Essential EV Accessories: What to Keep in Your Electric Car

Equipping Your EV: What to Keep in Your Trunk and What to Leave Behind

 

Buying an electric vehicle (EV) or a hybrid is more than just switching fuel types; it’s an entry into a new ecosystem. Along with new driving habits, you need to rethink what you carry in your trunk. While basics like a first-aid kit and a warning triangle remain essential, EVs have specific needs where digital tools are often more important than a wrench.

 

Today, being a prepared driver starts with technology. An electric car is essentially a high-tech gadget that needs to stay online for navigation and remote features to work correctly. Experienced owners recommend providing the car with its own internet connection rather than relying solely on a smartphone. Installing a dedicated SIM card or a Wi-Fi router ensures you never lose access to climate control or charging station maps. Speaking of charging, since there is no single universal payment standard yet, it is wise to download major charging apps and register in advance. Having a backup SIM card from a different provider can be a lifesaver if you need to start a charging session in an area with poor reception.

 

 

Hardware still plays a vital role, however. The "must-have" kit for any EV owner includes charging cables and adapters. Even if you mostly charge at home, keeping a Type 2 cable and a standard wall outlet charger in the car is your insurance policy for unexpected detours. To keep your trunk clean, invest in waterproof bags for your cables. They prevent dirt and moisture from spreading and keep long wires from getting tangled.

 

For those living in colder climates, a magnetic charging port cover is a smart addition. It prevents the charging flap and its mechanisms from freezing shut. Another simple but effective accessory is a set of sunshades. In an EV, these do more than provide shade; they keep the interior cool, significantly reducing the load on the air conditioning and preserving battery range during hot weather.

 

Safety on the road requires special attention due to the weight of electric cars. Standard, cheap towing ropes often snap under the weight of a heavy EV. Therefore, you should carry a high-quality, heavy-duty tow strap and the car’s original towing eye. Additionally, since many manufacturers skip the spare tire to save space, carrying a portable air compressor and a tire repair kit is a must. It is also worth adding a compact "jump starter" (power bank) to your kit. If the 12-volt starter battery dies, this small device will get the car running without needing to find another vehicle to "jump" from.

 

Finally, it is important to know what not to carry. Massive toolsets are usually dead weight, as most EV components require specialized software or professional equipment to fix. Similarly, carrying a gas generator and fuel cans is inefficient and impractical. The modern approach to EV ownership isn't about carrying a mobile workshop - it's about digital readiness and choosing a reliable model. In the end, your confidence on the road now depends less on the iron in your trunk and more on how well you have planned for common digital and electrical scenarios.