Spring Car Essentials: Must-Haves for Smooth, Last-Minute Adventures! 🚗🌸

Does anyone pack a car bag, then unpack the car bag to just pack it again and then forget something? This WAS me until I decided to start packing car bags based on the season.

During the winter months, it's a lot of gear; extra boots, gloves, hats, hand warmers, car blankets, balaclavas. As we enter the warmer months, it's more of the "fun stuff." In summer, we keep beach toys, swim bubbles, beach towels and bathing suits. Spring is that in-between where anything can happen with the weather and keeping our car packed for any condition is essential!

These car essentials will allow more spontaneity in our days and the flexibility to stay outside longer. It also takes the mental load off of having to pack everything you may or may not need while also making lunch, getting everyone dressed and finishing your coffee.

I have two of these Calpak Car Organizers. They have 3 total compartments but can be adjusted to 1 or 2 based on your needs. They're high quality, sturdy and water and stain resistant; you can also get them on sale several times a year! They're easy to move from the car to a wagon, the house/garage, beach, picnic - you name it! You can use one of these, something like it or reusable tote bags! Whatever works for you and your family is the best option.

Must haves also known as "the things we may not think to pack in our to-go bag as we head out:"

• diapers + wipes (if you're in this season of life) or even a portable potty! We love the Baby Bjorn. You may even consider wipes for an easy way to clean up muddy hands or melted ice cream.

• change of clothes relative to the season - mostly for the kids but I do try to keep an extra pair of clothes for myself, too

• empty, refillable water bottles

• extra layers - especially in March, April and May when the sun hides under the clouds, a sweatshirt can be necessary.

• rain boots for puddle stomping + rain gear - check-out Outdoor School Shop

• First Aid Kit - we have this one from WildMed; I highly recommend purchasing the Manuka Honey as well

• car snacks - non-perishable options like granola bars, dried fruit and nuts in a cooler. I also keep a bag of fizz sticks and sports hydration to keep us fueled on the go.

• depending on the outside temperatures, I also keep sunscreen and bug spray in the car. It won't likely explode if it's non-butane but these are items I bring in the house at times. We love several different brands: Yaya Organics, Badger Balm, and Arbonne. I haven't decided if the bug repellent stickers work yet!

• Adventure bag; (usually my backpack) Go Find it scavenger hunt cards, bubbles, magnifying glasses, sunglasses, bincoluars, Outdoor School Books, and field guides.

Use this as a checklist to keep everything you need handy. At times, you'll need to replenish. I suggest doing this as needed (especially with snacks and washing water bottles) but in general, it helps me to commit to reorganizing the car on the same day each week. I do this on Fridays that way I can wash everything that needs washing and refill and have it ready to go for Saturday AM.

What did I miss? What would you add so our Spring Adventures are non-stop fun?