Annual December Guide To Winter Driver Accessories

Make winter driving safer and more convenient with some accessories every driver can use no matter where they go in the New Year.

Some items are perfect for local driving while others are essential for road trips, especially journeys that venture into remote areas and places where winter climates drop below zero.

1. A well-stocked roadside emergency kit to help you or others in an emergency. Suggested items: First-aid kit, extra batteries, jumper cables, flares, reflective vest, tow rope, first aid kit, warning triangle/reflective vest/flag, Ice scraper, folding mini shovel, LED flashlight, and road atlas for times when you can’t access a cellular connection.
2. Winter floor mats to protect your carpet from dirty and dripping shoes. They also may be considered a driving safety feature as rubberized, all-season mats with an anti-skid pattern on the underside helps keep them in place. Look for ones fitted to your specific vehicle.
3. Cargo Liners for carrying soggy gear and preventing mold from growing in your vehicle trunk space. 
4. Heated ice scraper which can plug into your car’s cigarette lighter. Look for extra-long cord and extendable handles. Sometimes they include LED lights for nighttime use.
5. Windshield snow cover to blanket for your vehicle windshield when it is parked outside.
6. Rooftop cargo carrier to stow gear and free up some cabin space. Clamshell enclosures help protect gear from weather and thieves. Cushioned clamps to protect your equipment such as skis and bicycles.
7. Insulated drinking bottle to keep beverages warm for hours. Look for double walled, vacuum containers.
8. Portable power station to provide AC power while on the road. They offer quite a bit more power than traditional phone chargers and have outlets that accept AC plugs.
9. Electric blanket that plugs into the vehicle’s 12-volt DC outlet or power station. This is essential if you happen to get stuck on the road in the middle of Wyoming or or even for watching New Year’s parades or fireworks displays.
10. Pair of quality safety gloves to protect hands during roadside emergencies as well as inclement weather.
11. Pack of microfiber towels for those inevitable spills and cleaning duties while on the road. They are inexpensive, versatile and readily soak up fluids. You may use them for everything from cleaning your windshield to mopping up after pet accidents. 
12. Vent organizers and visor organizers for sunglasses, phones, pens and change. Keep your frequently used items within arm’s reach.
13. Seat covers to prevent pets from damaging leather and vinyl and keep dirty sports gear from creating stains.
14. Pet organizers to store food, foldable bowls, toys, snacks, leash, water bottle and clean up bags. 
15. Cargo and trunk organizers for sporting goods, travel items and groceries.