8 Road Trip Gadgets you need for your Next Road Trip

With the summer holidays just around the corner (and Aussie borders finally opening up), now’s the time to plan that road trip. But if you want the best road trip ever, you need the right gadgets. Our top picks will ensure you have a fun and safe trip, wherever you go.

1. Smartphone Mount

There are plenty of reasons why you need a smartphone mount in the car. It keeps your phone safe, always within reach and ensures it’s easy to see without distracting you from driving. For your road trip, mount it on your dash or the windscreen so you can use your GPS app without having to look away from the road. Remember, it’s illegal to use your phone while driving unless it’s mounted. So avoid fines by always keeping it in the mount.

2. Bluetooth Handsfree Car Kit

Most cars now have the technology to link to your phone so you can make hands free calls. This can be great for keeping in contact with friends and family while you’re on your trip. But if your phone doesn’t have this feature, you don’t have to miss out. A Bluetooth handsfree car kit can be quickly and easily installed in your car, providing Bluetooth functionality in just about any vehicle. Using handsfree is the safest option for making calls while you drive — it’s also the only legal option.

3. Multi-port Car Adaptor

If you’re bringing multiple devices with you, you need a multi-port adaptor. All you need to do is bring along your cables and you can charge all your devices at once as you drive. You won’t have to worry about getting caught out with a flat phone during your trip.

4. Dash Cam

A dash cam is a great way to record your trip. But let’s be honest, how often are you ever really going to look back at that footage? A more practical use for a dash cam is for safety and insurance. Dash cams are good for insurance claims since you can show your insurance company exactly what happened if you get in an accident. This can be extremely useful to prove you’re not at fault. Choose a dash cam model that also records your location and speed to provide an even more solid claim to your insurance provider.

5. Tyre Safety Monitor

A flat tyre can spoil your trip and even cut it short. With a tyre safety monitor though, you can check your tyres throughout your journey to ensure they’re in good shape. And if not, you can get them replaced or repaired before they become a problem. Of course, don’t forget to check them before you embark on your road trip. If not, your trip might get off to a bad start.

6. Car Diagnostic Scanner

Avoid getting stranded in the middle of nowhere with this handy diagnostic scanner. You can use this scanner to check that important components of your car are functioning correctly, including the engine and ABS. If there’s a problem, you can visit a mechanic as soon as possible. Of course, you should also get your car checked before you start your road trip, rather than only relying on the scanner to warn you of problems.

7. Car GPS Tracker

Let friends and family know where you are at any time with a car GPS tracker. This tracker doesn’t require batteries — it can be plugged into your car’s onboard diagnostic system. The device can then send real-time location information to linked smartphones. And if your car is ever stolen during your trip, you can use the tracker to locate it quickly and easily.

8. Rechargeable Road Flares

If you do get into trouble and need to pull over, particularly at night, these rechargeable road flares can ensure oncoming traffic sees you. Simply attach them to or lay them around your car. This way other road users are aware there is a hazard up ahead and roadside assistance can easily find you.

All eight of these gadgets are a must-have for your next road trip. Make the most of them to have a safe and fun trip.