The Best Gadgets, Accessories and Safety Items to Choose for Your Car

The average Australian commuter using their own vehicle spends 40 minutes behind the wheel each day. And there are many more people driving recreationally and spending much longer periods behind the wheel in this immense, glorious country. In this article, the aim is to pick out the best, most indispensable car accessories on the market that make life just a bit more comfortable and convenient on the road. Some are less essential and lean more on the side of convenience, whereas others are crucial items of safety equipment, but the beauty is most of them are suitable for almost any vehicle.

Moveable phone mount

Smartphones have rapidly replaced portable GPS devices as the preferred route-maker, so it’s important to have them displayed solidly, where they can be seen and followed easily. Holding and using a phone while driving is illegal in Australia and will win you no friends among your fellow road users. Check out your options and prepare to be overwhelmed by just how many there are. Most are based on one of three styles:

• Suction cup
• Magnet
• Air vent clip

Multi-charger

There is nothing more aggravating than finding your electronic devices running out of juice just when you need them and not all cars come with modern USB chargers fitted. Older models will supply power through the car’s inbuilt cigarette lighter so carry a multi-charger to run off that and a fully charged power bank as a backup.

Emergency kit and first aid supplies

The frustration involved in realising you have a small mechanical issue you could fix if only you had the right tool is almost intolerable. And in a country with such vast, isolated spaces as Australia, it can be downright dangerous. Buy a pre-prepared toolkit or make up your own from your existing supplies but do not neglect this suggestion. Alongside standard tools and first aid supplies, try to include:

• Tyre pressure gauge
• Foot pump or compressor
• Vehicle user manual
• Flashlight
• Reflective warning sign
• Water and dry snacks
• Blankets and items of spare clothing
• Zip ties

Dashboard camera

These small, easy-to-fit cameras are a must-have for regular commuters in case of accidents or emergencies where details and responsibilities are disputed. You can relax, knowing any incidents will be recorded and you might even get a small discount from your insurance company.

Blind Spot Mirror

A lot of modern vehicles come with some form of blind-spot monitoring, digital or otherwise. However, the good old-fashioned circular mini-mirror is still a winner in our book. Cheap and effective, they give you a wider rear view, covering any blind spots and are super-easy to install, simply peel off the paper and stick them to your existing wing mirrors.

Honourable mentions

• Pet ramp and harness
• Air fresheners
• Car cover
• Wireless tyre monitor
• Portable fridge
• Seat organiser
• Deluxe cup holder

Whether you’re behind the wheel of a Bentley or a Ford car in Australia, never leave the house unprepared, especially on longer trips. Any small efforts you can put into making life more tolerable behind the wheel should give you back much more in return and besides, who doesn’t love customising their favourite ride?