“Are we there yet?” This summer, the 208 million Americans taking a much-awaited summer road trip will hear that question around sixteen times… which is about sixteen times too many. Even so, a study conducted by OnePoll and Quaker State revealed that Americans choose road trips over flights to see and experience more together (43%) and to spend quality time with family (41%).
So despite the bathroom breaks, traffic, and battling over the AUX cord, road trips remain a sacred summer ritual. One way you can ensure a smooth trip with as few roadblocks as possible is to equip your vehicle with the best smart devices available.
Best smart devices for summer road trips
The best smart devices for a summer road trip are hands-free gadgets packed with important features to safeguard you, your family, and your vehicle on all stages of the journey. Whether your trip lasts hours, days, or weeks, these smart devices are here to help the miles fly by.
Garmin DriveSmart 66
From voice assist and hands-free calling to traffic cameras and live fuel prices, the Garmin DriveSmart 66 GPS does it all. When paired with the app, see your text messages and other phone notifications right on the main navigation screen. The app will also show you parking data for most city centers, along with live traffic and weather forecasts. Built-in Alexa and a dual-USB charger also come with the GPS navigator.
Raven
Raven packs the features of a smartphone into a car dashboard device. It comes with both a rear and front camera, as well as a built-in security system with a proximity sensor and an air pressure monitor. This device is compatible with Bluetooth, WiFi, and 4G LTE. But it also uses consistent cellular service so you don’t have to worry about losing your signal.
Roav VIVA by Anker
This two-port USB car charger gives you complete voice control in your car with Amazon Alexa. The Roav VIVA by Anker utilizes your car’s cigarette lighter and becomes the central hub for charging, calling, messaging, and more. You can manage your home smart devices from the road, such as turning on the AC or front porch lights before you’ve even arrived home.
Mpow Bluetooth 4.1 Receiver
The Mpow Bluetooth 4.1 Receiver for car stereos offers 10 hours of nonstop music streaming and hands-free calling. You can connect two Bluetooth devices at the same time. It’s also compatible with most smartphones and Bluetooth electronics, making it ideal for both your home and your vehicle.
BlueDriver Bluetooth Professional OBDII Scan Tool
Instead of waiting for a mechanic to give you the tough news at the repair shop, invest in this handy tool. The BlueDriver Pro Scan Tool is a full diagnostic scanner that can tell you exactly what’s wrong with your vehicle. Its database has more than 6.6 million solutions to vehicle problems, all of which have been verified by certified auto mechanics.
Gadgets for your gadgets
If you’re one in three Americans taking a road trip this summer, make sure your vehicle is equipped with the best smart devices available today. Gadgets and accessories can enhance your already amazing smart devices for the ultimate road trip experience.
Lost your GPS or scan tool right before the big trip? The Tile Mate is a tracking device that attaches to your favorite smart devices. It works with both Apple and Android, and features voice-assisted locating with Alexa, Google, and Siri.
The iOttie Easy One Touch 4 is a dash and windshield mount designed so you can mount and remove your smartphone in one easy movement. It uses a super strong, reusable suction cup to keep your phone secure during your ride.
Want more tips and tricks about how to make this summer the best one yet? Check out our articles on the best travel apps, online activities for kids this summer, and ideas for outdoor movie nights.
