8 Things You Should Never Keep In Your Car (And 8 That Should Absolutely Be In It)
Your car might feel like a second home, especially if your backseat looks more like a mobile garage or snack pantry. But here’s the thing: not everything belongs in there.
Whether it’s something that melts, explodes, attracts thieves, or just screams “I forgot I left that there in 2019,” some items should never ride shotgun (or anywhere else).
On the flip side, there are also a few essentials that should always be in your car—things that could save your day, your time, or your sanity.
So, buckle up. Here are the 8 things you should kick out of your car immediately, and 8 that deserve their permanent parking spot.
1. Electronics in Plain Sight
Leaving your phone, tablet, or laptop on the seat is like sending out a party invite to thieves. Even if they’re turned off, chargers or mounts give it away.
Smash-and-grab jobs can happen in seconds—don’t risk it.
2. Aerosol Cans
From hairspray to air fresheners, aerosol cans and heat are a dangerous mix. They can expand, leak, or even explode when temps climb. It’s not the kind of “boom” you want in your backseat.
3. Bottled Water (When Left for Too Long)
Heat can cause plastic bottles to release chemicals like BPA into the water. It might still look drinkable, but it’s definitely not fresh.
You’re better off with a stainless steel bottle or replacing plastic ones regularly.
4. Chocolate (Unless You Want a Cocoa Puddle)
Sure, you meant to eat it on the way home, but then forgot. Now it’s a melted, sticky nightmare in your center console. One innocent snack turns into a full interior detailing bill.
5. Important Documents
Things like passports, birth certificates, or financial papers belong in a safe, not the glovebox. If your car is stolen or broken into, you’re in for a paperwork disaster.
Keep only the absolute essentials in the vehicle.
6. Medication
Whether it’s ibuprofen or prescriptions, extreme temps can mess with the effectiveness of your meds. Some lose potency, others degrade faster, and none of them come with a warning label for “left in hot car.”
Bring a small pouch with you instead.
7. Firearms (Unattended)
Even if it’s locked up, leaving a gun in your car is risky business. Theft aside, it’s a legal and safety minefield depending on where you are. If you must transport one, make sure it’s by-the-book safe.
8. Disposable Lighters
Small but dangerous, lighters can explode if left in direct sunlight. Even without a full-blown pop, they can leak gas or malfunction. Not worth the risk for something you can pocket or stash elsewhere.
9. First Aid Kit
A cut from changing a tire or a bug bite gone rogue—whatever it is, you’ll want to be ready. A basic kit with bandages, antiseptic, and gloves can turn a minor emergency into a non-issue.
It’s small, cheap, and incredibly handy.
10. Jumper Cables (or a Jump Starter)
Spent batteries don’t send warnings—they just strike. Jumper cables are essential, but a portable jump starter takes it to the next level.
You’ll be everyone’s hero in the parking lot when their engine won’t turn over.
11. Flashlight (With Extra Batteries)
Your phone flashlight won’t cut it during a power outage or under-the-hood inspection in pitch dark. A solid LED flashlight (bonus for waterproof) is a game-changer. Keep extra batteries in a zip bag nearby.
12. Multi-tool or Basic Toolkit
You never know when a screw will come loose, or when you’ll need to McGyver your way out of something.
A multi-tool with pliers, knife, and screwdriver functions fits right in your glovebox.
Add duct tape and you’re practically unstoppable.
13. Reusable Water Bottle
Dehydration sneaks up fast, especially on long drives. A good stainless steel or BPA-free bottle keeps your water cooler and safer than plastic. Plus, it’s eco-friendly and costs less than gas station drinks.
14. Blanket or Emergency Thermal Cover
It’s not just for warmth—blankets are also great for impromptu picnics, roadside naps, or cushioning cargo.
An emergency mylar blanket takes up almost no space and could be lifesaving in cold weather. Comfort + safety = win-win.
15. Phone Charger (Car Adapter)
A drained phone during a long trip is just bad planning. Get a dual-port USB car adapter and a sturdy cable because no one wants to fight over battery life.
It’s a tiny investment that pays off every time you hit the road.
16. Tire Pressure Gauge & Portable Air Compressor
Low tire pressure means worse fuel economy, poor handling, and a higher chance of a blowout. A simple gauge lets you check in seconds, and a mini air compressor can plug into your 12V port to top things off.
Your tires (and wallet) will thank you.