You may not even realize how much time you spend in your car—whether that be commuting, travelling, dropping off, picking up, coming or going. Most car owners retain their car for over 5-7 years, almost as long as people live in the same place. What this means is that apart from your home and workplace, the car is effectively your third home, so it should reflect some “homeliness” along with being an expression of your personality! Do fluffy dice or swinging palm tree odors float your boat?
How much of an effort do you make to make life fun and comfortable in your third home? It doesn’t matter what car you drive or how much of a technophobe you may be, there are staple items that everyone must consider having in their car.
Here are some critical essentials to consider.
1. Cleanliness
Cleanliness lies in the “eyes of the beholder.” Although, if a polite passenger says, “I don’t mind the mess,” i.e. stepping on loose papers, coffee cups, crusts and crunchy bits of an unknown item, they are being exactly that—”polite.” Tidy up and make it respectable for yourself and others. It feels nice when your car looks and smells clean, sort of like jumping into clean bed sheets at night.
2. Music of Choice
The radio no longer monopolizes our ears. Radical shifts have taken place! In fact, it’s no fun being screamed at by loud irrelevant, unanticipated advertising messages, annoying jingles and radio ad voices. It makes me angry and irritable. When buying a car, ask for a discount for no radio installed and see what they say! Pay for Spotify ad free and get a Bluetooth connection. Bluetooth also allows you to speak on the phone safely. Control the airwaves like you’ve never controlled them before. You’re now a DJ. Music by choice makes me feel great. Your CDs and old CD case can now accompany your old cassettes in your next garage sale. Embrace the digital age—even if you’re 80.
3. Coins
I hate when people don’t have coins ready for parking and need to break a note to get spare change from 7-11. Have a top up point, so you never go dry on coins when you can’t use cards to pay for parking. Especially when you’re in a rush, you’ve got to have coins ready.
4. Mints
Smelling good increases confidence. No one wants to worry about bad breath. Most passengers always go for the mints—or even better, a stash of lollipops, when managed carefully, are a nice to have sugar hit. It’s nice when your Uber driver offers you water and mints, so pretend you’re the Uber driver when you have passengers.
5. Survival Kit
I love spontaneity. Let’s go to the park, the beach or a picnic on a whim! Rain, hail or shine, the survival kit comes in handy for all occasions. Think of including a towel, umbrella, sunscreen, water bottle, baby wipes, rag, spare socks, a pen or two that works, sweater and of course a bottle opener. A yoga mat is also a great picnic mat! Add as you like to your survival kit
6. Hobby items
Bring hobby items for you and your kids. I’m a keen golfer, so I always carry a glove and some clubs for myself and my son for a spontaneous stop at the driving range, along with a soccer ball and cricket bat and ball. A runner might always have a pair of runners and gear. Whatever your favorite hobby, always carry something of interest
7. Phone charger
Charge your phone as you drive. Plug in when you hop in and never run dry.
Now you’re all ready to roll in comfort and peace. If only all car salesmen would read this post and ask you next time you’re ready to purchase, “Now Sir/Ma’am, are there any critical essentials you would like in your car before you drive away?” Don’t be surprised if it happens at the time of your next purchase.
