The Best Hot-Weather Car Accessories to Keep Seats, Steering Wheels, and Kids Cool

This was the very first thing I bought on my shopping endeavor. I could have purchased car covers that work specifically with the model of car I have directly from the manufacturer, but it was much easier and more affordable to get this easily removable seat cover made of a microfiber material. It’s not just great for protecting your seats from the sun, but it’s also perfect for getting in the car after a workout or a swim if you’re still a little damp.I recommend this sun shade because it is available in several different sizes. I ordered it in a large for my Subaru Ascent, which is a three-row SUV, but it’s also available in smaller sizes for compact SUVs and sedans, as well as an extra-large size for trucks and vans. I’ve been using this every day since I got it, whether I’m just running into the grocery store for a few ingredients for dinner or spending hours out on the trail.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowFor families hitting the road this summer, these retractable side window shades help block harsh UV rays and reduce sun glare, keeping kids more comfortable in the back seat. Strong suction cups make installation quick, while the retractable roller design lets you adjust coverage or roll them away when not needed.Shield your little one from harsh summer conditions with this 2-in-1 car seat cover that combines a breathable sun shade and built-in mosquito net. Lightweight fabric promotes airflow while helping block UV rays and bugs, making it a practical accessory for road trips, outdoor outings, and everyday warm-weather travel.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowI bought this for the back row of my car, where my dog always sits. It provides easy coverage and isn’t black like most car seat covers for pets, so it won’t get quite as hot. It’s also particularly useful because my dog loves to swim and get dirty when we go on hikes, so it’s great for all-year-long use, not just for summer heat protection.Even if you have reliable AC in your car, it doesn’t hurt to have some extra airflow. Keep air circulating where your car’s AC struggles most with this compact USB-powered seat fan. Designed to mount to a headrest, it delivers quiet, adjustable airflow to backseat passengers, helping kids and adults stay cooler on hot summer drives.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowI swear by the big jugs of Gatorade after workouts in the hot weather, but when I’m leaving the gym, they never fit in my car’s cup holder. This is a simple solution to that problem. If you like using a large tumbler filled with ice water during the summer months, this will help you stay hydrated easily while commuting.Add a pop of personality while making summer driving more comfortable with this boho-inspired steering wheel cover. The breathable microfiber helps reduce heat buildup, improves grip, and absorbs sweat for better control on hot days. Its stretchy, universal-fit design slips over most 15-inch steering wheels in minutes.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowIf I have to run multiple errands in one day that involve food, my cooler bag is coming with me. Cars heat up so quickly in the sun; if I have to get a few things from the grocery store and then stop at a separate pharmacy, even just for a few minutes, I don’t want my food to melt or spoil. This cooler bag from Hydro Flask will keep your food safe and cool with its 10-liter capacity.Beat the summer dehydration by ensuring cold drinks are within easy reach. This 30-ounce insulated tumbler keeps beverages chilled for hours, fits most car cup holders, and features a leakproof flip straw lid for sipping on the go. The large capacity makes staying hydrated during road trips and daily commutes effortless.Sarah Connor is a Reviews Editor for Popular Mechanics. She also contributes to Runner’s World, Bicycling, Best Products, and Biography.com. Before joining the Hearst Magazines team, Sarah was a National Content Editor for Hearst Television. She holds a master's in Journalism from Syracuse University and a dual bachelor's in English and Communications from the University of Pittsburgh. When she isn’t writing up a review of the newest gadgets, you can find her heading to the nearest rink for a figure skating session or enjoying the outdoors with her beloved Australian Shepherd, Rosie.