Summertime is known for a lot of things: livin’ easy, cookouts, sunburns, hours in the pool or reading in a pool chair. And road trips. Loads of road trips. Whether you’re traveling several hours away or braving a trip across the country, you’re gonna need gear. Or goodies. Or both. (Both is best.)
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Unfortunately, gear and goodies can cost money — a lot of money if you’re not careful. You’re a careful shopper, though, given that you’re a regular at Dollar Tree. In the aisles of your local store, you’ll find everything — or almost everything — you need to make a summer road trip fun and functional. Best of all? You can grab it all for under $5.
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1. April Bath & Shower Travel Kits, 5-pc. Sets: $1.25
If there’s one thing you’ll dread during a long road trip — aside from the many rounds of car karaoke that have the soundtrack to Moana imprinted on your brain — it’s the mystery toiletries waiting for you at your motel or Airbnb. Do you really want to use the same washcloths and bar soap that many a weary traveler before you has used? No, you definitely don’t.
With this perfectly portable travel kit, you’ll get your own loofah, bottles for shampoo or body wash, and even a toothbrush cap. It’ll help you stay fresh and feel clean, even after hours on the road.
2. Mentos Car Fresheners: $1.25
Lots of people (and maybe a pet or two) crammed into one small space can create quite an, ahem, aroma. If you want to avoid that aroma, swap it out for the fruity freshness of your favorite breath-brightening candy, Mentos. Whether you want your car to smell like bubble gum, watermelon, cherry or cool mint on any given day, you can make it happen with one of these car fresheners.
They’re so affordable, you can grab a few and switch them out throughout your trip, or keep one in every cupholder.
3. Snak Time Salted Crackers, 6-ct. Packs: $1.25
If there’s one thing you’ll need on a road trip, it’s a snack that won’t leave too much of a mess. These individually wrapped cracker packs will hit the spot for anyone in your car without ruining their appetite for those fun diner stops. Reviewers love the easy packaging and flavor of these cracker packs, comparing them favorably to Ritz crackers. That’s a win for everyone in the car — especially the driver.
4. Assorted Tumbler with Handle and Straw: $1.25
Getting through a road trip requires staying hydrated, whether you keep your tumbler filled with water or your favorite caffeinated beverage. What better way to do it than with a durable tumbler that comes with a straw? These handled tumblers give you all the convenience and chic looks of a Stanley-style cup, but at a much lower price. Durable, convenient and cool, all for $1.25.
5. Greenbrier Kennel Club Plaid Pet Blankets, 28.5×24 in.: $1.25
If you’re traveling with a four-legged friend, you’re going to need a travel blanket for them, too. These plaid pet blankets keep your furry pal comfy in the car while also helping to keep their fur off your car seats. You’ll be spared a massive cleaning effort and your buddy will be spared the sound of the Evil Vacuum Machine (isn’t that how all dogs refer to the vacuum?).
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Bottom Line
Your summer road trip doesn’t have to cost you a lot of money. With a few strategic purchases from Dollar Tree, you can keep your ride clean, your crew happy and your budget intact.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Top Dollar Tree Buys for Road Trips — Under $5
