We’ve all been there — stuck in traffic, dealing with an unexpected spill, or realizing too late that we could really use a fresh breath before an important meeting. The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your car a more comfortable, organized, and prepared space.

With just $20 and a quick trip to the dollar store, you can stock up on small but mighty essentials that make a big difference in your driving experience. Here are 15 budget-friendly must-haves that deserve a permanent spot in your car.

How We Came Up With This List

This idea came from a TikTok video by YourTikTokSister showcasing must-have car essentials from the dollar store. The video sparked tons of discussion, with drivers sharing their own must-haves and clever hacks for keeping their cars stocked with useful items.

1. Microfiber Cleaning Towels

A clean car just feels better, and microfiber towels are perfect for quick touch-ups. Whether it’s dust on the dashboard or a surprise coffee spill, these soft, absorbent towels help keep your interior looking fresh. Unlike regular paper towels, microfiber doesn’t leave streaks or lint behind, making them ideal for cleaning windows, screens, and glossy surfaces.

2. Multi-Purpose Car Cleaner

From fingerprints on the infotainment screen to dusty vents, a good all-purpose cleaner makes maintaining your car’s interior a breeze. A small bottle fits easily in your glove box, so you’re always ready for a quick wipe-down. Look for a formula that works on multiple surfaces like leather, plastic, and vinyl, so you don’t need separate products for different areas of your car.

3. Car Air Freshener

Few things are worse than stepping into a stale-smelling car. A simple air freshener keeps things pleasant, whether you prefer a subtle clean scent or something a little more tropical. Choose one with a long-lasting formula to avoid constantly replacing it, and consider vent clip options for a steady release of fragrance.

4. Travel-Size Tissue Pack

Whether it’s allergies, an unexpected sneeze, or a quick way to blot an oily dashboard, a pack of tissues is one of those things you won’t realize you need—until you do. They’re also great for small spills, wiping off smudges on your mirrors, or even dabbing away sweat on a hot day.

5. Mini Toothbrushes

Ever wished you could freshen up after a coffee stop or a lunch on the go? Disposable mini toothbrushes are a lifesaver before a meeting, date, or just when you need a quick refresh. Some even come pre-coated with toothpaste, so you don’t need water or a separate tube—perfect for last-minute clean-ups.

6. Eyeglass Cleaner for Sunglasses

Smudged sunglasses or prescription glasses can be distracting when you’re driving. Keep a small bottle of cleaner and a microfiber cloth handy for crystal-clear vision on the road. These also work great for cleaning your infotainment screen, backup camera, and even your rearview mirror.

7. Hand Sanitizer Spray

Between gas pumps, parking meters, and drive-thru transactions, our hands pick up a lot of germs. A small hand sanitizer spray keeps things clean, no sink required. Opt for an alcohol-based formula to kill germs effectively, and consider one with added moisturizers to prevent your hands from drying out.

8. Scented Hand Wipes

For those moments when sanitizer isn’t enough—think sticky fingers after a snack or a dashboard in need of a quick wipe—hand wipes are a must-have. Bonus points if they smell good! They’re also great for wiping down your steering wheel, door handles, and gear shift after a long day out and about.

9. Lip Balm

Dry lips can sneak up on you, especially in extreme weather. A cocoa butter lip balm keeps your lips hydrated, whether you’re cruising in the summer sun or braving winter winds. Look for SPF protection in your lip balm to prevent sun damage, especially during long road trips.

10. Vitamin C Throat Drops

A dry throat or unexpected cough can make a long drive miserable. Stash a few Vitamin C throat drops in your car so you’re always prepared for those scratchy throat moments. They also help keep your voice from getting hoarse on long drives or after singing along to your favorite road trip playlist.

11. Pain Reliever (Aleve, Ibuprofen, etc.)

Headaches and long drives don’t mix. A small travel bottle of your preferred pain reliever ensures you’re never stuck in traffic with a pounding headache. It’s also handy for muscle aches after a long drive or for unexpected pains when you’re on the go.

12. Petroleum Jelly for Extra Hydration

Vaseline-style cocoa butter jelly is a multitasker — great for chapped lips, dry hands, or even as an emergency fix for small scrapes. It can also be used to prevent chafing on long road trips or to protect minor cuts from drying out in cold weather.

13. Compact First-Aid Kit

Minor cuts, blisters, or headaches happen when you least expect them. A small first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and basic essentials is great to have on hand. You can also customize it by adding allergy medication, motion sickness tablets, or anything else that suits your personal needs.

14. Lint Roller

Pet hair, lint, or crumbs on your clothes? A small lint roller keeps both your outfit and your car seats looking clean and polished. It’s especially useful if you give people rides often or if you want to keep your car looking sharp before a big event.

15. Multipurpose Cleaning Wipes

Whether it’s a dusty dashboard, a sticky console, or a smudged screen, these wipes handle it all. Keep a pack in the glove compartment for a quick refresh whenever your car needs it. Choose wipes that are safe for both interior surfaces and hands, so you get more use out of them in different situations.

Small Purchases, Big Difference

You don’t need expensive gadgets to make your car feel cleaner, fresher, and more road-trip-ready. For just a few dollars, these simple additions can save you from headaches, spills, and last-minute scrambling. Next time you’re at the dollar store, grab a few of these—you’ll thank yourself later!