Becoming a new driver is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with responsibilities. As a new driver in the UK, it’s essential to equip your car with the right accessories to ensure your safety, comfort, and overall driving experience. Whether you’re navigating busy city streets, tackling long road trips, or just getting to grips with your car, the right accessories can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
In this article, we will discuss the Car Accessories for Young Drivers in the UK, including safety features, must-have gadgets, and useful items that can make you feel more comfortable on the road.
1. Dash Cam
A dash cam is one of the most useful accessories for any new driver. It captures video of your journey, providing protection in the event of accidents or disagreements, and can be a genuine asset in the case of a road traffic accident.
Features:
High-definition video: Offers clear video, even in poor light.
Loop recording: Automatically deletes old video when storage is full.
Wide-angle lens: Records a wider field of vision, such as events occurring in front of your car.
Popular Choices in the UK:
Nextbase 522GW Dash Cam: A popular brand with a high-definition 1440p resolution, parking mode, and an integrated GPS tracker.
Garmin Dash Cam 56: Small and simple to use, with a high-quality 1440p resolution and integrated voice control.
Advantages:
Accident protection: Offers proof in the event of a dispute or accident.
Peace of mind: Provides reassurance that you're protected in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
2. Parking Sensors
Parking is tricky for new drivers, particularly reversing into small spaces or parallel parking. Parking sensors can make parking less stressful, safer, and easier.
Features:
Audible warnings: Beeps to notify you as you move closer to an object.
Range of sensors: Sensors fitted to the rear or front bumper deliver precise distance measurements.
Parking camera integration: There are some models that include a rearview camera to provide you with a wider view of the parking space.
Popular Choices in the UK:
Parkmate PDS-4 Parking Sensors: A good value and dependable solution that gives you audible warnings as you're getting too close to an object.
Auto-Car Parking Sensors: These sensors offer audible warnings and a visual warning for added safety.
Advantages:
Improved safety: Prevents collisions when reversing or parking.
Convenience: It simplifies parking for new drivers who might not feel confident enough yet to handle manoeuvring within small spaces.
3. Bluetooth Car Kit
As a new driver, it is crucial to keep your eyes on the road, but sometimes you will have to answer calls or listen to music during your drive. A Bluetooth car kit allows you to link your smartphone to your vehicle's sound system, and with it, you can enjoy hands-free calls and music streaming.
Features:
Hands-free calling: Keep safe and within UK legal requirements when making or taking calls.
Music streaming: Enjoy your favorite playlists without having to remove your hands from the wheel.
Voice control: Most kits enable you to control music and calls using voice commands.
UK Best Sellers:
Jabra Freeway Bluetooth Car Speakerphone: A premium, simple-to-install Bluetooth speaker that offers good sound quality for calls and music.
Anker Roav Bluetooth Receiver: A tiny and inexpensive option for non-Bluetooth vehicles, providing hands-free calls and streaming music.
Advantages:
Safety: Enables you to make a call without the need to handle your phone.
Convenience: Offers convenient access to music and calls without the need to distract you from driving.
4. Car Phone Holder
A car phone holder is an easy but necessary accessory for new drivers, as it makes it possible to utilize your phone for music or directions without having to hold it.
Features:
Adjustable arms: Accommodates most phone sizes comfortably.
360-degree rotation: Allows you to position your phone at the best viewing position.
Easy installation: Can be fixed on the dashboard, air vents, or windscreen.
Best Sellers in the UK:
iOttie Easy One Touch 5: A practical car phone mount that has a firm hold and an adjustable viewing angle.
WizGear Magnetic Car Mount: A simple yet tiny magnetic phone holder that provides instant access to your phone.
Benefits:
Hands-free navigation: Allows you to utilize your phone as a GPS without distraction.
Increased convenience: Keeps your phone in a safe and accessible place.
5. Portable Jump Starter
Car breakdowns are stressful, particularly for inexperienced drivers who are not yet accustomed to car breakdowns. A portable jump starter is a handy accessory that will enable you to get back on the road immediately in case of a dead battery.
Features:
Lightweight and compact: Can be easily stowed in your glove compartment or boot.
Various charging modes: Can charge phones, tablets, or other devices in emergency situations.
Safety features: Many models have built-in protection to prevent overcharging or short circuits.
Popular Options in the UK:
NOCO Boost Plus GB40 Jump Starter: A compact and powerful jump starter that can jump-start most 12V vehicles.
DBPOWER 800A Portable Jump Starter: Offers multiple charging options and can jump-start vehicles up to 7L in size.
Benefits:
Peace of mind: You’ll be prepared in case your battery dies while out on the road.
Convenience: Can save you time and hassle by starting your car without having to use roadside assistance.
6. Car Emergency Kit
Unforeseen accidents, breakdowns, and other emergencies may occur. A car emergency kit is a useful accessory for new drivers, with the equipment you need to handle minor road issues.
Features:
Basic tools: Features jumper cables, tire repair kits, and a flashlight.
First aid supplies: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other basic medical supplies.
Roadside emergency equipment: Equipment such as a reflective triangle, gloves, and emergency blankets.
Most Popular in the UK:
AA Emergency Kit: An all-around kit containing all the essentials you may need in the event of a roadside emergency.
Draper 68825 Car Emergency Kit: The kit contains jump leads, a tire inflator, a first aid kit, and other basic equipment.
Advantages:
Preparedness: Allows you to manage minor car troubles or emergencies as you wait for assistance to come.
Peace of mind: Provides assurance that you're prepared for the unexpected.
7. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Keeping your tyres in good pressure ensures your safety and fuel economy. A tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) notifies you when your tyres are underinflated, thus avoiding accidents and prolonging the life of your tyres.
Features:
Real-time monitoring: Always checks the pressure in every tyre.
Easy-to-read display: Gives you easy-to-read readings of your tyre pressure.
Audible alerts: Warns you if any tyre pressure drops below the recommended level.
Popular Options in the UK:
TireMinder Smart TPMS: A wireless system that gives real-time tyre pressure readings through an app.
Carchip TPMS Kit: An affordable TPMS kit that comes with sensors and an easy-to-read display unit.
Benefits:
Safety: Avoids accidents due to underinflated tyres.
Fuel efficiency: Well-inflated tyres enhance your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
8. Sun Visor Extender
The UK does not always enjoy sunny weather, but when it does, sun glare can be a serious issue for new drivers, particularly during early morning or late afternoon drives. A sun visor extender can assist in minimizing glare and enhancing visibility, making driving more comfortable and safe.
Features:
Adjustable size: Suitable for most car models and sun visors.
UV protection: Assists in blocking harmful UV rays while minimizing glare.
Easy installation: Easy to install and remove when not needed.
Popular Choices in the UK:
Kikkerland Sun Visor Extender: An easy and cheap extender that offers extra coverage.
Titonka Universal Sun Visor Extender: Provides extended coverage and an anti-glare film for enhanced comfort.
Advantages:
Better visibility: Minimizes sun glare, allowing easier road visibility.
Comfort: Provides extra comfort for long drives under bright sunlight.
Conclusion
Equipping your car with the right accessories can help new drivers navigate the roads more safely and confidently. From dash cams and parking sensors to Bluetooth kits and emergency kits, these accessories not only enhance safety but also add convenience and comfort during your journeys. As a new driver in the UK, investing in these essential car accessories will ensure that you’re well-prepared for the road ahead.