If you spend a lot of time on the road, you know that it’s important to have a comfortable ride. Since the average American spends over 8 hours per week in the car, road trip accessories have become a necessity.
Are you looking for ways to make car travel more comfortable the next time you’re behind the wheel? Keep reading to learn about 10 clever accessories that can make your next ride more enjoyable!
1. Bring a Travel Bed
That’s right — there are beds that you can set up in your car! If work requires you to make long trips and you need a space for an afternoon rest or nighttime snooze, consider adding a travel bed to your car.
These inflatable beds leave a small footprint in your trunk when they’re uninflated. Just blow them up when you’re ready to hit the hay. Having a car travel bed can save you money on an expensive hotel or provide cushioned comfort for your pets in the backseat!
2. Get a Seat Cushion for Long Rides
If you’re taking a long trip or have a long commute, look into getting a better seat cushion. Your tailbone can experience a lot of pressure when driving, but there are cushions you can purchase to enhance support and provide relief.
A wedge cushion can make car travel much more comfortable. With soft yet sturdy memory foam and ergonomic shape, you’ll find a supportive seat that makes your commute far more enjoyable!
3. Add a Car Mount for Your Phone
Car mounts are a simple and inexpensive way to make navigating anywhere a breeze. Don’t fiddle with your phone to see the directions — secure your phone to a car mount so you can drive safely (and with both hands!). When you’re driving through a new city, you’ll be able to see the navigation with a quick glance.
Car mounts are available in several formats. Some clip to your air vents while others use suction cups that stick to your dashboard. With one of these handy gadgets, you’ll free up your eyes and mind to focus on the road.
4. Grab a Backseat Organizer
With so many gadgets, toys for the kids, and random things you didn’t realize were in your backseat, it’s time to get a backseat organizer.
While this isn’t the flashiest gadget to add to your trip, it will keep you sane in the long run. Attach a backseat organizer to the back of your front passenger seat, and know that your granola bars and trail mix will be an arm’s length away at all times. Make sure to find one with enough pockets to contain your travel needs!
5. Pack a Neck Pillow
Car pillows have seen a major upgrade in recent years, and you’ll want one when you’re logging lots of miles. Use a neck pillow that molds to the contours of your neck and keeps your muscles relaxed.
With 4 in 5 Americans dealing with neck or back pain, there’s a good chance it’s a problem for you. Give yourself some relief with a foam cushion that can attach to the front of your headrest.
6. Get Some Night Vision
Add a headlamp to your car packing list. Some are rechargeable so you can plug in while driving during the day, and then use it at night.
Why should you have a headlamp onhand? Think about how many times you’ve been on the road and couldn’t find something in your car. Some focused light will help you find what you need!
7. Keep the Sun Out
Are your windows tinted? If not, be sure to add a window sunshade to your travel list. They can give you — and your travelers in the backseat — a little break from the hot midday sun! Plus they’re removable, so you can use them only when you need to.
8. Don’t Forget a Cooler
You know that at some point you’ll want a cool drink when you’re driving through Phoenix in July. Or you’ll need a place to put the smoked salmon you picked up near Seattle. Keeping a trendy cooler in your car will come in handy during unexpected stops.
Some coolers can even function as food warmers and many of the best ones on the market can be plugged in. That means you avoid having to deal with messy bags of ice in your cooler!
9. Try a Dash Cam
Dash cams are a great option if you’re traveling at night frequently or just want to keep an eye on the kids in the backseat. For just over $100, you can find many choices that will keep an eye on the road for you.
Recording the road in front of you is good for safety reasons (if there is an accident), and it also provides you with footage of beautiful countryside if you’re enjoying a weekend getaway.
10. Make Car Travel Fun With a Hammock
Did you ever think that you could attach a hammock to your car? Well, you can! If you want the hammock experience without leaving your car, pack one of these.
You can suspend the hammock for a nighttime (or midday) camping experience. Secure these hammocks to your back trunk and front windshield, and you’ll be good to go for some relaxation. They are perfect for pets, too!
The Bottom Line
When you’re gearing up for your next road trip, check to make sure you have more than a spare tire in the back. Car travel deserves to be comfortable, too — and stashing a handful of useful and fun accessories will improve your ride.
To find more ways to make your lifestyle luxurious and complete, check back with us for more great articles!
