37 Must-Have Road Trip Car Accessories [Updated 2024]
Updated July 2024
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-09-at-10.35.31 AM.png)
Portable Car Refrigerator
🚘 Compact Design: Fits easily in cars, optimizing space.
🚘 Easy to Clean: Simple maintenance and great usability.
🚘 Wide Temperature Range: Adjusts from 4℉ to 68℉ for various food storage.
Ready to upgrade your ride with the best road trip car accessories?
Whether it’s your first road trip or you’re a seasoned road traveler, the right tools can make the difference between a comfortable road trip experience and a not-so-great one if you ask me.
I’ve been on multiple road trips, specifically exploring the great Midwest’s best destinations, from big cities to the country, exploring the Great Lakes, and more!
If you’ve also been on road trips, you’ll also know that without good organization, your car can quickly turn into a messy chaos. So, how do you pick the essentials that make a real difference?
In this post, I’ve compiled a list of 37 road trip car accessories that will not only transform your car into the perfect home base on the road but also help you experience a comfortable journey, no matter how far you go.
These items not only maximize space but also enhance the overall experience of your adventure.
So, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to explore this comprehensive guide that will prepare you for an unforgettable journey on the open road!
Like it? Pin it!
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/road-trip-accessories-for-cars-traveling-with-kids-and-car-accessory-products-1-1-661x1024.jpg)
How can I make my car more comfortable on a road trip?
When planning a long road trip, you should consider a couple of things and people (if you’re traveling with others) in order to begin thinking of ways to make your car more comfortable on a road trip.
Road trip duration: For instance, consider the number of hours you will be driving. Will it be a 3-hour road trip or a 12-hour road trip? Depending on the number of hours you will be on the road, you will have to determine
Who are you road tripping with?: if you’re planning on traveling with others, you’ll have to think of their possible needs. Are you traveling with kids? It would be a good idea to pack their favorite snacks, and favorite toys, and download their favorite movies that you can play on an iPad or other child-safe tablet. Are you traveling with Teenagers? Consider packing a cooler with their favorite sports drinks, water, and snacks. pack fun card games for those stretches of the road where there may be low to no cell service.
Weather: Consider the weather, and if it will be a road trip in the winter, pack blankets, and heated blankets for naps, maybe even a nifty little portable kettle or espresso maker to warm you up. If it’s a hot destination, make sure that your car has received proper maintenance to turn on the A.C. but also stocking your car with portable, old-school portable fans wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Cleanliness and Organization: Car travel accessories definitely include those that help keep your car clean! No matter the distance of your road trip, cleanliness and organization should be a priority, especially with multiple people all sharing a small, cramped space. Organize your space with:
- Car organizers
- Backseat hooks
- Durable car mats
- Car air fresheners
- Stain removal solutions (eating in the car, accidents happen!)
- Portable garbage cans
What are the most essential car accessories?
The best road trip accessories for your car are the ones that will ensure your safety if you were to have an emergency on the road.
For instance, making sure that your car has received the maintenance it needs to fulfill a road trip, should be your first priority. Checking window washer fluids, oil, tires, A/C and heat, brakes, etc.
Additionally, consider buying roadside assistance if you don’t have it, in case of car issues in the middle of your road trip.
Lastly, also look into purchasing a roadside emergency kit that you can use for minor issues. Whether you’re the mechanic, or someone traveling with you is, it’s a good car travel accessory to always pack.
What are some cool things to add to your car for a road trip?
It seems like with the rise of #VanLife and the little house movement, there have been many household types of items that have been converted into versions ideal for small, car spaces and road trip accessories.
Everything from portable water kettles, to atmospheric car LED lights, USB star projectors, and solar panel car air purifiers – there are so many ways to not only make your car road trip ready with these car accessories but also SUPER comfortable and cool!
In today’s post, I’ll show more in-depth every type of car gadget and accessory, from essential car accessories to practical and cool car accessories for your next road trip.
37 Great Must-Have Car Accessories For Your Next Road Trip
1. Car Seat Gap Organizer
You’ve possibly heard of the seat fillers that, well, fill those pockets between your seat and the middle of your car where the cup holder is.
However, since we are trying to make the most of the space we have available, I would opt for these side seat gap organizers that can store useful items like your phone, money, and napkins (you always have to carry napkins in your car, right??).
They come in packs of two and have AMAZING reviews claiming that the quality is top-notch and that it’s easy to use right away.
It also fulfills the purpose of the plain seat filler by keeping things from falling into those little nooks and crannies by your seat. Whenever something does fall through, your organizer will catch it, and it can easily be dumped out.
Easy peasy!
These are some of the best forms of car accessories, simple but functional!
🚘 BUY the Car Seat Gap Organizer
2. Car Phone Mount
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/road-trip-car-accessories-2-1024x683.jpg)
A reliable car phone mount is an essential road trip accessory, and this particular mount ticks all the boxes for keeping your smartphone secure and accessible so you can follow directions at a glance.
Whether you’re using Google Maps to navigate through the curvy roads of a national park or Spotify to change the music, this mount makes it all possible with minimal distraction.
Unlike other mounts that clamp onto air vents, this one avoids obstructing airflow or potentially harming your phone with extreme temperatures.
It supports horizontal positioning, which offers a broader view of your maps making it easier to glance quickly and safely at directions.
So, for a smoother and safer journey, this car phone mount is an essential road trip accessory that you shouldn’t overlook.
🚘 BUY the Dashboard/Windshield Car Phone Mount
3. Car Steering Wheel Tray
I mean, is this not genius??
Eating in your car is a quintessential part of road tripping, and what better way to do it when you’re parked, of course, than with the help of a handy dandy car steering wheel tray!
What I especially love about this car steering wheel tray is that it can be used in the driver’s seat and the backseat, too. The tray comes with 2 separate hooks, which can be strapped onto the steering wheel or the back of a seat for those traveling in the back.
Whether you’re going on a long-distance road trip soon or you’re planning a car picnic, this steering wheel tray elevates the experience of eating in your car, which will make car picnics easier, cleaner, and way more fun!
🚘 BUY the Car Steering Wheel Tray
4. Heated Car Blanket
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/road-trip-car-accessories-3-1024x683.jpg)
This electric heated car blanket is AMAZING! Whether you’re on a road trip or you’re at home (it can be used in either situation), having a heated blanket that seamlessly connects to the auxiliary power outlet in your car is super helpful (especially if you’re traveling in the winter or to colder destinations by car).
This heated blanket is light yet warm and comes with a 96-inch-long cord so that even passengers in the back seat can enjoy it. It’s warm and breathable enough to use when you’re on the road, camping, or having lunch in your car in the winter.
File this heated blanket under the car accessories you didn’t know you needed because it’s definitely more of a luxury item than a necessity – nonetheless, it’s a good one to have around.
This heated blanket will make your road trips more comfortable for you or your cold guests.
🚘 BUY the Heated Car Blanket
5. Car Headrest Hangers
You know road-tripping is fun and games until you start to pack up the car and realize that you have to get creative with how you organize your space for optimal comfort!
Too many things cluttering the already reduced space of the car floor?
No thanks!
These back seat hangers (which you can also switch to hang things in the front seat for easier access for the driver) are an easy, helpful solution for hanging bags, clothes, jackets, or scarves in your car.
They come in packs of two and are really easy to install and use.
You really won’t want to leave on your next road trip without this super simple but helpful car accessory!
🚘 BUY the Back Seat Hangers
6. Portable Car Garbage Bin
![car accessory portable black garbage bin in a red car Car Accessories For Your Next Road Trip](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/10-Great-Must-Have-Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-5-1024x683.jpg)
Let’s face it, road trips are messy.
In between eating quickly on the road in order to get to your destination before sunset, having a snack to give your energy to drive, and everything else in between – a portable garbage can is so necessary and helpful.
This specific garbage bin, in my opinion, is better than having a plastic bag as a garbage bin because, first of all, it’s not just floating around on the floor of your car; it’s got pockets to store other items, and it conceals all the trash (and odors) with the lid and small opening on top.
It will make trash collecting and dumping at rest stops way easier!
🚘 BUY the Portable Car Garbage Bin
7. Memory Foam Back Cushion
This is a no-brainer for the road trip driver to invest in.
This memory foam back cushion is an awesome car accessory for long car rides and road trips. It is designed to support your lumbar spine (prevent low back pain) and, because of its length, will help you improve your posture over time.
The exterior cotton material is removable, washable, and overall odorless.
This car accessory can be taken from the car to your home office for those work-from-home days and even to your actual office chair, as it’s portable and easy to install!
Save your back pain, and get one of these.
🚘 BUY the Memory Foam Back Cushion
>> Read More: Travel Planning Freebies. All of them.
8. Collapsible Portable Multi Compartments Trunk Organizer
![car accessory black compartments trunk organizer Car Accessories For Your Next Road Trip](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/10-Great-Must-Have-Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-8-1024x683.jpg)
As far as car accessories go, if you’re a fan of suitcase packing cubes, then you’ll definitely want to invest in this collapsible trunk organizer to help you keep all your belongings from rolling around and tumbling over in the trunk—so annoying.
This organizer is made of a durable, water-resistant, easy-to-clean material, and it comes with a whole lot of customizable inserts, pockets, straps to keep it in place in your trunk, sturdy handles, mesh pockets on the side, and so much more!
If you don’t already have one, this organizer is so good that you’ll always keep it in your car for road trips, normal grocery shopping, and day-to-day shopping.
Plus, it’s super useful for other situations when you may be carrying extra delicate cargo.
🚘 BUY the Collapsable and Portable Trunk Organizer
>> Read More: The 8 Best Travel Day Bags For Every Occasion
9. Emergency Car Roadside Roadtrip Kit
Beyond being a car accessory, I’d consider this item more of a car necessity!
Car accessories are meant to make road trips easier and keep people safe in emergencies.
Even if roadside assistance is a call away, it’s always a good idea to carry in your car a roadside emergency kit like this one, which is equipped with jumper cables, a shovel, gloves, and more.
Another tip I want to share here is if you’re traveling in the wintertime, I strongly suggest packing in a few old towels or clothes you don’t need.
If your car loses traction or you’ve fallen into a ditch and can’t get it out on your own, placing towels or old clothes in front/back of the tires will help create traction and grip for your car to get out on its own.
It depends, of course, on the size of the ditch and the car, but it’s worth trying in some situations.
An emergency kit like this may be indispensable for both taking a road trip and commuting every day.
It’s one of those things that you regret not having until you need it…trust me on that.
🚘 BUY the Emergency Car Roadside Kit
>> Read More: Packing Your Travel Essentials List? Here Are 18 SUPER Useful Things To Pack For Your Next Trip
10. An Atlas: The Original Road Trip Accessory
Because you never know when you’ll go through no service land, and then there you are, not knowing where to go, or which exit to take, or if you’re going in the right direction – not knowing how long until you get service again.
Don’t get stuck, or worse, realize an hour into the drive that you’ve been going the wrong way!
An atlas (remember those!?) is always super useful and helpful to carry in your car, regardless of whether you’ve been left without service or you want to double-check that Google Maps isn’t taking you through some weird route (even Google Maps gets confused, you know).
Paper maps and atlases cover not only the U.S. but also Canada and Mexico and are really easy to read, especially for those who may not be used to using paper maps.
So you’ve got all of North America in one book, and with that, all the confidence to know that you can’t get lost.
Let’s hit the road!
🚘 BUY the National Geographic Road Atlas
11. Portable Car Vacuum Cleaner
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/road-trip-car-accessories-11-1024x683.jpg)
When it comes to the best road trip accessories, a vacuum should be up there.
Think about it: a road trip where people are all sitting in one place for a few hours, eating, snacking, drinking, as well as tracking dirt back in the car every time they leave and come back; it can and will get messy and quick!
Whether you’re traveling with kids or traveling with adult friends, the truth is, after a few days of road-tripping and snacking in the car, there is bound to be a crumb mess happening.
Packing an ultra-light vacuum can help you stay organized and clean, especially this compact, powerful vacuum that does the job just right.
Getting a vacuum that can pick up dirt and food crumbs, has powerful suction, multiple vacuum nozzle heads to get to the crooks and crannies of the seats, and connects to the power outlet in your car are all great things to look for in a portable car vacuum to help keep your car clean during long road trips.
🚘 BUY the Portable Car Vacuum Cleaner
12. Car Power Inverter
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-2-1024x683.jpg)
Another one of the best car travel accessories is a portable car power inverter, which is super useful for connecting more than one device at the same time.
This car power inverter is great because it’s the size of a credit card and has 2 US standard sockets, 4 USB ports, and a DC 12V to AC 110V converter—which makes it powerful enough to charge anything from a phone to a laptop or iPad.
A car gadget like this will make it super easy to keep your phone and other devices charged so you and your friends can keep playing music and tracking your route on Google Maps, keep working on your laptop, or keep reading on your e-reader. It’s definitely a necessity these days.
🚘 Buy the Car Power Inverter
13. Car Air Fresheners
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-3-1024x683.jpg)
Remember to pack a few car fresheners to keep the air in your car smelling clean and fresh while on your road trip.
Again, being in a usually cramped space for a few hours where food is being opened, and spills may occur, smells are bound to sink into the car’s seats and stay in the air.
Keep things fresh with a few car fresheners by Yankee Candle. They always come through with some classic scents, from tropical, warm, and cozy to fresh and floral—subtle, gentle smells that won’t nauseate the people in the car.
This pack of car air fresheners by Yankee Candle comes with 2-4 weeks’ worth of fragrance (3 air fresheners). They are small and light enough to hang on your rearview mirror and are recyclable.
🚘 BUY Yankee Candle Car Fresheners
14. Car Backseat Organizer
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-4-1024x683.jpg)
Whether you’re traveling with kids, teens, or college students, these backseat car organizers are AMAZING for keeping everyone’s materials and belongings in order.
The sizing of this item is 24 x 16-inch size, and it is placed on the back seat of the front two seats.
It comes with multiple mesh pockets of all different sizes to accommodate everything from a tablet/ small computer to water bottles, umbrellas, snacks, books/notebooks, and more.
It’s also machine washable and waterproof.
Whether you’re using this for children and their schoolwork while on your road trip or you’re using this for yourself to make the most of the space in your car, this is a perfect car accessory to include in our next road trip!
🚘 BUY the Car Backseat Organizer
15. Cup Holder Expandable Tray
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-5-1024x683.jpg)
Talk about making the most out of your space.
This is an ultra helpful and compact food tray you can affix by placing it on the cup holder, extending the arm, and opening the tray over your lap to enjoy your food.
So simple.
This nifty little road trip accessory can free up so much space and your hands trying to make sure that things aren’t falling over and all the jazz.
And by the looks of it, you can fit not only one but two drinks per expandable tray. It can also fit Hydroflask and Yeti-sized water bottles.
This expandable tray can sustain 40 lbs. It can rotate 360 degrees, and the tray is even detachable if you need it to be.
🚘 BUY the Cup Holder Expandable Tray
16. Car Visor Tissue Holder
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-6-1024x683.jpg)
Speaking of cleanliness on the road trip, have you ever gone to a restaurant and brought with you a handful of bunched-up tissues, which end up remaining as such somewhere in the car? Yes, because same.
Getting a car accessory that can organize and neatly hold your tissues for those accidents is super helpful, especially one that attaches itself to the visor of your car. It’s hands-free and organized, and you always know where to get a napkin in a rush!
This visor tissue holder is great because it’s small and compact yet fits in a lot of napkins for its size.
It nicely holds onto the car’s visor, ensuring that the tissue holder won’t come off as soon as you pull the tissue. Its minimalistic design is sure to fit in and blend in with your car’s interior.
It’s super easy to install and just a lifesaver when you need napkins, and you don’t have to go searching through all your bags to find a random one by luck.
🚘 BUY the Visor Tissue Holder
17. Car Registration and Insurance Folder
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-7-1024x683.jpg)
How many of you grab your car’s insurance, registration, and other important documentation and store it in a paper envelope (probably the one you got your car insurance mailed in) and have that as your organization folder?
Getting a road trip accessory like a car registration and insurance folder (which is also super handy for everyday life) is so helpful to keep not only all your documents in one place but to help keep them all at hand if you were to need them right away.
This car registration and insurance folder organizes all your car’s important documents. It features easy-to-see cards and document slips with plastic coverings, so you can quickly glance at your documents to make sure they’re all up to date.
Plus, it reduces clutter and paper and maximizes efficiency and organization, which are two important things to consider when choosing the best road trip accessories.
🚘 BUY the Car Registration and Insurance Folder
18. Car Mesh Organizer
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-8-1024x683.jpg)
Are you looking for a way to maximize your space even more and something that can make use of the space between the two front seats of the car for yourself or your guests? This car mesh organizer is for you.
Check out this 3-tier car mesh organizer, which is designed to store everything from electronics to snacks, umbrellas, and more.
It stretches 14 in. by 13 in. and also serves as a barrier between the front and back seats. Perfect if you’re traveling with pets.
It’s a space-saving product that is very easy to install, take off, store, or wash. Due to its size and stretchability, it can be customized to fit all cars.
It’s definitely a car organizer that shouldn’t be missed when packing the best road trip accessories.
🚘 BUY the Car Mesh Organizers
19. Car Trunk Organizer
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-9-1024x683.jpg)
On the topic of maximizing space in your car, let’s talk about keeping your car organized with the cleaning products and emergency tools needed while on the road.
If you’re packing the car with food, snacks, beverages, clothes, blankets, and more, you definitely want to have a space or organization method that will help you keep your cleaning items and car tools separate from the rest of the items in your car.
This car trunk organizer is perfect for that because it goes in the back seat of your car (mainly for bigger cars like vans and SUVs). It’s made with durable material that is not easy to puncture, compact, and easy to install.
It also has many pockets of different sizes to fit everything from jumper cables to emergency first-aid kits and more.
Remember to pack all these essential road trip accessories and car maintenance items efficiently in your car with this trunk organizer.
🚘 BUY the Car Trunk Organizer
20. First Aid Kit
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-10-1024x683.jpg)
Safety is very important, especially while you’re on the road.
Packing a first-aid kit in your road trip accessories is super important to keep yourself and those you’re traveling with safe in case of an emergency.
Packing in this super compact first-aid kit that comes with 228 pieces is a perfect addition to your packing list, as it not only comes with 228 items from gauze, band-aids, and antiseptic but also other medical-grade tools.
It also comes neatly packaged in a waterproof carrying case that is easy to spot in the items you’re packing for your trip, which is important if you need it fast.
This first-aid kit comes with all the basics you’d need to cover small cuts, burns, and/or bug bites, so definitely pack one in!
🚘 BUY the Emergency Car First Aid Kit
21. Portable Mini Humidifier
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-11-1024x683.jpg)
Another way to keep the quality of air in your car at 100 is to pack in a mini USB portable car humidifier, especially if you’re road-tripping in the winter.
What does a humidifier do? Essentially, a humidifier, as the name says, adds moisture to the air through vapor.
Many people purchase full-size humidifiers for their homes in the winter, as the heater sometimes promotes dryness in the air and the skin, throat, and more.
Carrying a little humidifier like this one is perfect as it can fit in your cup holder, and it can hold up to 6.8 fl. oz., and sprays around 1 fl. oz. per hour (can work for up to 9 hours).
It’s quiet, compact, and has cool LED lights to add ambiance.
🚘 BUY Portable Car Humidifier
22. Emergency Keychain Car Escape Tool
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-12-1024x683.jpg)
Add this little yet mighty important road trip accessory to your growing list because you definitely do not want to be caught without one.
This little emergency keychain acts as a tool to help you escape from your car if it goes into a lake or a ditch.
This tool helps you break glass, cut through seatbelts, and bust through stainless steel materials.
It’s small and compact (it fits on your keychain or on your rearview window), comes in multiple colors, and, most importantly, can be a mega life-saving device in an emergency.
It’s definitely a tool you want to keep in mind when packing your road trip accessories.
🚘 BUY an Emergency Keychain Car Escape Tool
23. Portable Espresso Maker
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-13-1024x683.jpg)
Can’t stop for a quick coffee?
Or maybe you’re looking for an easy caffeine fix that is conveniently in your car?
Regardless of the circumstance, a cup of coffee has never been this close (literally at arm’s length), so if you’re a coffee lover, this is the perfect item to pack into your list of car travel accessories.
This manual espresso maker (that’s right, no batteries or power needed) is easy to use, as all it needs is ground coffee and hot water to operate in order to create a very decent cup of espresso.
Aside from being a genius idea that works, this compact machine is easy to pack in and bust out when you need a coffee pick-me-up mid-drive but don’t feel like stopping somewhere to get it.
This item comes with the machine itself, a built-in espresso cup, and a scoop.
🚘 BUY Portable Car Espresso Maker
24. Comfortable Bed Car Mattress
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-14-1024x683.jpg)
Planning to spend a few nights in your car on your road trip?
Definitely don’t go without this ultra-comfortable car mattress, complete with 2 air pillows.
This backseat car mattress has the dimensions of 56.4″L x 34.3″W x 17.7″T (after inflating), and comes with a pump to inflate the mattress, a storage bag.
Add more comfort to your car with a backseat mattress like this, whether you’re traveling with pets, kids/teenagers, or other friends who want to stretch and lay down for a while on the road.
🚘 BUY Backseat Car Mattress
25. Tire Pressure Monitor
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-15-1024x683.jpg)
Taking adequate maintenance of your car is one of the best things to do before leaving on a road adventure, however to step it up a bit further and ensure better monitoring over your car’s health on the road, consider getting a tire pressure monitor.
A tire-pressure monitor is basically a tool that helps car owners determine the level of air there is in each of the tires, which can be especially helpful to know after driving for a few hours.
Most car experts say that if the tire pressure drops below 25% of the car’s manufacturer’s recommendation, it is important to know so you can fill up your car’s tires and continue on your way safely.
This tire pressure monitor is amazing for its ability to not only advise drivers of low tire pressure but also to avoid what else low tire pressure could mean, such as increased fuel consumption and tire wear and tear.
This machine is solar-powered and can be connected via USB. It can be used in up to 4-6 tires and more.
🚘 BUY the Tire Pressure Monitor
26. Kindle E-Reader
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-16-1024x683.jpg)
Catching up on your reading is a perfect idea to indulge in when you’re road-tripping with friends, and what better way to do it than with a Kindle E-Reader?
The amazing thing about a Kindle E-Reader is its battery life. A single charge can last for a whole week, compared to other e-readers, which may only last one hour.
That alone makes it an appealing indulgence in case you don’t want to be constantly reserving the charger cable in the car.
Aside from that, the Kindle E-Reader mimicks paper tones, making it easier on the eyes for lengthy reading, it’s a distraction free device, you can look up definitions, adjust text to your liking, and even translate words on the page, wihtout leaving your spot.
It’s a convenient car accessory for your next road trip if you’re not behind the wheel.
🚘 BUY Kindle E-Reader
>> Read More: 10 Must-Read Travel Books You Need On Your Bookshelf
>> Read More: The Best Reading Apps To Read Your Favorite Travel Books (With Free Options!)
27. Electric Portable Car Fans
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-17-1024x683.jpg)
Traveling in the summer? One of the most annoying things to feel is like the A.C. isn’t getting to you fast enough if you’re sitting all the way in the back, and more if it’s a packed car – yikes!
Getting these portable fans, which can easily be placed behind a car seat, makes them ideal road trip accessories for keeping your travelers cool.
Take advantage of the 2 rotatable fans (which can be rotated 360 degrees). Crank it up or keep it low, and easily use it by connecting the fan to the car power outlet.
Another awesome use for it is to circulate air, remove hot air, or de-fog the windows inside your car when it’s raining.
🚘 BUY Electric Portable Car Fans
28. Shotgun! Card Game for Road Trips
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-18-1024x683.jpg)
Forge the electronics for a bit, and engage in some good old-fashioned road trip games like Shotgun!
Created by the creators of the hilarious meme game “What Do You Meme,” this fun game is designed specifically for road-tripping.
The way you play Shotgun is that one person reads off the instructions and plays/answers based on the prompt. For instance, who can be the first to find a body of water or get someone to wave to them?
Games like this one are such a fun way to take a break from technology, truly enjoy one another’s company, and allow time to pass faster if you’re not exactly driving through the most scenic of places or you’re trying to kill time before the next road stop.
🚘 BUY the game Shotgun
29. Wireless Bluetooth FM Transmitter
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-19-1024x683.jpg)
So maybe you’re going on a road trip in an older car that doesn’t have Bluetooth or an aux cord—I totally was there until I bought one of these amazing car gadgets called a wireless Bluetooth FM transmitter.
Basically, this little road trip accessory will allow you to connect your phone to play your favorite music or podcast using local radio waves.
You can connect this device to the cigarette lighter port, change the station to the one that the device indicates, and jam out to your favorite playlist!
What’s more, you can even answer phone calls on this device as long as your phone is connected, and you can also charge your phone with it. Win, win!
🚘 BUY Wireless Bluetooth FM Transmitter
30. Portable Phone Battery
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-20-1024x683.jpg)
You may have a car power inverter to charge your phone, but it may still be a good idea to travel with a portable phone battery, just in case.
I personally love and use this one by Bonai, and I really love it because it’s sleek and not too clucky, it quickly charges my phone, and is powerful enough to charge my iPad as well.
It also has a light indicating how much power it has left, so you always know when to recharge it before a road trip.
In today’s world, we need our phones for many things, from GPS to location services, so getting a portable phone battery is a good idea so you’re never caught with a low battery.
🚘 BUY Portable Phone Battery
>> Read More: 18 Essential Travel Items You Should Always Pack
31. Portable Car Refrigerator
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/road-trip-car-accessories-12-1024x683.jpg)
Planning to keep your snacks fresh and drinks chilled on your next road trip? Consider adding a portable car refrigerator to your car travel essentials!
This Setpower Portable Refrigerator not only keeps your drinks cold but can also come in handy for storing fruits and sandwiches cool and fresh throughout your road trip.
Ranging from 4℉ to 68℉, this portable fridge gives you the flexibility to store a variety of foods at their ideal temperatures. Its compact design fits perfectly in your car, helping maximize space without sacrificing functionality.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to clean, making it an indispensable accessory for the road!
🚘 BUY the Portable Car Refrigerator
32. Car Carpet Spot Remover
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-22-1024x683.jpg)
One of the best road trip accessories are oftentimes supplies that will help keep your car clean during a long drive, and that is the case for this carpet spot remover that will help wipe down food/snack stains from your car.
Whether you’re packing up the car with kids, teens, or your friends and their pets, prepare your seats and carpet by carrying one of these handy little spot removers so you can wipe clean carpet surfaces sooner rather than later.
This spot remover promises to remove stains from grease, oil, ink, dirt, coffee or food, and it is child and pet safe. The solution is also water-based, and non-flammable, and leaves no odors behind.
🚘 BUY the FOLEX Instant Carpet Spot Remover
33. Pet Hair Removing Brush
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-23-1024x683.jpg)
Traveling with your shaggy best bud?
Pack in a pet hair removal bush, and keep your car clean as you pack in your road trip accessories.
This FURemover brush is made out of rubber, which makes it ideal to attract and contain all loose hairs, while also collecting other debris that seems to float around and collect during long road trips.
Other than being safe to use in your car interior, this brush is also safe to use on your pet to detangle their hair, and it’s even useful to use to collect any lint from your clothes.
It’s a powerful little tool, whether you’re a pet owner planning a road trip with their pet or you want something to collect lint and dust off other surfaces. It’s worth it for the low price too!
🚘 BUY the Rubber Pet Hair Remover
34. Cable Clip Organizers
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-24-1024x683.jpg)
Okay, so you have the electricity port in your car working, the power inverter working, and the FM transmitter working.
But now all these cables are getting tangled around the gear shift and your drinks. How can you keep them organized?
These cable clip organizers are great to use to keep all the chords organized, especially if you have more than one phone or device charging.
These cable cords are easy to stick to your car, sturdy to stay on without having to constantly keep sticking them back on, and can be safely removed without leaving residue.
🚘 BUY Cable Clip Organizers
35. Rubber Floor Mats
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-25-1024x683.jpg)
Keep your floors clean and easy to wipe off wet mud and debris with some durable rubber floor mats.
These rubber floor mats in specific are great because they are made with a type of rubber that can withstand extreme temperatures from scorching hot to subzero temps, without curling or cracking.
Additionally, they are customizable to the size you’re looking for, and you can trim them with scissors, or keep them as is. They have strong grips on the bottom, making it easier for them not to slip around the car as people get in and out.
Get some new, durable rubber floor mats, or replace the ones you have depending on the type of road adventure you’re going to get into.
🚘 BUY Rubber Floor Mats
36. Car Cargo Box
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-26-1024x683.jpg)
Another super helpful car accessory for your next road trip should be a car cargo, especially if you really want to maxamize your space, clear our floor space for legroom, and dependng on the type of trip you’re doing where you may need to pack blankets, mattresses, and other camping items.
This cargo box is perfect to carry sports gear like snowboards, and it’s super easy to install and take off when needed.
Its dimensions are 88.4 x 20.7 x 15.9 inches, it weighs 33 pounds alone, and it is made of extremely durable material.
🚘 BUY Car Cargo Box
37. Car Travel Pillow
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Car-Accessories-For-Your-Next-Road-Trip-27-1024x683.jpg)
File this one under one of the best and comfiest road trip accessories.
This amazing travel pillow is designed for maximum comfort on the road, from kids to adults.
It’s unique “U” shape is ideal for kids and really anyone to sleep supported without feeling like you’re bopping all over the place.
It’s ultra-soft, and pretty soon, you’re new favorite road trip accessory to travel with to rest up with.
Concluding thoughts on 37 must-have car accessories for your next road trip
I hope that this list of car accessories for your next road trip stirred up ideas and boosted your confidence when you’re planning on hitting the road!
The truth is sometimes we can easily get caught up in the things we need to pack for ourselves, that we forget what car accessories to pack for the road trip itself, and as this list hopefully shows you, some of these car accessories can prove to be pretty helpful and time-saving.
In between road trips and commuting for work and transporting from one place to another, it’s safe to say that our cars are basically an extension of our home.
We basically live in them, especially here in the U.S. where the majority of people own a car and prefer it more than public transportation (which isn’t very good, to begin with, but we also don’t have the best public transportation, so….).
And with so much time being spent in the car, road-tripping and commuting, cleanliness, and organization.
I hope these 37 car accessories helped guide your list of items to pack your car with for your next road trip!
To more travel moments like these, and safe commutes and road trips.
![travel blog](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Maritza-1-1024x791.jpg)
Like it? Pin it!
![](https://www.travelnotesandthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/road-trip-accessories-for-cars-traveling-with-kids-and-car-accessory-products-1-661x1024.jpg)