What We Pack for a Day on the Road

One of the things I’ve learned over the years is that what I pack depends on where I’m headed. If the show is close to home, I keep it simple. But if I’m on a longer trip—whether it’s a one-day out-of-town event or a multi-day NSRA show—I load the truck a bit differently.

That said, there are a few core essentials that stay in the truck no matter what.

🚗 Things That Stay in the Truck

Whether I’m five minutes from home or five hours away, there’s a short list of items that always ride with me:

  • Canopy for shade
  • Two chairs — One for me, and one just in case a buddy didn’t bring theirs
  • Cleaning supplies — (More on that in a bit)
  • Cooler with water — Occasionally some Gatorade, but I keep it pretty basic
  • Bungee cords & NSRA banners — Handy for creating extra shade or repping the NSRA
  • NSRA supplies — Safety mat, inspection forms, stickers, etc.
  • Video gear — iPhone cage for shooting video, compact tripod, and sometimes mics if I’m planning content for the website or Facebook page

🧳 What Gets Packed for Longer Trips

When I'm heading out on a longer haul, I add to the list. My philosophy?
“If I pack it, I won’t need it. If I leave it at home, I’ll wish I had it.”
So yes, I probably carry more than I really need. But it’s peace of mind.

Here’s what usually gets added:

  • Toolbox — It’s probably overkill, but I’d rather have too many tools than not enough
  • Jack, breaker bar, lug nut key — The basics for changing a tire if needed
  • Electrical kit — Rarely used, but there when needed (sometimes even for helping others)
  • Spare tire — Obvious, but often forgotten
  • “Go Box” — My must-have for long trips in any vehicle. It includes:
    • Battery-powered ½” impact
    • Battery-powered tire inflator
    • Chargers and spare batteries
    • Lug nut sockets, torque sticks, tire plug kit
    • Compact jump box
    • High-vis safety vest
    • A few other odds and ends

If I’m headed to an NSRA show and working the Safety Lanes all weekend, I usually leave the canopy behind. In its place, I pack everything needed to operate the safety lanes, especially if we’re already covered with shade.

🧽 Cleaning Supplies

My crate of cleaning supplies lives in the truck full-time. I don’t carry as much as I used to, mainly because the products I use now are more effective and multipurpose. Here’s my go-to list:

  • Microfiber towels — Plenty of these, plus a few cotton terry towels and a roll of blue shop towels
  • Glass cleaner — I swear by SprayWay Glass Cleaner
  • MAXL One — This has become my go-to cleaner for everything. I started using it earlier this year and even gave it a shoutout on my personal Facebook page.
    MAXL One is like a polish, quick detailer, and waterless wash all in one. It’s a little pricey, but absolutely worth it. After regular use, I’ve noticed that nothing sticks to the paint — not even bugs or masking tape.
    I use it on paint, wheels, and windows, and it even beats most commercial rain treatments for glass.
  • California Car Duster — A classic staple
  • Water blade — Especially handy for clearing water off the bed cover before opening it. I keep this just inside the bed so I can grab it quickly after rain or washing the truck

🏁 Final Thoughts

So yeah… I might pack a little more than I need. But being prepared makes the trip more enjoyable and less stressful. Whether it’s a short Saturday show or a multi-day road trip, I’ve got the routine pretty dialed in.

If you’ve got a packing system or an essential item you never leave home without, I’d love to hear about it next time we cross paths at a show.

Until then —
Stay ready, stay safe, and Keep Kruzn!