Tag Archives: gifts

In just a few short years, TikTok solidified itself as not only an app for entertainment but more for information, especially in the commerce space. Watching creators share real and honest reviews on products has made several of these items go viral, and rightfully so. Getting to see a product be truly used has helped catapult small businesses and made life easier in several different categories. Here are a few of the best car accessories from viral TikToks, as sold on Amazon. Many are certainly odd yet lovable little doohickeys that only fellow internet weirdos may like, but some are sure to be fan favorites for you, too. So have a little fun this holiday season and happy shopping!

1) Portable Car Screen with 4k Dashcam

Dashcams have been a brilliant accessory for cars for a while now, and not just as a safety measure. If you have an older vehicle that isn’t equipped with the latest screens for navigation and entertainment, this is an easy-install alternative. These are a great asset for commuters or for those who do a lot of travel. Being able to record an unfortunate situation can help with accidents for you and for others. Easy access to maps, phone calls, music, podcasts, and more can improve the nightmare of driving in traffic or long distances. Also, we are certain law enforcement will appreciate you keeping your hands on the wheel and not any and all devices.

See it at Amazon

2) Mini USB Car Humidifier

A car humidifier might not be something you immediately think you need, but as someone who does a lot of road trips, it can be a necessity. Older vehicles with not-spectacular AC can be a menace to your lips and skin. Dry air blasting in your face and eyes for hours is a different kind of hell. This mini humidifier can run for up to nine hours in one mode or almost five hours in the other. It is UBS-powered and is whisper quiet if you’re a driver who likes the serene solitude of the open road sans noises. It shuts off automatically, fits securely in cup holders, and is a great companion for the winter months.

See it at Amazon

3) Smart Kup Car Cup Holder

We live in a time of multiple water bottle preferences, and not all cup holders are created equal. This Smart Kup holder is not only a favorite of TikTok but Amazon as well. While this rose in popularity as everyone and their mother bought a Stanley, it fits plenty of other brands snuggly. Yeti, Hydro Flask, and Nalgene all work with this. What kind of blows my mind is just a regular coffee mug can even be tightly in one of these. I’m not that wily, but who am I to judge? I love my Amazon Basics water bottle, FYI.

Just don’t spill if you like to raw dog your open coffee mugs with java fresh from Hell’s pits.

See it at Amazon

4) Kei Project JDM Tsurikawa Ring

Function and style. These Tsurikawa Rings are a definite statement piece and come in a ton of different colors and even shapes. These can absolutely just be decorations, from bumpers and mirrors. But if you’re someone who needs a little help getting into a vehicle that’s higher up, these are so helpful for you and your passengers. for that extra boost.

Also, who doesn’t want a little dash of cutesy JDM charm?

(Editor’s note! If the intent is to use this as a drift charm, you mount it hanging just beneath your back bumper. If it’s broken, scuffed, or torn off altogether after a drift session, you are running at an appropriate ride height. Don’t be a dunce who just mounts it anywhere on the exterior and still calls it a “drift charm.” I’ll fight you personally. Love, Jeric.)

See it at Amazon

5) EcoNour 2-in-1 Car Steering Wheel Tray

We would never condone using one of these while driving; I’m not entirely certain how you could, but just don’t. However, if you do travel a lot and pitstop for meals or to check in with work, these trays are handy to have. Slipping easily onto the steering wheel makes meals less messy and more enjoyable. Car lunches don’t have to be a struggle when you’re already exhausted from driving. Slim, lightweight, and sturdy.

See it at Amazon

6) Drop Stop Car Seat Gap Filler

Of all the products I’ve seen on TikTok, this one is top-tier, and it was even a Shark Tank selection. How many times have you had your keys, phone, or wallet fall between the cracks of the seat, door, or console? We are going to guess a lot. The Drop Stop slides right in and becomes the perfect gap filler, so you never have to dig for important wares again. You get two in a pack, and we guarantee your passengers will appreciate this as well.

See it at Amazon

7) Govee Car LED Smart Interior Lights

Aesthetic goes a long way, and if you want to be extra, grab these Govee LED Smart Lights. Govee is a great and reliable brand, so you know these car lights are going to be just as ace (like the Type-S underglow kit from our gearhead-specific gift guide, cough, cough). Over 74,000 happy customers can’t be wrong. Easy to install, almost anyone could figure out how to stick them up and connect via a car charger. Control the colors and patterns seamlessly from the Govee app. Pick a vibe that fits your tastes or even use these to set the mood on a romantic outing.

See it at Amazon

8) Panoramic Rearview Car Wide Angle Mirror

If you’re someone who prefers a larger viewing range while driving the Panoramic Rearview Wide Angel Mirror is for you. Just snap this onto your current rearview mirror and expand your horizons, literally. The specific shape is designed to reduce blind spots and lessen distortion. It’s never a bad idea to add extra safety precautions. This smart accessory is compatible with most vehicles and is made with high-quality shatterproof glass.

See it at Amazon

9) Ceeniu Smart Car Air Freshener

Just because you can’t always have a “new car smell” doesn’t mean your vehicle should lack a calming scent. This little whiff dispenser comes battery-powered and can run up to 40 days. Cover up must, wet dog, baby diaper odors, and anything else that can happen while on the road. There are three different intensities to pick from for the days you need a little extra funk control. Grab one of the 17 refill scents when you run out too. Switch it up based on season or stay true to your vibe with something light and inviting to make any trip more enjoyable.

See it at Amazon

10) ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner

Kids, pets, and significant others can all be messy on long and short trips. Accidents happen, so it’s best to be prepared for them. A portable car vacuum is a spectacular item to keep your four-wheeled dream pristine. Snap up crumbs, fur, dirt, and anything in between. With a 16-foot chord that plugs into the lighter, there’s plenty of slack to clean a long truck or even a van. Three different attachments give you options for appropriate picker-uppers. Don’t pay an arm and a leg for expert detailer again, now you can do it yourself with this 4-star rated wonder.

See it at Amazon

Gift-giving shouldn’t be stressful. It’s a fun time of year to shower our loved ones with presents we know they will appreciate. If you’ve got a car enthusiast to buy for, be they young or old, we’ve complied a list of unique toys to brighten their holiday. Car toys come in an array of categories but all are fun. I got to play with a few of these at this years Toy Fair in New York City back in October, so I can vouch for their awesomeness.

1 — Max Verstappen Funko Pop!

With the 2023 season closed, Max Verstappen remained Champion and Red Bull handily were in control all but one race this year. He’s an amazing driver, you can’t deny that. Even if you are a Max hater you have to admit he is the actual best. #SorryNotSorry. I got to see the first run of the new Red Bull and Mercedes Funko Pops at Toy Fair, and they are really that sweet in person. And of course you know I’ve got Valtteri in my living room.

See it at Amazon

2 — LEGO Speed Champions 1970 Ferrari building kit

LEGO is fun for all ages. I’m a big fan of these kits because it’s a great activity to pass a rainy or snowy few days. You don’t have to be a Ferrari fan to appreciate this model, but it doesn’t hurt. It’s only 261 pieces, but the detail is still pretty impeccable. LEGO is good like that. The classic Ferrari red and yellow color combo will pop anywhere you display this. Feel free to pretend the minifig is Mr. Smooth Operator himself, Carlos Sainz Jr.

See it at Amazon

3 — Jada Fast & Furious 1970 Dodge Charger RT remote control car

Ages ago I got to collab with Jada on the diecast Fast & Furious line they released. It was glorious. They make really quality beautiful replicas. Of course, I kept Dom’s Charger on my desk at work. This remote control version is just as awesome, maybe more so. If I had this one I would’ve been a menace driving it through the office. I love that these newer remotes are fully rechargeable by USB, although you do get batteries to start the action right away. The RC controller is hefty and durable, so no need to be gingerly with it. Sadly no Toretto is included.

See it at Amazon

4 — Sillbird transforming robot & racing car

Speaking of movies, we all can agree the only Transformers movie worth anything is Bumblebee. (Disclaimer: The actual best is the 1986 OG animated movie.) While this isn’t an officially licensed Bumblebee, it’s close enough. What makes this special is that it’s a teaching set for you and young ones to enjoy. There are 560 high quality pieces and this can be a great bonding gift. Or can gift this to a fidgety kid as a projector to concentrate on for a few hours. Step-by-step instructions make it user friendly and the finished product looks killer either as flashy race car or noble Autobot.

See it at Amazon

5 — NTT IndyCar Pato O’Ward figure

Pato O’Ward is having a moment and has emerged as IndyCar’s darling driver of 2023. Funny, young, adorable, and genuine. It’s easy to understand how he became a fan favorite. Making close ties with their F1 McLaren family, he is now officially a reserve driver for them and we couldn’t be happier. This is a great little gift for a Pato fan or McLaren Arrow IndyCar fan. We hope to see more successful races from him next season.

See it at Amazon

6 — Carrera Bull slot car racing track set

I got to see this set at Toy Fair and it is as beautiful and impressive as you’d think it would be. If you’ve got the space to set this up and keep it out, I would 100% do that. It looks stunning and is just as fun. There is something nostalgic about it as well, if you grew up with an older relative who always had one of these. Battle your friends and family with fast paced lane changes and smooth defensive moves. Lay the track for swerves, curves, crossovers, and nice long straight-aways. You can buy expansions and add up to six cars for a real competitive night. I found the controllers are exceptionally responsive and adaptive once you get going. This is an absolute slam dunk to have around for the holidays or any big gathering.

See it at Amazon

7 — Aoshima 1/32 Model Car – Nissan R34 Skyline GT-R

If you’ve ever wanted to build a model car but are intimated, Aoshima’s sets are for you. They couldn’t be easier. They take all the stress and time consuming nature of model building away. These kits are strangely relaxing and I’ve got a few of them. Aoshima has a ton of models to pick from, so if you find you love one you can create a whole series to show off. The instructions are in Japanese, but much like Ikea their are idiot-proof with pictures. I’ve never run into an issue getting a car put together, so I don’t think you will either. I do recommend getting a basic tool set to help with the assembly of tiny parts.

See it at Amazon

8 — Hot Wheels Barbie The Movie toy Corvette

I don’t know if there’s a part of me that will ever fall out of love with Hot Wheels. I’m sure for many of us they were a staple of our childhoods. Hours spent with siblings, friends, or on our own maneuvering these solid little metal cars all over the house and outdoors. Now, many are collectibles and make fantastic decorations for gearheads of all ages. Cars were always a things that brought my entire family together and in the Hot Wheels brand there is something for everyone.

See it at Amazon

9 — Yofe 24V electric go-kart – McLaren Edition

Another thing I saw at Toy Fair! Well, not exactly this one. I got to see Go-Kart’s Aston Martin version, which isn’t out just yet. They wouldn’t let me sit in it either. Rude, honestly. Something about them being made for kids and then me protesting that, “But I’m so little.” Officially licensed a full charge will get your lil ones over an hour of cruising excitement. I’m sure your child is also the size of Lando Norris (and under 135 lbs.), they will fit comfortably in the cushioned seat. There are two speeds at five and eight mph so nothing truly dangerous for them to accelerate to. It’s low to the ground for better control and would make a killer gift to unveil this holiday season.

See it at Amazon

10 — Miata plushie

If you’re looking for a gift for your Sheilah or a Mazda enthusiast might I director you to the cutest plushie that’s ever existed. Yes, that is correct. The already adorable and endearing Mazda Miata can now be purchased as a cuddly stuffed animal. It’s available in five colors to vibe with that of your giftee, but you can never go wrong with a fetching red if you can’t decide.

See it at Etsy

A good coffee table book can elevate the décor of your entire room. If you have frequent visitors, they are excellent conversation starters, especially if they are fans of the material. Keeping a neat and well-designed stack on a table in the living room, placed by a bed, or lovingly nestled on a prominent shelf tells your guests, “Yes, I am a car nerd.” Each book can serve as a beautiful centerpiece and elevate you beyond a casual fan to an elite gearhead, serving as a testament to your nerdery. Any of these would make a fantastic gift for the garage guru in your life, too. Especially now, we made sure to get all the motorsports enthusiasts in on this, not just the Formula 1 die-hards! Just some food for thought with the holidays fast approaching.

1) Owners’ Workshop Manuals

These Owners’ Workshop Manuals are such a nice touch to have out in your home. Instance cool points. This McLaren M23 book is currently on my coffee table. These are great because you can build your own set, as there are many out there from different decades and constructors. Each book is a comprehensive guide to the history of the car and its era within F1.

Outside of just being very well put together, each of these manuals has an encyclopedic look into builds and tales of both the liveries and the teams. There are quite of few floating around, so start your pile today. Buy the McLaren one above, or try out the Lotus, Ferrari, Red Bull, and/or Brabham editions! You’ll definitely get a complete view of where car tech was at each of the timeframes of the books, as well as where F1 was in motorsports history.

2) NASCAR 75 Years

This has certainly been a year of anniversaries for motorsports, and NASCAR hit its 75th birthday. I grew up a huge NASCAR fan (there are serval Polaroids of me in Dale Jarret gear). I was so excited when they announced this book. If you know anything about NASCAR, its origin is interesting, to say the least. If you’re a ’90s baby, there is no way you didn’t remember the rise of Jeff Gordon with the dominance of Dale Earnhardt. You didn’t have to watch to know who they were and their impact on American culture.

The alluring archived photos are meticulously placed amongst some of the most thrilling stories from the last 75 years. Given the growing interest in motorsports and IndyCar within the US, this is a lovely representation of an organization that I hope is on the upswing again.

3) Schumacher: The Official Inside Story of the Formula One Icon

Another entry plucked straight from my coffee table. No matter who you are a fan of, there is no doubt Schumacher is the greatest driver to step into a Formula One car. Given his current health, having a book of his history in his own words and memories is something to covet. Schumacher was the undisputed king of F1 and broke almost every record in his time in the sport. Seeing his life within motorsports through his eyes is special, especially for newer fans.

This book takes you right up to the tale end of his World Championship supremacy, for time reference. And if you are a Mick supporter, there are plenty of adorable snapshots of the blonde-haired babe growing up. A dynamic career marvelously preserved, the legacy Schumacher is leaving behind makes for the perfect book for any F1 fan’s coffee table.

4) Porsche at Le Mans: 70 Years

Le Mans hit its centennial race this year back in June, and Porsche is well a part of that story. With over 19 Le Man wins, Porsche’s prominence in France made perfect sense for an all-encompassing coffee table book. Earlier in the year, I was lucky enough to attend the screening of the documentary Racing With Giants: Porsche at Le Mans. I even interviewed Le Mans and Porsche veteran Patrick Long there.

Psst, give my interview a peep!

The history of this race and this team is rich and deep. Hundreds of photos were foraged from the very beginning in 1951 all the way to 2021. This coffee table book is a rich, sweeping history of Porsche’s victories and exploits at La Sarthe. Spyders, GTs, hybrids, oh my! Get first-hand stories from Le Mans legends like Jacky Ickx, Mario Andretti, and Helio Castroneves, to name a few. I highly recommend checking out the documentary and our article before getting cozy with this enticing book.

5) IMSA 1969 to 1989

And now for something completely different! If you’re newer to motorsports and want to look at the history of different racing series, IMSA is a great one. The International Motor Sports Association was founded in 1969 and is the North American sanctioning body for all things sports car racing. If the name sounds familiar, that would be because they are actually a division of NASCAR.

This coffee table book covers the first 20 years and was compiled by the founders’ son. The prestige in that first-hand perspective presents such a magical look at one of the most accessible forms of racing in the US. If you’ve ever wanted to see racing in the States, this is a gateway, for sure. Flipping through, you’ll get a compelling visual story of design, politics, and how the management of this GT series’ lessons are still in practice today in motor racing worldwide.

6) RACEWKND World Champions

While technically less of a book and more of a photo collage, you can still add it to any coffee table for heaps of extra personality! These look dope, and you don’t even need to be a fan. Just have working eyes! This large-scale issue is one of many from the publisher, and they are all fabulous. In the first series, the magazine focuses on legends of F1 (past and present). In collection two, they focus on our favorite constructors of Formula 1.

This issue centers around World Champions like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton. Rainer Schlegelmilch opened up his archives to feature never-before-seen photos. Read about the evolution of the FIA from the ’50s to the present day. If you want one of these, I would suggest purchasing it as soon as possible, as these are not being reprinted.

7) Formula 1 Circuits: Maps and statistics from every Grand Prix track

If you’ve ever been curious about the statistics and records of each of the circuits in the history of F1, this is the coffee table book for you. Featuring all 77 circuits used in the many, many years of Formula One, discover hidden trivia and lesser-known tales from each. The book is laid out chronologically, starting with the first Grand Prix in Monza.

Keep an eye on 1978. That’s when my favorite track opens. The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal has quite the history and is one of the best races on the calendar. You also get bespoke digital maps of every course. A very nice touch, indeed.

8) BMW M: 50 Years of the Ultimate Driving Machines

I see BMW M gear all over when out and about. Like, literally everywhere I go. The M-Series stands for Motorsport, which first appeared in 1972 for the historic German manufacturer. This coffee table book celebrates the 50th anniversary and deep dives into the range of famous M models that have been designed over the decades. This is an excellent gift to surprise a Bimmer fan with.

Or just that one poser kid who really likes the M clothes to go with their 335i M Sport.

9) Le Mans 100: A Century at the World’s Greatest Endurance Race

As aforementioned, we celebrated 100 years of Le Mans this year. The world-renowned race of 24 Hours at Circuit de la Sarthe is a sight and experience to behold. The fact that we have preserved a century’s worth of races, personalities, triumphs, and heartbreaks is nothing short of mesmerizing. We know you’ll recognize the usual favorites like Porsche, Ferrari, Ford, Aston Martin, Mercedes, McLaren, to name a few. But learning about how lesser racing “brands “have contributed to not just the track’s history but the sport’s metamorphosis is just as rewarding. The innovation that comes from Le Mans is hands down my favorite element about this storied race.

What was always a bit confusing that this coffee table book does a good job of touching on is the different classes. All the classes that have run are explained, and favorites are spotlighted. So you’ll get a full breakdown of the Le Mans Prototype and GT categories. This alone is so helpful in understanding where the race standards currently are.

10) Formula Ferrari: The First Official Inside Story of the Most Successful Team in the History of Formula 1

Another fine specimen from my exhibit! This book is a superb telling of the story of the world-renowned and beloved prancing horse brand. It is a bit older than other books on the list but still full of juicy Prancing Horse tidbits. I’m a sucker for old motorsport photos, especially from the ’80s and ’90s when everything was a little grainy and the antithesis of 4K resolution. It gives a lot of oh-so-delightfully nostalgic charm to them.

This book sits atop my Schumacher one, and together, they make me look like a Ferrari superfan… which I’m really not, but even I still enjoy both of these. What sets this book apart from others about the brand is that it’s the first sanctioned telling of their story, completely blessed by the Ferrari family. And having one of the most respected Italian sports journalists compile this tale doesn’t hurt either.