When it comes to planning a road trip, you can never be too prepared. While snacks and drinks are essentials, there are plenty of other items that can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. It’s easy to imagine rolling down the windows and enjoying the summer breeze with friends, but what if you’re bundling up for a snowy drive or enduring scorching heat with a broken air conditioner? That’s where these road trip accessories come in handy. Here are some of my personal favorites to make your travels a breeze:
Tablet
Keeping children occupied on a long car trip might seem like a challenge, but with the right entertainment, it can be a breeze. A tablet is a must-have for any family road trip, providing endless entertainment options for everyone. It’s not just a device—it’s a game-changer for peaceful, enjoyable journeys.
Apple iPad Mini
What a user says:
I had my doubts about this relatively tiny-screened iPad, since I’m coming from an iPad Pro 12”. However, the screen is quite easy to adapt to. Doing notes on it doesn’t pose a problem since I’m used to zooming in even on my 12” ipad. IPad mini feels like a much more portable version of it, without sacrificing any quality. The screen is sharp, and the battery life is satisfying. So far, no complaints.
Headrest Tablet Mount Holder
A tablet is great, but a tablet mount makes it even better. This handy accessory allows everyone to enjoy a hands-free experience, perfect for keeping the kids entertained while you focus on the road.
Tryone Car Headrest Tablet Mount Holder
What a user says:
Bought this mount to my 8 year old son could mount his tablet and watch videos during car rides. Initial impression right out of the box was that it felt pretty sturdy and easily adjustable for different device sizes. Installation onto the headrest was extremely easy and it is just as easily removable. Had my son try to put a phone in it, then his tablet and he was able to do both with ease. Great product, highly recommend!
Travel Mug
The Hydro Flask tumbler is a travel essential, whether you’re sipping on hot coffee or staying hydrated with cold water. Made from stainless steel, it’s eco-friendly, reusable, and available in a variety of colors to suit your style.
Hydro Flask All Around Tumbler
What a user says:
I love this Hydro Flask All Around Tumbler. It is a small enough size* to be able to place in my purse and the seal is so tight I will not leak (provided I do not have it fall over in there.) Very easy to clean, I just place it in the dishwasher.
*Much easier to carry around than the larger water bottles.
Jump Starter
Having a reliable jump starter is a must for any road trip. The Audewdirect Jump Starter is lightweight and powerful, capable of charging your car battery, phone, tablet, and more. It’s a compact lifesaver that ensures you’re never left stranded.
Audewdirect Jump Starter 1500A
What a user says:
Thank you for an Awesome product, something every woman needs in her vehicle. Love everything about this jumpstart. Thank you for fast service and I tell everyone how awesome it is.
Thank You
Car Inverter
Sometimes, you need to get a little work done on the go. A car inverter like the Bestek Power Inverter makes it easy to power up your devices, with dual AC outlets and USB charging ports that are perfect for keeping everything charged and ready.
 Bestek 300 Power Inverter
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What a user says:
I have an earlier version of this product and needed a second one for another vehicle. The new one is so quiet I first thought it wasn’t working! But it charges very quickly! Plus the two USB ports are an upgrade from the old model. And this price fir the value beats anything I’ve seen. I can charge a laptop and tablet at the same time. Highly recommend!!!
Car Phone Holder Mount
A car phone holder is a simple but essential accessory. It keeps your phone secure and easily accessible, so you can navigate hands-free and keep your eyes on the road.
 Bestek 300 Power Inverter
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What a user says:
After my wife used this cell phone mount for a while, I decided to get one for my car to replace another mount that was passable and sturdy, but not as easy to use. The Beam Electronics mount is just as sturdy, but easier to get a phone in and out of. It’s also more versatile, as you can adjust its position and angle more flexibly, making it easier to customize to your car dashboard.
Wireless In-Car Bluetooth
If your car doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, don’t worry. The Nulaxy Wireless Bluetooth FM Transmitter is an affordable solution that lets you enjoy wireless calls and music, all without complicated installations.
 Bestek 300 Power Inverter
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What a user says:
I’ve bought other transmitters in the past, only to be left disappointed repeatedly. I was nervous about trying this one, but I love it! I’ve bought multiple for our personal vehicles and one for my husband to take in his work truck. The volume is nice and loud (unlike others I’ve tried) and the sound quality is very good! It connects to my phone quickly and I never have issues with Bluetooth not working. I love that it has a USB port to charge my phone as well.
Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless Cooler
Whether it’s a day trip or a week-long adventure, an electric cooler like the Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless Cooler keeps your food and drinks cold without using too much power. It’s a must-have for any serious road tripper.
 Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless Cooler
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What a user says:
The size is perfect for back seat of my truck. Used it for a 3 week driving vacation. Kept drinks and food cold. Portable size allowed me to take into hotel room at night and use a 120vac to 12vdc converter to keep it cooling. Three weeks of continuous running with no issues.
Trunk Organizer
A trunk organizer is perfect for keeping all your road trip essentials in one place. It’s spacious, waterproof, and packed with pockets to store everything from camping gear to snacks.
 Drive Auto Car Trunk Organizer
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What a user says:
Ordered this to organize my trunk a little better since i have a lot of small camping gear like headlamps, lamps etc. very big, sturdy. Love all the pockets it has for other stuff like my usb chargers, leatherman, zip ties. Love the hooks it has on each end to hook to something in the trunk and very easy to transfer. Highly Recommend. I have a lexus is 350 2014, takes about half or 1/3 of the trunk depending on how you position it.
Chair Cushion
Long drives can be tough on your back and butt, especially if your car’s seats aren’t the most comfortable. The Fortem Chair Cushion provides ergonomic support, making those hours on the road a little more bearable.
 Fortem Chair Cushion
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What a user says:
I was having tailbone and general bony butt pain after significant weight loss. Then I found this! I use this seat cushion for my vehicle and it makes a world of difference, especially with my 2 hours of commute for work every day! I also use it when I have to sit on wooden chairs and it saves my butt so much discomfort <3 LOVE it. Highly recommend! Keep stretching those hammies, but when you have to be sitting, this is a booty-saver.
Car Visor Extender
Sun glare can be a real hazard, especially during the early morning and late afternoon. A car visor extender like the Filba model reduces glare, keeping you safe and focused on the road.
 Filba Car Visor Extender
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What a user says:
I have only been using g it for a few days & love it. It is sturdy on the visor, no slippage, it was easy to attach and best of ALL it reduces the glare than could lead to an accident, so it keeps me safe.
Lumbar Support Pillow
Proper lumbar support is key to maintaining good posture and comfort during long drives. The Samsonite Lumbar Support Pillow offers excellent back support, helping you avoid fatigue and discomfort.
 Samsonite Lumbar Support Pillow
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What a user says:
This is a fairly thick cushion and braces my back and pushes me forward in the seat, which is more comfortable since I am a short person mowing with a commercial zero turn. It keeps me from jarring my back.
Pet Travel Bag
If you’re traveling with your pet, the Modoker Pet Travel Bag is a lifesaver. It’s designed to hold all your pet’s essentials, from food and water to leashes and treats, making sure they’re just as comfortable as you are on the trip.
 Modoker Pet Travel Bag
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What a user says:
This is a fairly thick cushion and braces my back and pushes me forward in the seat, which is more comfortable since I am a short person mowing with a commercial zero turn. It keeps me from jarring my back.
Kids Travel Tray
Keeping kids entertained during long trips can be a challenge. The Lusso Gear Kids Travel Tray is a handy accessory that keeps everything from snacks to toys organized, making the journey more enjoyable for everyone.
 Lusso Gear Kids Travel Tray
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What a user says:
It’s waterproof, got a lot of side pockets for storing stuff, also holds bottle/cup snug to prevent spills. It kept my son entertained for a few hours until he decided he’s bored with it already. Overall a good product. The only problem I had with is it came way higher than my son’s lap height but it was because of the kind of carseat he has.
Emergency Keychain Car Tool
In case of an emergency, having a window breaker and seatbelt cutter on hand can be a lifesaver. The Resqme emergency keychain tool is small, lightweight, and easy to carry, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation.
 Resqme emergency keychain escape car tool
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What a user says:
Makes me feel better that this is attached to the keychain, so in an emergency situation, it will be easy to find (unlike the hammer-type emergency tools that are available)….and I always have one with me (and my son, too) no matter what vehicle I am riding/driving in.
Electric Car Blanket
For those who live in colder climates, an electric car blanket is a smart addition to your emergency kit. It provides warmth and comfort when you need it most, making sure you stay cozy during unexpected delays or long trips.
 Stalwart Electric Car Blanket
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What a user says:
Bought this for my car that doesn’t have great temperature control. It has a nice long cord, so I can plug it in up front and it will still reach my son in the backseat. It warms up really quickly and stays warm as long as it is plugged in. I just wish it was washable (can’t due to the cord being permanently attached.)
Car Trash Can with a Lid
Having a trash can in your vehicle is critical for keeping things clean and healthy. You may keep your trash confined in this bin until it’s time to dispose of it. Feeling clean and comfortable is as simple as keeping your surroundings clean and free of trash.
 Resqme emergency keychain escape car tool
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What a user says:
I bought this little beauty hoping it would keep my 2 grandsons from leaving small trash in my car. When I went to empty it, I found 2 soda bottles, opened package containers, candy wrappers, etc, etc, etc. I decided instead of hanging it, I would place it in the middle of the back seat and attach it to the fold down armrest. It’s perfect!!! Go get yourself one, you won’t be disappointed. I just wish I would have done it sooner. Love it!
Paper Map for Road Trips
Paper maps from Rand McNally are a great way to get an overview of a region. While the GPS feature on your smartphone is convenient, a paper map is preferable in the event that you lose cell service or your battery dies. Having a backup just in case never hurts.
 Rand McNally Road Atlas
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What a user says:
Got this and didn’t realize it was a big as it is, but that’s ok, super easy to use and no way can I misplace it among other items in house or in my truck when traveling. WOW. What a great and thorough atlas. Takes me back to pre-gps when you actually used maps and they helped you learn where all is in relationship to other places. Love the atlas big time.
Car Travel Pillow
Having a travel pillow to help maintain your neck and spine in a neutral position while providing some support is the best way to relax and sleep on the road. Take a travel pillow on your next car journey so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
 FHSGGP Travel Pillow
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What a user says:
I bought two of these pillow for our road trip last month and they were so useful! My kids were able to sleep comfortably in the car while we were making our long drives. Definitely worth the money. Highly recommend!!!
Car Seat Belt Pad
According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, if you want to reduce your risk of severe injury or death in a vehicle crash, the greatest thing you can do is buckle up. If you’re anything like me, however, you may find the seatbelt a bit irritating. After some research, I decided to get the Mikafen Car Seat Belt Pad seatbelt cover due to its high ratings. It is soft, well padded and has made wearing a seatbelt more tolerable.
 MIKAFEN Car Seat Belt Pads
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What a user says:
These are great, they’re really soft and slide just enough on the seatbelt to move them when and where you like. Game changer for short drivers that have a seatbelt rubbing on their necks(;
Dog Seat Cover for Back Seat
Pets are considered members of the family by the vast majority of owners. It makes perfect sense to take them along on vacations. Nonetheless, they, like you, need to feel at ease throughout extended travel times. High-quality dog seat covers not only provide a safe and comfortable space for your dog during vehicle trips, but they may also reduce the amount of damage done to your car by your pet’s hair, urine, and vomit.
 Vailge Dog Seat Cover for Back Seat
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What a user says:
Our trip with our 90 pound Shepard went great! He stayed put, no slipping and sliding. We paired the cover with a good harness and Kurgo Auto Zip Line so he could have some ability to move from side to side. He was often in the car after a day in the river and the seat did not get wet. The shedded hair was easy to shake out when dry which was easy to do since once set it up taking the cover in and out of the car was very easy. Glad we bought this!
Key Finder
One of the worst things that may happen on a trip is to lose your vehicle keys. Maybe you pulled over to stretch your legs and now you can’t locate your keys.
If you have a Tile Mate connected to your keys and have synchronized it with the Tile app on your phone, you can use the app to locate your keys anytime you need them.
The Tile Mate may be quickly attached to your keys, making it very easy to locate them in the event that they are misplaced and allowing you to save a significant amount of time as a result.
 Tile Mate
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What a user says:
Finally a little gizmo to put on my car key ring to help me find them when I can’t remember where I put them. Easy to attach to your key ring, easy to download the app that plays the alarm, easy to push the button to trigger the alarm and easy to find your object as long as you are within hearing distance of what you put the tile on. Used it this morning. Glad I put one on my keyring because I know I’ll be using it. And the price at the time I bought it was reasonable.
Car Registration and Insurance Holder
You should always travel with your car’s registration and insurance paperwork in one convenient location. You never know when the police may pull you over, so you should always be prepared to quickly access it.
Use this Cacturism Car Registration and Insurance Card Holder to store and protect your vehicle’s registration and insurance cards.
 Cacturism Car Registration and Insurance Holder
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What a user says:
I bought 2 of these, one for each of my cars (one black & one pink) & was not disappointed, these are so cute & hold all the information you’d need if you got pulled over in a cute & convent booklet. It’s not. Bad quality & I’d definitely recommend to anyone who’s looking to keep their glove compartment clean & organized.
| Brand | Price | Features | Rating |
|  | Model: Apple iPad Mini Dimensions: 7.69″ x 5.31″ x 0.25″ inches What we liked: Small, lightweight, sharp image quality What we didn’t like: Pricey to add memory |  4.8 |
| | Model: Tryone Car Headrest Tablet Mount Holder Dimensions: 7.56″ x 3.74″ x 2.05″ inches What we liked: Easy to install, very sturdy What we didn’t like: Nothing to speak of | 4.5 |
| | Model: Hydro Flask All Around Dimensions: 4.49″ x 4.13″ x 3.74 inches” What we liked: Keeps beverages hot, hot and cold, cold What we didn’t like: Lid not leakproof | 4.7 |
| | Model: Audewdirect Jump Starter 1500A Dimensions: 6.5″ x 1.38″ x 3.35″ inches What we liked: Easy to use What we didn’t like: Wires are short | 4.5 |
| | Model: Bestek 300 Power Inverter Dimensions: 4.8″ x 3.1″ x 1.9″ inches What we liked: 2 AC and USB outlets’ What we didn’t like: AC plugs too close | 4.6 |
| | Model: Beam Electrical Car Phone Holder Mount Dimensions: 2.72″ x 3.39″ x 5.51″ inches What we liked: Access to phone, very sturdy What we didn’t like: It blocks the vents | 4.2 |
| | Model: Nulaxy Wireless In-Car Bluetooth Dimensions: 6.4″ x 4.9″ x 2.1″ inches What we liked: Bluetooth capability, uses an SD card What we didn’t like: A little big | 4.4 |
| | Model: Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless Cooler Dimensions:12.87″ x 16.65″ x 18.23″ inches What we liked: Iceless, electric, sturdy What we didn’t like: Nothing to speak of | 4.4 |
| | Model: Drive Auto Trunk Organizer Dimensions: 23″ x 17″ x 11″ inches What we liked: Folds easily, several compartments What we didn’t like: Nothing to speak of | 4.7 |
| | Model: Fortem Chair Cushion Dimensions: 18″ x 14″ x 3″ inches What we liked: Gives you support What we didn’t like: Harder than expected | 4.4 |
| | Model: Filba Car Visor Extender Dimensions: 12.8″ x 6.22″ x 0.87″ inches What we liked: Blocks sun, easy to install What we didn’t like: Nothing to speak of | 4.5 |
| | Model: Samsonite Lumbar Support Pillow Dimensions: 4.1″ x 12.8″ x 3.6″ inches What we liked: Blocks sun, easy to install What we didn’t like: Nothing to speak of | 4.5 |
| | Model: Modoker Pet Travel Bag Dimensions: 16″ x 14″ x 8″ inches What we liked: Very well organized, can be used daily What we didn’t like: Nothing to speak of | 4.8 |
| | Model: Lusso Gear Kids Travel Tray Dimensions: 16″ x 12.5″ x 1.5″ inches What we liked: Can hold cups, lots of compartments What we didn’t like: Not as sturdy as we would have liked, doesn’t fit all car seats | 4.3 |
| | Model: Resqme Emergency Car Escape Tool Dimensions: 3″ x 1.25″ x 0.62 ” inches What we liked: Had to use it once and worked perfectly, like that it can attach to keychain What we didn’t like: Nothing as of yet | 4.7 |
| | Model: Stalwart Electric Car Blanket Dimensions: 59″ x 43″ inches What we liked: warms up nicely What we didn’t like: Nothing as of yet | 4.4 |
| | Model: Ryhpez Car Trash Can with Lid Dimensions: 6.3″ x 6.3″ x 9.5″ inches What we liked: Has a lid, collapsible, fits car or truck What we didn’t like: Nothing as of yet | 4.4 |
| | Model: Rand McNally Road Atlas Dimensions: 11″ x 0.5″ x 15″ inches What we liked: Big, easy to read What we didn’t like: Nothing as of yet | 4.7 |
| | Model: FHSGGP Travel Pillow Dimensions: 11″ x 0.5″ x 15″ inches What we liked: works well What we didn’t like: Had to restitch seams | 4.3 |
| | Model: MIKAFEN Car Seat Belt Pads Dimensions: 11″ x 0.5″ x 15″ inches What we liked: very soft What we didn’t like: Moves around | 4.5 |
| | Model: Vailge Dog Seat Cover for Back Seat Dimensions: 14.25″ x 11.77″ x 4.13″ inches What we liked: Easy to install What we didn’t like: Attracts hair but easily cleaned off | 4.6 |
| | Model: Tile Mate Dimensions: 14.25″ x 11.77″ x 4.13″ inches What we liked: Easy to use, easy to install app, can be used with Android What we didn’t like: Only works within 250 ft | 4.6 |
| | Model: Cacturism Car Registration and Insurance Holder Dimensions: 5.5″ x 5.1″ inches What we liked: Keeps you organized What we didn’t like: Nothing as of yet | 4.7 |
