Important auto accessories to store in your car

In a car, keeping it clean, safe and comfy does not mean filling the trunk with gadgets, however, there are some accessories for the car which will enhance the comfort for the driver. Every driver should have some basic equipment in his or her car, from mere comforts to essential safety items. This catalog aims to highlight items of prioritization with roadside safety, thus ensuring that you know what should be moved to the glovebox or trunk.

1. Jump starter: the ultimate backup plan

The comforts of ‘Home Alone’ needn’t signify the end of the world. It can come in handy when you’re stranded in the middle of nowhere on a rainy night, or during winter when batteries are their most susceptible. It’s portable, rechargeable, and serves as a power bank for your phone. It comes with smart protection & a flashlight and is far more useful than waiting for roadside assistance when time, or temperature, is not on your side.

2. Dash cam: your silent witness

A dash cam is never an afterthought to anyone until it is too late. Having the ability to record your side during an accident, catching breathtaking moments while driving, or surveillance of your parked car are only a few examples of when a dash cam can come in handy. These days, the majority record videos in Ultra HD with night vision and loop recording, which means storage space is no longer a concern. From city driving to cross-country road trips, there is no denying the usefulness of having a dash cam, especially when the unexpected happens which invariably seems to be the case for most.

3. Phone holder: no hands, no worries

Driving while holding your phone is downright inconvenient and can even be illegal in some places. A good mount keeps the device at eye level and leaves the driver’s hands free to maneuver properly. Choose those that can be easily secured on the dashboard or air vent and that can accommodate several gadgets. Others have wireless charging, which is a boon on long trips. It’s a simple change that helps ensure greater attention to the surroundings while driving.

4. Tire valve tool: small but mighty

The tire valve tool is often overlooked due to its diminutive size, inexpensive price, and its potential to be misplaced. The tool has tremendous value for checking tire pressure, adjusting loose valves, and for letting out excess air. Every automobile should come equipped with this accessory, as it enables effortless maintenance when combined with handheld inflators or pressure gauges. This handy tool meticulously maintains tire condition which, in turn, enhances vehicle mileage, driving comfort, and reduces the risk of blowouts.

5. The ice scraper and windshield defroster: a tool that excels in winter

I have not come across anything as mundane and painful as removing frost from one’s windshield on chilly winter mornings. Using an ice scraper or defroster saves time and effort. Using non-flimsy materials will result in effective blades as well as rugged handles. For individuals residing in very cold climates, it is best to use heated scrapers. The addition of a spray bottle makes defrosting quicker and less dangerous.

6. Steering wheel cover: grip and comfort combined

The cover may sound like something you would pick up at a shop, but in reality, it has many functions. During colder months it prevents your hands from freezing, whereas during the hot months your palms don’t get burned. For greater control on the wheel, use a non-slip grid cover especially helpful for long drives. Through optimal positioning, some covers can decrease fatigues. It is an enhancement that can be felt every time you drive.

7. Windshield sunshade: smart parking

The greatest time to appreciate a windshield sunshade is on a scorching afternoon when your vehicle resembles a sauna. A collapsible reflective screen blocks UV rays, heat, and sunlight from the dashboard, seats and car upholstery, which keeps the car’s interior from deteriorating. On top of that, the steering wheel is now holdable, which means there is no longer any wait time before leaving the vehicle. It takes seconds to open, and the results are visible instantly.

8. Car vacuum cleaner: as a result of messes existing

From crumbs caused by children snacking on the way to school to sand coming from a beach trip, food in the car are unstoppable. A compact vacuum makes it easy to clean up the crumbs, dirt, and all the bits of mystery that fall on the floor between the seats. A good vacuum cleaner plugs into your 12V outlet or USB port and has slender nozzles for tight areas. While not impressive, maintaining cleanliness and order in a car shared with children and dogs (or both) is a comforting satisfaction.

9. Cleaning wipes: no scrubbing required

Do you have traces of dirt left on the screen of the plump monitor of your vehicle, or perhaps coffee is proudly displayed at the gear shift? Don’t worry – this dirt can easily be gotten rid of using car cleaning wipes without the need of any soap or water. No need to whip out a bucket with car cleaning solution; Wipes are simple to use and safe for plastic, glass and leather making them the quintessential cleaning product. Simply pop a pack in the glove compartment and next time you face a mess, you are good to go.

10. Bluetooth FM transmitter: upgrade your sound 

Do you have an older car with no Bluetooth? You have nothing to worry about. You can Stream music or use hands free calls via the car’s FM radio Bluetooth. This device plugs into the cigarette which makes it a Bluetooth FM transmitter. It is an easy to use device that can add modern functionality to older model cars, without the need to remove and replace the car stereo. Some devices also have dual USB ports for use during charging or controlling calls. This greatly increases its functionality for use during road trips.

11. Emergency blankets and travel plaids

Finding ourselves trapped in vehicles for longer than expected durations can happen without needing blizzards. For warmth during long waits for assistance, road trip comfort, or child-cuddling, a travel-sized survival blanket or plaid does not take up any noticeable room in the trunk of the car. It’s even better if travel blankets are sold with pouches to keep them tucked away neatly.

12. Trunk organizer: calm the chaos

Does this bring any imagery to mind: zooming water bottles and flying grocery bags? Tumbling jars? A great trunk organizer contains tools, gear, emergency kits and groceries all in one place. Purchase the type with dividers and expandable sides so you can meet your unique needs. It’s one of the solutions that makes life easier and gives us “everyday car life” ease in maintaining order in the car, that is, if you are the one who cleans up the mess afterward.

13. Compact car trash bin

Lastly, but by no means the least, is the understated, yet invaluable compact car trash can. Wrappers from fast food outlets, tissue boxes, and receipts need a home. Providing an adequate trash disposal method (a bonus if it clips to the back of a seat or into the door pocket) helps maintain your vehicle’s aesthetics when you aren’t driving alone. We assure you that your passengers, and a future version of yourself will appreciate it.

For further consideration

For instance, if you intend to rent a car for your trip, check that the vehicle has these fundamental features. At Europcar, we have vehicles suitable for any travel purpose from small cars to spacious family SUVs.

• Car vacuum cleaner
• Emergency blanket or plaid
• Bluetooth FM transmitter
• Ice scraper or windshield defroster
• Cleaning wipes
• Tire valve tool
• Steering wheel cover
• Comfort-focused wheel cover
• Compact car trash bin
• Dash cam
• Windshield sunshade
• Phone holder
• Jump starter