Car Accessories Worth Having: A Practical List

The car accessories most worth having are a dash cam, a secure phone mount, a tyre inflator with a pressure gauge, a basic emergency kit and some rubber floor mats. Most cost little, and several make you safer or save you money.

This is a practical list for everyday UK driving, from the school run to a winter motorway trip. You do not need everything here, so start with what suits how you drive.

Which car accessories are actually useful?

1. Dash cam

Footage can help settle an insurance claim or show what happened in a collision. A front and rear camera covers the most common incidents. Fit it so it does not block your view of the road.

2. Phone mount

A mount keeps your phone in view for navigation. The law says you must not hold or use a hand-held phone while driving, so set your route before you set off. See the GOV.UK rules on phones.

3. Tyre inflator and pressure gauge

Correct tyre pressures improve grip, braking and fuel economy. A small 12-volt inflator with a digital gauge makes monthly checks easy. Your car's correct pressures are usually inside the fuel flap or driver's door.

4. Emergency kit

Keep a torch, warning triangle, jump leads or a jump starter, a first aid kit and a hi-vis vest in the boot. In winter, add a blanket, ice scraper, de-icer, water and a snack.

5. All-weather floor mats

Rubber mats catch mud and water and protect the carpets, which helps when you come to sell the car.

6. Boot liner or organiser

Stops shopping, sports kit and dog hair from spreading around the boot.

7. Reusable dehumidifier bag

A simple moisture-absorbing pad helps reduce misted windows on damp mornings.

8. Sunshades for rear windows

Useful for young passengers on sunny days. Do not fit anything that blocks the driver's view through the windscreen or front side windows.

9. Puncture repair kit

Many newer cars come with a sealant kit instead of a spare wheel. Check what your car has and learn how to use it before you need it.

10. Steering wheel lock or tracker

A visible steering lock is a simple deterrent. Some insurers may ask about approved trackers on higher-value cars. Our guide to car security has more ideas.

Which accessories should I avoid?

Avoid anything that hangs from the mirror or sits on the dashboard where it could block your view or fly forward under braking. Cheap plug-in gadgets can drain the battery if left connected, and seat covers that block side airbags are a safety risk.

Common questions

Do I need to tell my insurer about a dash cam?

Usually not, but some insurers ask about them, and some modifications must be declared. If unsure, ask your insurer.

Is it legal to have a phone mount on the windscreen?

Yes, as long as it does not block your view of the road and you do not hold or interact with the phone while driving.

What should I keep in the car for winter?

A scraper, de-icer, blanket, torch, phone charger, water and snacks. Read our winter driving tips.

Getting your car ready in Barnsley?

anycolourcar.com is based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Our service centre can check your tyres, battery and lights; call 01226 574321. Browse our car care guides or see the cars in stock.

Updated October 2026.