5 affordable car accessories you didn't know you needed

By Chad Lückhoff

We look at 5 great gadgets for the car that won't break the bank but will make your journey just that little bit better.

5 great accessories for cars

You may be looking for some gift ideas for that special someone, or maybe you're in the market for some accessories for your car. We look at a few awesome gadgets and accessories that will make your commute, trip or journey that little bit more pleasant.

Take a look at our list and hope online to shop for yourself. Most of these listings will offer delivery to your door so that you don't even need to leave the home or office. Prices correct at time of publishing.

1. Mix Box Car Seat Seam Bag - R169

Via Takealot.co.za

Everyone has lost something in the Bermuda triangle that is the gap between the seat and the centre console. Whether it's keys, change, a phone or otherwise, make sure that it never happens again with this set of car seat seam bags. Made from flexible rubber, these leather finish pouches install in seconds and give you an additional storage compartment for all your loose items.

2. Park Distance Controller - R350

Via Takealot.co.za

If you'd like the added comfort of knowing how far your car is from an obstacle when trying to park and you're not lucky enough to have a Park Distance Control (PDC) system fitted to your car, you can rectify that with this DIY, aftermarket kit. This kit will show you how far you are from the other car when reversing. Included in the kit is all you will need for a successful installation with clear, easy to follow instructions.

3. Safe Quip - DCP Fire Extinguisher - Red – R287

Via Takealot.co.za

It may not make your journey any more comfortable, but you will be able to travel with peace-of-mind knowing that you are equipped to handle a fire, should one break out. This 1kg fire extinguisher is suitable for Class A, B or C fires and its compact size means that it can easily fit under your passenger seat – should you ever need it. Rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.

4. Astrum 10,000mAh Car Jump Starter & Laptop Power Bank - R1095

Via Mantality.co.za

Batteries have a funny way of sensing when you're in a hurry. It's usually at this time that they will decide to stop holding a charge. Get yourself going again with the Astrum Car Jump Starter and Power Bank. While a little more expensive, this power bank car gets you out of a sticky situation and back on the road again without having to ask the embarrassing, “Anyone got a set of jumpers?” question.

5. Astrum Wireless FM Transmitter – R399

Via Takealot.co.za

Sure, newer cars are all fitted with Bluetooth capabilities these days, but we don't all drive new cars now, do we? Give your car Bluetooth audio streaming and telephony capabilities without having to cut a single wire. Simply plug the transmitter into the cigarette lighter socket, pair your phone, tune in the FM frequency and off you go, listening to your music, taking and making calls, all while charging up your phone. Bliss!