The 50 Best Car Travel Accesories

2. Sony DVD player
There are a number of seat-back children’s DVD players available, but this new portable player from Sony is brilliant for bored teenagers on a long journey and will keep them quiet once they reach their destination. It has twin headphone outputs, so two passengers can listen at once, and it can play MP3s from a memory stick. Also handy is the car-battery adaptor kit that comes included in the price.
Where from: Sony (08705 111999; www.sonystyle.co.uk)
How much: £250

3. Tamagotchi 4
“The original virtual pet just grew up,” says Ian Lloyd-Gibbs, buyer for Hamleys, of the newlook Tamagotchi Version 4. “It will evolve depending on how you look after it and play with it.” Thanks to its tiny size, this little fellow is small enough to fit into any travel bag and is a great way to put off children who are nagging for a pet of their own. Suitable for age 6+.
Where: Hamleys (0800 280 2444; www.hamleys.com)
How much: £15.99

4. Large first-aid kit
“It’s always useful to have a first aid kit in the car for minor cuts and scrapes en route,” says Sophie Lam, Independent travel desk. “This comprehensive one from Halfords contains enough basics to be put to use as a holiday first aid kit when you arrive at your destination.” As well as dressings, bandages and plasters, it includes an emergency blanket, scissors and a first-aid booklet to tell you what to do with them.
Where from: Halfords (08450 579000; www.halfords.com)
How much: £19.99

5. Bluetooth handsfree kit
Don’t be caught out making calls on your phone while in transit – you’ll be fined and given points on your licence. Instead, switch your traditional rear-view mirror for this high-tech Bluetooth version and talk to your heart’s content without getting pulled over or causing a pile-up. It comes with built-in echo cancellation and automatically mutes your car stereo when a call comes in.
Where from: www.speeding.co.uk
How much: £59.99

6. AA Road Atlas: Glovebox Atlas Britain
Fancy satellite-navigation systems are all well and good but it’s always wise to keep a good old-fashioned map handy. This dinky 96-page A5 map is small enough to fit into even the most packed car and is easy to read thanks to its spiral spine. The scale is eight miles to one inch, so you may have to squint to read it but it’s a good backup map.
Where: Maps Worldwide (01225 707004; www.mapsworldwide.com)
How much: £5.99 (Spiral Bound)

7. Griffin iTrip
Sophie suggests investing in the iTrip, “a device that provides a wireless link from your MP3 player to your car’s stereo. A good idea because you won’t have to readjust the radio frequency whenever you pass through a county. It is particularly good if you can set your MP3 to shuffle mode.” They used to be illegal in the UK, but since December have had the thumbs up from Ofcom.
Where from: Apple (0800 039 1010; www. store.apple.com)
How much: £34.95

8. Bedlam Retro Cube
Forget the name – this game will keep younger passengers entertained and give you some front-seat peace. “It consists of three pieces of differently shaped pieces,” explains Ian. “There are over 1,900 ways of re-arranging them back into their original cube-shaped container.” Just be sure to buy one per child to prevent “it’s my turn” arguments.
Where from: Hamleys (0800 280 2444; www.hamleys.co.uk)
How much: £13.99

9. Metal 12v Oscillating Car Fan
“This fan is ideal if your vehicle doesn’t feature air-con, particularly if you’re on the motorway or driving at night and don’t want to wind the windows down,” says Sophie. The fan plugs into your car’s lighter socket and comes with a 2m power cable, so it will stretch to the back seat even if the car’s air vents won’t. It also has a protective grill to protect inquisitive little fingers.
Where from: www.gbdriver.co.uk
How much: £17.99

10. Qstik EVOQ headset
While it’s not the smallest Bluetooth headset on the market, the Qstik EVOQ is one of the more versatile. The comfortable earpiece also has a USB dongle that includes the BlueSoleil Bluetooth software for PC. It’s a useful piece of software that allows you to use the headset with any other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Not only that, the Qstik is excellent at filtering out background noise so even if you’re passengers are on the noisy side, you’ll still be able to have an audible phone conversation.
Where from: www.spectrum-retail.com
How much: £46.80

11. www.theaa.com
Sophie recommends logging on before setting off on any long car journey. “The route planner on the AA’s website is a great way to prevent any potential passenger-driver map-reading bickering. Features such as routes avoiding motorways and congestioncharging zones are particularly handy.” Simply print off your route instead of thumbing through an out-of-date road map.
Where from: www.theaa.com
How much: free

12. Cassette adaptor & 12v DC/DC accessory adaptor
Sophie’s keen on this gadget for anyone with a more mature car. “For technophobes who still have a cassette player in their car stereo. Plug in your CD Discman or MP3 and sing your way through a long tiresome journey. If you’re off to the continent, you could even stick on a learn-French CD to brush up on the basics.” All you need to do is insert the special cassette adapter into any cassette player, plug the lead into your CD MP3 or MD Player to play your music.
Where from: www.speeding.co.uk
How much: £9.99

13. 20Q
“Challenge the artificial intelligence of 20Q,” suggests Ian. “Think of an object and be amazed when 20Q correctly guesses the object you thought of by answering yes/no questions!” It sounds unlikely but this little device is almost impossible to beat. A version specially designed for children, the new Junior 20Q, has just launched and costs £24.99.
Where from: Hamleys (0800 280 2444; www.hamleys.co.uk)
How much: £14.99

14. Car multi-travel tray
Sophie recommends this simple – but incredibly useful – detachable tray. “A good makeshift table that provides a surface for travel games, colouring in, lunch or for the more technologically advanced – portable DVD players.” It can be adapted to fit to your steering wheel (for when you’re stationary, obviously) or to the back of the seat in front. Also has a moulded drinks holder and lipped edge to help contain any spillages.
Where from: www.gbdriver.co.uk
How much: £14.98

15. Bang & Olufsen Bluetooth headset
Known for high-end stereo equipment that sounds amazing and costs the earth, Bang & Olufsen have created a premium Bluetooth headset using their audio expertise. It was never going to come cheap, but you’re paying for excellent sound quality and incredibly well thought-out design. It makes calls easier to hear and effectively filters out background noise. It looks pretty cool, too.
Where from: www.bang-olufsen.com
How much: £200

16. TomTom Go 520
Adrift in a sea of cones? Help other drivers avoid your fate with the TomTom Go 520. “The “Map Share” functions allows users to upload road works they’ve experienced on to the Tom- Tom’s map from home,” explains Carl. This sat nav also has built-in FM transmitter pipes so the instructions come through your car stereo. Aword of advice – when you park up, be sure to stash the TomTom’s cradle as they attract thieves on the lookout for sat navs to grab.
Where from: 0870 429 6000; www.maplin.co.uk
How much: £279.99

17. iPod 80G
The easiest way to turn your car into a jukebox is by investing in a serious MP3 player as well as an iTrip (see earlier entry). And they don’t come more serious than an 80G iPod. There’s room for 20,000 songs but you don’t have to fill it with just music – podcasts and audiobooks can be even better for a long journey.
Where from: Apple (0800 039 1010; store.apple.com)
How much: £238.99

18. Professor Puzzle’s Mind Bending Compendium
“This set of four metal puzzles will keep the kids baffled as they try to untangle differentshaped puzzles,” says Ian. The fact that it requires no batteries and doesn’t make any electronic beeps means that this compendium is always worth putting in the glove compartment for trips in the car. A low-tech delight.
Where from: Hamleys (0800 280 2444; www.hamleys.co.uk)
How much: £12.99

19. In-car kettle
“Service-station tea and coffee can so often be prohibitively expensive and disappointing,” warns Sophie. “Making up to four cups, this kettle will not only save your pennies, but you can even take your favourite tea bags.” It comes with cups that fit into the kettle for easy storage and a compartment in the handle holds a spoon and fork. Just don’t attempt to make a cuppa when you’re in the fast lane of the motorway.
Where from: www.motormania.co.uk
How much: £8

20. CPW 603
Big brands can often mean big prices so shop around when you’re looking for phone accessories, Carphone Warehouse makes its own Bluetooth headsets, including this wellpriced model. It may be cheap, but it delivers nine hours of chat and has 220 hours of standby. You can also get advice in-store about how to use it if you’re a Bluetooth newbie. A high-street must-have.
Where from: www.carphonewarehouse.com
How much: £29.99

21. Gowrings Mobility UK Road Atlas by Freddie Talberg

Subtitled “the Essential Parking and Motoring Guide for Blue Badge Holders”, this is a useful buy for disabled drivers. It’s a dedicated UK road atlas for Blue Badge holders, detailing accessible accommodation, beaches, parking rules, and concessions across the UK. Also by the same author is the London Blue Badge guide for more specific advice on the capital.
Where from: www.amazon.co.uk
How much: £12.99

22. Sony iPod Ready in Car CD
For MP3 converts who want to update their car stereos cheaply, Sony’s iPod Ready stereo is an inexpensive and straightforward way to do it. As well as playing CDs, it has an input for iPods (or other MP3 players) and an FM/MW/LW digital tuner with 30 station presets. If you’re willing to up your budget, there’s a Bluetooth version for £249 that Argos will fit for you.
Where from: Argos (0870 600 3030; www.argos.co.uk)
How much: £99.99

23. Rush Hour
An incredibly appropriate game for automotive odysseys, Rush Hour is all about avoiding car chaos. “Move a police car, fire truck, bus, jeep and cars out of nightmare traffic jams,” says Ian. “Then try to complete the challenges from the fiendish challenge cards.” It’s simple to learn but brilliantly tricky to master.
Where from: www.amazon.co.uk
How much: £14.99

24. Compact and lightweight digital tyre inflator
Keep this in your boot – it’s much easier to inflate tyres to the correct pressure at home on the driveway that it is on route. It inflates tyres quickly and automatically switches off when the desired tyre pressure is reached. It’s lightweight and compact and its makers recommend it especially for cars fitted with a space-saver spare tyre.
Where from: The Ultimate Finish (0845 838 1200; www.theultimatefinish.co.uk)
How much: £24.95

25. Sony Ericsson HBH-GV435
The microphone of this Bluetooth headset nestles behind your ear, rather than halfway down your cheek, making it a more discreet option than some of the hands-free face furniture out there. It has an automatic volume-adjustment feature, which means that it effectively compensates for noise when you move into a loud environment. Agreat mid-range Bluetooth buy.
Where from: Sony Ericsson (08705 237237; www.sonyericsson.co.uk)
How much: £49.99

26. Mac desktop widgets
Mac users planning a journey should check out the desktop widgets devoted to driving. Widgets are mini-applications that you download on to your desktop that allowyou to check out webpages instantly. Good ones for drivers are UK motorway news, UK travel news and JamCam. PC users can also get in on the act too by Googling widgets for PCs.
Where from: www.apple.com/downloads/dashboard
How much: free

27. Alpine iDA-X001 Digital Media Receiver
If you’re willing to spend a bit more on upgrading your car stereo to become iPodfriendly, this is a great buy, especially since it’s reduced from £299. You can control it just like your iPod – the menus are navigable exactly like the iPod, all the search options are the same and you can even view album art as you would on the iPod. It has radio options, but no CD function.
Where from: In-Car Express (01223 750700; www.incarexpress.co.uk)
How much: £237.99

28. Cube World
One for budding megalomaniacs everywhere, Cube World gives children the chance to meddle with miniature worlds. “Play with one cube or build a world,” suggests Ian. “Inside are crazy stick characters who play and interact with each other and are fascinating to watch.” The more cubes you buy, the more stick people there are to play with – you have been warned.
Where from: Firebox (0844 922 1010; www.firebox.com)
How much: from £14.95 for two

29. E:Can
“This gadget plugs into your cigarette lighter to turn it into a plug socket and USB charger,” says Sophie. “It’s useful if you can’t switch off from work and need to recharge your mobile or laptop, or even to keep kids quiet with computer games or portable DVD players in the back of the car.” It fits neatly into a car’s cupholder and produces 150W of power.
Where from: A1 Motor Stores (01455 822000; ww.a1motorstores.co.uk)
How much: £29.99 (till 31 Aug; usual RRP is £39.99)

30. Parrot MINIKIT
Although it’s designed to clip to your car’s sun visor, the Parrot MINIKIT can be attached pretty much anywhere in your car or, when you’re back in the office, sits on your desk as a hands-free speaker. It’s hard to mess this one up – it’s easy to set up and use, it lacks complicated buttons and it has straightforward instructions.
Where from: Parrot (0121-250 3570; www.parrot.biz)
How much: £49.98

31. Sony NV-U82
“Great for drivers heading to Europe, this satnav from Sony means there’s no faffing around with endless maps,” says Carl. The NV-U82 is pre-loaded with individual country maps stored in its internal 512MB Flash memory and comes with a new memory stick slot for adding new maps quickly. It can also automatically monitor real-time broadcasts of Traffic Message Channel for traffic jams or hold-ups.
Where from: Sony (0870 511 1999; www.sonystyle.co.uk)
How much: £249.99

32. PSP
More than just a hand-held games device, the PSP – PlayStation Portable – is a music player, mini-cinema and can even be used to surf the internet. Upload music and photos using a memory stick or pop in a UMD (Universal Media Disc) to watch films. Invest in a speaker system if you want to share your tunes or plug in some headphones to give other passengers some peace and quiet. Available in black, white or pink.
Where from: HMV (0845 603 8576; www.hmv.co.uk)
How much: £129.99

33. Hamleys Magnetic Travel Games
“A collection of modern, eye-catching designs of all the old favourites including chess, backgammon, Sudoku and 4 in a Row,” explains Ian. “They’re timeless games that everyone wants to play.” Best of all, the fact that they’re magnetic means there’s less chance of losing all the pieces under the car seat in front.
Where from: Hamleys (0800 280 2444; www.hamleys.com)
How much: £6.99

34. Aircheckers
“Increase you car’s fuel economy and stay roadworthy by checking the air pressure in your tyres before any long car journey,” advises Carl. This new device eliminates the guesswork of determining the correct tyre pressure for your car. They’re easy-to-install replacement valve caps that constantly monitor your car’s tyre pressure with clear, bright colour indicators. But make sure you always carry a spare tyre just in case.
Where from: TPM Systems (01785 603010; www.thetyrepressuremonitor.com)
How much: £17.95 for four

35. Flipper-style holder
An easy way to go hands-free in the car is by using this simple phone-holder. It attaches to the dashboard with adhesive tape and fits all phones. Not only will it stop your phone from sliding under your seat if you do a sharp turn, you can speak hands-free using your phone’s loudspeaker function without getting into trouble.
Where from: Speeding (0845 230 7071; www.speeding.co.uk)
How much: £4.99

36. CoPilot Live 6
“For drivers who don’t want to splash out on a stand-alone sat-nav, the CoPilot Live 6 for mobiles and pocket PCs is a great buy,” says Carl. As well as the turn-by-turn voice guidance you’d expect, there are real-time traffic alerts available for T-Mobile customers and an integrated speed camera warning system.
Where from: ALK Technologies (www.alk.com/copilot)
How much: from free with contract

37. Xoro DVD player
“Keep the sprogs quiet when even I-Spy has failed with a DVD player that clips on to a seat back,” advises Carl. The Xoro HSD 7500 plays all manner of CDs, DVDs and photo disks but parents will love it for the carrying case which can be strapped to the head-rest. Comes with a remote control, built-in stereo speakers and headphones.
Where from: iwoot (0870 241 1066; www.iwoot.com)
How much: £199.99

38. 50 Things to Do on a Journey
A firm favourite with parents in The Independent’s offices, this game consists of 50 cards with ideas for games that don’t need much equipment. Choose a card and follow the simple instructions. Tasks include drawing pictures (so make sure you have some crayons handy), making silly noises and telling stories. And £5.99 is a bargain price to pay for 50 fun ways to pass the time on any journey.
Where from: Letterbox (0870 600 7878; www.letterbox.co.uk)
How much: £5.99

39. Driver Alert
Designed with long journeys and safety in mind, this device will ensure you stay awake at the wheel if you start to nod off when driving. It will alert you with a powerful beep if your head drops forward while the car is in motion, making for a safe journey all the way to your destination. “A life-saver for long journeys,” says Carl.
Where from: Maplin (0870 429 6000; www.maplin.co.uk)
How much: £4.99

40. Motorola T305
This dinky little Bluetooth speaker clips on to your car’s sun visor and because controls are all virtually through one button, you’re in no danger of being pulled over for using it. It lets you voice-dial and promises up to 14 hours of talk time and 14 days of stand-by. Plus it’s easy to switch it to another vehicle.
Where from:  Motorola (0800 015 1151; www.motorola.com/uk)
How much: £49.99

41. Regionaltraffic.co.uk
Google Maps provides a wealth of information on anything and everything – traffic included. This site allows you to view live feeds for traffic updates anywhere in the UK, and perhaps avoid that nine-mile tailback. The site checks for incidents and lists them in order of severity. Be sure to log on before leaving on a long journey.
Where from: Regionaltraffic.co.uk
How much: free

42. Archos 604 wifi
There are so many features packed into this little media player that it’s hard to know where to begin. Video playback, TV downloads, music, email and photos are all here plus an impressive amount of memory to store them all – 30G, which translates as 25 films, 300,000 photos or 8,000 songs. It also has a 4.3in touch screen and web capabilities.
Where from: www.amazon.co.uk
How much: £229.99

43. Bananagrams
Ian Lloyd-Gibbs says that Bananagrams is a must-have for back-seat boffins. “This quirky award-winning anagram game is like Scrabble without the board. It comes in a yellow cotton banana-shaped bag and is great fun for all ages.” And when the journey’s over, take it with you for impromptu games at the dinner table.
Where from: Kidestore (08708 745437; www.kidestore.co.uk)
How much: £14.99

44. Travel cushtie
“This travel cushion squishes up to a tiny size and is incredibly comfy,” says Sophie. “It’s a lifesaver for sending restless children off to the land of Nod for a few hours on a long journey or for anyone taking a break from driving and having a nap in a layby.” As we all know, tired drivers are more likely to be involved in an accident so stash one of these in your car for a strategic sleep.
Where from: iwoot (0870 241 1066; www.iwoot.com)
How much: £5.99

45. Nokia car kit pack
A good price for a hands free package. This set includes a Bluetooth headset, phone holder and a charger that fit with most Nokia phones (check the site before buying to see which models this is compatible with). Simple to use, this is an inexpensive way to talk on the move without getting points on your licence. Also available from this website is a version for Sony Ericcson phones for the same price.
Where from: www.mobilefun.co.uk
How much: £27.95

46. Michelin Europe Tourist and Motoring Atlas
Fancy satellite-navigation systems are all well and good but it’s always wise to keep a good oldfashioned map handy. This dinky 96-page A5 map is small enough to fit into even the most packed car and is easy to read thanks to its spiral spine. The scale is eight miles to one inch, so you may have to squint to read it but it’s a good backup map.
Where from: Maps Worldwide (01225 707004; www.mapsworldwide.com)
How much: £5.99 (Spiral Bound)

47. Rubik’s Cube
“The 1980s puzzle is still going strong, finding a new generation of kids who are still fascinated with this puzzle,” says Ian. “There’s not that many toys you can say that about!” Make sure that no one cheats by peeling off the stickers and be sure to duck where it’s hurled into the air in frustration. Also available in a mini-key ring version.
Where from: Amazon (0800 279 6620; www.amazon.co.uk)
How much: £12.99

48. In-car charger
Keep your phone charged on a long journey by using an in-car universal mobile phone charger. Simply plug one into your cigarette lighter and keep your phone charged for any eventuality. This one comes with tips to fit Nokia, Samsung, Motorola and Sony Ericsson phones and it’s worth stashing one somewhere on board for any journey.
Where from: Maplin (0870429 6000; www.maplin.co.uk)
How much: £24.95

49. Jabra JX10 Headset
Stylish and lightweight aren’t normally adjectives used to describe Bluetooth headsets – ugly and chunky tend to be more appropriate. However, the Jabra JX10 is a joy to behold and to use. Weighing just 10 grams, it gives six hours of talk time and is easy to set up.
Where from: Amazon (0800 279 6620; www.amazon.co.uk)
How much: £49.93

50. Macally FMCup FM Transmitter
Charge your iPod and listen to it at the same time by using this gadget. It slips into a cup-holder and keeps your iPod secure while you’re driving as well as letting you listen to it through the car radio. This Macally FMCup and FM transmitter and charger can be used with all sizes of iPod and also works with portable CD players.
Where from: iWorld (020-8408 1259; shop.ipodworld.co.uk)
How much: £36.49