15 Best Accessories For Spring Break Road Trip
Spring break road trips are the perfect way to break free from the shackles of winter and hit the road with your family or friends after being cooped up for months.
But before you hit the road, stop and check to make sure your car is ready for the journey ahead with the right accessories to make the drive smooth, comfortable, and safe.
Whether you're heading to the beach, exploring scenic routes, or visiting friends and family, having the right car accessories can make your voyage more enjoyable. From practical essentials to convenient gadgets, here are some vehicle accessories for your spring break adventure:
15 essential car accessories for your spring break road trip
1. High-efficiency air filters: As we begin to head into spring, dust and pollen fill the air. If you don’t have the proper car filters, the inside of your vehicle can become a petri dish for allergens. If your car doesn’t already have one, add a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter. These filters are designed to capture even the smallest particles, including allergens like pollen and dust.
2. All-weather floor mats: All-weather floor mats are helpful all year long. Rubber mats are easy to wash and help prevent allergens from getting trapped in your car's carpet during spring. Easily remove and wash off to help keep your vehicle’s interior clean and allergy-free.
3. Roof rack or cargo carrier: If you're traveling with a lot of gear or luggage, a roof rack or cargo carrier provides extra storage space, freeing up room inside the car for passengers to stretch out and relax. This is especially useful for outdoor enthusiasts bringing along bikes, kayaks, or camping equipment.
4. Portable electric cooler: Keep drinks and snacks cool and easily accessible with a portable cooler. Look for models that can plug into your car's power outlet or run on battery power for added convenience. Whether you prefer refreshing beverages or healthy snacks, having a cooler on hand ensures you stay hydrated and energized throughout your road trip.
5. Phone mount: Safety should come first while driving, and a phone mount can help you stay focused on the road while still having access to GPS navigation and hands-free calling. Choose a mount that securely attaches to your dashboard or windshield and can accommodate your smartphone size.
6. Car organizer: Keep your vehicle clutter-free with a car organizer designed to hold essentials like maps, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks. Look for organizers that hang from the back of the seat or fit snugly between the front seats for easy access by both the driver and passengers.
7. A “tiny trash can”: Micro trash in your car can seem harmless, but over several days with multiple passengers discarding their waste, it can start to pile up. Tiny trash cans fit in your car’s cup holder to collect the little bits of trash that often finds its way to the depths of your car.
8. Car headrest hangers: Save space and save time looking for what you need with car headrest hangers. They slip on the backside of seat headrests and offer extra storage space for bags, hats, towels (or blankets), or anything you need out of the way yet accessible.
9. Emergency kit: No matter what time of year, an emergency kit can be your best friend when you find yourself in a less-than-ideal situation.
Prepare for the unexpected by packing a kit that includes: flashlight, first-aid supplies, jumper cables, tire pressure gauge, and a multipurpose tool. Carry extra blankets, water, and non-perishable snacks in case you get stranded or encounter inclement weather.
10. Sunshade: Keep your car cool and comfortable on sunny days with a sunshade that blocks out harmful UV rays and reduces interior heat buildup. Look for designs that are easy to fold, roll up or collapse when not in use.
11. Tissue dispenser: Always reaching around the back seat for tissues? Spring pollen can trigger allergies so be prepared with a tissue dispenser that fits on your sun visor for easy access and safe driving.
12. Cleaning putty (synthetic clay bar): Great for keeping up with cleaning on the go. A cleaning putty can quickly and efficiently grab those micro dust particles, pollen and other springtime allergens that may creep into your car’s interior. Use on your dashboard, inside cup holders, air vents, etc.
13. Travel pillow and blanket: Make long drives more comfortable with a travel pillow and blanket set. Whether you're taking turns behind the wheel or relaxing as a passenger, having a cozy pillow and blanket can make napping on the road much more enjoyable.
14. Cordless vacuum cleaner: Keep your car looking clean and tidy throughout your trip with a handheld vacuum designed specifically for automotive use. Choose a model with attachments for reaching tight spaces and cleaning up spills quickly.
15. Bluetooth FM Transmitter: Do you have an older vehicle that you’d like to bring into the world of streaming audio? Bluetooth FM transmitters allow you to play music from your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. A variety of inexpensive choices allow you to make hands-free calls and listen to GPS navigation prompts without fumbling with wires or adapters.