The best new gear for a summer road trip

— -- Naycation? No way. With gas prices dropping, it's time to plot a summer road trip. USA TODAY's travel staff spotlights some notable gear that can smooth the journey.

Bushnell BackTrack portable GPS

The pitch:This compact (about the size of a drink coaster), weather-resistant homing device is aimed at low-tech, directionally challenged vacationers. Push one button for power, another to mark up to three starting points; the GPS receiver counts down the distance, and a digital compass displays heading and direction.

Cost:$77.49 through bushnell.com, hammacher.com and other retailers

GoPicnic ready-to-eat meals

The pitch:Forget boring peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. GoPicnic's lineup of pre-packaged meals and snacks requires no refrigeration or preparation, and runs the gamut from gluten-free and vegan to such kid-tested options as a "GalaxyMunch" salami and cheese.

Cost:$2.99-$6.99 per meal through gopicnic.com or costco.com

EZ Grill

The pitch:While it may be tough to position a portable, throwaway grill as eco-friendly, EZ Grill's version tries to set itself apart by touting a "100% natural" charcoal that uses mineral oil instead of lighter fluid for ignition. Grills come with foil pan, stand, grill grate and charcoal (all recyclable), and cooks for up to 1½ hours.

Cost:$4.99-$9.99 through ezgrill.com or at Winn-Dixie stores

Westin Heavenly Travel Blanket

The pitch:Already famous for its snow-white hotel bedding, Westin's new travel blanket (white, of course) is modeled on the company's cushy duvet. The blanket measures 50 inches by 72 inches when unfolded; when tucked into its attached pocket, it doubles as a pillow for snoozes in the back seat.

Cost:$60 through westin.com/store

Shade Wagon

The pitch:Got an SUV or a truck? Then this oversized wagon — which comes with a built-in MP3 speaker, cup-holders, all-terrain wheels and one of the biggest beach umbrellas around — can haul two coolers and more to your picnic gatherings or beach outings. While there are straps to carry chairs, one side of the wagon folds down to create two seats. Available in four colors.

Cost:$549 through shadewagon.com

PetZen portable dog food/water kit

The pitch:Keeping Fido fed on the road promises to be a lot less messy with this self-contained, elevated "ChowPal" platform. Tucked into its own multi-pocket travel duffel, the kit comes with two food-storage containers and stainless-steel bowls, a 450-milliliter water bottle, toss toy and a spill mat.

Cost:$72.99 through petzenproducts.com or frontgate.com