15 car essentials every Aussie driver should own

Whether you’re cruising down the Great Ocean Road, tackling corrugated tracks in the Outback, or just trying to survive the summer heat on your daily commute, driving in Australia can be… a mixed bag. The country is vast, the weather is wild, and the unexpected is always just around the bend.

That’s why a truly Aussie car isn’t complete without a few clever essentials tucked into the glovebox or boot. These aren’t just “nice-to-haves”; they’re the difference between a comfortable drive and a sweaty ordeal, between getting stuck and getting out, and between a good story and a roadside disaster.

Here are 15 car essentials every Aussie driver should carry, whether you’re a road tripper, weekend adventurer, or just someone who likes to be prepared.

Dash cam

From kangaroos darting across highways to questionable lane changes in city traffic and inattentive pedestrians, Aussie roads can serve up their fair share of surprises. A dash cam is your silent witness — capturing everything in crisp detail. If something goes wrong, you’ve got evidence ready to prove that you were not at fault. Choose one with front and rear coverage, night vision, and loop recording. Bonus points if it’s got parking mode for those mysterious dents in the shopping centre car park.

A dash cam typically costs between $150 and $200. It’s a good idea to do your research to find one that best suits your needs. The more features a dash cam has, the better it will serve you.

Compact tyre inflator / Air compressor

Whether you’re on a family road trip or out bush-bashing with your 4WD mates, tyre pressure matters, a portable inflator can save you the hassle (and risk) of driving on a soft or flat tyre. Plug it into your 12V socket, set your desired pressure, and let it do its thing. It’s also handy if you need to deflate and reinflate tyres for beach or off-road driving, something seasoned Aussie travellers swear by.

Expect to spend around $40 to $60 for a compact tyre inflator or air compressor. Higher-end models can go up to $150, offering extra features, but even the basic ones do the job well.

Recovery tracks or traction boards

If your weekend plans involve anything off the beaten path, beaches, fire trails, dirt roads, and recovery tracks, they are your best mates. These ridged boards help your tyres gain traction in soft sand, mud, or loose gravel. No need to dig or panic. Just wedge them under your tyres and drive out. It’s like having a backup plan for when adventure turns a little too adventurous.

A good set of recovery tracks or traction boards will generally set you back around $100, give or take a few dollars depending on the brand and features.

Car escape tool

It’s one of those tools you hope you never need. But when seconds count, it can be life-saving! Whether it’s a submerged crossing, a rollover, or a jammed seatbelt, a compact escape tool lets you break a window or slice through a belt with minimal effort. Store it in your door pocket or centre console for easy access. We hope you never ever get the need to use it. 

A car escape tool, usually costs between $10 and $20, making it a small investment for major peace of mind.

Snatch strap & D-shackles

If you do any off-roading, you’ll know that getting bogged is not a matter of if but when — sometimes spectacularly. A snatch strap and D-shackles let another vehicle recover you safely without damaging either car. Keep them neatly stored in a bag, and make sure you know how to use them properly (and not just “YouTube properly”).

A snatch strap and D-shackles set will typically set you back around $50, though premium or heavy-duty options can go up to $150.

Jump starter pack (with USB ports)

A flat battery can ruin your whole day. A jump starter pack can give you some peace of mind in these situations — just hook it up and you’re back in business, no second car required. Many modern ones double as power banks too, so you can charge your phone, GPS, or even a portable fan if needed. Essential for road trips, remote drives, and forgetful drivers.

A jump starter pack with USB ports usually ranges between $50 and $150, depending on the power capacity and extra features.

Head torch or rechargeable work light

Ever tried checking your engine or changing a tyre in the dark with one hand holding your phone? A head torch solves that instantly. Rechargeable work lights are also brilliant, great for night-time campsites, breakdowns, or being seen on the side of the road. Trust us, you’ll be glad you have one when you’re elbow-deep under the bonnet at midnight.

You can get a good head torch for $10 to $20. While pricier models offer more features, the affordable ones work well for most tasks. For a high-luminosity rechargeable work light, you might need to shell out a bit more cash.

USB car charger (Multi-port)

We live in a world where everyone — driver, partner, friends, family, kids in the back — has something that needs charging. A decent USB charger with multiple ports means no fighting over who gets to charge their device first. Some even come with fast-charging capabilities, so you can go from 5% to 50% during a short drive to Woolies.

For $10 to $30, you can grab a dependable multi-port USB car charger, a handy essential for every ride. If your car or ute has a bigger 230V power outlet as well, you can even invest in a more capable multi-port charger for maximum utility.

Magnetic fly screen for car windows

Picture this: You’re resting at a rural lookout or camping in your car overnight, and you crack the window open for a bit of breeze. Suddenly, you’re not alone — flies, mozzies, and other unwelcome guests pile in. A magnetic fly screen is a game-changer. It snaps on easily, lets the air in while keeping the bugs out, and doesn’t damage your paint or seals.

Magnetic fly screens for car windows are quite affordable, typically ranging from $10 to $30, a small price for enjoying a bug-free breeze.

 Wet wipes or microfibre cloths

Sticky ice cream hands, bird poop on your windscreen, coffee spills on the console — a stash of wet wipes or reusable microfibre cloths takes care of them all. They’re the quiet heroes of car organisation. Go for biodegradable ones if possible, or keep a few clean rags in a sealed pouch in the boot.

Wet wipes or microfibre cloths are easy to find, and you don’t need much research to pick a good one—just choose what works best for you, even outside the car. Expect to pay between $10 and $20 for a pack.

Tyre pressure gauge

Underinflated tyres don’t just mess with your fuel economy — they can affect your handling, braking, and even cause blowouts. A compact tyre pressure gauge helps you keep things in check without relying on the servo pump (which we all know isn’t always accurate). Even the built-in tyre pressure monitor of modern cars can be inaccurate in their readings, so a manual gauge can offer extra peace of mind. Keep one in your glovebox and make it a habit to check pressures regularly, especially before long drives or heading off-road.

You can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $80 for a decent tyre pressure gauge.

Car vacuum cleaner

Sand, crumbs, dog hair, leaves — your car floor cops it all. A small, portable vacuum cleaner (preferably cordless) makes quick clean-ups a breeze. Look for one that plugs into your car’s 12V socket or recharges via USB. It’ll save you that monthly shame spiral when a mate hops in and you mutter, “sorry about the mess.” Plus, your carpets will thank you.

A car vacuum cleaner typically costs between $50 and $60. You can find pricier models, but as long as it does the job, you’re good.

Steering wheel lock

It may feel old-school, but it works. A visible steering wheel lock acts as a strong deterrent, especially in areas with high vehicle theft rates or if you happen to be out in the middle of nowhere for your next cross-country adventure. It’s a low-tech, high-impact way to secure your car, particularly useful for utes and 4WDs, which can be prime targets. Some insurance providers even offer discounts if you use one, so it pays for itself in peace of mind.

A steering wheel lock usually costs between $20 and $60. You might not need to spend a lot since most cars come with built-in locks, but it’s a good extra security option—especially if your car doesn’t have one.

Heavy-duty windscreen sunshade

If there’s one thing the Australian sun doesn’t do, it’s hold back. Leaving your car parked outside for even a few hours can turn it into a portable sauna. A proper, reflective sunshade helps block out harsh UV rays, reduce cabin temperature, and protect your dashboard from warping or cracking. Your steering wheel will thank you, no more searing palms when you start the engine.

A quality sunshade typically costs between $10 and $35, depending on the size and material.

All-weather floor mats

Sand from Bondi, red dust from the Pilbara, wet grass after footy — Australia isn’t short on ways to mess up your car floor. All-weather mats made from rubber or high-grade PVC are built to handle the elements. They’re easy to clean, don’t stink up your car when wet, and stop that annoying carpet grime build-up you keep ignoring until it’s too late.

A good set of all-weather floor mats usually ranges from $50 to $150, depending on the brand, material, and vehicle fit.

Final thoughts

Australia’s driving conditions demand preparation, not luck. Whether it’s beating the heat, surviving a breakdown, or just keeping your car clean, these 15 essentials cover the basics—and then some.

Here’s a CARS24 pro tip, customise your essentials kit based on where you drive most. You don’t need to buy everything on the list. If you’re a city slicker, prioritise a dash cam and sunshade. But if you’re an Outback adventurer, don’t skip recovery gear and a jump starter.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and happy driving!