Visit Duluth
What’s the one essential you need for your next journey? If you’re a Douglas Adams fan, it’s a towel, of course. The British author famous for writing “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” series writes that a towel is “about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have” for warmth, comfort, and shelter. While a towel is always a good idea—especially for the next beach vacation—we have a few other must-haves in mind. As we head on our next road trip—this week to Duluth—here’s what we plan to stock in the Sedan.
Trampled by Turrtles
Minnesota Playlist
Every road trip needs a soundtrack, and we want to keep ours local. Mick Jagger allegedly wrote the Rolling Stones’ famous hit “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” about an Excelsior pharmacist who turned away his prescription request nearly five decades ago. True or not, Minnesota has been many musicians’ muse for years and continues to be so in song lyrics, titles, and album names. Yes, there’s Bob Dylan and Prince to claim, but as we navigate Minnesota’s roadways, we’ll be queuing up Duluth favorites Low, Trampled by Turtles, and Pert Near Sandstone. For a wider state appeal, plug in the Replacements, Hippo Campus, or Soul Asylum or acts that no longer call Minnesota home but many still claim their own including Lizzo, Cloud Cult, and the Hold Steady.
Wiley Wallaby
Favorite Snacks
If driving miles goes by faster without fasting, here’s your excuse to munch a bunch. We love these Minnesota snacks: Old Dutch Kettle Chips for the salty crunch, Pearson’s Nut Goodie Bars for, well, the salty crunch, Dot’s Pretzels for the surprising buttery finish, Wiley Wallaby licorice for some sweets, Mighty Spark meat sticks for some protein, 1919 Root Beer for a refreshing beverage, and Grain Belt Premium to pack in the cooler for after arrival.
Heritage Gear
Local Luggage
Pack it up! We’ve reviewed a few Minnesota luggage and luxury tote brands before, and highly recommend several high-quality duffels, weekenders, and roll-behinds. Duluth Pack’s Wanderer bag is excellent for day hikes, picnics and other outdoor fun. There’s also Frost River’s canvas bags to haul stuff in, Duluth Trading Company’s (yes, we realize it’s technically headquartered in Wisconsin) Lifetime Leather Duffle bag offers a stylish way to stash your stuff, and Heritage Gear’s sports team-branded bag lets you signal to everyone you are a super-fan of the Gophers, Vikings, or other local team.
Faribault Mill
Emergency Kit
Sometimes a fun road trip doesn’t always go so smoothly. Tires go flat or engines have issues. Make sure you have an emergency kit in the trunk just in case. A membership to AAA or a different automobile service is always helpful, and don’t forget to check the spare tire and tire iron before heading out. Pack flares, a flashlight, maps, battery packs and chargers, extra winter gear like hats and mittens, maybe a blanket or two (we especially like the Faribault Mill ones!) and, of course, a towel. Get ready to hit the road, and enjoy the trip.
