Do you need to find the perfect gift for someone who loves cars? You might think it impossible or too expensive. However, here are 10 great gift ideas that any petrolhead would love. We’ve gone through some of them to help get you started. These include not just gadgets but general things to complement a passion for cars. Have a look below and feel inspired so you can find what’s available and within your budget.
Magazine Subscription
People who love cars often do because of their classical, timeless aspects. Even though much of the news and information is online there’s nothing quite like the glossy pages of a car magazine. There’s something about the weight of the pages, the incredible photography, and the article layouts that will keep print alive for car enthusiasts. Also, with so many top-quality and long-standing publications to choose from – Motor Trend, Hot Rod, and Classic Motorsports to name a few – you’re spoiled for choice. Have a look and see which one is best suited for the recipient and whether they’re doing Christmas Subscription deals.
Toy Models
There’s a child inside all of us and it’s no wonder why car collectors often refer to their vehicles as new ‘toys’. While a new car may be beyond budget there’s nothing stopping you from gifting a replicant toy model. There are several variations of this idea that will bring joy to any car lover. There is of course the official replicas from auto-manufacturers, often arriving in their own glass or plastic casing. These are great for their realism and authentication. However, there are also LEGO sets of some of the most famous cars in history. Look also to Remote Control and other building kits to bring a smile to your loved one’s face.
Car Show Tickets
Sometimes the best gift is something to look forward to. Have a look in your area and see if there are any upcoming car shows. This is a great idea as it also offers a chance to spend a day with your love one enjoying their hobby. There are many different types of car shows from the regular classic to the ostentatious and downright bizarre. Tickets are also fairly inexpensive in many cases so this is a great idea if you’re shopping on a budget. Tickets also fit into car-themed Christmas cards making wrapping a breeze. Plan an amazing day out and who knows, maybe the passion for petrol will rub off on you too.
Wall Art
People love cars as a thing of beauty. Consider celebrating that with a framed photograph or even a painting of your loved one’s favourite car. There are many local artists who can do commissions, even some who specialise in car paintings can be found online. There are also official posters and collector editions straight from the manufacturer. Let your imagination run wild or simply research what’s out there. If you have a terrific photo of your loved one with one of their favourite cars consider also using this – whether commissioned as a painting or blown up and framed.
Clothing
There may be surprisingly more options in this category than you may have considered. Any driver worth his salt should have their own pair of leather driving gloves. Take it one step further and have them monogrammed. It’s not just the hands either, consider purchasing some nice driving loafers. Depending on the brand this can be a relatively inexpensive gift. There are all sorts of stylish paraphernalia available for classic car owners to complement the car. Look to sportswear and official merchandise too. Browse entire Motorsport collections from brands like Puma including workout equipment and trainers. Not to mention official merchandise from Ferrari, Porsche, Mercedes etc. Watches and sunglasses also fit the bill so your loved one can cruise in style.
Videogames
If you can’t drive your dream car then a videogame can be the next best thing. With ever-increasing quality in graphics and performance driving games are at a whole new level. Of course, you will need a console or PC but if this is already in the works then consider titles like McLaren, Forza, Dirt and many others. There are even accessories like pedals and wheels to really simulate the real thing. Of course, it’s not always about realism. There are so many quality racing games out there from Mario Kart to Burnout.
Gadgets
Improve the driving experience with a nifty gadget for the car. Bluetooth technology has made possible so many cool things to make the driving experience better. This can be something like Soundsync, which allows you to connect your phone with ease for music – cheaper than a stereo system. There are also Amazon Alexa gadgets that can be plugged into the car to voice-activate music, directions all while charging your phone. The Roav Viva is a good example. Have a look around and see the latest in sat nav systems, smartphone mounts, dashboard cameras, even devices to warn of speed traps. The list is endless.
Keychains
This might sound like a small gift but you can think outside the box. Besides, just like with any present it’s the thought that counts. You can get some excellent, handmade, engraved leather keychains that can lavishly accessorise a set of car keys. If you have children that want to give an inexpensive gift then, of course, the number of cute options of keychains are exponential, you can even do a quick course on how to make your own! Equally, consider having a favourite photograph made into an adorable keychain. There’s also handy tech that fits onto keys like GPS locators with impressive precision – perfect if the recipient has a habit of losing their keys.
Maintenance Equipment
If your giftee is already a car owner or simply enjoys working on cars maintenance equipment is a good idea. There are so many options here that you can really shop around. Whether it’s finding a tool they might not own or upgrading current ones any item in this category is sure to be appreciated. Look for complete too kits for engine works to other accessories like tool belts and even cleaning equipment. Nowadays you can find excellent cordless devices like interior vacuums and fairly inexpensive power washers for the tyres. Even if they have tools consider purchasing custom toolboxes or you can even craft your own if you’re able. Another great idea is local courses on car maintenance that you can participate in too.
Interior
If the person you have in mind is proud of their vehicle help them make it look as good on the inside as it does on the outside. There are loads of options to make the interior of the vehicle shine. Have the floor of the car protected with custom floor mats. Have the steering wheel stand out with a new cover – from sophisticated leather to fun fabric designs. Even if it’s a young driver or someone with a playful spirit there are loads of dashboard accessories to choose from. Figurines, pendants, LED lights, as well as custom air fresheners, are also great options. Consider some practical interior features like organising kits that fit the back of seats or in the boot of the car. Especially with families, these can be incredibly useful.
