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If you missed my top 6 car essentials for teen drivers, be sure to check out this post.
There will always be more things to add when it comes to preparedness – especially when it comes to your kids. Once you’ve wrapped your head around the things you most want your teen driver to have with them, you can start to add things slowly. This list contains 11 more teen driver car essentials – in no particular order.
Some of these would make very easy stocking stuffer ideas! Maybe not the most fun gift, but if you’re like me, you like to mix in some practical items.
This will certainly come in handy if your teen is stuck on the side of the road or running errands. But it will also be greatly appreciated if they’re out on a date and it starts raining just when they’re heading into a movie theater.
I think this one is self explanatory, but one helpful tip is to go through the kit with your teen driver. It’s important that they know what they have in case they need it. Bandaids will always be a car essential. If you’re looking for a one-and-done first aid kit, I really like this one from Amazon. (affiliate link)
Yes – these are safe to keep in your car. Just be sure to check the heat rating on the label.
So handy for those random moments you need to jot something down – an address, phone number, directions, etc. Keep them in the middle console, glove compartment or side of the door.
Consider adding in a few copies of these car emergency printables, so your teen driver knows exactly what information to ask for if they find themselves in a fender bender.
Electronics stop working, GPS gets glitchy. That’s just a reality. Has your teen ever seen a paper map? Teach them how to read one and make sure they have one with some of the major streets in your local area.
I really like the Rand McNally Road Atlas.(affiliate link)
A funnel (affiliate link) will come in handy for things like anti-freeze, windshield wiper fluid, or engine oil. Be sure to look up what type of oil your teens’ car takes, and throw a quart in the trunk!
There are a lot of adults who don’t know how to read a tire gauge, so make sure to help your teen driver know how to read one and where to find the appropriate air pressure for their specific tires.
Have you ever been stuck with a flat tire? Yeah, it’s not a fun experience trying to decide if you can safely make it to a gas station with a functioning air pump. A manual air pump is a great idea to help in a pinch. If you want to get real fancy, this electric one is AWESOME! (affiliate link)
Tools are just a good idea in most emergency kits. Again, this is another opportunity to make sure your teen driver knows basic life skills. At some point, most people will need to use a hammer or screwdriver. I like this tool kit from Amazon. (affiliate link)
Running out of gas is no fun for anyone. But at least your teen driver will have this car essential when they need to make an emergency gas station run. And they’ll be in a position to help someone else! I think a 2-gallon gas can is a good size – not too big in the trunk, but big enough to hold enough gas to get you to a gas station to fill up the rest of the way.
This one comes with a caveat – it’s not legal everywhere, so be sure to check your local regulations.
Having said that, I love having pepper spray (affiliate link) in my car, and I think it’s a great non-lethal way to feel more secure.
When your teen driver is equipped with these car essentials, you’ll feel better when they drive away and they’ll feel more confident knowing they have what they need for emergencies that pop up.
Holidays and birthdays are a great time to put together a car essentials gift basket for your teen driver. Use the items in this list or check out this list of ideas for a new driver gift basket.
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Gear up for a worry-free summer with this comprehensive guide on creating the ultimate summer car kit! Discover essential items to beat the heat, stay hydrated, and ensure your vehicle is ready for the sunny adventures ahead. From sunblock and hydration essentials to car maintenance tips, this post will help make sure your summer journeys safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. Prepare your vehicle, pack smart, and hit the road with confidence – the perfect summer road trip awaits!
If you want self-sufficient kids, there are so many important life skills they need to know. Keeping track of important information is part of launching your teen into adulthood.
