Top 12 Essential Items to Keep in Your Car, According to Our Followers
Recently we asked our followers on social media: “What’s one essential item you always keep in your car?” The responses were brilliant. From the practical to the often overlooked, here are the most popular and useful suggestions that came in.
- Phone charger
No surprises here — a phone charger was by far the most common answer. Whether it’s for emergencies, navigation, or staying in touch, having a charger to hand is now as essential as your keys.
- Spare glasses
A simple but important one, especially for drivers who rely on prescription lenses. Keeping a backup pair in the glovebox can be a lifesaver if your main pair breaks or gets misplaced.
- £1 for a trolley
A small detail that makes a big difference. More than one person mentioned they always keep a pound coin in the car for supermarket trolleys. It saves digging through bags or asking strangers in the rain.
- Coat
British weather being what it is, a spare coat in the boot can come in handy more often than you'd think — whether it's for an unexpected downpour or staying warm during a breakdown.
- Umbrella
Closely tied to the coat, the humble umbrella had plenty of mentions. It’s one of those items you’re always glad to have — especially if you’re walking back to your car in a downpour.
- Toilet roll
It might sound odd at first, but toilet roll has more uses than you’d think: emergency tissue, clearing up spills, or helping out during long journeys with kids.
- Cable ties
A favourite among practical-minded drivers, cable ties are useful for all sorts of quick fixes — securing loose parts, holding things in place, or even temporary repairs.
- First aid kit
This one’s a classic and with good reason. A basic first aid kit is smart to keep on board, especially for long drives or if you’re travelling with family.
- Water
A bottle or two of water is a smart addition to any car. Whether it’s for hydration, cleaning hands, or topping up your windscreen washer in a pinch — it’s a good habit.
- Sweets
Not just for kids — a stash of mints or sweets can help keep you alert on long journeys and make traffic jams a little more bearable.
- Electric air pump
Keeping your tyres properly inflated helps with safety and fuel efficiency. A small portable pump can save you a trip to the garage or help in an emergency.
- Headache tablets
Another practical one. Headaches can strike anytime, especially on longer drives or during stressful traffic. Keeping some tablets in the glovebox can keep you comfortable and focused.
Big thanks to everyone who replied to our weekend post! Whether you're a seasoned road-tripper or just like to be prepared, keeping a few of these essentials in your car could really make a difference.
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