Must Have - Car Accessories
February 7, 2022 12:38 PM Subscribe
Getting a car this week (A VW Golf Wagon) Looking for exact links (i.e this seems like there will be so much Amazon junk out there) to things (under $100) that are must have for someone owning a car. High Quality items that work, durable and are recommended. Car driving habits inside:
Driving in this environment: driving with little kids under 5, infrequent urban driving for chores and 2-3 mile trips, quarterly road trips (2-3 hours), one car for two adults that park on the street, snow a couple times a year, plan on owning six year car for at least ten years.
Driving in this environment: driving with little kids under 5, infrequent urban driving for chores and 2-3 mile trips, quarterly road trips (2-3 hours), one car for two adults that park on the street, snow a couple times a year, plan on owning six year car for at least ten years.
Weathertech floor liners are the best out there - when you're tracking in week-old snow muck and your kid throws their juice down and it just its in there like a bathtub, and all you need to do is dump it and rinse it out, the worth will be evident. Get a Trunk Liner too. More than $100 but they're worth the cost for something you'll keep 6-10 years and they're certainly buy-it-for-life quality.
posted by Special Agent Dale Cooper at 12:56 PM on February 7, 2022 [6 favorites]
posted by Special Agent Dale Cooper at 12:56 PM on February 7, 2022 [6 favorites]
An AC invertor for charging electronic gear - unless your vehicle already has AC/USB outlets.
However - I refuse to link to any Amazon garbage as I have had two different models fail after 3-6 WEEKS of use...
Better to go to a "bricks & mortar" auto-specialist store and get something they recomend.
posted by rozcakj at 12:57 PM on February 7, 2022 [4 favorites]
However - I refuse to link to any Amazon garbage as I have had two different models fail after 3-6 WEEKS of use...
Better to go to a "bricks & mortar" auto-specialist store and get something they recomend.
posted by rozcakj at 12:57 PM on February 7, 2022 [4 favorites]
Jumper cables because batteries go flat and a telescopic tyre iron because wheel nuts are really hard to remove. Both go in your spare wheel well and with luck you will ever need either.
posted by paulash at 1:04 PM on February 7, 2022 [5 favorites]
posted by paulash at 1:04 PM on February 7, 2022 [5 favorites]
A good ice scraper (example) and portable tire inflator (example) are essential safety items.
posted by davcoo at 1:06 PM on February 7, 2022 [10 favorites]
posted by davcoo at 1:06 PM on February 7, 2022 [10 favorites]
Personally I'm big on having the following set up first (just go to a Napa or other auto parts store, will be just as cheap as online):
Heavy duty jumper cables $40
Fire gauge $10
First aid kit, with a box of gloves $20-30
Blanket and long handled scraper(if in a winter climate, also throw in a shovel)
Flares
AAA membership $60 per year
Then you can optimize the car... In which case I like a collapsible trunk organizer, which you can find in bed bath and beyond, Wal-Mart etc.
posted by larthegreat at 1:08 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
Heavy duty jumper cables $40
Fire gauge $10
First aid kit, with a box of gloves $20-30
Blanket and long handled scraper(if in a winter climate, also throw in a shovel)
Flares
AAA membership $60 per year
Then you can optimize the car... In which case I like a collapsible trunk organizer, which you can find in bed bath and beyond, Wal-Mart etc.
posted by larthegreat at 1:08 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
I have frequently been happy to have a spare umbrella and pair of winter gloves in my car.
posted by mcduff at 1:14 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
posted by mcduff at 1:14 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
Not sure whether this applies equally to VWs, but both the Honda & Toyota I've had in recent history are prone to having the wheels get really stuck on there, which once led to me smacking the side of the wheel with a chunk of concrete to remove the wheel & put on the spare. I've since upgraded to a dead blow mallet, which is a much nicer way to unstick a stuck wheel.
I don't have a recommended link for this one (because the Wirecutter-recommended one I have is pretty flimsy,) but having a tire inflator that plugs into the car has also saved my butt on occasion.
posted by jeffjon at 1:16 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
I don't have a recommended link for this one (because the Wirecutter-recommended one I have is pretty flimsy,) but having a tire inflator that plugs into the car has also saved my butt on occasion.
posted by jeffjon at 1:16 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
2.5A car charger that will actually charge the phone. (Those cheap 1A chargers will stop the battery from depleting, but won't really charge a depleted battery)
Anker is a good brand
https://www.anker.com/es/products/variant/powerdrive-speed--2-car-charger/A2229011
posted by WizKid at 1:16 PM on February 7, 2022 [4 favorites]
Anker is a good brand
https://www.anker.com/es/products/variant/powerdrive-speed--2-car-charger/A2229011
posted by WizKid at 1:16 PM on February 7, 2022 [4 favorites]
I really want one of those jump packs, which is like an oversize version of the battery pack you can charge your phone from -- but it will jump a car directly, without needing that other car!
It's what AAA uses around here in New England winter (saved me in a parking ramp two years ago!), and I am on the lookout for some reviews so I can make a good purchase.
posted by wenestvedt at 1:29 PM on February 7, 2022 [8 favorites]
It's what AAA uses around here in New England winter (saved me in a parking ramp two years ago!), and I am on the lookout for some reviews so I can make a good purchase.
posted by wenestvedt at 1:29 PM on February 7, 2022 [8 favorites]
I'm a dog person, not a child person, but there is no end to the utility of having several old towels on hand.
Towels, kleenex, bottled water, a tiny cupholder trashcan, winter gloves, a spare umbrella, a spare leash, several feet of rope, a few disposable bags, and a AAA membership are the most consistently useful car items I have. (I also have seatbelts for my dogs but you can probably dispense with those in favor of child-specific safety gear.) (And a few quarters for shopping carts at Aldi since I never use cash anymore.) None of these are fancy or expensive things, except for maybe the AAA membership.
posted by phunniemee at 1:37 PM on February 7, 2022 [6 favorites]
Towels, kleenex, bottled water, a tiny cupholder trashcan, winter gloves, a spare umbrella, a spare leash, several feet of rope, a few disposable bags, and a AAA membership are the most consistently useful car items I have. (I also have seatbelts for my dogs but you can probably dispense with those in favor of child-specific safety gear.) (And a few quarters for shopping carts at Aldi since I never use cash anymore.) None of these are fancy or expensive things, except for maybe the AAA membership.
posted by phunniemee at 1:37 PM on February 7, 2022 [6 favorites]
I keep a couple pairs of cheap sunglasses in my car in case I lose my good ones, or have a passenger.
posted by sacrifix at 1:57 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
posted by sacrifix at 1:57 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
adding to the chorus of an AAA Membership, and I keep a small collapsible cooler (I got mine at IKEA) to transport cold or frozen food from the store back home (also works to keep food warm when picking up take out). Reset Your Nest on Instagram has good recommendations on tiny plastic bins to use to keep things organized in the car (first aid, safety stuff, safety pins, hair ties, etc).
posted by museum nerd at 1:59 PM on February 7, 2022 [5 favorites]
posted by museum nerd at 1:59 PM on February 7, 2022 [5 favorites]
I am prepared to fight to the death any person who says this is not the best cell phone holder for use in a car.
posted by NotMyselfRightNow at 2:05 PM on February 7, 2022
posted by NotMyselfRightNow at 2:05 PM on February 7, 2022
I second the recommendation for a snow shovel if you're in a place that gets snow. I have something similar to this collapsible shovel. I live in northern Illinois and I've only really needed it once but did I appreciate when I was digging myself out of the commuter lot.
posted by Constance Mirabella at 2:24 PM on February 7, 2022
posted by Constance Mirabella at 2:24 PM on February 7, 2022
Instead of jumper cables, maybe consider a Weego that is big enough to jump your car. It's nice not to have to find someone to help jump you.
posted by cmm at 2:35 PM on February 7, 2022 [1 favorite]
posted by cmm at 2:35 PM on February 7, 2022 [1 favorite]
Dashcam? We had some requirements that took us over the $100 budget but this is the site that came highly recommended when searching for non-Amazon sources: Blackboxmycar (link is to their under-$150 category; they also have sales and discounted items)
posted by Sockin'inthefreeworld at 2:36 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
posted by Sockin'inthefreeworld at 2:36 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
Right Now, get a couple spare keys made. If there's a good hidey spot, one can go on the outside of the car. When I bought my puny truck, the owner didn't have a spare, but I later found one in the grille in a magnetic box. One goes to spouse, 1 goes on a hook in the house. Possibly neighbor, office desk, etc.
. Car charger cord and the bit that fits into the cig. lighter
. Esp. with kids, bandaids, sunscreen, and possibly a 1st aid kit.
. Get an empty tin at a thrift shop, because, mice, store granola bars, peanut butter crackers, dried fruit, maybe a couple juice packs. Kids(grownups) sometimes just have to have something to eat. Don't get everybody's favorite snack; but something they'll eat if they're really hungry and cranky.
. I keep ziplocks bags handy; that's where extra fast food napkins go until there's a spill. Extra fast food napkins multiply until the exact moment you need one, then hide.
. Also, insurance info in a ziplock in the glove box.
. A small ziplock with matches and a pocket knife. I live in Maine and carry a candle in a small jar, and matches. In a winter breakdown, a candle in the cup holder makes waiting for help much less desolate. see also, granola bars. I use the pocket knife to open packages, cut tape when mailing packages, serving peanut butter. The mutitool has a crappy but usable one. you will be at birthdays where no one has matches for the candles.
. My car insurance has roadside assistance that has been quite reliable. That number is in my contacts on my phone.
. A re-usable grocery bag full of re-usable grocery bags and plastic bags for wet bathing suit, smelly stuff, whatever.
. Whisk broom.
. Cheap-ass multitool from Big Overstock Cheap Crap Lots. You'll need a screwdriver, and then you'll leave it in the parking lot, or someone will borrow it. I keep cheap multitools in the house, tool bag, cars, etc.
. I have a tiny flashlight that plugs in to the cig. lighter so it's charged all the time. But also, cheap small flashlights or headlamps because kids like to play with them, and, as with multitools, they walk.
. In the bag-of-bags, there's a roll of paper towels.
. Bottled water. You can drink it, clean the windows in a pinch, add to a cool radiator.
. Spare gloves, mittens, hats, and a fleece throw.
. We've had ice storms this year, sometimes we don't, but this is the best ice scraper, as davoo correctly linked.
. Hand sanitizer, baby wipes, and, sigh, masks.
. Small bottle of hand lotion, chapstick.
. I usually keep sugarless gum in the car in case I mistrust my breath, when I had a kid at home, it was popular.
. Pens and pencils, spare straws, also, toothbrushes are pretty effective with just water.
. Corkscrew & bottle opener for being at an event where no one has one.
. Jumper cables or a battery pack strong enough to jump the car - nice to have.
. A bit of rope, misc. zip ties, and some bungee cords.
Cars have a port for an Onboard Diagnostics tool, that can pair wiht your phone's bluetooth and tell you useful stuff. Nice to have at some point.
posted by theora55 at 2:53 PM on February 7, 2022 [7 favorites]
. Car charger cord and the bit that fits into the cig. lighter
. Esp. with kids, bandaids, sunscreen, and possibly a 1st aid kit.
. Get an empty tin at a thrift shop, because, mice, store granola bars, peanut butter crackers, dried fruit, maybe a couple juice packs. Kids(grownups) sometimes just have to have something to eat. Don't get everybody's favorite snack; but something they'll eat if they're really hungry and cranky.
. I keep ziplocks bags handy; that's where extra fast food napkins go until there's a spill. Extra fast food napkins multiply until the exact moment you need one, then hide.
. Also, insurance info in a ziplock in the glove box.
. A small ziplock with matches and a pocket knife. I live in Maine and carry a candle in a small jar, and matches. In a winter breakdown, a candle in the cup holder makes waiting for help much less desolate. see also, granola bars. I use the pocket knife to open packages, cut tape when mailing packages, serving peanut butter. The mutitool has a crappy but usable one. you will be at birthdays where no one has matches for the candles.
. My car insurance has roadside assistance that has been quite reliable. That number is in my contacts on my phone.
. A re-usable grocery bag full of re-usable grocery bags and plastic bags for wet bathing suit, smelly stuff, whatever.
. Whisk broom.
. Cheap-ass multitool from Big Overstock Cheap Crap Lots. You'll need a screwdriver, and then you'll leave it in the parking lot, or someone will borrow it. I keep cheap multitools in the house, tool bag, cars, etc.
. I have a tiny flashlight that plugs in to the cig. lighter so it's charged all the time. But also, cheap small flashlights or headlamps because kids like to play with them, and, as with multitools, they walk.
. In the bag-of-bags, there's a roll of paper towels.
. Bottled water. You can drink it, clean the windows in a pinch, add to a cool radiator.
. Spare gloves, mittens, hats, and a fleece throw.
. We've had ice storms this year, sometimes we don't, but this is the best ice scraper, as davoo correctly linked.
. Hand sanitizer, baby wipes, and, sigh, masks.
. Small bottle of hand lotion, chapstick.
. I usually keep sugarless gum in the car in case I mistrust my breath, when I had a kid at home, it was popular.
. Pens and pencils, spare straws, also, toothbrushes are pretty effective with just water.
. Corkscrew & bottle opener for being at an event where no one has one.
. Jumper cables or a battery pack strong enough to jump the car - nice to have.
. A bit of rope, misc. zip ties, and some bungee cords.
Cars have a port for an Onboard Diagnostics tool, that can pair wiht your phone's bluetooth and tell you useful stuff. Nice to have at some point.
posted by theora55 at 2:53 PM on February 7, 2022 [7 favorites]
Spray goo to reseal a tyre (over here they're tyres) if you're not on run-flats.
Winter sunglasses for when the sun is low in the sky and reflections off puddles and ice blind you.
$20 USB-SATA adapter to use a huge SSD for a music collection.
posted by k3ninho at 3:22 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
Winter sunglasses for when the sun is low in the sky and reflections off puddles and ice blind you.
$20 USB-SATA adapter to use a huge SSD for a music collection.
posted by k3ninho at 3:22 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
Theora55, that sounds like my car! (I really need to buy you a coffee some time, it sounds like we would get along famously.) I got one of the flip-top totes that retail stores use for inventory, so it's not too tall, and I can pile stuff on it. Works a treat!
posted by wenestvedt at 3:30 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
posted by wenestvedt at 3:30 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
Nthing AAA.
I'm going to anti-recommend the WeatherTech stuff. My dad bought a set for his Kia right after he bought the car last year, They are nothing like they used to be. They were pretty flimsy, not at all like the ones he bought 5 or so years ago for the Taurus. They are not worth the $$$$$.
I do agree that almost anything is better than the floor liners that come with the car. But WeatherTech is too expensive for what you get.
posted by kathrynm at 3:35 PM on February 7, 2022
I'm going to anti-recommend the WeatherTech stuff. My dad bought a set for his Kia right after he bought the car last year, They are nothing like they used to be. They were pretty flimsy, not at all like the ones he bought 5 or so years ago for the Taurus. They are not worth the $$$$$.
I do agree that almost anything is better than the floor liners that come with the car. But WeatherTech is too expensive for what you get.
posted by kathrynm at 3:35 PM on February 7, 2022
Oh, boy, there's such a list:
* AAA membership
* Dashcam (preferably both inside and outside, AND GPS logging)
* A good car power adapter, and depending if you get passengers often enough, extension for backseat
* A good phone holder (magnetic or otherwise, charging or otherwise)
* A good emergency kit, including a jump-starter, air pressure gauge, emergency blanket, and so on
* If you got room, a "bug-out kit" in your car, something you can survive on for 24-72 hours (water, food bars, first aid kit)
* Cup-holders, if your existing ones are hard to get to
posted by kschang at 3:53 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
* AAA membership
* Dashcam (preferably both inside and outside, AND GPS logging)
* A good car power adapter, and depending if you get passengers often enough, extension for backseat
* A good phone holder (magnetic or otherwise, charging or otherwise)
* A good emergency kit, including a jump-starter, air pressure gauge, emergency blanket, and so on
* If you got room, a "bug-out kit" in your car, something you can survive on for 24-72 hours (water, food bars, first aid kit)
* Cup-holders, if your existing ones are hard to get to
posted by kschang at 3:53 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
AAA takes some political positions which would probably not align with the majority of MeFites. Have been using the Better World Club for roadside support, only actually used it once (I'm going to change flat tires by myself rather than wait), but it was just fine.
posted by Larry David Syndrome at 3:54 PM on February 7, 2022 [5 favorites]
posted by Larry David Syndrome at 3:54 PM on February 7, 2022 [5 favorites]
Maybe a few glowsticks to provide light so that your phone is not needed for this. I believe these can also be useful when broken down to signal distance/location.
And headlamps can be useful in allowing both hands to be used.
posted by beaning at 4:43 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
And headlamps can be useful in allowing both hands to be used.
posted by beaning at 4:43 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
Don't do AAA, just get a rider on your car insurance. It costs about $3. every six months. They do everything AAA does, for much less.
posted by Oyéah at 5:00 PM on February 7, 2022 [6 favorites]
posted by Oyéah at 5:00 PM on February 7, 2022 [6 favorites]
Get the analog tire pressure gauge that has a little hose extension. It'll be easier to use than the one that doesn't have a hose.
If you are going to have passengers in the back seat, get a set of collapsable car window shades and keep them in your glove compartment.
posted by Winnie the Proust at 5:28 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
If you are going to have passengers in the back seat, get a set of collapsable car window shades and keep them in your glove compartment.
posted by Winnie the Proust at 5:28 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
Emergency tool to break side windows and slice seat belts, with holder.
posted by TWinbrook8 at 6:25 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
posted by TWinbrook8 at 6:25 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
A plastic 6 X 10 multi-pocket organizer for your glove compartment. In it goes --
Vehicle registration. You need this for vehicle insurance and to show the nice police officer if you are pulled over.
Recipes for repairs and maintenance.
A tiny notepad and pencil. Keep track of tire rotation, date and vehicle mileage; oil change, date and vehicle mileage; etc.
Buy tires with a lifetime warranty and bring them back on time. Keep all the receipts.
Seconding AAA. Drop by and get some paper state road maps. Cellphone reception is not guaranteed. Trip planning brochures are fun (yes, our vacations predate the internet).
Billed hats and sunglasses. Sunscreen, lip balm and bug spray. Small trash bags for facial tissue, napkins, paper towels and other trash. A small basic first aid kit.
Cheap folding milar window shade. A towel to drape over the steering wheel (hot!) Bottled water for drinking and first aid. A headlamp. A cheap blanket in a pillowcase.
Change for vending machines, laundry mats, etc. The towel is good for hiding any expensive items that cannot be hidden in the trunk.
For kids: The Bag of Boredom. A random collection of Dollar Store toys and activities.
Give out one at a time, no choice. Play or not "for a while... try it."
The item is returned to the bag, and another item is given. No jumbled stash of discarded toys.
Later kids can choose a specific toy or a surprise. The can change their minds. As long as they are occupied, all is well.
posted by TrishaU at 6:27 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
Vehicle registration. You need this for vehicle insurance and to show the nice police officer if you are pulled over.
Recipes for repairs and maintenance.
A tiny notepad and pencil. Keep track of tire rotation, date and vehicle mileage; oil change, date and vehicle mileage; etc.
Buy tires with a lifetime warranty and bring them back on time. Keep all the receipts.
Seconding AAA. Drop by and get some paper state road maps. Cellphone reception is not guaranteed. Trip planning brochures are fun (yes, our vacations predate the internet).
Billed hats and sunglasses. Sunscreen, lip balm and bug spray. Small trash bags for facial tissue, napkins, paper towels and other trash. A small basic first aid kit.
Cheap folding milar window shade. A towel to drape over the steering wheel (hot!) Bottled water for drinking and first aid. A headlamp. A cheap blanket in a pillowcase.
Change for vending machines, laundry mats, etc. The towel is good for hiding any expensive items that cannot be hidden in the trunk.
For kids: The Bag of Boredom. A random collection of Dollar Store toys and activities.
Give out one at a time, no choice. Play or not "for a while... try it."
The item is returned to the bag, and another item is given. No jumbled stash of discarded toys.
Later kids can choose a specific toy or a surprise. The can change their minds. As long as they are occupied, all is well.
posted by TrishaU at 6:27 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
Someone mentioned it above, but I highly, highly recommend getting a portable jump starter. I charge mine every six months or so (by taking it into the house and plugging it into the wall) and it has saved me more times than I remember.
Not only is great for helping other stranded motorists out, but I've used it on my own car many times after kids left a light on, the battery terminal got corroded a bit, etc.
Jumper cables are good to have too, but to use cables, you have to align the dead battery with the good one and get close enough for the cables to reach. With a jump starter that isn't a problem. Plus the jump starter I bought has a flashlight built into it and a USB port so I can charge my phone if I need to.
----
I also recommend keeping a bottle of febreeze in the car. I have five kids and it's always handy to have an odor eliminator around.
----
Lastly, I have a cordless tire inflator that I charge when I charge my jump start kit. I haven't had to use it ever (knock on wood!), but I once drove to every gas station in my town trying to add air to a low tire and all of the air pumps were out of order. I learned my lesson.
posted by tacodave at 6:28 PM on February 7, 2022 [1 favorite]
Not only is great for helping other stranded motorists out, but I've used it on my own car many times after kids left a light on, the battery terminal got corroded a bit, etc.
Jumper cables are good to have too, but to use cables, you have to align the dead battery with the good one and get close enough for the cables to reach. With a jump starter that isn't a problem. Plus the jump starter I bought has a flashlight built into it and a USB port so I can charge my phone if I need to.
----
I also recommend keeping a bottle of febreeze in the car. I have five kids and it's always handy to have an odor eliminator around.
----
Lastly, I have a cordless tire inflator that I charge when I charge my jump start kit. I haven't had to use it ever (knock on wood!), but I once drove to every gas station in my town trying to add air to a low tire and all of the air pumps were out of order. I learned my lesson.
posted by tacodave at 6:28 PM on February 7, 2022 [1 favorite]
Re: Buy tires with a lifetime warranty and bring them back on time... to get covered free rotations. If you wait too long then the tire wear may invalidate the warranty.
Sorry about that.
posted by TrishaU at 6:36 PM on February 7, 2022 [1 favorite]
Sorry about that.
posted by TrishaU at 6:36 PM on February 7, 2022 [1 favorite]
I have the 700 AMP version of this Stanley jump starter. It's a little bigger than the other ones linked, but has a built in air compressor that I've used a couple of times. This is my second one--the first was in a bad car accident and was thrown from the trunk, so I recycled it out of caution, but didn't feel safe without one in my car.
I keep a 2-person backpack-sized bug out kit, just in case I need to evacuate but can't get home (or need to get home without the car). I built mine but this one is nice as everything is packaged by category. It also makes a good place to keep other car tools and first aid type stuff.
I got this little vaccuum in a Breo box and I never would have purchased it on my own. It's great, very powerful and tucks nicely into the trunk.
Tapes: duct, paper (medical), paper (brown packing), clear packing, masking or painters. They're all in a ziploc in the trunk. Can't tell you how many times it has come in handy.
Instead of a trunk organizer I have this hard-sided plastic collapsible crate. I had the soft sided kind but I feel like this keeps things more organized.
Shop towels. A gallon jug of distilled water. A couple of big drawstring trash bags and a couple of plastic grocery bags.
posted by assenav at 6:47 PM on February 7, 2022 [4 favorites]
I keep a 2-person backpack-sized bug out kit, just in case I need to evacuate but can't get home (or need to get home without the car). I built mine but this one is nice as everything is packaged by category. It also makes a good place to keep other car tools and first aid type stuff.
I got this little vaccuum in a Breo box and I never would have purchased it on my own. It's great, very powerful and tucks nicely into the trunk.
Tapes: duct, paper (medical), paper (brown packing), clear packing, masking or painters. They're all in a ziploc in the trunk. Can't tell you how many times it has come in handy.
Instead of a trunk organizer I have this hard-sided plastic collapsible crate. I had the soft sided kind but I feel like this keeps things more organized.
Shop towels. A gallon jug of distilled water. A couple of big drawstring trash bags and a couple of plastic grocery bags.
posted by assenav at 6:47 PM on February 7, 2022 [4 favorites]
I have a Golf Alltrack wagon, and if they are similar the upfront USB port is in a really awkward position. A dual port adapter and a couple of long cables are a must.
The Alltrack CD player is in the glove box so the cd mount phone holder linked above won’t work well. Vent clip mount worked best for me (this one works for me). There’s no good spot to just set the phone down where you can see it so a mount is handy.
posted by tinymojo at 7:30 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
The Alltrack CD player is in the glove box so the cd mount phone holder linked above won’t work well. Vent clip mount worked best for me (this one works for me). There’s no good spot to just set the phone down where you can see it so a mount is handy.
posted by tinymojo at 7:30 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
* waves at wenestvedt, giver of favorites. Someday there may be meetups again!
posted by theora55 at 7:33 PM on February 7, 2022 [1 favorite]
posted by theora55 at 7:33 PM on February 7, 2022 [1 favorite]
We have an old Rabbit and they're great cars but definitely don't have a lot of space up front. So I'd get a milk crate or something to fit all the must-haves in the back.
One thing that gets a lot of use (by us and friends I know I've given one to) is a paperback-sized charger/jumper like this (I haven't used that one but they're all similar). You can charge your phone 10 times over on it, useful for backseat battery sucking passengers (like your navigator) but it will also zap your battery just enough to get going if you haven't totally bottomed it out. Mine have kept a charge for a year or more but I take them in and charge them each season.
Space blanket, rechargeable flashlight, some non-perishable snacks and a few bottles of water. Lots of other great suggestions in this thread!
posted by BlackLeotardFront at 7:35 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
One thing that gets a lot of use (by us and friends I know I've given one to) is a paperback-sized charger/jumper like this (I haven't used that one but they're all similar). You can charge your phone 10 times over on it, useful for backseat battery sucking passengers (like your navigator) but it will also zap your battery just enough to get going if you haven't totally bottomed it out. Mine have kept a charge for a year or more but I take them in and charge them each season.
Space blanket, rechargeable flashlight, some non-perishable snacks and a few bottles of water. Lots of other great suggestions in this thread!
posted by BlackLeotardFront at 7:35 PM on February 7, 2022 [3 favorites]
When you say Golf Wagon, I'm assuming either a Sportwagen or an Alltrack (so, the Golf Mk7/7.5, MY 2016 or newer) - some of the suggestions here (phone holder, phone charger, storing a spare key) might not apply or have some caveats to consider.
You have USB + Android Auto/Apple Car Play. Don't fiddle with a USB cable, get a D-Dock instead. It will charge your phone and display apps on the infotainment screen so you don't need a phone holder (unless that's preferred.)
If you're on the SE trim or above, you should have an SD card reader in addition to a CD player, also in the glove compartment. It's way better and easier to manage than a bunch of CDs in the car, but does require you to have MP3s/FLACs/WAVs of your songs, and a way to get them on an SD card.
If you do want to keep a spare key in or near your car, make sure to either remove the battery or get one that's only the metal bit and not a keyfob (which uses the KESSY keyless entry system.)
Last thing is not a snow brush, but a Snobrum. It's nicer on the paint and moves snow easier than a brush! You do still need a scraper for the windshield though! (Or, a windshield cover for the snow. I've come around on these, they are pretty great.)
The Golf is such a great platform. Happy driving!
posted by spbb at 9:00 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
You have USB + Android Auto/Apple Car Play. Don't fiddle with a USB cable, get a D-Dock instead. It will charge your phone and display apps on the infotainment screen so you don't need a phone holder (unless that's preferred.)
If you're on the SE trim or above, you should have an SD card reader in addition to a CD player, also in the glove compartment. It's way better and easier to manage than a bunch of CDs in the car, but does require you to have MP3s/FLACs/WAVs of your songs, and a way to get them on an SD card.
If you do want to keep a spare key in or near your car, make sure to either remove the battery or get one that's only the metal bit and not a keyfob (which uses the KESSY keyless entry system.)
Last thing is not a snow brush, but a Snobrum. It's nicer on the paint and moves snow easier than a brush! You do still need a scraper for the windshield though! (Or, a windshield cover for the snow. I've come around on these, they are pretty great.)
The Golf is such a great platform. Happy driving!
posted by spbb at 9:00 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
A couple other things of note:
1) A backseat "storage" that ties onto the back of your front seats, just for general storage of "stuff"
2) A tiny garbage bin for the cupholder. Encourages people to toss small things into it (like straw covers). A larger one that hangs from the front seat headrest will be good too.
3) If you frequently have kids or such in the back, a tablet or phone holder that attaches to headrest or seat-back. You will probably need a charging solution as well.
4) A "trunk organizer" to keep the stuff you leave in the trunk neat and not rolling around. It also serves as a good shopping bag if you leave it empty. If you don't have one, one of those huge Ikea blue tags will work fine, and folds up neatly.
5) For snowy places, you'll need an ice scraper. For warmer places, a squeegee. And never hurts to keep a 6-pack of water in your car. Distilled water, not mineral water or drinking water. Mineral water is bad for cooling systems. Depending on how cold, you may need one of those keyhole de-icers.
6) If it snows hard, there are those covers that you put on the windshield so you don't need to spend 15 minutes scraping it.
7) And it never hurts to have extra flashlights and pens around. One of those "write in the rain" notepads would be nice too if you need to leave a note under the wiper.
posted by kschang at 10:18 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
1) A backseat "storage" that ties onto the back of your front seats, just for general storage of "stuff"
2) A tiny garbage bin for the cupholder. Encourages people to toss small things into it (like straw covers). A larger one that hangs from the front seat headrest will be good too.
3) If you frequently have kids or such in the back, a tablet or phone holder that attaches to headrest or seat-back. You will probably need a charging solution as well.
4) A "trunk organizer" to keep the stuff you leave in the trunk neat and not rolling around. It also serves as a good shopping bag if you leave it empty. If you don't have one, one of those huge Ikea blue tags will work fine, and folds up neatly.
5) For snowy places, you'll need an ice scraper. For warmer places, a squeegee. And never hurts to keep a 6-pack of water in your car. Distilled water, not mineral water or drinking water. Mineral water is bad for cooling systems. Depending on how cold, you may need one of those keyhole de-icers.
6) If it snows hard, there are those covers that you put on the windshield so you don't need to spend 15 minutes scraping it.
7) And it never hurts to have extra flashlights and pens around. One of those "write in the rain" notepads would be nice too if you need to leave a note under the wiper.
posted by kschang at 10:18 PM on February 7, 2022 [2 favorites]
I'm obsessive about this (I live rurally in snow country) so here is my kit in both vehicles:
1) battery charger pack (lithium rechargeable, can also keep your phone charged)
2) powerful waterproof floating flashlight with an emergency beacon
3) belt cutter/window smasher tool in reach of driver seat
4) tire inflator compressor (runs off 12v lighter outlet, these are like $35 now)
5) large umbrella and several heavy plastic trash bags if I have to work on the car in heavy weather
6) basic tool kit (screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, plastic fastener removers, duct tape, zip ties, WD-40, etc)
7) optional but I swear by it: an automotive fire extinguisher (must be secured so it doesn't go projectile in a collision) -- I've seen it save a life, I'm a convert)
8) extra fuses in all amperages used by the vehicle
9) spare headlight and taillight bulbs
10) quart thermos (or more) of water and protein bars
11) Mylar blankets
12) 12v-120v DC/AC inverter (very optional but AC can sometimes be useful)
13) heavy duty lug nut wrench with a long bar (beats the heck out of the crappy wrench they put in your spare tire well)
14) quart of appropriate motor oil
15) pair of old heavy rubber floor mats (for emergency traction in snow)
16) Lifestraw drinking water purifier
17) snow and ice brush/scraper (get a good big one)
18) rags and window cleaner
19) heavy duty gloves
20) bottle of fuel line de-icer
This kit is variable of course depending on weather and season and distance to be traveled, YMMV. I've been driving over 40 years, a lot of it in rural areas including Alaska. There is a tradeoff of weight and space of course for all of this stuff, but it's the maximal kit for the most threatening situations.
posted by spitbull at 5:52 AM on February 8, 2022 [3 favorites]
1) battery charger pack (lithium rechargeable, can also keep your phone charged)
2) powerful waterproof floating flashlight with an emergency beacon
3) belt cutter/window smasher tool in reach of driver seat
4) tire inflator compressor (runs off 12v lighter outlet, these are like $35 now)
5) large umbrella and several heavy plastic trash bags if I have to work on the car in heavy weather
6) basic tool kit (screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, plastic fastener removers, duct tape, zip ties, WD-40, etc)
7) optional but I swear by it: an automotive fire extinguisher (must be secured so it doesn't go projectile in a collision) -- I've seen it save a life, I'm a convert)
8) extra fuses in all amperages used by the vehicle
9) spare headlight and taillight bulbs
10) quart thermos (or more) of water and protein bars
11) Mylar blankets
12) 12v-120v DC/AC inverter (very optional but AC can sometimes be useful)
13) heavy duty lug nut wrench with a long bar (beats the heck out of the crappy wrench they put in your spare tire well)
14) quart of appropriate motor oil
15) pair of old heavy rubber floor mats (for emergency traction in snow)
16) Lifestraw drinking water purifier
17) snow and ice brush/scraper (get a good big one)
18) rags and window cleaner
19) heavy duty gloves
20) bottle of fuel line de-icer
This kit is variable of course depending on weather and season and distance to be traveled, YMMV. I've been driving over 40 years, a lot of it in rural areas including Alaska. There is a tradeoff of weight and space of course for all of this stuff, but it's the maximal kit for the most threatening situations.
posted by spitbull at 5:52 AM on February 8, 2022 [3 favorites]
I would vote against AAA - their service is good, to be sure, but they are also pro-car lobbyists who actively work against walkable cities and bike lanes and other essential stuff. Just get the rider on your insurance.
Especially if you drive somewhat infrequently, a battery to jump-start your car (I use this, which is currently unavailable, but the same brand makes other models as well) is indispensable. Super easy to use solo if/when needed as well.
posted by mosst at 6:00 AM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
Especially if you drive somewhat infrequently, a battery to jump-start your car (I use this, which is currently unavailable, but the same brand makes other models as well) is indispensable. Super easy to use solo if/when needed as well.
posted by mosst at 6:00 AM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
I meant to add I am a harsh critic of AAA, which has done two relatives wrong in recent years and yeah, sucks as an organization. On the other hand I'm a competent basic mechanic and don't fear changing a tire or charging a battery etc. YMMV.
Your car insurance surely offers roadside assistance and towing coverage -- it may be optional but it is usually cheaper and better coverage than AAA. Check with your agent.
posted by spitbull at 6:03 AM on February 8, 2022
Your car insurance surely offers roadside assistance and towing coverage -- it may be optional but it is usually cheaper and better coverage than AAA. Check with your agent.
posted by spitbull at 6:03 AM on February 8, 2022
I keep the following things in my car, and have used them in some form or another in the past 10 years or so-
- A spare leash, for if you come across a stray dog
- A small tarp, along with a quilt or blanket- if you have to sit on the ground for whatever reason, it's nice to have.
- A dog bowl
- A small pack of water bottles, regularly swapped out
- A roll of toilet paper
- General first aid kit
- A Halobolt charger- it can start a car, charge a phone, has a flashlight, and I've generally been satisfied with mine
- Dashcam, dashcam, dashcam.
- A collapsable crate- I got mine at Costco for $10, you can find them much cheaper off amazon. Great if you have a ton of loose items, hit up an estate sale, or need to wrangle a bunch of bags. I've had the 'trunk organizers' that are like cube storage, but the crate holds up a lot better.
- IKEA bags- Endlessly useful, and great for consolidating multiple purchases into one easy-to-carry container
posted by Torosaurus at 6:21 AM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
- A spare leash, for if you come across a stray dog
- A small tarp, along with a quilt or blanket- if you have to sit on the ground for whatever reason, it's nice to have.
- A dog bowl
- A small pack of water bottles, regularly swapped out
- A roll of toilet paper
- General first aid kit
- A Halobolt charger- it can start a car, charge a phone, has a flashlight, and I've generally been satisfied with mine
- Dashcam, dashcam, dashcam.
- A collapsable crate- I got mine at Costco for $10, you can find them much cheaper off amazon. Great if you have a ton of loose items, hit up an estate sale, or need to wrangle a bunch of bags. I've had the 'trunk organizers' that are like cube storage, but the crate holds up a lot better.
- IKEA bags- Endlessly useful, and great for consolidating multiple purchases into one easy-to-carry container
posted by Torosaurus at 6:21 AM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
Sorry to pepper but I will add, in winter, a gallon of window washer fluid (which can be used to melt ice too), and in my truck, 100 pounds of rock salt which is useful as weight over the rear axle in snow even if I never need the salt to melt ice. Some folks like clay kitty litter for this purpose. Also, a fireplace lighter or small butane torch or at least a cigarette lighter for the completist -- you may never need fire but you never know. I always have a lighter on me, so it slipped my mind to suggest keeping one in the car. And I am always wearing boots anyways, but if you drive in inappropriate footwear for working outside the car, an old pair of work boots or waterproof mud boots can make sense in some conditions. I'll also keep a spare serpentine belt in the truck.
Also, for me, always a sharp utility knife somewhere.
posted by spitbull at 6:26 AM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
Also, for me, always a sharp utility knife somewhere.
posted by spitbull at 6:26 AM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
You can put a pump bottle of hand sanitizer in the driver's door cupholder.
Just sayin'...
posted by wenestvedt at 1:22 PM on February 8, 2022
Just sayin'...
posted by wenestvedt at 1:22 PM on February 8, 2022
Something to be aware of is that hand sanitizer and hand creams and sun screen do a NUMBER on the "leather" (usually vinyl fake leather no matter what the dealer tells you) of your seats and steering wheel and shifter covers and the knobs and buttons. If you have a new car you care about fully dry your hands before touching anything. I've seen endless "how did I ruin my steering wheel cover?" questions on car forums lately. Answer: pandemic hand sanitizer use.
posted by spitbull at 1:53 PM on February 8, 2022
posted by spitbull at 1:53 PM on February 8, 2022
Also I don't know how I forgot but a quality first aid kit is a must.
posted by spitbull at 2:07 PM on February 8, 2022
posted by spitbull at 2:07 PM on February 8, 2022
I keep a pair of scissors in my car. I’m constantly using them to open some thing I just bought in the store or cut some tape to pack a package I’m returning. I also keep a roll of packing tape in the car.
posted by manageyourexpectations at 4:10 PM on February 8, 2022
posted by manageyourexpectations at 4:10 PM on February 8, 2022
I have used this insurance/registration holder in two cars, and I love it an UNREASONABLE amount. It is such a relief to never fumble in a crumpled paper envelope for my stuff when it comes time to renew or inspect. It was $6 when I bought it and is less now. Very strong contender for "best $6 I've ever spent."
I also like these Armor-All wipes. I use the cleaning wipes, the UV protectant wipes, and the glass wipes. The UV wipes will (hopefully) keep the dash from cracking or peeling.
posted by Snarl Furillo at 6:04 PM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
I also like these Armor-All wipes. I use the cleaning wipes, the UV protectant wipes, and the glass wipes. The UV wipes will (hopefully) keep the dash from cracking or peeling.
posted by Snarl Furillo at 6:04 PM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
One difference between AAA and a stranded motorist policy on your insurance:
I had State Farm for 20 years with no claims. One morning I was in the car with my five kids and the car wouldn't start and State Farm refused to send anyone to help me, even though I had coverage. Why? Because I had just purchased a new vehicle three days before and hadn't updated my policy with them. They said "We'll send someone to help with your Scion" and I said "I don't have the Scion anymore. I just got a minivan." They refused to help and said the coverage was for the specific car, not for the policyholder.
I changed insurance companies the next day.
posted by tacodave at 7:17 PM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
I had State Farm for 20 years with no claims. One morning I was in the car with my five kids and the car wouldn't start and State Farm refused to send anyone to help me, even though I had coverage. Why? Because I had just purchased a new vehicle three days before and hadn't updated my policy with them. They said "We'll send someone to help with your Scion" and I said "I don't have the Scion anymore. I just got a minivan." They refused to help and said the coverage was for the specific car, not for the policyholder.
I changed insurance companies the next day.
posted by tacodave at 7:17 PM on February 8, 2022 [1 favorite]
This thread is closed to new comments.
With the VW I have, the tire pressure warning system is pretty aggressive/unpredictable, so it's very useful to be able to check the tire pressure to see if the warning is real, or just that the temperature has changed, or something.
posted by mercredi at 12:50 PM on February 7, 2022 [9 favorites]