What gear does Natasha Nicholes recommend for family road trips?

I pull a lot of the same things together for pretty much every family road trip. A few of my must‑haves:

• Snacks that aren’t super salty so everyone isn’t begging for drinks every 20 minutes
• A simple car bucket lined with grocery bags for trash
• Cooler with easy proteins and drinks, especially if someone has dietary needs
• Slip‑on shoes or flip flops for everyone
• A backpack for each kid for their own books, toys, and devices
• Small travel blankets or lap quilts so no one fights over covers
• Plenty of music or SiriusXM and maybe simple car games (license plate game, I Spy)

What kind of trip are you planning—short weekend or long multi‑state drive?