Travel Tips | Skateboarding Road Trip Gear Guide
Rainy skies and icy streets getting you down? Stay sane by migrating to skate this winter. After years of late night freeway binges and forest road camping, we’d like to pass along a few tips that'll help you live like a king of the road.
STEP ONE: TUNE UP YOUR SETUP
First rule - don't forget your skateboard! Plus, it's always a good idea to bring an extra deck. You don't want to break your board at the first skatepark and get stuck on film duty until you find a skate shop.
Bring a cruiser deck with soft wheels if you have room. When your homies stop for fast food for the fifth time in three days, you can bail out to grab something fresh and be back before they can say "dollar burger". Softies are also crucial for skating crusty spots and filming smooth follow lines.
Road trips put a beating on your gear, and you never know when you'll blow out a bearing or snap a bolt. Tools & wax are a must. If your buddies are less prepared, surplus supplies can make an easy trade for a frosty beverage on a hot day.
DALTON DERN - Do's & Don'ts
DO - Get everything you need for the day at the first gas station or grocery stop.
DON'T - Mooch beer or snacks if you haven't bought any.
STEP TWO: CLOTHE YOURSELF
Do your friends a favor and bring some fresh clothing. Don't wear the same pair of socks for five days and smell like a block of cheese left out in a hot car. Also, don’t leave a block of cheese out in a hot car.
You don't need a whole new wardrobe, but at least do your damn laundry beforehand.
No matter where you're headed, dress for all weather. Even sunny Southern California can get chilly at night or surprise you with a sudden dose of unrequested moisture. Always bring boardshorts AND a good hoodie or jacket.
Extra socks and pants are a must. Don’t be the one that loses their pocket and skates around all trip with their boxers flapping out the back of their pants.
CODY LOCKWOOD - Do's & Don'ts
DO - Always have a good crew, bring plenty of socks!
DON'T - Blow all your funds early in the trip or forget the essential rolling supplies.
STEP THREE: LACE UP
Start your trip with a fresh pair, but sneak in a couple sessions before you leave so you don't spend the whole first day flopping your board around with stiff shoes.
On a tight schedule? Try a lower profile vulcanized shoe for a quick break in with natural board feel.
Insoles are often overlooked and underrated when it comes to packing for a trip. Do your feet a favor and treat them with extra support from some upgraded insoles.
AUSTIN THONGVIVONG - Do's & Don'ts
DO - Keep smiling. As long as everyone is having a good time, that's good enough for me.
DON'T - Stay bummed if you can't land a trick. You're out there to have fun with the boys.
STEP FOUR: PACK SMART
Don't underestimate the importance of a good travel bag. Road life can be stressful, and dealing with busted zippers or uncomfortable straps is the last thing you need.
A 25-30L skate backpack should fit everything you need for 2-5 day missions. Having two main pockets is a huge plus so you can separate your dirties. Either way, snag a plastic bag from a grocery store to contain yo stank.
If you’re gone for more than a few days, you may want to invest in a larger duffle bag. Pack light, but don't forget the essentials. Hip packs & shoulder bags are also clutch for keeping the essentials close without weighing you down.
ANAKIN SENN - Do's & Don'ts
DO - Drink hella water.
DON'T - Forget to bring a towel.
STEP FIVE: ACCESSORIZE
Stock up on sunglasses. These are by far the most likely item to get lost or broken. If you're the main driver, quality polarized shades are a game changer, but taking them out of the car can be risky. Keep those babies safe and throw on a cheap pair when you hit the streets.
Heed Anakin's advice and "drink hella water". There's nothing wrong with chugging from the community jugs rolling around in the back seat, but you’re going to want a personal bottle that you can keep clean and cold. Your shriveled tongue will thank you.
These days, phone is life. Plus, if you lose connection with the outside world, the ladies in your life will always assume the worst. Car chargers are a must, but they only work when you're on the move. Pick up a portable powerbank to stay juiced at all times.
If a trick isn't on the internet, did it really happen? Upgrade your insta game with Death Lens phone cases & lenses. Can't stand the driver's music? Pop on some headphones or blare out the car audio with a portable bluetooth speaker.
STEP SIX: SEND IT!
Wait... you just went shopping and didn't plan anything?! Hitting the road without a schedule is one way to uncover unforgettable stories, but careful planning usually helps avoid some unfortunate situations along the way. Hit that final blue button for more info on how to line up a smooth trip and gather the other essential items that we might not carry here at Tactics.