11 Essential Road Trip Gadgets

No need to charge this instant camera — the battery-operated pick snaps business card-size photos using Polaroid film. Some added features: four lighting settings plus an auto-flash to remove any guesswork.

Sure, your smartphone offers some navigation capabilities, but this GPS system also provides real-time traffic updates, customized points of interest, and the ability to track your fuel usage.

Grab a thermo-electric cooler to either cool or warm your road trip snacks. Not only does this pick have a large capacity — holding up to 42 cans — but it also includes a split lid so that you can reach for food without unloading everything first.

If you don't already have an ereader, now is the perfect time to indulge! The Barnes and Noble Nook Simple Touch With Glowlight ($139) and Amazon Kindle Touch ($99) are both super affordable, and with 3G access you can download new books on the road.

Even if you have a car charger for your Apple products, chances are you won't be glued to the seat at all times. Invest in this PowerDuo Reserve for iPod and iPhone — the detachable battery pack can provide hours of additional use.

Rather than relying on your phone, try a travel alarm clock with a temperature reading to tote during your trip. This sleek, durable option is battery-operated and small enough to fit just about anywhere.

With more than 30 power settings and functions, a wide range of lighting options, and digitally-managed circuits that control the output power, this high-tech flashlight is a no-brainer in case of emergency. Thanks to its aluminum construction and waterproof functionality, the flashlight can be submerged for five minutes in up to five meters of water.

Looking for a bit of a distraction while you ride? Geek out with the latest gaming device. Pack along your 3DS to fill in the space between laughter and sightseeing.

As much as you love your girls, sometimes you just gotta disconnect and groove with your tunes. The Solo HD headphones ($249) are a lifesaver on the road, since you can drown out the road noise and focus in on your jams, while the Skullcandy Aviators ($150) are an awesome choice for wearing with your glasses (sun or otherwise) since the ear pads are super soft and comfy.