Car Essentials for Busy Moms on the Go

The family car has become the epicenter of daily life for modern moms. From school pick up to dance classes, baseball practice, grocery hauls to spontaneous playdates, I’m constantly on the move. Having the right essentials in your car can literally make all the difference between a smooth ride and a stressful journey. Whether you’re a seasoned mama, or a new mom navigating the highways of parenthood, here are my top car essentials every busy mom needs on the go.

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1. First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere, especially when little ones are involved. A well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have for any mom-on-the-go. Make sure yours includes band-aids, antiseptic wipes, neosporin, gauze pads, and adhesive tape. You never know when a scraped knee or bumped head will need some TLC.
2. Snacks and Water: As I mentioned in my previous post, I stock my car every Sunday (this is actually part of my son’s chores). Hangry strikes at the most inconvenient times, so I always keep a stash of (semi-healthy) non-perishable snacks like Rx protein bars, dried fruit, along with plenty of water bottles, to keep hunger tantrums at bay and energy levels up.
3. Entertainment: Long car rides or traffic jams can test the patience of all in the car. I also re-stock backpacks with  entertainment options like: coloring supplies, stickers and books. I also created a Spotify playlist for each child with their favorite songs, kid-friendly audiobooks and bible podcasts. Our personal favorite is God’s Big Story.
4. Emergency Supplies: From flat tires to dead batteries, car emergencies can happen when least expected. Be prepared for the unexpected by keeping essential emergency supplies in your trunk, including a spare tire, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a roadside assistance kit. I keep the roadside assistance phone number in my phone contacts with our auto insurance information included in the notes. A portable phone charger can also be a lifesaver in case of emergencies.
5. Organizational Tools: Keeping your car organized can feel like a never-ending battle, but having a few key products can make a huge difference. I love seat back pockets, trunk organizers, and trashcans. A designated “mom bag” stocked with wipes, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, Shout wipes can also save precious time when you’re on the go.
6. Safety Tips: As a mom, your top priority is the safety of your precious cargo. Make sure your car is equipped with essential safety features like properly installed car seats, booster seats, and seatbelt adjusters to keep your little ones secure. Regularly check that all safety equipment is in good working condition and up to date with current regulations. If you want your car seat installation inspected, you can make an appointment and have them reviewed. Here’s a link to some resources.
7. Maintenance Tools: A well-maintained car is essential for keeping your family safe on the road. Keep up with regular maintenance tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, and be sure to have essential maintenance tools like a tire pressure gauge, windshield washer fluid, and basic tools for minor repairs.

Being a busy mom on the go is no easy task, but with the right car essentials, you’ll be ready to handle whatever the day throws at you, ensuring that every journey is a easy and stress-free adventure for you and your family.