This holiday season, you can give that new teen driver on your shopping list a present that they might not ask for, but certainly need. As they embark on a lifetime of driving on their own, think safety and provide them with the basic essentials they need to survive on the roads by themselves. Here are, in no particular order, five great gift ideas for the new driver (and there’s something here for every budget!).
1. Stanley 500-Amp Jump Starter
This excellent gift idea can save any driver a number of headaches. It’s portable – about the size of a backpack and weighing just 17 pounds, so it fits nicely in any trunk compartment and is easy to lift and carry. It’s powerful – this will recharge the battery in any car without the need for a second vehicle and traditional jumper cables, and without the worry of accidentally electrocuting yourself in the process. It’s versatile – it’s built-in air compressor can also inflate a low or flat tire, and it has bright LED lights to make emergency repairs in the dark a little easier. And it’s affordable – between $70 and $100 at most retailers.
2. The Ready Store Ultimate Auto Emergency Kit
“Whether you have popped a tire or become trapped in a severe snowstorm, rest assured you have the fundamentals for survival so you can get safely home.” That’s the sales message for this amazing 28-piece survival kit that goes beyond the basics. Most kits contain jumper cables, tire repair materials and maybe some road flares. This kit contains all that, plus food, water and shelter for 3 days. Also includes a spotlight, waterproof matches, a whistle and enough pocket tools to make MacGyver jealous. Peace of mind for just about any circumstance, all tucked inside a black gym bag and retailing on their website for just over $100. Simpler kits are available for less from a wide variety of retailers.
3. 2012 Road Atlas
Yes, the paper book kind. Teens have the worst sense of direction, and electronic devices aren’t always reliable: cell phones and GPS units must maintain a satellite signal and are dependent upon battery power or recharging from the car. A paper road atlas will always be in the car with them, and will always work – no batteries required. Just teach them to check road signs as they pass intersections and they should always be able to find their way home. On average, expect a retail price less than $20. Available everywhere books are sold.
4. Life Hammer Auto Escape Tool
The Life Hammer Auto Escape Tool is built for “what-if” survival moments. What if the car is submerged in water? Use the Life Hammer to shatter and window and swim to safety. What if the seat belt has you trapped in the car? Use the Life Hammer’s razor to slice yourself free. It’s one of those tools you may never need, but for a retail price of less than $20, isn’t it better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it?
5. Defensive Driver Training
Every year, thousands and thousands of new drivers enter the roadways, but only a few new miles of road are added. That means that roads are getting more crowded, which means more and more traffic jams. That leads to more aggressive driving, more distracted driving, more dangerous driving. Protect your new driver in the best way possible with defensive driving training by a certified professional. Find a reputable, licensed school in your area and ask about package pricing. In our area? Check our “Services” page for ideas.
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