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Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
The Best $40 Retirees Can Spend on Accessories for a Luxury Car
Adding a few thoughtful accessories can make a luxury car feel upgraded without spending a fortune. Whether it's for added comfort, convenience or style, there are plenty of options that retirees can purchase for $40 or less. Read Next: Learn More: These small enhancements can make every drive feel a little more high-end. Price: $22.10 The two-pack of Hotor car trash cans with lids from Walmart has 30 leak-proof trash bags, blocks odors effectively with an auto shut-off lid, is made with a smooth waterproof material for easy cleanup, and fits well in cupholders or back seat pockets. Its special spring lid and decorative diamond shape make it a great accessory for retirees who own a luxury vehicle. Check Out: Price: $18.99 Lebogner steering wheel tray on Amazon is a must-have for retirees who travel. This multipurpose hook-on steering wheel tray with a cupholder will help keep a luxury car clean when eating on the go. It has a convenient tablet holder that can also hold a cellphone horizontally or vertically. Flip the steering wheel tray over, and it serves as a desk with a pen holder. Or you can use it as a flat surface area for a small laptop computer, notebook or makeup bag. It's easy to install, fits most steering wheels, comes in several colors (including black with rhinestones or a bamboo wood style) and easily stores in a back seat pocket while traveling. Price: $20.99 Retirees on the go will appreciate the durable leather organizer from Amazon for the space between the front seats of any luxury vehicle. It helps keep belongings secure and conveniently within reach. The leather organizer has an attractive diamond pattern design, two outer pockets to hold cellphones or maps, and a separate roomy pocket large enough to hold a purse. It also has four small interior pockets. Several straps keep the organizer in place, and double stitching with extra-strong Velcro helps ensure durability. Price: $26.97 This heated car blanket by Stalwart is designed to plug into a luxury vehicle's 12-volt cigarette lighter to keep retirees cozy and warm when it's cold outside. It also comes with a 96-inch long cord that can reach the backseat for travel companions and has a storage case with handles that make it easy to stow away when not in use. Pick it up in an orange plaid pattern for under $30 at Home Depot. Price: $16.99 to $22.99 The Superone retractable car charger on Amazon has two 2.6-foot retractable charging cords, one USB-C port and one USB-A port. Retirees will have access to the latest faster Apple-certified charging cord with an upgraded C89 terminal and a PPS-certified 30W super-fast 2.0 charging cord. Retirees will also enjoy the retractable charging cords, which remove the hassle of winding up charger cords and finding places to store them. It's the perfect accessory for the tech-savvy retiree who wants to keep their luxury car neat and tidy. Price: $37.99 The Podofo portable wireless CarPlay on Amazon can wirelessly integrate smartphones with Android Auto for retirees who are Android users. Retirees will be able to ride in style in their luxury vehicle with the hands-free voice control for maps, music, calls and more, making it easier and safer to use key phone features while driving. There is also a unique sunshade design to allow for easier viewing in strong light. Editor's note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location. More From GOBankingRates Do These 5 Things Before You Book Your Next Trip 9 Downsizing Tips for the Middle Class To Save on Monthly Expenses This article originally appeared on The Best $40 Retirees Can Spend on Accessories for a Luxury Car
CNN
25-06-2025
- Automotive
- CNN
The 17 best car products our editors won't drive without
Editor-loved car products quick picks So you don't lose your phone under your seat: Drop Stop Car Seat Gap Filler A tool you hopefully never have to use: Sinsen Car Safety Hammer Set So your car doesn't fill up with garbage: Hotor Car Trash Can Our favorite phone mount: ESR Qi2 Car Mount Charger So you can stop paying for air at the gas station: AstroAI Portable Tire Inflator Whether you're a daily commuter, a weekend road tripper or even just a passenger princess, the right car products can make your ride a whole lot smoother. Our editors have tested dozens of gadgets and accessories over the years, so we asked them to share the products they think are actually worth buying. From durable phone holders for keeping your GPS in view to essentials for your emergency car kit, we've got tried-and-true picks to cover every corner of your car. And if you're in deep-cleaning mode, don't miss our full guide to the best car cleaning products. Swigzy Extra-Wide Car Cup Holder Expander If some of your favorite reusable water bottles are too big for your car's cup holder, then you need this gadget. This cup holder expander allows me to keep my wide, 40-ounce water bottles (from brands like Hydro Flask and Owala) within arm's reach, whether I'm driving or being a passenger princess. It fits right into your existing cup holder, and it's surprisingly secure and easy to install. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Drop Stop Car Seat Gap Filler This product is a life changer when juggling a toddler's snack demands while navigating city traffic. No more distracted digging around for loose animal crackers or, worse, my cell phone, when everything goes flying out of the center console. — Marc Wiesyk, director, data analytics Read our review Drive Auto Car Trunk Organizer Before we got this organizer, the trunk of our car was so messy that it was impossible to find anything in there. It easily fits car cleaning supplies, emergency tools, hiking shoes, grocery bags and more. And since it comes with straps to tie it down, it always stays in place (even on bumpy rides). — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Hotor Car Trash Can Garbage piles up so quickly in the car, especially when you have a long commute or go on a road trip. This small trash can hooks onto the headrest so that you have a dedicated place to put all of your straw wrappers, used napkins and more. It definitely saves my husband and me from having constant fights about the car being messy. The same small garbage bags that I use in my bathroom trash can fit in here, so I don't need to add anything else to my Subscribe & Save order. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor Read our review WeatherTech Cargo Trunk Liner I was gifted the WeatherTech Cargo Liner a few years back, and it remains my most useful car accessory. It fits into my trunk seamlessly and has protected my interior while moving to Texas and Northern California and taking countless road trips with an overstuffed trunk. Most recently, it saved me from the never-ending task of cleaning up sand after testing beach wagons and beach umbrellas. I just pulled it out of the trunk, gave it a rinse and placed it back inside. WeatherTech offers this liner for multiple makes and models, so you can find one to fit your vehicle exactly. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer Armor All Car Cleaning Wipes If you have a dark interior, you'd be surprised at just how dirty it can get. I've been using these wipes for 20+ years, and they're an affordable way to keep your car clean. They easily and quickly wipe away all kinds of dirt and grime. I also appreciate that they don't leave my hands feeling sticky or gross. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor Smell House Paper Wrapped Anywhere Freshener After moving and a few trips to the beach, I felt like my car needed a refresh. This Smell House Anywhere Freshener in the scent Paper Wrapped does the trick. It's a powerful fragrance that actually smells good, unlike other air fresheners that emit an artificial scent. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer The Thrifty Handmade Daisy Vent Clip The majority of my time spent in the car is stuck in traffic, so I like to decorate it with things that make me happy. This handmade vent clip never fails to put a smile on my face. Plus, it's not just for show. Put a few drops of essential oil on it and you'll make your car smell great. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor Cleanwaste The Original Wag Bag Toilet Kit, 12-Pack I sometimes go backpacking and camping where you aren't allowed to dig cat holes, so I've gotten very familiar with using Wag Bags. And while I haven't had to use one in this context yet, I always keep one or two in my car just in case of an emergency. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor Sinsen Car Safety Hammer Set When I got my first car 20 years ago, the first thing my parents put in it was one of these. Thankfully, I haven't had to use it yet, but it makes me feel better knowing it's there. I keep it within arm's reach in case of an emergency. It's affordable and should be in everyone's car. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor Rightline Gear Moki Ascent Car Door Step If you load gear on top of your car on any sort of regular basis, this door step is a game changer. I'm often climbing on top of my car, whether I'm strapping up a kayak, rooftop tent or crash pads for climbing. Every time I need to get up there, I break out this little gadget and it makes accessing the roof so much easier. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor AstroAI Portable Tire Inflator If you're like me and get anxious when your tire pressure drops while you're away from home, a portable air compressor can come in clutch. Skip paying to add air to your tires at a gas station and keep this easy-to-use machine in your trunk. It pays for itself after just a few uses. Bonus: It's also great for bikes, lawn mowers, balloons and more. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel With Pick During the warm months, I love to drive on dirt roads and do a little offroading, but if there's one rule to offroading, it's that you need to be able to rescue yourself if you get stuck. I have more gear to help me do that, but one tool I think everyone should keep in their car is a foldable shovel. I have this one from Rhino USA, and I really like it because it folds up into a tiny bag that's easy to stash. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor ESR Qi2 Car Mount Charger I don't have GPS or Apple CarPlay in my car, so my phone is my only method of navigation. After testing 14 car phone holders, this one emerged as the best because it mounted my handheld in the perfect position, kept it charged and even actively cooled it with a built-in fan. If you have an iPhone 16, this identical, slightly pricier model has updated firmware optimized for the newer phone. — Joe Bloss, associate testing writer Read our review Saucemoto Dip Clip As a self-proclaimed 'sauce queen,' I consider my sauce holders a can't-drive-without car essential. No matter the origin of the sauce, the adjustable sizing ensures your ranch, honey mustard or sweet and sour sauce has a safe, accessible home in your car, ensuring many miles of delicious, drivable delights. –– Hayley Kinne, senior manager, business development Ogland Furry Steering Wheel Cover My car's name is Steven, and he has a very specific style. This furry steering wheel cover from Amazon has to be one of my favorite accessories. It's worn over time but still has a fuzzy feel I love holding onto. And yes, it's easy to drive with. The texture might not work for everyone, but we must make sacrifices for fashion. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer TeeTurtle The Original Reversible Penguin Plushmate I love this adorable stuffed penguin because it can help me process my emotions while driving. If I'm having a good day and I'm driving to a hike, he's happy. But if I'm stuck in traffic and it's raining, he's sad. Is it life-changing? No. But it brings me joy whenever I hop into my car. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainability and pet editor CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, our editorial intern Chelsea Collier asked fellow CNN Underscored staffers to share the car essentials they love driving with.
CNN
19-04-2025
- CNN
26 expert-approved travel essentials you can get for $25 or less
No matter where you're headed — whether it's a far-flung adventure or a quick getaway — having the right travel gear can make all the difference in your journey. It starts with the basics: a reliable suitcase, a spacious duffel or a well-designed travel backpack. From there, smart accessories can take your packing game to the next level. Packing cubes keep everything organized, while a cozy travel pillow or travel blanket can turn a cramped plane seat into a restful retreat. But the real game-changers? The small yet mighty travel essentials that add comfort and convenience without breaking the bank. And the best part? You don't have to spend a fortune. Here are 26 traveler-approved finds — each under $25 — that can make your next trip smoother and stress-free. Related article 49 bestselling travel accessories our readers can't stop buyingEuropean Travel Plug Adapter This versatile power strip features four USB-A ports, a USB-C port and three US plug outlets, making it easy to charge multiple devices at once. Its built-in European plug allows seamless use across Europe, while the included UK and US adapters ensure compatibility wherever you our review 4Pack Upgraded USB to USB C Adapter Travel blogger Alissa Bell of Exploring Wild notes that USB standards vary across devices, requiring multiple cables. These compact Amazon adapters solve the problem, letting her charge almost anything with any USB cable. "I don't have to worry about forgetting or losing the right cable," she says. OREI European Power Adapter Plug We love this power adapter as it works in various European countries, including France, Germany, Spain and Norway. Designed with a grounded Type E/F outlet and dual input ports, this adapter lets you plug in two devices simultaneously. Portable Worldwide Universal Power Adapter This power adapter works in hundreds of countries, so chances are it will let you charge up wherever your travels take you. Just note that it is not a voltage converter, so ensure your device is compatible. Hotor Packing Cubes for Suitcases Packing cubes help maximize space and keep your suitcase organized. These budget-friendly Hotor packing cubes, a CNN Underscored favorite, deliver great performance for just $13. The set includes six sizes, comes in four colors and is made from water-resistant our review Digital Luggage Scale Travel blogger Lindsey Puls of Have Clothes, Will Travel says a digital luggage scale is essential, even for carry-ons, as some airlines weigh them—like Safarilink did on her Kenya trip. "This scale makes packing easy and stress-free," she says. "It's very accurate, too." Reroucky 6-Pack Reusable Shopping Bags Travel blogger Allie Albanese of Parched Around the World loves exploring local markets, many of which are bag-free. She recommends this set of six Reroucky reusable bags, which hold up to 35 pounds and fold small enough for a pocket or purse. "They're lightweight and take up no luggage space," she says. iMangoo Shockproof Carrying Charger Case Keep your cords and chargers arranged and protected with this travel tech organizer from iMangoo. Underscored readers love this case because of its variety of storage space, the number of colors available and the fact that it zips shut. Mifflin-USA Luggage Tags (Assorted, 6 PK) Don't forget to invest in luggage tags that help you identify your bags at the airport. This three-pack of luggage tags comes in bright colors and has space for you to write in your name, address and phone number. Their solid construction ensures these tags won't fall off your bags while in transport, and each comes with a clear protective film that keeps your personal information from rubbing off. Mziart Portable Soft Silicone Travel Bottles Avoid messy spills with leakproof silicone travel bottles. Bell swears by these Mziart 1.3-ounce tubes, perfect for thick lotions and TSA-friendly for carry-ons. "They're my new favorite after a two-month trip," she says. Master Bag Lock Having a TSA-approved lock on your luggage is essential for securing your valuables while simultaneously granting access to security officers should they need to inspect your belongings. This option from Master Lock allows you to set a customized combination, and not only can you use it on your luggage when checked, but it can also be used to secure your travel backpack against pickpockets while exploring a new destination. Bagsmart Clear Toiletry Bag These clear toiletry bags let you stay organized while following the TSA's 3-1-1 rules for liquids packed in a carry-on bag. You can use one of the clear quart-sized bags to store makeup, skin care products, shampoo, conditioner, lotion and other travel essentials. At less than $10 for a two-pack, these clear toiletry bags are a must-have if you travel by air. Leture Leather Small Jewelry Box This travel jewelry case is ideal for people who want to bring several sets of earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces along on a trip. There's ample storage for a range of jewelry items inside, and the zipper enclosure ensures everything stays there until you need it. Not only does this case have built-in space for rings on the side, but it has several clips for hanging necklaces and open compartments for storing other small items. Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask Getting sleep while you're traveling is one of the most important ways to beat jet lag and wake up feeling refreshed and ready for a new day of exploring. Thankfully, our pick for the best overall sleep mask is less than $10 on Amazon and will help you to get the rest you need. Thanks to a nose wire, it blocks out any unwanted light, and it's soft on the eyes so you'll feel comfortable — even if you're sitting upright on a long-haul our review TRANOMOS 8-Piece Elastic Toiletry Sleeves Luxury travel planning expert Heather Christopher of HC Travel Firm says she likes taking along her favorite full-size skin care products when she travels and that having elastic toiletry covers is the key to doing so. "The silicone covers go over all of our oils, face creams and shampoo so nothing spills in our toiletry bag," she says. You'll get eight different covers included in this set at less than $10. If you're willing to spend a bit more, you can opt for one of our favorite toiletry covers, LeakLocks. Teenitor Oil Blotting Sheets Puls also says she loves bringing natural green tea oil-absorbing tissues on every trip, mostly because her face gets oily and sweaty during flights and long car rides. These little oil-blotting tissues can help keep your face looking and feeling fresh, especially when you don't have the chance to wash up with soap and water. "This is a great alternative to freshen up quickly," she says. Neutrogena Fragrance-Free Makeup Remover Wipes This pack of makeup remover wipes from Neutrogena is small and compact, so they won't take up tons of space in your bag. Each pre-moistened cleansing wipe works to dissolve traces of dirt, oil and makeup to keep your face clean at the end of each travel day. While these wipes are for one-time use, they are made with 100% plant-based cloth and are compostable. Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes Case It never hurts to carry around a bag of sanitizing wipes in your backpack or travel purse, as you never know what kind of dirty surfaces you'll encounter on a trip. Many travelers wipe down their airplane seat and tray table or sanitize their seat on a train or bus. You can also use these wipes to clean your hands or to wipe up small spills on the go. Dude Wipes On-the-Go Shower Wipes Staying fresh while you travel can go a long way to making any experience more enjoyable. Bell regularly uses Dude On-the-Go Shower Wipes when she travels — everywhere from the airplane bathroom to midway through a long day of sightseeing, or even on a trail while hiking or camping — and that they put regular baby wipes to shame. The fragrance-free formula makes them ideal for men or women who want to get cleaned up without an added scent. Tide Pen Stain Remover for Clothes There's nothing worse than spilling on yourself while traveling. If you're not doing laundry on your trip, the garment in question is likely staying in your suitcase until you can clean it at home. So, consider traveling with a stain remover pen that can banish stains in a pinch. It's bleach-free and can remove coffee, wine and juice stains with ease. Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs Quality earplugs go a long way toward ensuring a quiet sleeping environment. Whether it's blocking out the hum of aircraft engines or noisy neighbors in a hotel, Mack's Ultra-Soft Foam Earplugs help to make better sleep possible. This pack comes with 10 pairs and a travel case to take on each of your adventures. GAOYAING Small Travel Umbrella Having a travel umbrella can come in handy when you least expect it, but you want one that's small enough to keep in your travel backpack or purse. This mini umbrella is incredibly compact and weighs less than 1 pound, so it's ideal for bringing along with you wherever you go. It also comes in 14 different colors and has its own handy carrying case. Sea-Band Anti-Nausea Acupressure Wristband If you're susceptible to motion sickness, prevention is often key. Don't let the "Sea-Band" name fool you, Christopher says; these anti-nausea wristbands aren't just for cruising. "As someone who frequently gets nauseous mid-flight, these are a huge lifesaver," she says, adding that she recommends these for first-timers on a red-eye flight. "They are perfect for preventing that gross, groggy feeling you get from lack of sleep." Melsbrinna Passport Holder Covers Case This handy passport case comes in 20-plus different colors and helps keep your passport safe and secure with a snap button enclosure. Thanks to several other pockets and storage compartments inside, you can also use it as a travel wallet to store cash, credit cards, receipts, a pen and more. Plus, it's lightweight at 0.18 pounds. Pautas 4-Pack AirTag Holders AirTags are an essential travel item. By simply placing one in your checked luggage, you can travel with the peace of mind of knowing where your luggage is at all times. This four-pack of AirTag holders is an ideal travel accessory as you can clip each one inside a piece of luggage you plan to check. Not only are AirTag holders essential for travel these days, but you can also use them to help track your pets, car keys and other important belongings. Henwasai Hat Clips, 3 Pieces Albanese also says a good hat clip has become one of her travel essentials since most of her trips involve outdoor adventures. "Wearing a hat all day long can get uncomfortable, carrying it is cumbersome and storing it in my purse or bag takes up way too much space," she says. By having a small hat clip in her bag, however, she has an easy way to store and carry her favorite travel hat while keeping her hands free. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Alissa Bell, travel blogger at of Exploring Wild. Lindsey Puls, head of Have Clothes, Will Travel. Allie Albanese, head of Parched Around the World. Heather Christopher, luxury travel planning expert at HC Travel Firm. What type of travel accessories are the best for saving money without sacrificing quality? What type of travel accessories are the best for saving money without sacrificing quality? To save money on travel accessories without sacrificing quality, we recommend focusing on versatile, durable and functional items. Packing cubes maximize space and keep luggage organized, while reusable toiletry kits save money and reduce waste. Multi-port chargers and power banks keep devices powered and a seat organizer ensures essentials are within reach. Refillable bottles and multipurpose bags are also smart, cost-effective choices for staying organized on the go. CNN Underscored is your trusted source for expert-approved travel gear recommendations. We provide thorough, unbiased reviews based on extensive testing and real-world use by seasoned travelers. We only feature products that meet high standards for performance, affordability and practicality, so you know that each recommendation will help make your travels smoother and more enjoyable.
