Christmas: What to give a car enthusiast

The Christmas season is approaching, and despite the challenges Ukrainians have faced in recent years, people still need moments of relief – even small ones. For those who, like us, continue to hope for good news both at home and on the front, we’ve put together a series of gift ideas for loved ones. And we’ll start with suggestions for car enthusiasts.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Dash Cam

A dash camera is a practical addition to any car, as it can help clarify what happened in various road situations. Despite their popularity, many vehicles still don’t have one installed. This makes a dash cam a suitable gift both for new drivers who are just putting together their first set of automotive accessories, and for experienced drivers who simply haven’t purchased one yet. Here are two options to consider: a traditional dash camera and a model that mounts directly onto the rear-view mirror.

70mai Dash Cam A510

The 70mai Dash Cam A510 is built on the HiSilicon Hi3556-V200 processor and uses a Sony STARVIS 2 IMX675 camera module with a 2592×1944 resolution at 30 fps, an f/1.8 aperture, and a 140° field of view. This combination is designed to deliver clear footage even in low-light conditions. Recordings can be stored on a microSD card with a capacity of up to 256 GB.

The dash cam is powered via a USB-C port, and a built-in 500 mAh battery enables recording when the engine is off. Additional features include Wi-Fi and GPS modules, speed overlay on video, LDWS (lane departure warning), FCWS (forward collision warning), and a parking mode. The device also has a 2-inch IPS display and a speaker. The 70mai Dash Cam A510 is available starting at about $85 or €75).

Amazon

70mai Rearview Dash Cam S500

The 70mai Rearview Dash Cam S500 is a “mirror-style” dash camera with a set of useful features. It mounts directly over the car’s existing rear-view mirror and can not only replace it, but also expand its functionality. An optional rear camera can be connected to the unit, providing an extended view of what’s happening behind the vehicle while driving.

The Rearview Dash Cam S500 features a 9.35-inch IPS touchscreen and is powered by the SigmaStar 8826Q processor. Its main camera uses the Sony STARVIS 2 IMX675 sensor, capable of recording Full HD and Quad HD footage at 30 fps with a 138° field of view. The device includes a G-sensor, Wi-Fi module, speaker, and audio recording support. It also offers a parking mode and smartphone control. The dash cam supports microSD cards up to 128 GB and relies on a supercapacitor for backup power. The 70mai Rearview Dash Cam S500 is priced from $135 or €115.

Amazon

GPS Navigator

Nowadays, every smartphone includes GPS navigation. However, for those who frequently travel to unfamiliar places and prefer to keep their phone available for communication, a dedicated navigation device can still be useful. One such option is the Garmin DriveSmart 66, which, in addition to standard navigation, offers a range of practical extra features.

The Garmin navigator features a 6-inch touchscreen with a 1280×720 resolution. Alongside GPS, it includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules and supports microSD cards up to 32 GB. The device offers voice control, image viewing, and provides information on traffic, speed limits, and congestion. It can also display video from compatible rear-view cameras. Power is supplied through the car’s cigarette lighter socket, while the built-in battery provides up to one hour of operation on a single charge. The Garmin DriveSmart 66 is available starting at $260 or €225.

Amazon

Jump Starter with Power Bank Function

A dead car battery is never a pleasant surprise – and it’s even worse when there’s no one around to help jump-start the vehicle. That’s why it’s practical for every driver to have their own jump starter and avoid relying on external assistance. If the device can also charge other electronics, such as smartphones, it becomes an even more useful gift – especially under current circumstances.

A notable option is the BASEUS Super Energy Series 4-in-1 Car Jump Starter 600A. It is relatively lightweight (550 g) and compact, measuring 15.5 × 10.4 × 6.5 cm, with a 6000 mAh capacity. The device delivers a starting current of 300 A, with a peak current of up to 600 A. The model also includes an LED flashlight with steady, flashing, and SOS modes. For charging other devices, it provides both USB-A and USB-C ports, and a small display shows the remaining battery level. This “car power bank” is available from approximately $55 or €50.

Amazon

Cigarette Lighter Splitter

A cigarette lighter splitter is a practical and inexpensive accessory that any car owner can find useful. It’s a good gift option for those on a tighter budget but still looking to provide something handy for a car enthusiast.

The Hoco Z13 converts a single cigarette lighter socket into five outlets – three standard 12V sockets and two USB-A ports. It can be used to power a variety of devices, including dash cams, GPS units, and smartphones. When only one device is connected, the splitter provides up to 10.5 W, and a small LCD display allows users to monitor voltage. The Hoco Z13 is available from around $8 or €7.

Wireless Car Charger

For a smartphone owner with wireless charging support, a car wireless charger can be a practical gift. Essentially, it functions as both a phone holder and a charging station, keeping the device powered while driving.

The Xiaomi Mi Wireless Car Charger 50W mounts directly to a car’s air vent. It features infrared proximity sensors for automatic phone clamping and is compatible with devices up to 84 mm wide. The charger comes with a cable and mounting bracket and supports charging at up to 50 W. The price starts at approximately $45 or €40.

Amazon

Cordless Air Compressor

Manual tire pumps are largely a thing of the past, replaced by automotive air compressors. While traditional compressors require managing power cables to reach each wheel, cordless models offer greater freedom of movement and convenience. This makes a battery-powered compressor a practical and thoughtful gift for any driver.

The BASEUS PrimeTrip VA1 measures just 9.2 × 8 × 5 cm, taking up minimal space in the car. It features a digital pressure gauge, a clear display, and an automatic shut-off function. The compressor includes a built-in 1600 mAh battery and can be charged via a car cigarette lighter or a wall outlet. Its modular design also integrates a flashlight and power bank functionality. The package includes all necessary cables and adapters, allowing it to inflate not only tires but also air mattresses or sports balls. The BASEUS PrimeTrip VA1 is available from $45 or €40.

Car Vacuum Cleaner

Despite their compact size, car vacuum cleaners are effective for quickly keeping a vehicle’s interior clean. They are particularly useful during colder months, when trips to car washes are less frequent. Many models are versatile enough to be used around the home as well, functioning as portable vacuums that don’t require a wall outlet.

A practical gift option is the Karcher CVH Anniversary Edition car vacuum. Compact and lightweight at just 330 g, it easily fits in a trunk. The vacuum features a brushless motor for effective cleaning of dust and fine debris. It uses a dual-filtration system, combining a fine steel mesh for larger particles and a HEPA filter. Powered by a 2500 mAh battery, it provides up to 20 minutes of cleaning in standard mode – enough for several thorough interior sessions. For more intensive cleaning, a turbo mode is available, though battery life is reduced to around 9 minutes. The vacuum comes with crevice and dusting attachments. The Karcher CVH Anniversary Edition is priced from approximately $80 or €70.

Amazon

Car Humidifier

Using air conditioning in the summer and the heater in the winter can dry out the air inside a vehicle to uncomfortable levels. A car humidifier helps address this issue. These devices are typically compact and easy to install, often fitting securely into a cup holder.

One example is the BASEUS Time Aromatherapy. Measuring just 13 × 7 × 7 cm, it’s easy to place in a car and can also be used as a desktop humidifier at home or in the office. This ultrasonic model includes an aromatherapy function and has an 80 ml water tank. It features automatic shut-off when water runs out and allows adjustment of output levels. The Time Aromatherapy is available from approximately $15 or €12.

Our roundup shows that there are plenty of gift options for car enthusiasts, and many of them don’t come with a high price tag. Even with less than $10, it’s possible to give a driver something practical that will be genuinely useful. What would you add to this list? And if you’re a driver yourself, what would you like to find under the tree this year?

Read also:

What to Get a Car Enthusiast for Christmas