I didn’t realize how much I needed a mini trash can until I got one. I use a small, lidded car trash bin that fits between seats (or you can hang it behind the front seat), and it’s been life-changing — especially with kids in the back. Fast food wrappers, Starbucks receipts, gum, snack bags... everything used to end up in cup holders or on the floor. Now, I just empty it every few days and my car always feels cleaner.
Everyone should have a reliable flashlight in their glovebox — not your phone, a real flashlight. I have a USB-rechargeable one that also has a magnetic base and side light. It’s helped me find a dropped phone under the seat, change a tire in the dark, and once even helped someone jump their car in a poorly lit garage. It doesn’t take up much space, and it’s one of those items you never regret having when the time comes.
I'll recommend the Coast XP9R flashlight. Rechargeable via USB-C, 1200 lumens, magnetic base, and weather-resistant. It’s small but powerful, and the side floodlight feature is super handy for hands-free roadside tasks.
What’s one item you keep in your car that everyone should have?
daily driver in a city
$50
compact and glove-box/trunk friendly
easy to store
actually useful more than once a year
would love a mix of tech, utility, and comfort recs
I’m building a ‘just-in-case’ car kit and want genuinely useful items that’ve saved your day — not just emergency stuff, but practical everyday wins.
I didn’t realize how much I needed a mini trash can until I got one. I use a small, lidded car trash bin that fits between seats (or you can hang it behind the front seat), and it’s been life-changing — especially with kids in the back. Fast food wrappers, Starbucks receipts, gum, snack bags... everything used to end up in cup holders or on the floor. Now, I just empty it every few days and my car always feels cleaner.
Everyone should have a reliable flashlight in their glovebox — not your phone, a real flashlight. I have a USB-rechargeable one that also has a magnetic base and side light. It’s helped me find a dropped phone under the seat, change a tire in the dark, and once even helped someone jump their car in a poorly lit garage. It doesn’t take up much space, and it’s one of those items you never regret having when the time comes.
I'll recommend the Coast XP9R flashlight. Rechargeable via USB-C, 1200 lumens, magnetic base, and weather-resistant. It’s small but powerful, and the side floodlight feature is super handy for hands-free roadside tasks.