The days of using your car’s cigarette lighter socket for its original purpose are long gone. In many vehicles, it is common this little socket sits unused. However, through the wonders of technology, many have found a way to repurpose this socket for a more modern day use. We have put together a list of some of our favourite nifty gadgets that can be powered by your cigarette lighter socket.
Bluetooth Hands-Free Kit
With laws getting tougher on using phones while driving. Now more than ever, having a hands-free system in your vehicle is not only safer, it could also save you a hefty fine. If you don’t have a hands-free kit as standard in your vehicle this little gadget is a great option to get one set up quickly and easily. Just plug this guy in and after a quick setup you can be back on the road safely hands-free.
Humidifier / Aromatherapy Diffuser
Mini portable humidifiers and aromatherapy diffusers have become increasingly popular in recent years, so it’s no surprise you can now get one of these for your car. There are a few different options for powering these diffusers. Some plug directly into your cigarette lighter sockets, others require a USB port for power. They also come in a wide range of styles, colours and sizes. Our favourite one plugs straight into the cigarette socket, but also included 2 USB ports to plug other devices into (see picture). Super handy for extra phone chargers!
Rechargeable Torch
These days the majority of us tend to use our mobile phones as a torch, but having a backup is always a good idea. Especially if you travel a bit at night. I could imagine nothing worse than being stuck in the middle of nowhere, with a dead phone, in the dark. This handy little device can be re-charged the cigarette lighter socket in your car. Despite their size, these torches put out quite a bit of light thanks to the super bright LEDs. Some also come with a keyring you can hook onto your car keys.
Phone Charger with Retractable Cable
These aren’t a new technology, phone chargers for your cigarette lighter socket have been around for a while. The main reason we love this particular one is because of the retractable cable. This avoids a mess of tangled charger cables messing up your centre console. Some also feature an additional USB port on the side to plug something else in if you need it too. Honestly, you can never have too many USB ports. There are options available for both iOS and Android devices as well as a range of different styles and colours.
Heated Blanket
Have you ever driven with someone who loves the AC blasting icy cold, while you are turning into a popsicle in the passenger seat? Then have we got the gadget for you! This electric blanket plugs straight into your cigarette lighter socket making it portable and super user-friendly. Just plug this baby in, and you will be toasty and warm in no time while the rest of the car can blast the AC as cold as they like.
Heated Travel Mug
Perfect for commuters, this handy gadget will keep your morning cuppa warm for the whole trip. This travel mug simply plugs into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket and keeps your beverage warm for as long as you need it. There is a heap of different types on the market in different shapes and sizes. You should be sure to find one that suits your needs.
Splitters & Extension Cables
With so many devices to power from your cigarette lighter socket, one socket might not be enough. That’s where these little guys come in handy. These splitters allow you to add extra sockets into your vehicle to power multiple devices at the same time. Be mindful on how many things you plug in though, you don’t want to risk running your battery flat.
Extension cables are handy if you need to power something outside your vehicle or in the backseat/boot. This can be handy for powering portable showers or air compressors. These usually come in a variety of different lengths and styles.
Kitchen Appliances
When it comes to powering appliances with your cigarette lighter socket, the options are endless. Gone are the days of being restricted by what you can cook on the road. These days you can find a version of just about every type of appliance that can be powered using your cigarette socket. Fridges or coolers have been around for a while. Thanks to the now some also feature the ability to switch the unit into a heating oven. Now there is finally a way to keep your pies warm on the way to the footy!
There is a heap of other appliances you can now get including blenders, slow cookers, vacuums, kettles, rice cookers and more. Some of these can get a bit power hungry so keep that in mind while you are using your car battery. Your dinner might be warm, but a flat battery won’t get you very far.
Need More Power?
The majority of these devices are designed to work off the power from your existing car battery. This means they will only be powered while the car is running. If you want to power these devices with the vehicle switched off you will need an Auxillary Battery or Dual Battery System. Depending on your vehicle, there are options available for under bonnet systems as well as portable boxes.
The team at Accelerate Auto Electrics specialise in custom dual battery fit outs for a huge range of vehicles and caravans. Whether you want to run a bunch of devices from your vehicle or get a full off the grid set up for camping, we can find something to suit your needs.
Our techs are on hand to discuss your options. Give us a call on 07 5479 6652 or email us at info@amae.net.au.
G day people,do you stock adaptors for connecting crocodile clips to cigarette lighter socket
Thanking you Ian