As a dad, your car becomes an extension of your home – and if it’s anything like mine your kids will try to put half of the things from your home in it.
It serves multiple purposes, it’s not just a way to get from A to B. For me, it’s a place of solitude, an escape from the screaming and the constant need for attention – and that’s just from my wife!
I’m kidding (if you’re reading this darling I really am kidding), but it’s as much a place for you as for the whole family.
Whether you’re off on a cross-country road trip or tackling the daily school run, having the right accessories can transform your ride into a well-oiled machine of convenience, comfort, and entertainment.
There are more car accessories out there than you can shake a stick at these days. Some are genuinely game changing, others are complete tat. I am here to separate the two.
Here are my top picks for must-have car accessories that will make every journey with your family a breeze.
Backseat Buddies: Keeping Little Ones Entertained
Let’s face it, keeping kids occupied during long drives can be a thankless task. Fortunately, there are clever solutions to keep boredom at bay and ensure a peaceful ride for everyone.
Tablet Mounts and Holders
These nifty gadgets securely attach to your car’s headrests or seatbacks, allowing your little ones to watch their favourite shows, play games, or read without straining their necks. With adjustable angles and secure mounts, you can rest assured that your devices are safe and within easy reach.
Portable DVD Players
If you prefer the good old-fashioned way of entertainment, a portable DVD player can be a lifesaver. Load it up with their favourite movies or shows, and let them immerse themselves in their own little world while you focus on the road ahead.
Wireless Headphones
No more tangled cords or sibling squabbles over who gets to wear the headphones! Wireless headphones allow each child to enjoy their own audio experience without disturbing the peace in the car.
Safety First: Protecting Your Precious Cargo
As a dad, nothing is more important than the safety of your family. These accessories will give you peace of mind and help you navigate the road with confidence.
Car Seats and Booster Seats
Investing in high-quality car seats and booster seats is a non-negotiable for any family with young children. Choose ones that are age-appropriate, easy to install, and provide maximum protection in case of an accident. Some even have their own accessories, such as pots for toys or drinks to go in.
Baby Mirrors
If you have a rear-facing infant seat, a baby mirror is an absolute must-have. These mirrors attach to the back seat’s headrest, allowing you to keep a watchful eye on your little one while you’re driving. Mine allowed me to stick an extra 5 minutes on the drive when my daughter wasn’t quite asleep yet but desperately needed a nap. Bonus.
Window Shades
Protect your children from harmful UV rays and keep the car’s interior cool with window shades. These easy-to-install shades can be removed when not in use, providing versatility and convenience.
Snack Attack: Keeping Hunger at Bay
We all know that hangry kids can quickly turn a pleasant drive into a nightmare. Stay prepared with these handy accessories to keep hunger pangs at bay.
Portable Coolers and Food Storage
Invest in a compact cooler or insulated bag to keep snacks and drinks fresh and chilled throughout your journey. No more wilted sandwiches or warm drinks – just a happy, well-fed family.
Car Cup Holder Expanders
Let’s be honest, those standard cup holders were not designed for our beloved water bottles or travel mugs. Car cup holder expanders are a game-changer, allowing you to securely fit your larger beverages and keep them within easy reach. And keep the liquid in the cup…
Spill-Proof Snack Containers
Crumbs and spills are an inevitable part of family car rides, but with spill-proof snack containers, you can minimise the mess. These leakproof containers keep snacks fresh and contained, ensuring a cleaner car interior. They also mean you don’t have to get the car valeted (or clean it yourself) as often.
Clutter-Free Cruising: Keeping Your Car Organised
A disorganised car can quickly turn into a chaotic mess, especially with kids in tow. These accessories will help you maintain order and keep your sanity intact.
Backseat Organisers
These ingenious organisers attach to the back of your front seats, providing multiple pockets and compartments to store toys, books, snacks, and other essentials. No more rummaging through the depths of the backseat for lost items! They can be used in conjunction with the ipad holders mentioned above too.
Car Boot Organisers
From emergency kits to sports equipment, your boot can quickly become a black hole of clutter. Car boot organisers are a lifesaver, allowing you to designate specific areas for each item and maximise your storage space. You won’t end up cursing in the rain while you look for something that has rolled behind the back seat either.
Car Trash Cans
No more crumpled wrappers or empty bottles rolling around your car! Compact and foldable car trash cans make it easy to keep your car tidy and dispose of waste properly during pit stops. We all know how disgusting the little storage areas in the front or on the inside of the doors get, especially if the kids have a runny nose or something. Get a car bin instead.
Interior Protection: Safeguarding Your Investment
Your car is a significant investment whether you buy or lease, and keeping it in pristine condition should be a top priority. These accessories will help you maintain that showroom-fresh look for years to come.
Car Seat Protectors
Kids and car seats can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to your upholstery. Especially if it has been raining or they have been eating. Car seat protectors act as a barrier, catching spills, crumbs, and other messes before they can stain or damage your seats.
Floor Mats
Mud, dirt, and debris can quickly accumulate on your car’s floors too, but durable floor mats provide a protective layer. Choose ones that are easy to clean and designed specifically for your vehicle’s make and model.
Seat Covers
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive solution, seat covers are the way to go. High-quality covers not only protect your seats from wear and tear but also add a touch of personal style to your car’s interior. You can also get ones that only cover the back of the driver’s and passenger’s seats, to keep the look of the seat you have but protect the areas likely to get scuffed by tiny shoes.
Road Trip Ready: Enhancing Your Travel
Family road trips are the stuff of nightmares, let’s be honest. But they can also be a logistical nightmare without the right accessories. These gadgets will make your next adventure a breeze.
Roof Racks and Cargo Carriers
Maximize your storage space and free up room in the cabin with roof racks and cargo carriers. These versatile accessories allow you to securely transport luggage, sports equipment, and other bulky items without sacrificing passenger comfort.
GPS Navigation Systems
No more getting lost or arguing over directions! A reliable GPS navigation system will be your trusty copilot, guiding you to your destination with ease and reducing stress along the way. Many cars have them built in these days, but they aren’t always the best, so buying your own might be better.
Phone Mounts and Chargers
Keep your smartphone charged and within easy reach with a phone mount and charging station. This handy accessory allows you to access your navigation apps, make hands-free calls, and keep your device powered up throughout your journey. So you won’t turn up at your destination on 3% battery.
Furry Family Members: Catering to Your Canine Companions
For many of us, our furry friends are an integral part of the family. These accessories will ensure that your four-legged companions travel in comfort and safety without ruining your interior.
Dog Safety Harnesses
Secure your pup with a high-quality safety harness designed specifically for car travel. These harnesses feature padded chest plates and multiple attachment points, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit while keeping your dog safely restrained.
Foldable Dog Ramps
If your pup is aging or you have a larger vehicle, a foldable dog ramp can be a game-changer. These lightweight ramps make it easy for your furry friend to get in and out of the car without strain or injury.
Car Seat Covers for Pets
Protect your car’s upholstery from shedding, dirt, and scratches with car seat covers designed specifically for pets. These durable covers are easy to clean and provide a cozy, secure space for your furry companion.
Cleaning Made Easy: Maintaining a Pristine Interior
Let’s face it, kids and cars are a recipe for mess. But with the right cleaning accessories, you can keep your car looking fresh and new, no matter what chaos ensues. They make the job quick and easy too.
Portable Vacuum Cleaners
No need to lug your heavy vacuum cleaner out to the driveway – a compact, portable vacuum cleaner is the perfect solution for quick cleanups. Look for models with specialized attachments designed to reach those hard-to-access nooks and crannies.
Car Cleaning Gels or Putties
These innovative gels and putties are a game-changer when it comes to cleaning those hard-to-reach areas like vents, consoles, and gear shifts. Simply press the gel into the crevices, and it will pick up dust, crumbs, and debris with ease. It’s a bit like a pot of play-doh, but you clean your car with it instead of making long worms.
Wet/Dry Vacuums
For more thorough cleanings or tackling spills and messes, a wet/dry vacuum is an invaluable tool. These versatile vacuums can handle both dry debris and liquid spills, ensuring a spotless interior every time.
