Our vacation rentals in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer the perfect blend of coastal charm and modern convenience, giving you a home base that’s as inviting as the beaches themselves.
Condo rules, beach safety and local tips for Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Best way to pack your car for a road trip
April 1, 2025
Driving down to the beach? Popular Science has a good guide to packing the car, with advice from Volvo’s safety team. The short version:
Gather everything first. Make sure it’s all in the driveway before anything goes in the trunk, so you don’t have to unpack for a forgotten bag.
Make big things small. Fold strollers and other bulky gear, and box anything with sharp edges.
Heavy on the bottom. Heavy bags go low and to the back; fill the gaps with pillows, blankets and jackets so nothing shifts.
Use a rack for bikes, scooters and other awkward gear, installed the way the maker says.
Keep the essentials up front. First aid kit, snacks and chargers ride in the cabin, in a basket or box that can’t slide around.
Tie it down in an SUV or hatchback. Strap heavy items to the tie-down anchors or use a cargo net: a loose bag can become a dangerous projectile in a sudden stop.
Keep your view clear. Leave a few inches between the load and the windows, and keep the rearview mirror clear.
Check the car. A full load may need different tire pressure; it’s in your owner’s manual.
Take a photo of the packed trunk so repacking for the drive home is easy.
