In the words of Alexis (Schitts Creek)… I love this journey for you! Not because I’m a biased Fall baby or anything but, in my humble opinion… you chose the best time to take a roadtrip.
When Summer turns into Fall, that’s when nature really comes alive with a scenery that no season could ever match. Now let’s get you packed for your Fall foliage roadtrip!
Whether you’re cruising through Vermont’s fall foliage or heading up to Quebec City for a long weekend, I’ve created this handy dandy Fall Roadtrip packing list of what you’ll actually need. I even added essentials for your furry copilot and some romantic roadtrip date ideas.
Packing for a Fall roadtrip is a bit like dating in your 30s: you want warmth, layers, and backups just in case things go South.
But, it’s not about being Martha Stewart in the wild. You don’t need to bring your entire closet, 3 cookbooks, and the instant espresso machine your bestie got you for your birthday as if you were’ about to make your own pumpkin spice lattes on the road. C’mon girly.
Here’s what you really need. Skip ahead to the full packing list here. 👈
Smells Like Fall 🍁
Waterproof Boots & Comfy Sneakers
If there’s ever a season that feels like Bob Ross’ paint palette exploded on the landscape, it’s Fall. To catch the foliage, you’ll be strolling through cute towns along cobblestone streets or trudging through muddy hiking trails. So, waterproof boots and comfortable sneakers paired with cozy socks are a must.
Top Rated Waterproof Boots & Sneakers for Fall
| Product | Shop |
|---|---|
| Women’s Shoes | |
| 👟 Top Women’s Sneaker: On Cloud 5 Waterproof — Lightweight, cushioned, stylish, and perfect for rainy travel days. | Shop |
| 🥾 Top Women’s Boot: Merrell Moab 3 — Durable waterproof hiking boot built for slush, mud, and comfort. | Shop |
| Men’s Shoes | |
| 👟 Top Men’s Sneaker: On Cloud 5 Waterproof — Breathable yet protective for city walks and unpredictable weather. | Shop |
| 🥾 Top Men’s Boot: NORTIV 8 Ankle High Waterproof Hiking Boots — Excellent traction and ankle support for slippery streets or trails. | Shop |
For a more stylish Fall look, check out: “The Only Fall Fashion Guide You Need (His & Hers)” .
Layers, Layers, Layers
Fall will have unpredictable weather during your roadtrip. To acclimate better, pack layers that you can easily take on and off for outdoor exploring one minute and a cozy cafe indoors the next.
Base: thermal, Mid layer: a flannel or long sleeve shirt, Outer layer: light down or puffer jacket.
Accessories (Scarves, Hats, Gloves)
A cozy scarf, a beanie, and touchscreen gloves are the final touches you need to keep warm during spontaneous Fall photo stops. Bonus: hand warmers keep hands (& feet) warm while scarves double as impromptu picnic blankets when needed.
🧤 Warm Clothing Essentials
| Item | Options | Why It’s Useful |
|---|---|---|
| 🧦 Merino Wool Base Layer (Base) | Lightweight and cozy, perfect for hikes or layering under mid and upper layers. | |
| 🧥 Flannel / Fleece (Mid Layer) | Provides warmth without bulk — ideal for unpredictable Fall temperatures. | |
| 🧥 Packable Down Jacket (Upper Layer) | Keeps you cozy on chilly mornings or at windy leaf-peeping stops. | |
| 🧣 Scarf, Beanie & Gloves (Accessories) | Stylish and functional protection against cold winds during drives or walks. |
Snacks & Drinks
Let’s be real.. no one wants to admire the scenery along a 50 mile road when they’re hangry. Pack a mix of non perishables like trail mix, jerky, apple chips, and maybe some pumpkin themed treats too.
If you’re driving through places like New England, keep an eye out for breweries, distilleries, and roadside farm stands to grab some fresh bites for the road too (sliced cheese, fruit, & fresh pastries). And don’t forget a small cooler! You will be tempted. And honestly? You should give in.
Related: Vermont in the Fall | Your Guide to the Perfect Vermont Fall Getaway
Safety Gear & Car Emergency Kit
(aka The “Mom Told You So” Safety Bag) You’ll probably never need it. But, you know that one time you don’t bring it is when something will happen… ways of the universe.
And sometimes, not always (I don’t want to scare you) in New England during Fall, it can snow early, so these heat blankets might be a life saver, literally.
Roadside Emergency Kit:
- Jumper cables
- Spare tire
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Car emergency kit
- Roadside assistance membership (i.e. AAA)
- Umbrella
- Paper towels
🚨Always Keep in Your Car 🚨
Pro Tip: Before your roadtrip, consider signing up for roadside assistance like AAA (or check if your car insurance includes it), which I renew every year ($25-135/yr.). It’s has gotten me out of a few pickles. Bonus: travel discounts!
Not bringing your car? Search rental cars.
Tech + Navigation
Yes, you have Google Maps. Until you don’t. (Dead zones are real in rural areas) Download offline maps, bring a phone mount, car charger, and pack a power bank.
📱Tech Essentials for Roadtrips
Pro Tip: Check out Ready.gov for more tips on how to prepare yourself for car emergencies.
Camera Gear
And because it’s a Fall roadtrip, you’ll always get the urge to jump out of the car for some cute pics. To capture that gorgeous foliage, a DSLR or mirrorless camera is great, but honestly, your smartphone with a clip-on lens and tripod with bluetooth self-timer can be just as effective. Or, be cutesy and snap old fashioned poloroids to create tangible memories.
If you want to vlog about your adventures, the DJI Osmo Pocket is #1 Top Rated on Amazon. Just remember to pack a microSD card.
📸 Take Pics Like a Pro 🖼
Thermos for Hot Drinks
Pumpkin spice latte, hot cider, and spiked cocoa tastes better in a good ole sturdy Stanley thermos, which stays hot for hours and hours. It also doubles as a reusable water bottle for hikes or picnics.
🏕 Up for a glam adventure? Read: An Insider’s Guide to Glamping in Maine by Acadia National Park
Cozy Comforts for the Road
Sometimes the small comfortsare are what turn a road trip from good to chef’s kiss. Think a travel pillow and blanket for impromptu naps or a Fall scented candle in a tin (light responsibly, obviously).
Or, a poncho for those chilly Fall mornings when you want to check out a roadside farm stand without your teeth chattering. Bonus: doubles as an emergency wrap if your travel buddy hogs the heater. Don’t forget little extras like a good book, hand cream, and sunglasses.
🧸 Creatures of Comfort
Entertainment for the Road
Instead of being the passenger princess that’s glued to her phone, be in the moment with a fun roadtrip game or turn up your favorite playlist, podcast or audiobook…
🧩Digital Detox & Drink🍹
If you check into a lodge later, bring some coloring books or Bob Ross color by numbers. Bonus if you bring your own cocktail kit. Have a drink and make art. Imagine him narrating the foliage like, “Let’s add a happy little tree right here…”
You might like: A Local’s Guide to Mount Washington Cog Railway in New Hampshire (Top Tips + Hotels)
Must Haves for a Romantic Fall Roadtrip Date
Just because you’re on the road, doesn’t mean you can’t turn up the romance! Let The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition pick your next stop. Or, try a scenic roadside picnic with hot cider and a mini Fall charcuterie kit.
If you’ve got a portable firepit, cozy up under a blanket, roast smores, and put on a movie on your laptop or mini projector. Sometimes, the simplest moments are the ones you remember most.
💕 Romance on the Road
Pet Packing List
Traveling with your pet is better when you can pack things that make them feel comfortable, like their favorite snacks and a cozy blanket… or, a long leash and collapsible bowl so they can explore. (maybe consider tracking them if they’re the type to run off into the woods).
And of course, a car seat to keep your furry copilot safe on the roadtrip. Bonus: There are so many outfits for your furry to be stylish this Fall.
🐶 Furry Friend Essentials & Fall Fashion
❌ What to Leave at Home
Packing light is the secret to enjoying a Fall roadtrip. Skip these over the top or unnecessary items:
- Portable coffee maker — honestly, you’ll hit a gas station before you need this and cafe hopping is what makes this Fall roadtrip fun.
- Bulky beauty buys — Your big hair dryer? Your hotel most likely has one or… let nature do it’s thing and air dry. Your fake eyelashes? you won’t need em here. Your legs are fire but leave the high heels at home.
- Multiple heavy jackets — one good coat + layers is enough.
- Spice rack — roadside snacks beat trying to cook gourmet meals in a lodge or B&B.
- Bulky electronics — I’d leave the over the top selfie sticks, ring lights, drones, and extra gadgets at home.
🍁 Fall Roadtrip Packing List Cheat Sheet 🍁
| 🧥 Packable Down Jacket – Fall mornings get chilly, especially by the water. Extra layers are your best friend. | Shop Women Shop Men |
| 👕 Merino Wool Base Layers – Ideal for hiking or chilly evenings. | Shop Women Shop Men |
| 🥾 Waterproof Hiking Boots – Trails get muddy in October. | Shop Women Shop Men |
| 🧣Scarf, Beanie & Touchscreen Gloves – Photo stops = cold hands. | Shop Women Shop Men |
| 📱Car Phone Mount + USB Charger – Navigate safely and keep devices charged. | Shop |
| 🔋 Portable Power Bank / Solar Charger – For photos and maps. | Shop |
| ☕ Insulated Travel Mug – Keeps cider or coffee warm. | Shop |
| 🔎 Lightweight Binoculars – Spot wildlife or scenic views easily. | Shop |
| 📸 Camera / Mirrorless Kit + SD Cards – For epic foliage photos. | Shop |
| 🚘Car Emergency Kit – Jumper cables, flashlight, first aid. | Shop |
| 🗺 Road Atlas / Printed Maps – Cell service drops; keep a physical backup. | Shop |
| 🧳 Compression Packing Cubes / Dry Sacks – Keep layers organized and dry. | Shop |
| 🧺Blanket / Picnic Mat – For spontaneous stops or cozy naps. | Shop |
| 🍁 Fall Scented Car Diffuser – Ahh… Fall scents for the coziest drive. | Shop |
| 📖 Travel Journal + Pen – Record adventures and roadside stories. | Shop |
🗺️ Ready to Hit the Road?
And that’s a wrap on Fall roadtrip essentials to pack! You now have cozy layers, gadgets that save your sanity, and a few little treats to make the drive feel extra magical. 🍁
Your turn! What’s one Fall roadtrip must have you can’t live without? Drop it in the comments. I love stealing. I mean, borrowing other travelers’ genius ideas. 😉
👉 Check out:
- Maine to Quebec City Fall Road Trip Guide (coming soon!)
- 3 Day Quebec City Itinerary in the Fall
