Your car is more than just a way to get from point A to point B. If you’re like most people, your car not only carries you and your loved ones everywhere you want to go, but it carries all your gear and necessary accouterments with you. Sometimes there’s a lot of gear.
If you happen to be an outdoor enthusiast of any level, you know that packing all your gear for a weekend float trip, camping trip, hiking excursion, beach getaway, or whatever can sometimes require getting creative. Fitting all your gear in your vehicle can be a frustrating Tetris that has you sweating and swearing before you’ve even pulled out of the driveway. To help make your next outdoor adventure go as smoothly as possible, eBay Motors has a plethora of accessories for your vehicle designed to let you carry more or go farther.
1. Bike Racks
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At the top of the list of quintessential outdoor accessories for your vehicle is the bike rack. There are lots of options to choose from when it comes to selecting the best bike rack for your vehicle.
A basic trunk-mounted bike rack is easy to install and can be a super affordable option for budget-conscious buyers who only want occasional usage. If you’re not a fan of having your bikes on the back of your vehicle, consider a rooftop bike rack. These are a great option for frequent cyclists who have lightweight bikes and want a permanent installation that’s ready to go whenever you are.
You can get handy locking mechanisms for added protection and security with these racks as well. Another great option for trucks and SUVs is a hitch-mounted bike rack. They tend to be strong and stable and are easier to get bikes on and off than a somewhat out-of-reach roof rack. Most of the time, your choice of bike rack will be dictated by what type of vehicle you have, how many bikes you want to carry, and how often or how far you transport them.
2. Trailers and Toy Haulers
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For those who don’t travel lightly and need to take larger toys or accessories along for the ride, a towable trailer or toy hauler might be in order. Maybe you just need a compact and lightweight trailer to lug around a riding mower or lawn tractor. There are also trailers for towing other vehicles, ATVs, and UTVs for going on your favorite off-road adventures. Need a covered trailer that protects all your gear from harsh weather and possible theft? We’ve got you covered. You can even find the perfect horse trailer for traveling to shows or beach rides.
Maybe you’re in the market for a fifth-wheel camper trailer or toy hauler that not only carries all your fun outdoor toys, but provides you with a compact and comfortable living space for overnight excursions. There’s no shortage of sizes, prices, and models to choose from to get you in the camping mood.
3. Kayak/Canoe Carriers
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For all those who love leisurely canoe rides down pristine streams or even those who live for more aggressive conditions and the challenge of navigating a kayak through rapids and rocks, you’re going to need a reliable and rugged kayak or canoe rack.
This starts, of course, with selecting the perfect fitting crossbars. Be sure to measure thoroughly or check your owners manual for exact specifications on sizing, as crossbars are definitely not a one-size-fits-all purchase. While it’s acceptable to mount your canoe or kayak directly to your crossbars, it’s not recommended, as this can damage or dent the hull of your boat.
The addition of a kayak mount will provide the safe and secure transportation you want. Most kayak mounts come in either saddle-style or stacker-style. This choice is usually simply based on personal preference. If you don’t want to struggle with putting your kayak on top of the roof of your vehicle, consider a lightweight and compact kayak trailer.
4. Car Tents
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If you’ve never used one, the car tent is a clever and effective way to turn your vehicle into a small camper. You can choose a rooftop-mounted tent that attaches to your vehicle’s crossbars. It unfolds and pops up, giving you room to sleep up to five people elevated off the ground and safe from dangerous or curious animal visitors. They usually have a detachable ladder as the primary way to enter and exit the tent.
Another great option is the truck tent. As the name implies, this tent anchors to the bed of your truck, also giving you an elevated, dry, and more protected option than a typical ground tent. These tents are highly model-specific, so make sure you choose one that’s made to fit in your specific truck bed. The last, and most affordable, option when it comes to car tents is the hatchback tent. Attached to the back of your minivan, SUV, or jeep, it extends your vehicle’s trunk space into a usable living space. Pretty brilliant, actually.
5. Portable Air Compressors
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Any outdoor enthusiast with even a modicum of experience is likely to carry a compact, yet powerful portable 12-volt air compressor or tire inflator in their vehicle. Even if you’re not a lover of the outdoors, these versatile units are a great addition to your roadside emergency kit and should be considered by all.
Some air compressors run solely off your vehicle’s 12-volt DC power supply, while others can be a hybrid AC/DC compressor, or even a cordless battery-operated option. Portable air compressors will quickly and easily top up the air in your vehicle’s tires if you’re experiencing a slow leak and don’t want to be bothered going to your local service station for air. Many of them also come equipped with additional adaptors for filling up sporting equipment like inflatable kayaks, paddleboards, water toys, air mattresses, sports balls, and more, making them a versatile tool.
Also, consider purchasing an air compressor that features a flashlight with S.O.S mode for emergency use. Just be sure to get one that’s rated to achieve the necessary PSI (pounds per square inch) to properly inflate your specific size of tires.
