Searching for the perfect gift for the car enthusiast in your life? Whether you’re shopping for a new driver, a seasoned motorist, or someone learning to hit the road in 2025, our updated Top 10 Gift Ideas is packed with thoughtful inspiration. We’ve got something for everyone, including ideas for experienced drivers and even those who may need a little extra support on the road.
Most of us spend a considerable amount of time in our cars: perhaps you commute to work in your vehicle, use it to visit friends on the weekend, or ferry the kids around in it. Whatever the reason, you are in your car a lot, so it is important to ensure that it contains the essentials that will have you prepared for any eventuality. To keep yourself and your vehicle safe, pack these ten things that you should always have in your car, no matter where you are going.
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Emergency Triangle & High Vis Jacket
High visibility items are important safety tools if you break down. A high vis jacket will increase your visibility to other drivers on a motorway or busy road if you need to leave your car. An emergency triangle acts similarly when placed at safe distance (at least 45 metres) from your stationary car and can be purchased online or from a car parts shop. Remember that the Highway Code does not permit you to use an emergency triangle on a motorway. This pack covers both, a great last minute gift for the new driver in the family.
Relevant Insurance Documents
Whilst we would not recommend keeping all your car’s documents in the glove compartment due to risk of theft, it is handy to keep a paper copy of your insurance information in your vehicle. Best stored in a plastic wallet for weatherproofing, keep insurance information – including your policy number, breakdown details, and provider contact details – to hand to save you hassle in the event of a breakdown. Some providers have apps where your membership details can be saved, so consider downloading your provider’s app if available.
Seasonal Items
Pack items that will be of assistance during the relevant season in which you are travelling. In the autumn and winter, a de-icer, antifreeze, tow ropes, and even a snow shovel can help you in a weather-related incident. During the warmer months, sunglasses, suncream, and spare water bottles will be useful if you find yourself stranded on the road.
Torch
A torch is a lifesaver if you break down at night or need to make a repair to the underside of your car. To ensure your torch works when needed, purchase either a wind-up torch, or an LED model with a long-lasting battery life. Pack a couple of extra batteries in your car to be on the safe side. For only £3.50 this LED one is a great stocking filler.
Portable Phone Charger
We take our phones everywhere, and the car is no exception. Even if you charge your phone before you embark on a journey, there is still a chance that your battery can drain if you end up on the road for longer than anticipated. A portable phone charger is a great gadget to keep in your car (remember that it needs to be charged itself) and can save you from being stuck without any means of contact. Of course, do not use your phone when you are driving, as this is illegal and can cost you points on your licence and a fine.
Relevant Insurance Documents
Keep a first aid kit with basic supplies so that you are prepared for any kind of incident. A basic list to build your fist aid kit would include plasters, disinfecting wipes, bandages, and pain relief medication. It is also a good idea to store a couple of doses of any prescribed medicine that you take, just in case you unexpectedly need to stay away from home for a night or two. If you do have a medical condition, keep details of this in your first aid kit for medical personnel to easily access in an emergency. Here’s our favourite.
Car Manual
You might already have this somewhere in your car, so move your car manual to an easily accessible spot. Not only can it decode those confusing symbols that light up on your dashboard, but it will also tell you how to check your tyre pressure, change the headlight bulbs, or any other technical details you need to know. In the event of an emergency, you may be able to solve an issue yourself with the help of your car manual.
Blankets & Warm Clothing
Particularly during colder months, store blankets and spare warm clothing in your car. Even some summer nights can turn chilly, so don’t be caught out without extra layers in case of a breakdown. Blankets will also be welcomed by passengers on night trips and can save your car upholstery from muddy paws, should you take your dog with you on your journey. This waterproof find is a good option.
Water & Food
Snacks and drinks will come in handy, not just to keep all occupants happy during long journeys, but to keep your energy and hydration at safe levels for competent driving. Store food and water within easy reach to tide you over in case of traffic jams or breakdown. Spare water can also be helpful if you need to top up your radiator.
Paper Maps
Whilst we usually rely on satellite navigation or our phones to direct us, there are occasions when these digital helpers can fail, and we need to use a paper map. Keep a UK roadmap in the car and you will have a tool to fall back on should your phone battery expire or your sat nav give up on you.
Did we miss something? Share your thoughts – what’s the best car-related gift you’ve ever received? Let us know in the comments!