Whether you're planning a two-hour trip to Grandma's house or a 10-hour trek to the desert, you'll need the right gear in your car to get where you're going and to keep your family from inevitable mutiny. We've compiled a must-have packing list of all the electronic gear you need.

GPS device
Don't hit the road without a GPS unit. These handy gadgets show you where you are and which way to go. The best move from your car straight into your backpack.

Editors' top GPS Devices

Editors' top car GPS navigation systems

Lowrance iWay 500c
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Digital SLR
You'll have plenty of room in the car, so go ahead--pack a fancy, feature-packed camera. These cameras costs upward of $1,000, but they'll give you pro-level picutres.

Editors' top prosumer digital SLRs

EOS Digital Rebel XT SLR Camera with 18-55 mm Lens - Silver
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Portable DVD player
Nothing keeps the kids happy like watching The Incredibles 15 times. So pack a DVD player and enjoy the silence.

Editors' top portable DVD players

Panasonic DVD-LX9
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Hard drive MP3 player
Whether to listen to audiobooks or just keep sane behind the wheel, an MP3 player with plenty of storage is essential, especially if you can hook it up to your car stereo.

Editors' top hard drive MP3 players

Apple iPod Photo (60GB)
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Cell phone
When you're running late and need to check in at your destination, make sure you have a cell phone with plenty of charge. Dual-band phones will have the most coverage.

Editors' top cell phones