At a certain point on any car trip, even those ending at a cottage, the passengers deserve a distraction. (Not you, drivers. As the old song instructs, keep your snoopy eyes on the road ahead.) Sometimes the mood lifter needed is a pee break. Other times, a car game is the play. Our divisive pick is “Who can be quiet the longest?”—adults love it, kids not so much. Or sometimes, the treat comes from your aunt in the front seat, opening the glove compartment and asking, “Who’d like a sweetie?” Here are a few more ways to survive the drive.
Koolatron 12V cooler
Thermoelectric coolers, plugged into the car’s accessory outlet, work best with an ice pack assist to keep already cold foods chill. $252, koolatron.ca
Motomaster 12V compressor and tire inflator
By topping up, re-inflating, or compensating (for the slow leak), a portable inflator can get you there. $81, canadiantire.ca
Kerr’s ginger drops
Science confirms it: ginger alleviates nausea and everyone wants candy. $4, kerrs.com
Azul summer pavilion mini
The travel version of the popular board game uses highway-friendly slotted boards to keep tiles in place. $23, nextmove-games.com
Unltd Pine & Dandy air freshener
Yes, air fresheners only cover up odours, but don’t you want to cover up teenagers’ shoes and dog farts? $6, unltd.ca
Princess Auto cleaning compound gel
Gives the ick, but oddly satisfying: press cleaning gel into cracks and grates and pull out all the mystery substance. $7, princessauto.com
This story originally appeared in our Spring ’26 issue.
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