Having kids between the ages of 2 to 8 can turn a regular car trip into a logistical puzzle. Between heavy traffic, unpredictable weather, and bumpy roads, it’s essential to have car accessories that ensure safety, comfort, and convenience.
Here are 10 car accessories that’ll save your sanity and turn your car into a kid-friendly haven.
1. Backseat Organizer with Tablet Holder
This is like the Swiss Army knife of car accessories. It holds snacks, toys, and your kid’s favorite shows all in one place. Perfect for keeping them entertained while you’re stuck in EDSA traffic.
- Why it’s useful: You don’t want random toys flying around while you’re driving.
- Perfect for: Ages 2-8 (because every kid loves snacks and screen time).
- Estimated Price: ₱500 – ₱1,200
- Link: Backseat Organizer
2. Car Seat Travel Tray
This is basically a portable dining table/toy station for the car. Kids can draw, snack, or build a Lego masterpiece while you focus on dodging potholes.
- Why it’s useful: Keeps their hands busy and your car clean(er).
- Perfect for: Ages 3-8, but my 2-year-old likes it too.
- Estimated Price: ₱300 – ₱1,200
- Link: Car Seat Travel Tray
3. Sunshade Window Covers
If your kid’s ever yelled “It’s too hot, Daddy!” while you’re driving, you need these. They block out the blazing sun and keep the car cooler.
- Why it’s useful: Less whining about the heat. More chill.
- Perfect for: Ages 2-8.
- Estimated Price: ₱200 – ₱800
- Link: Sunshade Window Covers
4. Car Seat Protector Mat
Got a kid who loves snacks but also loves dropping them? This mat is for you. It goes under their car seat to catch crumbs and spills.
- Why it’s useful: Saves your car’s upholstery from looking like a disaster zone.
- Perfect for: Ages 2-8.
- Estimated Price: ₱250 – ₱800
- Link: Car Seat Protector Mat
5. Portable Car Vacuum Cleaner
Ever tried picking up crumbs with your hands? Don’t. Get a portable vacuum cleaner and zap those crumbs away before they become permanent.
- Why it’s useful: Keeps the car kid-mess-free, or as close as you can get.
- Perfect for: All ages.
- Estimated Price: ₱600 – ₱1,800
- Link: Portable Car Vacuum Cleaner
6. Kick Mats
If your kid thinks your car seats are punching bags for their feet, kick mats will save your life. They strap on to the back of your seat to catch all those lovely kicks.
- Why it’s useful: Because cleaning mud off your seat isn’t how you want to spend your weekend.
- Perfect for: Ages 3-8 (though my little kicker is already at it at 2).
- Estimated Price: ₱400 – ₱900
- Link: Kick Mats
7. Car Trash Can
Without this, the backseat will turn into a trash heap in no time. This small, leak-proof trash can is a game-changer for snack wrappers and juice boxes.
- Why it’s useful: Keeps things neat-ish.
- Perfect for: All ages (because kids make trash at any age).
- Estimated Price: ₱200 – ₱600
- Link: Car Trash Can
8. Seat Belt Pillow
Once your kiddo falls asleep, they’ll lean on this soft pillow instead of having their head flop around. Plus, it makes the seatbelt comfy.
- Why it’s useful: Helps avoid the “Dad, my neck hurts!” complaint.
- Perfect for: Ages 4-8 (or younger if your kid’s a car napper).
- Estimated Price: ₱350 – ₱800
- Link: Seat Belt Pillow
9. Car Neck Pillow
If you’ve ever woken up from a car nap with a sore neck, this is for your kid. These pillows make naps in the car a whole lot cozier.
- Why it’s useful: Keeps their head from flopping forward while they sleep.
- Perfect for: Ages 3-8.
- Estimated Price: ₱120 – ₱800
- Link: Car Neck Pillow
10. Emergency Roadside Kit
Kids or no kids, you need this. Comes with tools, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. You never know when you’ll get stuck.
- Why it’s useful: Because driving in the Philippines means expecting the unexpected.
- Perfect for: Parents, because you’re the one fixing stuff.
- Estimated Price: ₱1,100 – ₱3,000
- Link: Emergency Roadside Kit
These accessories will make your life easier as a car parent in the metro, especially when battling traffic, unpredictable weather, and those adorable but messy little co-passengers. Stay sane and drive safe!