By Kap Maceda Aguila
CHRISTMAS is right around the corner and you’re still clueless about what to give your friends and family? Well, if they drive their own set of wheels, that’s a good lead right there. Here are a few essentials that motorists will definitely appreciate getting.
DASHBOARD CAMERA
Protect yourself from imbeciles on the road claiming it was your fault. Procure a quality dash camera like the DDPAI M4 for added peace of mind. The wireless product is easy to install via a magnetic interface, and even provides a social community platform for “users to share videos and photos on the road.” If you’re looking for bare functionality, we suggest to at least get a unit that returns good images even at night.
CUBBY/ORGANIZER
As we are spending an inordinate amount on the road, some of our cars have now become our veritable bedroom — and sometimes in a bad way. Lugging a lot of our stuff (including on-the-go munchies) into the vehicle often means a lot of mess. Get an organizer for your friends. There are ones that hang from the back of the seats, or tray-type products that can be slid under the driver or passenger seat. Trunk organizers are also a good idea, as with the slim pockets that slide beside the car seat and prevent items from falling into the virtual twilight zone that’s just (almost) impossible to reach.
CAR WAX
This is perfect for DIY-ers who prefer to wax their own car. Caveat: Make sure that it’s the type he/she wants; fish for information.
CLEANING CLOTHS
Who wouldn’t love a pristine set of cleaning cloths? Go for the soft, non-abrasive microfiber type that won’t scratch exterior and interior surfaces.
CAR VACUUM CLEANER
Neat freak or not, friends or family members will surely appreciate a portable vacuum cleaner. There’s actually a dearth of these lifesavers that conveniently draw power from the 12-volt socket of the car. Choose one from a reputable maker so you can be sure you’re getting your money’s worth.
AIR IONIZER
This helps fight those undesirable odors in the vehicle — destroying them, instead of masking the stink like ordinary air fresheners do. A good-quality ionizer will also neutralize mold, bacteria and viruses. Now, isn’t that just wonderful?
DETAILING SESSION
Show your beloved just how much you care by taking him/her to the local detailing shop for some precious pampering for the auto.
STEREO HEAD UNIT
You don’t really have to break the piggy bank if you choose wisely. Take advantage of yuletide offers on slightly older (but quality) models. Should you have some funds left over, use them to upgrade speakers, too. Your motorist will love you for it.
PILLOWS
How about a neck pillow, or one that a driver can slip behind his/her lower back? These are crucial areas that need support as driving-related pain is on the rise from all the hours we’re logging behind the wheel.
PHONE MOUNT
Unobtrusive phone holders have now become a must — especially with the implementation of the Anti-Distracted Driving Law. Get the type that relies on a strong magnet and can be easily installed outside the line of sight.
