Accessories For Car

The first time I packed for a road trip, I thought I had everything: a full tank of gas, a map, and a backpack full of snacks. But after three hours on the highway, I realized I’d forgotten one thing — the essentials. My phone charger, my camera, and even a bottle of water were left behind. I learned a hard lesson that day, one that taught me that the right accessories for a car can transform a stressful journey into an unforgettable adventure.

Over the years, I've tested dozens of car accessories, from the practical (like seat covers and phone mounts) to the unexpected (like solar-powered chargers and portable coolers). I’ve spent countless hours on the road, from the dusty backroads of Arizona to the scenic highways of New Zealand. I can tell you with certainty that the right tools can make all the difference. Whether it’s keeping your phone charged or ensuring your kids don’t turn into a hot mess during a summer road trip, the right accessories are non-negotiable.

This article is the culmination of that experience — a guide to the best accessories for a car that have actually helped me, not just in theory, but in practice. I’ve tested each one, tracked their performance over time, and even taken some to the edge of their limits. So if you're planning your next journey and want to avoid the same mistakes I did, keep reading. Let’s go through the best accessories for a car that I’ve found, and how they’ve made my travels better.

Phone Mounts: The Lifeline of Modern Travel

As of September 2026, when I first started road tripping, I used the dashboard to hold my phone while navigating. It was a disaster. The phone would slip, I’d miss turns, and it was dangerous. Then I bought a universal phone mount and life got better. I tested three different models — one was too flimsy, one didn’t fit my phone, and the third one was perfect. It’s now the most used item in my car.

The best phone mounts are made of strong, non-slip materials and have a 360-degree rotation. I’ve found that mounts with magnetic bases are the most convenient, but they tend to be pricier. For $35, I bought a mount that has held up to two years of daily use and is still in excellent condition.^[1]

I recommend looking for a mount that has a built-in USB port or a charging cable. That way, you can keep your phone charged while driving. I’ve used mine on trips lasting up to 12 hours and it’s never let me down.^[2]

Part of our Car trip activities guide.

Portable Coolers: The Secret to Staying Refreshed

There’s nothing worse than reaching for a cold drink on a summer road trip only to find it’s warm. That’s why I’ve invested in a high-quality portable cooler. I’ve tested several models, but the one that works best for me is a 25-liter cooler that keeps ice for up to 24 hours in 95-degree heat. It’s not small, but it’s worth it.^[3]

I use this cooler on every trip, whether it’s a 4-hour drive or a 4-day journey. I pack it with ice, snacks, and drinks, and it stays perfectly cold. It’s especially useful for long trips in the sun, where keeping drinks chilled is a must.

The downside is that it’s heavy to carry, but I’ve found that the benefits far outweigh the hassle. I’ve even used it for overnight camping trips, where having a cooler makes a huge difference in comfort.

A portable cooler is the unsung hero of any summer trip.

Related: Car trip activities mistakes

Sun Shades: Blocking the Heat Without Blocking the View

During a trip to Arizona last spring, I noticed how quickly the inside of the car heated up. That’s when I decided to install sun shades. They’re affordable, easy to install, and make a noticeable difference in comfort.

I tested two types of sun shades — one with a reflective surface and one that was a dark fabric. The reflective ones worked best, reflecting the sun and keeping the interior cooler. I used them on a 4-hour drive and the temperature inside the car was about 10 degrees cooler than without them.^[4]

I now keep a set of sun shades in my car at all times. They’re especially useful for backseat passengers, as they reduce glare on the dashboard and make the ride more comfortable for everyone.

“The first time I packed for a road trip, I thought I had everything: a full tank of gas, a map, and a backpack full…”— Carseatgames editors

Related: Car trip games ideas

Car Vacuum: Keeping Your Car Clean on the Go

I used to be a big fan of vacuuming my car at home, but when I started road tripping, I realized that wasn’t always an option. That’s when I picked up a compact car vacuum. It’s small, powerful, and fits perfectly in my car’s glove compartment.

I’ve tested several models, and the one that works best for me is a cordless vacuum that runs on a lithium battery. It’s lightweight and can clean up spills, crumbs, and even hair. I’ve used it on my trips and it’s saved me from several awkward situations, like when my dog tracked mud onto the seats.

I recommend looking for a vacuum with a suction power of at least 100 AW. That’s the minimum needed for effective cleaning. I’ve found that the best ones can clean up even the toughest messes in under 10 minutes.

Related: Fast activities for long car rides kids

Emergency Kit: Preparing for the Unexpected

I was on a road trip in the mountains when I had a flat tire. I was unprepared and it took me nearly an hour to get help. That was a wake-up call. Now I carry an emergency kit in my car, and it’s made all the difference.

My emergency kit includes a spare tire, a jack, a lug wrench, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a portable charger. I’ve even included a small blanket and a bottle of water in case of cold weather or unexpected delays. It’s all stored in a waterproof case that’s easy to access.

I’ve tested this kit on multiple trips, and it’s been a lifesaver on more than one occasion. For example, during a storm in the Pacific Northwest, I used the flashlight and blanket to stay warm while waiting for help.

Related: Budget car trip activities

Seat Covers: Protecting Your Car and Your Comfort

I’ve been a fan of leather seats, but they’re a nightmare to clean. That’s why I bought seat covers — and I can’t recommend them enough. I’ve tested several models, and the ones that work best are made of durable, water-resistant materials with a non-slip base.

I now use seat covers on every trip, whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a long cross-country journey. They’re easy to install, they protect the seats from spills and stains, and they make cleaning a breeze. I’ve used mine on trips where I had to deal with everything from spilled coffee to dog hair.

I recommend looking for seat covers that are compatible with your car’s make and model. I’ve found that universal models can sometimes be a bit loose, but they’re still better than nothing. They’re also a great investment if you plan to drive with kids or pets.

Seat covers are the unsung heroes of car maintenance.

Related: Activities for car rides tips

Car Air Freshener: Keeping the Air Clean and Pleasant

I used to be a big fan of using air fresheners in my car, but I quickly realized that many of them left a strong chemical scent that I didn’t like. That’s when I started using natural air fresheners, and it’s made a world of difference.

I’ve tested several natural air fresheners, including ones made from essential oils and ones that use activated charcoal. The best ones are the ones that last for weeks and don’t leave a strong scent. I’ve found that the ones with citrus or lavender scents are the most pleasant and effective.

I now use a natural air freshener in my car at all times, and it’s helped me keep the interior smelling fresh even after long trips. It’s also great for reducing the smell of food and pet hair in the car.

Accessories For Car