Classic car owners know that preparation is everything when heading out on the open road, whether it’s for a European road trip, a jaunt to a British seaside town, or the pilgrimage to a summer classic car show.
This summer, Footman James, the classic car insurance experts, asked enthusiasts what their must-have glovebox essentials are when embarking on a motoring adventure, and the results reveal a fascinating mix of practicality, tradition, and a touch of eccentricity.
While many motorists today might prioritise satnavs and phone apps, the survey’s results suggest that classic car drivers take a more old-school and often quirky approach to ensuring their journeys go smoothly.
Top of the list were spare fuses, a torch and trusty mole grips (22%), proving that even in the summer sunshine, classic owners like to be prepared for unexpected roadside hiccups. Close behind were cable ties (15%), the unsung hero of many a roadside repair, showing just how inventive enthusiasts are when it comes to keeping their cars running.
The practicalities didn’t stop there. 13% of responders pointed to coolant, a precaution that highlights just how much thought classic owners put into keeping their cars running smoothly in the summer heat.
However, it is not all about spanners and spares. The survey also revealed a lighter side to glovebox culture. Tissues (9%), and even a cloth for wiping the inside of the windscreen (8%), all made the cut, reminding us that comfort and visibility are every bit as important as tools. Sunglasses (12%) were the most popular non-mechanical essential.
A smaller group (5%) highlighted mints, ensuring drivers stay refreshed behind the wheel. Equally quirky entries included a plastic knife, fork, and spoon (6%), perfect for impromptu picnic stops, while mandatory road-trip reading material (7%) showed that downtime is as valued as driving time.
And in a nod to classic motoring tradition, almost a tenth of respondents (8%) still carry a map alongside their satnav, proving that paper navigation remains a reassuring back-up.
Adam Summersby, Trading Director at Towergate, said:
“Classic car owners approach road trips with a unique blend of preparedness and personality. These glovebox essentials show that our community values not just the practicality of keeping their cars on the road, but also the little touches that make each journey enjoyable. It’s this spirit of adventure, with a dash of eccentricity, that makes the classic car scene so special.”
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