As the snow continues to fall here in central Michigan, it is difficult to imagine that Spring Break is nearing very quickly. Thankfully, the highly anticipated week is fast approaching, and plans are beginning to form.

While many students are planning extravagant flights to tropical locations, others are planning exciting road trips with their friends and roommates. But how do you know you've remembered everything you need for your road trip? Here are 10 things that every road tripper should never be caught without!

1. GPS: For those of us who are directionally challenged, a GPS becomes a best friend. This device not only tells your directions and arrival times, but can direct you to gas stations and restaurants along the way. On certain models, you can also change the voice for a more entertaining travel buddy.
2. Cell phone: Many of us are glued to our cell phones during 90 percent of our lives, but this is definitely a necessity. Cell phones are very useful when wanting to call a friend on the road, and also if an emergency were to occur. Remember to bring a phone car charger!
3. iPod with road trip playlist: What road trip would be complete without music?! Compile a list of everyone's favorite upbeat songs and play them on shuffle while you are driving. Spontaneous sing-a-longs are a fun (and sometimes hilarious) way to pass the time!
4. Spare change: If your destination requires you to use a toll road, make sure you have the money to pay the tolls. If you get caught without the cash, many states have regulations that can result in huge fines!
5. Snacks/car food: Be sure to pack some of your own food. Yes, fast food can be delicious, but it is both expensive and unhealthy. Plus it requires making a bunch of stops while on the road, and you could just pack exactly the kind of food you know you'll want to eat!
6. Spending money: It would be a real shame to drive the whole way to your destination and then not have any money to purchase things! Be sure to plan ahead so you are financially sound for your entire trip. Don't forget about gas money! Also, if you have a credit card bring it just in case of emergencies. 
7. Camera: If you and your friends are putting all this time and effort into a road trip, shouldn't it be documented? Digital cameras are always a great choice, but disposable cameras can be a lot of fun to play around with as well.
8. Pillows: On especially long road trips, people get tired. When it's not your turn to drive, you can always take a cat nap. Pillows are definitely important so you don't wake up with a stiff neck!
9. Road trip book: This is not a necessity, but these books can certainly be fun! There are many that are written to show road trippers the interesting sights that they will be passing on their journey! You can buy these online or at any bookstore.
10. Your luggage!!! We've all had to turn around during a car trip because someone forgot something. Make sure to double (and even triple) check that you have everything you need for a successful vacation!

Make sure you have all of these things, then pack up your car and be on your way. Happy driving!

GCM stock photo by Jillian Pekel

By Alana Goeringer