Top 5 Road Trip Accessories Every Kiwi Driver Needs

Heading away for the weekend? Whether you’re off to the bach, the mountains, or just chasing a change of scenery, Kiwis love a good road trip. But let’s be honest, without a bit of planning, road trips can go from fun to frustrating pretty quickly.

So before you hit the road, it pays to kit it out properly. Here are five essential road trip accessories NZ drivers should have on hand to keep things clean, comfy, and chaos-free.

1. Interior Protection: Car Mats and Seat Covers

If you’ve ever jumped in the car after a hike or surf, you’ll know how fast things get messy. Sand, mud, snacks, wet gear, it all ends up on your floor and seats. That’s where proper interior protection makes a world of difference. Start with a set of custom-fit rubber mats from RubberTree. They’re designed to trap dirt and water so it doesn’t soak into your carpets. Pair them with a solid set of canvas or neoprene seat covers, especially handy for families or pet owners, and you’ve got yourself a car that can handle adventure without looking like it’s been through one.

2. Smart Storage Solutions

Road trips come with gear. Lots of it. The last thing you want is a flying drink bottle every time you take a corner or having to dig through the boot for your jandals.

Smart storage is your best friend. Think boot crates, seat-back organisers, and console bins that give everything its place. Not only does it keep things tidy, but it makes your life easier when you need to grab that torch or find the sunscreen in a hurry. If you’re already using a RubberTree boot liner, these storage setups work even better: less sliding, less mess, and more room to breathe.

3. Comfort Extras for the Long Haul

Even the best playlist gets old after a few hours on the road. Having a few creature comforts on board can be a game-changer. Travel pillows, a soft blanket, or a neck support cushion can make those longer hauls more relaxing. Cup holder inserts keep drinks steady, while phone mounts and charging hubs mean navigation and tunes are always within reach. Small things make a big difference, especially on those six-hour missions to the snow or back from the Coromandel. Trust us; the future you will be grateful.

4. Sun Shades & Windshield Protectors

Whether you’re stopping for a pie or parking up at the lake, that Kiwi sun doesn’t muck around. A sunshade keeps your interior cool and your dash protected while you’re out enjoying the weather.

RubberTree’s custom-fit sun shades are designed for NZ vehicles and block UV rays that cause cracking, fading, and melting. Keeping the cabin cooler on long trips makes your return drive far more bearable, especially if you’ve got young ones in the back.

5. Emergency & Essentials Kit

It wouldn’t be a proper Kiwi road trip without a few surprises: flat tyres, delays, the odd wrong turn. That’s why it’s smart to carry the basics.

Chuck a first aid kit, torch, water, snacks, jumper leads, and charging cables in the boot. Add some wipes, tissues, and maybe even an old-school map (you never know when reception will drop out). These little touches bring peace of mind and make the unexpected much easier to handle.

Ready for the Road?

Road trips are about freedom, fun, and seeing the best of Aotearoa, but a bit of prep goes a long way. Before heading off, check out our car accessory range, designed to handle the wild weather, messy gear, and epic roads that make a Kiwi road trip unforgettable.