Best Winter Car Accessories for UK Drivers
Best Winter Car Accessories for UK Drivers
Blog Article
The UK winter is a bit of a mixed bag—rain, frost, sleet, snow, and freezing temperatures usually all come together to make driving conditions dangerous. Whether you're driving to work, driving through rural areas, or driving off on a weekend adventure, it's crucial to have the proper winter car accessories to ensure your safety, comfort, and vehicle's longevity.
In this detailed guide, we discuss the Best Winter Car Accessories for UK Drivers, from safety must-haves to cold-weather convenience aids and protective equipment for your car.
1. Ice Scraper and Snow Brush
Why you need it: Frosted windscreens and snow-topped roofs are a winter morning annoyance. Driving without clearing them is not only unsafe, but also illegal in the UK.
What to look for
Dual-use tools with a soft-bristled brush on one end and a tough scraper on the other.
Telescopic handles for SUVs or larger cars.
Top UK recommendation: AA Extendable Snow Brush & Ice Scraper – strong, inexpensive, and easy to keep in your boot.
2. Heated Car Seat Covers
Why you need it: Most UK cars don't have factory-installed heated seats, so those cold winter morning journeys are unpleasant.
Features to consider:
12V plug-in compatible
Adjustable heat settings
Non-slip backing for safety
Recommended choice: Snailax Heated Seat Cushion – highly rated for comfort and quick heating.
3. Car Windscreen Cover
Why you need it: Scraping frost from your windscreen every morning is a chore. A frost cover saves time and keeps your glass from freezing overnight.
Key advantages:
Prevents ice formation
Protects wipers and mirrors
Easy to fit and remove
Popular UK choice: Halfords All Seasons Windscreen Cover, with magnetic edges and mirror covers.
4. Winter Car Mats
Why you need it: Mud, snow, and salt are brought into your car by winter. Rubber car mats are simpler to clean and longer-lasting than fabric mats.
Features to look for:
Water-containing raised edges
Anti-slip backing
Vehicle-specific fit
Top pick: Car Mats UK Custom Rubber Mats, British-made and specifically designed for your car model.
5. Portable Car Heater or Defroster
Why you need it: If your car heater takes ages to warm up or you do short journeys, a plug-in defroster quickly clears your windscreen.
Best for:
Defogging windows
Pre-heating small areas
Reliable choice: Ring Automotive RW550 12V Heater/Defroster, a small, effective unit for UK winter mornings.
6. Battery Jump Starter Pack
Why you need it: Your car battery can be drained by cold weather. A flat battery on a cold winter's morning is frustrating—it might get you stranded, too.
What to look for:
Strong enough for your engine size
USB charging points for devices
Flashlight or SOS function built in
UK bestseller: NOCO Boost Plus GB40, a small but trusty jump starter with fantastic reviews.
7. Tyre Grip Mats / Traction Aids
Why you need it: Icy and snowy driveways can have your tyres spinning. Traction mats restore grip without damaging the road.
Best for:
Emergency use if snowed in
Use under driving wheels
Recommended product: Trac-Grabber Recovery Traction Device, small and simple to store in the boot.
8. Emergency Breakdown Kit
Why you'll want it: Winter breakdowns are more likely through cold starting, slippery roads, and battery failure. A decent kit is a UK winter must-have.
Contents:
High-visibility vest and warning triangle
First aid kit
Torch and spare batteries
Blanket and gloves
Tow rope and tyre inflator
Best deal: AA Winter Emergency Car Kit, specifically designed for UK drivers.
9. LED Headlight Bulbs
Why you need it: Shorter days and low winter sun mean less sunlight, so having bright, trusty lighting is essential for visibility.
Upgrade benefits:
Whiter and brighter beam
Longer lifespan
Energy-saving
Popular upgrade: Philips X-tremeVision Pro150 – legal for the road and noted for performance in harsh conditions.
10. De-Icer Spray and Windscreen Wash
Why you need it: Scraping by hand is not always sufficient. De-icer sprays are great at rapidly melting frost and ice.
Tips:
Select a spray that works down to at least -15°C
Pair with winter-grade screen wash to avoid freezing on the road
Best buy: Autoglym De-Icer and Prestone Screen Wash Extreme, both cold-weather-tested in the UK.
11. Boot Organiser or Storage Box
Why you need it: Having all your winter kit stored in one location means it is simple to access in emergencies or at roadside stops.
Ideal for storing:
Jump leads
Gloves, hats, and torch
Ice scraper and de-icer
Shovel and snow chains (if required)
Top-rated choice: Drive Auto Products Car Boot Organiser – waterproof, multi-compartment, and foldable.
12. Portable Tyre Inflator
Why you need it: Low temperatures lower tyre pressure, which impacts fuel economy and handling. A portable inflator allows you to fill tyres at home.
Essential features:
Digital pressure gauge
Auto shut-off
Small size
UK recommendation: Ring RAC635 Digital Tyre Inflator, a top-selling model used by British drivers.
Bonus: Heated Steering Wheel Cover
Why you need it: Frozen steering wheels can make early morning drives a misery. Heated covers provide warmth and extra grip.
Look for:
USB or 12V plug-in power
Non-slip inner lining
Universal fit
Good pick: Zone Tech Heated Steering Wheel Cover – simple to fit and very effective.
Winter Driving Tip:
Always keep a blanket, power bank, water, and non-perishable snacks in your vehicle on longer trips in case you break down or have a weather delay.
Final Thoughts
Getting your car winter-ready in the UK is more than just a matter of convenience—it's safety, efficiency, and preparedness. With some investment in excellent winter accessories such as a windscreen cover, heated seat pad, battery jump starter, and de-icer spray, you can prevent time-wasting, minimize wear and tear on your vehicle, and drive with higher confidence.
Most of these components are inexpensive, simple to keep, and available from UK stockists such as Halfords, Amazon UK, Euro Car Parts, and your local auto retailers. When snow comes in great quantities, you'll be glad you were well-prepared.