Road trips are a fact of life in Australia where many of the best camping sites and relatives live “just down the road”- meaning 4 hours away. These trips are the perfect way to explore the outdoors and spend quality time together. But long hours in the car certainly come with their challenges, especially with kids. Having the right accessories can make all the difference, keeping everyone comfortable, entertained, and organised along the way. Here are five must-have car accessories for your next family road trip.
1. Portable Fridge or Electric Esky
A portable fridge or esky is great at keeping food and drinks fresh on the go. It’s especially useful during long trips, where finding places to stop for meals is not always an option electric esky’s allows you to keep food fresher for longer and travel further without extra stops. Ensure you’re always prepared with snacks for the whole family. Many portable fridges these days can plug directly into your car’s power outlet, making them easy to use while you’re on the move.
2. Roof Racks
When it comes to big trips, packing light isn’t always an option. Between camping gear, luggage, and snacks, space can run out quickly. Roof racks are the best way to maximise every part of your car including the top. Looking at simple racks for a surfboard and tent or a cage to go on top fitting even more luggage and the naughty kid. Roof racks provide extra storage, helping you keep the car’s interior clutter free and comfortable. Opting for a more durable and expensive set of roof racks/cage can help in the long run protecting them from rain, heat and wear.
3. Backseat Organisers
Keeping a clean and organised car during a road trip can feel impossible, but a backseat organiser helps keep things tidy and within reach. With pockets and compartments for toys, books, water bottles, and more, everything has its place. You can also keep travel essentials like maps, snacks, and wet wipes within easy reach without cluttering the front of the car.
Suggestion: Some organisers even come with foldable trays, which are great for kids to use for drawing or snacking during the trip.
4. First Aid and Emergency Kit
While it’s not the most glamorous accessory, a well-stocked first aid and emergency kit is vital for any family road trip. Include basics like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers, along with a tyre repair kit, jumper cables, and a flashlight. You never know when a minor scrape or car issue might pop up, and being prepared will keep small problems from turning into big ones.
5. In-Car Entertainment System
Keeping the kids entertained during long drives can be a challenge. An in-car entertainment system either built-in screens or a portable tablet mount for the front seat head rest is a game-changer. With access to movies, shows, or even audiobooks, you can keep kids distracted and entertained minimising the “are we there yet?” questions. Of Course the classic games of spotto and who am i are great to pass time without iPad and screens. Make sure to pack headphones so the driver can focus while the kids watch their favourite shows
Conclusion
These five vehicle accessories can help make your family road trips more comfortable, organised, and enjoyable. Whether you’re heading off on a weekend camping trip or a cross-country adventure, having the right gear ensures a smoother ride for everyone. Before your next journey, make sure to visit Express Lube for a pre-trip inspection, so your car is ready for the road ahead!
