It’s that time where many of us procrastinators and difficult-people-to-buy-gifts-for havers are beginning to scramble for last minute ideas, and today we’re hoping to help. Here’s a collection of items and accessories that can still be seen as thoughtful and actually useful to the recipient, so they don’t need to know you bought it out of desperation. Let’s dig in!
Portable Car Jump Starter: Great for winter, for people who have an extra vehicle that doesn’t get driven often, vintage car owners, and more. At best a “jump pack” is convenient, and at worst it can save someone from a dead battery in the middle of nowhere, in the bitter cold, no cell reception, and there are wolves howling in the distance.
Floor Mats and/or Seat covers: From the basics of protecting a car’s interior to giving it a little pizzazz, if you feel confident in knowing the person’s personality, there are near endless possibilities of colors and patterns out there. This can also be a great option for people with kids, as cleaning up smashed snacks, bursted juice boxes, and muddy feet from the upholstery is far easier.
Car Vacuum Cleaner: We’ve all seen handheld vacuums, but there are specialized automotive ones out there, they come with unique attachments and have a slender shape so you can get into tighter spots. Again, they’re great for any car owner, but perfect for people with children and pets.
Dash Cams: These are becoming more prevalent out in the wild, a dash camera can do more than slingshot the user to internet fame, they can also potentially protect the user against potential false accusations in regards to a traffic incident, possibly offer an insurance discount depending on the provider, and more in the realm of fun: document road trips, capture wildlife encounters, and show off driving skills for enthusiasts. Beyond this, fancier models can have driver assist features like lane departure and collision warnings, as well as the ability to monitor your vehicle while it’s parked.
Stocking Stuffers
Car Window Breaker and Seatbelt Cutter: This could potentially seem grim, but what says, “I care about you,” more than a specialized tool for escaping a vehicle? Also, it’s highly unlikely they’ll A. have one already, or B. someone else will have bought them the same thing, Plus, even nice ones are inexpensive, and, hey, they make for a cool conversation starter.
Tire Pressure Gauge: Old reliable here, every car should probably have one, yet surprisingly few do. This is great for the younger crowd, as it can help them at least learn one of the absolute basics of car ownership.
First Aid Kit: Having a compact first aid kit, well, might not fit inside a stocking, but a person will always be glad to have it when the need arrives.
Auto Detail Gift Card: Who doesn’t love getting into a nice, clean car? Whether your lucky gift givee has a beloved classic or simply view their vehicle as a tool to get from A to B, they’ll surely appreciate a professional detail. We happen to have a detail shop by the way, in case this suggestion strikes your fancy.
We sincerely hope that we provided a useful idea or two, or at least sparked something for you. Best of luck on your search, and we wish you the virtue of temperance as you dive into the holiday shopping crowds. As always, take care out there and be safe!