Much more so than I ever did before having kids, I am now finding myself spending a good chunk of time in the car every week.
Not that I don’t like walking, because I do, it’s just that between the ballet classes and the play dates and the vast amount of heavy items a grocery shop now includes, not to mention the melt-downs my two-year-old throws when he has to sit in his Bugaboo for any longer than four minutes at a time, the car just seems like the easier (and far more convenient) way to relocate us from A to B and back again.
Which also, I’m afraid, goes somewhat towards explaining the constant apocalyptic state of the car – that is so bad, in fact, that I live in a semi-paranoia state over what the car valet guy really thinks of me. He must wonder if I even bother to shower, I bet, figuring that someone who can allow their car to look the way it does mustn’t be too concerned about hygiene in general…
Anyway, the good news is, that for all us mums (and dads too) who find ourselves constantly on the road with the kiddos in the back, trying to keep them fed, entertained and clean while still hanging onto your own sanity, there are plenty of cool gadgets to help us do so. Seriously; if you want to make your life that little bit easier, here are nine purchases you really need to make:
1. Dyson Handheld Vacuum
I know, I know, it’s not technically a car gadget, but if you ever let your kids consume food in the car, trust me, you’ll be happy you bought one.
2. Proximo
Ever have to rely on your kids (or the help of shopping center staff) to figure our where you parked the car? Well, with this little gizmo there really is no need. Just set up this device in your car and then flip to an app to find your exact parking spot, and your can install additional fobs on your key-chain to locate where you left your keys at home as well. Life. Saved.
3. Car Seat Cooler
OK, I know this is Ireland, but sometimes (yeah, yeah, once every summer) the sun really is splitting stones and getting in the car is horrendous as the car seat is literally burning your poor baby’s bum. No sweats (literally), just invest in these smart Cool Me liners, and your littles will all be able to enjoy a cooler ride.
4. Wireless Kids Headphones
Unless you want to spend an entire journey listening to the Frozen soundtrack (again), these are a MUST.
5. iPad Holder
My in-laws live in Leitrim, meaning we regularly have to make the trip down there. Whenever we do so, these iPad holders let the kids watch movies on the iPad – without all the fights over who is going to hold it while they do so. GENIUS.
6. Middle Seat Organizer
I have become obsessed with this Junkie all-in-one organizer and NEED to invest in one for the backseat. Seriously; this baby is not only a car organizer, but it’s also an actual activity station for kids. It can store snacks and drinks, as well containing two retractable trays, that the kids can eat, colour or play on.
7. Content&Calm Kids Travel Play Tray Kit
You know what sucks? A long car journey with cranky kids. You know what sucks less? A long car journey where the kids at least can keep themselves busy and stop wrecking your head for part of the journey. Enter the Content&Calm Kids Travel Play Tray Kit. This clever little device (which folds up to be carried like a backpack) will give your kiddos a flat surface to play or colour on, which might make them stop asking “how far to go” – even just for a little while. Straws, people. We are clutching at straws.
8. ZENS Qi Cup Holder Car Wireless Charger
If your smartphone is always running out of juice (me, me!), the Zenz Qi Cup Holder is you NBF.
Looking to upgrade the family car, come talk to Permanent TSB. PTSB offers simple and straightforward car loans, 3-hour* car loan approval, and 100% car finance. Terms range from 1 to 5 years and customers can borrow anything from €1,500 to €75,000. Upon full loan approval customers will also receive a Motorcheck voucher (valued at €35) so that they can do a car history check on the new car they’re buying (if it’s a second hand car) and buy with peace of mind!
* Full approval in 3 hours applies to phone applications made during business hours (Mon to Fri, 9am-5pm) and for outbound phone calls made in response to online applications. PTSB salary mandated customers only. The 3 hours applies from when full application details have been provided over the phone to PTSB’s car loan sales team. Applicants must be 18 years or over. Lending criteria, terms and conditions apply.
Warning: If you do not meet the repayments on your loan, your account will go into arrears. This may affect your credit rating, which may limit your ability to access credit in the future.
