worth having some on hand to designate a little me-time if and when it's needed. I recently got to try these new Nora Vasconcellos Skullcandy Crusher Evos AND the Smokin' Buds, and both absolutely rule. Whatever works! 

7. Tent and Camping Gear

The type of road trip you’re planning will obviously determine if you need a tent and camping gear, but if your mission is to keep the budget tight and sleep where you fall, a tent and some basic camping gear will certainly be essential. All the big box stores typically have them priced pretty decently, but the good folks at Poler have some really convenient (and stylish) tents and gear that all outdoor/skateboarding enthusiasts can appreciate. Just FYI! Regardless, happy camping. 

8. Snacks and Portable Water Bottle

Having some beneficial snacks like granola bars, trail mix, almonds—you can make that grocery list for yourself—is always smart and just might come in handy more often than you realize. On the heels of that, a portable/reusable water bottle is unbelievably convenient all the same! 

A ton of skate companies have water bottles as accessories, but brands like Yeti, for example, have some borderline indestructible water bottles as well. Regardless, have something on hand so you can take advantage of all the free water that’s offered across the country. A penny saved is a penny earned!

9. First Aid Kit

As far as all the essentials on this list, I’d say this is probably the most important. Bandages, antiseptic wipes, ibuprofen, wraps, ice packs, heat pads, even spare crutches if you have them. Remember when I said better safe than sorry? Well, I won’t say it again, but yeah. You are. It’s obviously better to be overly prepared for the worst, you know? Skateboarding should be called falling because it’s basically an unavoidable part of this crazy pastime of ours. Keep that first aid kit stocked and handy to stay a step ahead. Road trips can be unpredictable, but you can combat that unpredictability with the right essentials. 

At the end of the day, these are just my humble suggestions. But again, it never hurts to be prepared! Whether you're traveling this holiday season or have some bucket-list skate trips planned for spring and summer of next year, keep this list of essentials in mind before setting off! The road goes on forever, and the party never ends. Happy skateboarding!