Step One 

Don’t take the clutter with you.

Declutter the car and trunk

• Grab a few bags for trash, recycling, and items going back into the house
• Sort, purge, put things back where they belong – clothes to the hamper, shoes to the closet, dishes into the sink.

Step Three 

Organize

• Organize car compartments. Use a small pocket organizer to store vital papers: registration, insurance card, car maintenance records. Replenish car chargers, napkins, pen, notepad, meter change in a small zip purse, and a few Chico Bag reusable bags…my favorite! You can find them at grocery checkouts.
• Use pockets behind driver and passenger seats as smart storage. Stash small trash bags (use a quart size ziplock bag to keep together),  a mini-size squirt bottle of vinegar and water (great for cleaning interior AND windows), a clean rag, paper towels or disposable cleaning wipes.
• Maximize backseat & trunk storage. There are many varieties of organizers for the car and trunk. Here are ideas from BestProducts.com
• Invest in a cell phone holder. There are varieties that attach to car vents, dashboards, and cup holders. Beware of those which attach to window glass, they block full view of the road.
• Check the spare tire for working condition. Have this taken care of next time the car goes in for servicing, especially if you don’t take the car in for regular tire rotation.
• Invest in safe tie-downs. Whether you have a truck or occasionally carry mattresses or large purchases on the hood of the car, it’s a good idea to have on hand secure tie-downs. Ratchet straps work well, and are small versions of what you see big rigs use to tie down their loads. If you have an open bed, local law requires you cover your load with a secure tarp or safety net. I use the Gladiator Cargo Net, which folds and returns nicely to the zip case it comes with. This keeps everyone safe on the road.
• Get an emergency car kit together. Here are safety tips & a checklist from Ready.gov