Gear Up: Essential Car Accessories Every Driver Should Own
Having the right gear at your fingertips makes every ride smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. So, rev up your engines and get ready to dive into the world of practical items that every driver should have in their arsenal. From must-have safety tools to tech-savvy gadgets that will make your car the envy of the whole neighbourhood, here’s a list of indispensable accessories that will become your ride-or-die companions on the asphalt adventures.
Contents
Seat Covers
You’re cruising down the road, coffee in hand, tunes on point, and suddenly – you spill that coffee all over your seat. Having waterproof and durable automotive seat covers is like having magic shields against spills, crumbs, and whatever else life throws your way. There’s a wide range of designs online that come in various materials and colours, from sleek, classic covers to vibrant and eye-catching ones.
Some stores offer custom car seat covers that are tailor-made to fit your specific car model. No one-size-fits-all. That means you can expect a snug, custom fit that not only looks fantastic but also doesn’t slip and slide around like some generic models tend to do. They protect your seats from all the wear and tear that comes with daily driving. Spills, crumbs, pet hair, you name it. Plus, you can easily clean them with a quick wipe or a trip to the laundromat.
What’s the Best Material for Car Seat Covers in Australia?
Choosing the best material depends on your priorities and preferences. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but I can help you figure out what will work best for you:
- If you’re concerned about spills and stains, neoprene car seat covers are perfect for you. They’re great at repelling liquids, which makes them a good choice if you have pets or are accident-prone with your drinks;
- If you’re all about luxury and comfort, leather is a fantastic choice. It looks classy and feels great to sit on. Leather covers are durable and relatively easy to clean, which is a big plus if you have messy kids or frequently spill things in your car;
- If you live in a hot climate, you should consider cloth or fabric automotive seat covers. They’re breathable and won’t get scorching hot in the summer sun like leather can;
- And if you’re on a tight budget, you can always get universal-fit covers made from polyester or similar synthetic materials. They won’t be as custom or snug as pricier options, but they’ll get the job done.
Car Charger
Nowadays, we rely so much on our smartphones for navigation, communication, and entertainment while driving. So, you should make sure that your phone is on full battery, especially on long journeys. You don’t want to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with a dead phone, right? With a car charger, you can juice up your devices, ensuring that you can stay connected and use your GPS without any worries. There are various types of car chargers available, from standard USB chargers to those with multiple ports or even wireless options. So, you can pick the one that suits your needs and your car’s setup.
Emergency Roadside Kit
Long drives are enjoyable until suddenly your tire goes flat, or your engine starts acting up. These kinds of situations can stress you out or leave you feeling stranded. But this is where the roadside emergency kit comes to the rescue. Inside that kit, you typically have items like jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, first-aid supplies, and even a reflective vest or roadside flares. These tools are lifesavers in tricky situations.
For instance, if your battery dies, the jumper cables help you get a jumpstart from another driver. Or, if you need to change a tire in the dark, that flashlight is your best friend. And let’s not forget about the first-aid supplies. Accidents can happen, and having some basic medical supplies on hand will make a big difference while you’re waiting for professional help.
Roof Rack
If you’re like me, you often need extra storage space in your car, whether it’s for luggage, sports equipment, or even camping gear. And a roof rack is like an extra trunk on your car’s roof. You can pack all your suitcases up there, leaving more space in the car for people to stretch out. No more playing Tetris with your suitcases and passengers.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a roof rack is a dream come true. It lets you carry bikes, kayaks, skis, or whatever gear you need. And the best part is, it’s relatively easy to install, and many racks are compatible with different car models. Just make sure to secure your items properly and follow the weight limits to keep everything safe.
Portable Vacuum Cleaner
Your car’s interior accumulates all sorts of dust, crumbs, and dirt. But with a portable vacuum cleaner, you’re ready to tackle that mess whenever it strikes. Whether it’s coffee, a bag of chips, or a muddy footprint, this device can come to the rescue. It takes just a few minutes to clean up the mess, and your car looks as good as new. And don’t forget – a clean car is a healthier car. Dust and debris can accumulate inside, potentially causing allergies or other health issues. With a portable vacuum cleaner on hand, you can keep the air inside your car clean and fresh.