10 Must-Have Car Accessories for New Parents: Making Life on the Go Easier

Introduction

Becoming a new parent is an exciting and overwhelming experience. Along with the joy and love that comes with welcoming a new member into the family, there are also many responsibilities and challenges that new parents face. One of these challenges is figuring out how to navigate daily life with a baby, especially when it comes to transportation. As a new parent, you want to ensure that your baby is safe and comfortable while on the road. This is where car accessories for new parents come in. In this article, we will discuss the best car accessories that every new parent should consider investing in. From safety to convenience, these accessories will make your life as a new parent a little bit easier.

Safety First: Car Seats

The most important car accessory for new parents is undoubtedly a car seat. It is not only a legal requirement in most countries, but it is also crucial for the safety of your baby while traveling in a vehicle. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, car seats reduce the risk of death by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers in the event of a car upholstery shops near you accident. It is essential to choose a car seat that is appropriate for your child’s age and size, as well as one that is compatible with your vehicle.

Infant car seats are designed for babies who weigh between 4-35 pounds and should be installed in a rear-facing position. They come with a base that can be left in the car for easy installation and removal. Some popular options include the Graco SnugRide Click Connect 35 and the Chicco KeyFit 30.

Convertible car seats can be used for both infants and toddlers, and can accommodate a weight of up to 65 pounds. They can be installed in both rear and forward-facing positions, making them a more long-term investment. Some highly rated convertible car seats are the Britax Marathon ClickTight and the Evenflo Tribute LX.

Booster seats are suitable for children who have outgrown their convertible car seats but are not yet tall enough to use a regular seat belt. They can accommodate children up to 100 pounds and should be used until the child is at least 4’9″ tall. The Graco Affix Highback Booster Seat and the Diono Monterey XT Booster are popular choices among parents.

Convenience and Comfort: Car Seat Accessories

In addition to a car seat, there are also various accessories that can enhance your child’s comfort and convenience while traveling in a vehicle. These accessories are not essential, but they can make a big difference in your child’s overall experience during car rides.

Car seat covers are a great accessory to have, especially for long journeys. They can protect your child from harsh sunlight, wind, and rain while also providing a cozy and comfortable environment for them to sleep in. Some covers even come with a built-in mosquito net, making them perfect for outdoor adventures. The Skip Hop Stroll & Go Infant and Toddler Car Seat Cover and the JJ Cole Car Seat Cover are some top-rated options.

Another convenient accessory is a car seat travel bag, which can make transporting your car seat much easier. It also protects your car seat from damage while in transit. The J.L. Childress Ultimate Backpack Padded Car Seat Travel Bag and the Zohzo Car Seat Travel Bag are popular choices among parents.

For parents who live in colder climates, a car seat winter cover is a must-have accessory. It keeps your child warm and cozy while also protecting them from harsh weather conditions. The JJ Cole Car Seat Cover and the Cozy Cover Infant Car Seat Cover are highly recommended by parents.

Entertainment and Organization: Car Seat Toys and Organizers

Traveling with a baby can be challenging, especially when they get bored and fussy during car rides. This is where car seat toys come in handy. They can keep your child entertained and distracted, making car rides much more manageable. Some popular car seat toys include the Nuby Plush Baby’s 1st Toothbrush and the Bright Starts Lots of Links Accessory Toy.

Another useful accessory for keeping your child entertained is a car seat tablet holder. It can securely hold your tablet in place, allowing your child to watch their favorite shows or movies during long car rides. The Munchkin Brica GoBoost Travel Booster Seat and the TFY Universal Car Headrest Mount Holder are some highly recommended options.

Organizing your car can be a challenge, especially with a baby’s belongings added to the mix. Car seat organizers can help keep your car neat and tidy while also making it easier to access essential items. The Munchkin Backseat Organizer and the UPPAbaby MESA Travel Bag are popular choices for organizing your car.

Emergency Preparedness: Car Safety Kits and Sun Shades

As a new parent, you want to be prepared for any situation, including emergencies while on the road. Car safety kits are a must-have for any vehicle, and they become even more crucial when you have a baby on board. These kits typically include items such as a first aid kit, jumper cables, and a warning triangle, among others. The AAA 64 Piece Premium Traveler Road Kit and the First Aid Only All-Purpose First Aid Essentials Kit are two highly recommended car safety kits.

During the summer months, sun shades are essential for protecting your child from the sun’s harmful rays while in the car. They can also help keep the car cool and comfortable, making car rides more enjoyable for everyone. The Enovoe Car Window Shade and the Uarter Universal Car Side Window Baby Sun Shade are two popular options among parents.

Conclusion

Being a new parent comes with a lot of responsibilities, and ensuring your child’s safety and comfort while on the road is one of them. Investing in the right car accessories can make a significant difference in your child’s overall experience during car rides. From car seats to toys and safety kits, there are many options available for new parents to choose from. Consider your child’s age and size, as well as your specific needs and preferences, when selecting car accessories. With the right car accessories, you can make traveling with your little one a more enjoyable and stress-free experience.