What Every Active Woman Needs in Her Car Trunk (Spoiler: It’s Not Just Sneakers)

If you're an active woman on the go, your car isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B—it's your mobile command center. Between workouts, errands, school drop-offs, weekend hikes, and maybe the occasional spontaneous road trip, your trunk can become your best friend (or your biggest stressor) depending on how well it's stocked. At ZipHers, we believe in gear that moves with you, and that philosophy extends beyond what you wear—it’s about how you live.

Whether you're a fit mom, a traveling professional, a weekend warrior, or just someone who likes to be prepared, here's a curated list of what every active woman should keep in her car trunk. Think of it as your ultimate trunk survival kit: part fitness, part fashion, part fabulous.

1. A Pair of Versatile Sneakers

Okay, yes, sneakers are essential. But not just any pair—you need that one pair that can take you from the trail to Target without compromising style or support. Look for neutral tones, easy slip-on designs, and breathable materials. Bonus points if they're machine washable.

Pro Tip: Keep them in a breathable shoe bag to prevent odors from taking over your trunk space.

2. ZipHers On-the-Go Leggings

A backup pair of leggings can be a total lifesaver. Spilled coffee before a client meeting? Sudden invite to a yoga class? Weekend hike that turns muddy? Our ZipHers leggings are made for movement and style—plus, with the discreet zippered pocket, you’ll have a safe spot for your key or credit card if you leave your bag behind.

Why These Rock: They’re durable, flattering, and functional. Trust us, once you stash a pair in your trunk, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

3. Reusable Water Bottle (Preferably Insulated)

Hydration is everything. Having a good reusable bottle in your trunk ensures you’re never caught parched. An insulated version keeps your water cool even when the trunk heats up, and some even have built-in fruit infusers or tea filters.

Style Meets Sustainability: Choose one with a handle or loop for easy grab-and-go moments.

4. Emergency Snack Kit

Let’s face it: being active means being hungry. Pack a small container or pouch with non-perishable, healthy snacks like protein bars, trail mix, nut butter packets, dried fruit, and electrolyte drink mix.

ZipHers Recommends: Include a small reusable utensil set and a couple of wet wipes. Trust us, it’ll come in handy more than you expect.

5. Portable Gym Kit

You don’t need a whole gym in your trunk—just a few key tools. Resistance bands, a yoga mat, and a jump rope can turn any park or parking lot into a workout zone.

Bonus Add: A compact foam roller or massage ball for post-workout recovery.

6. Quick-Change Essentials

Life happens fast. Keep a "quick change" bag in your trunk with the following:

• Extra sports bra and underwear

• Basic tank or tee

• Deodorant wipes or body spray

• Dry shampoo and hair ties

• Face wipes and moisturizer with SPF

The Real MVP: A zippered pouch or packing cube to keep it all together.

7. Mini First-Aid and Wellness Kit

It doesn’t have to be fancy, but a well-stocked first-aid kit can make all the difference. Include band-aids, blister pads, pain reliever, hand sanitizer, lip balm, eye drops, and a spare face mask.

Custom Touch: Add essential oils or calming roll-ons for stressy moments (peppermint and lavender are clutch).

8. Foldable Tote or Backpack

Running errands after a workout? Found a farmer’s market on the way home? Keep a lightweight, foldable bag in your trunk. It’s great for reducing plastic waste and always being prepared to carry more than you planned.

ZipHers Love: Go for one with water-resistant fabric and compartments for easy organizing.

9. Weather-Ready Layers

A packable windbreaker or light waterproof jacket is a must. Whether the weather turns unexpectedly or you end up hiking longer than expected, you’ll be grateful for the added layer.

Pro Tip: Choose something that folds into its own pocket. Bonus if it has a hood and zippered pockets.

10. Blanket or Towel (Multipurpose MVP)

From impromptu beach days to after-workout stretches in the park, a quick-dry towel or fleece blanket is endlessly useful. Use it as a picnic mat, seat cover, or just to keep cozy.

Add This: A small pillow or neck cushion for longer drives or stretching breaks.

11. Car Charger and Phone Mount

Stay charged and hands-free. Whether you're navigating to your next trailhead or answering a quick call, having your phone secure and powered up is key.

Pro Tip: Go for a magnetic or clip-on mount that doesn’t block your AC.

12. Notebook or Journal

Sometimes your best ideas hit after a workout or on the road. Keep a small journal and pen in your trunk or glove box to jot down thoughts, to-dos, or gratitude moments.

Mind + Body Wellness: Pair with a mindfulness app or playlist for full-circle self-care.

13. The Wild Card: Your Personal Must-Have

This one’s up to you. Maybe it's a pair of funky sunglasses, a waterproof makeup bag, a book you keep meaning to finish, or your dog's travel bowl. The point is to personalize your trunk setup to reflect your lifestyle.

We See You: Your trunk isn’t just storage. It’s an extension of how you show up in the world.

Final Thoughts:

Keeping your car trunk stocked doesn’t just help you stay ready for anything—it reduces stress, supports your active lifestyle, and reminds you that you are the kind of woman who gets things done. ZipHers is all about making movement easy, stylish, and empowering. So go ahead, open that trunk and start building your mobile toolkit.

Because when you move, we move with you.

Want to share your trunk must-haves? Tag us on Instagram @ZipHersGear and show us what’s in your trunk! #ZipHersOnTheGo