Essential Car Accessories to Protect Your Ride on Summer From Seat Covers to Pet Barriers: Gear Up Your Car for the Ultimate Family Camping Trip
There’s nothing like hitting the road for a spring camping trip. Packing up the car, kids buzzing with excitement, pets wagging their tails—it’s the kind of escape that turns into core memories. Whether you're heading to the mountains, the lake, or just your favorite quiet spot in the woods to grill some wieners, the freedom of driving to a campsite is part of what makes camping so appealing.
But anyone who’s done it knows the reality: dirt, mud, food spills, wet dogs, and gear shoved into every corner of the car. That’s why prepping your vehicle with the right protective accessories isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
Let’s start with WeatherTech car mats, premium car mats, cargo mats and boot liners. These aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re your first line of defense against everything you’re going to drag into your vehicle. Coolers, tents, fishing gear, hiking boots, and firewood all go in and out of the trunk or truck bed. Without a durable mat or liner, your interior takes the hit—scratches, stains, and lingering smells. WeatherTech Truck Techliners and impact liners offer even tougher protection for those hauling heavy gear, bikes, or tools. They're made to take a beating so your vehicle doesn’t have to.
Then there’s the inside of the car. Seat covers are a no-brainer when you’re driving with kids or pets. Juice boxes spill. Dogs shed and drool. Muddy clothes and wet swimsuits end up on the seats. A good set of washable, waterproof covers saves you from a deep-cleaning nightmare when you get home. WeatherTech offer a range of seat covers for most car models but you should have a look over at our associates lineup over at TigerTough, with custom made seat covers that are made for almost any make or model of car you can think of, you will certainly find what you are looking for. While the cost might feel a little high you will walk away with a well made, long lasting product that looks good and wont quit on you, providing comfort, style, most importantly protection to your vehicle! You can also grab some WeatherTech or TigerTough brand car backseat protectors, complete with pockets for convenient stuff storage, because you always have or end up with more stuff than you meant to!
Now, for the furry passengers: pet accessories matter just as much for safety as they do for comfort. A pet harness keeps your dog secure while driving, reducing distractions and protecting them in case of a sudden stop. If your dog or cat likes to roam, a pet barrier between the back seat and the front cabin keeps everyone where they belong. And for older animals, raised food and water bowls can make a huge difference at the campsite—easier on their joints, and they come in a range of sizes making them useful for cats, small/med and large dogs.
Also don't forget the ground around your tent or camper van, this is where you drag in all the dirt, so we'd suggest finding a suitable large outdoor mat, that you can use to get changed, spray yourself (or your dog down) that you can use outside the tent or van. It will save you so much hassle and its easy to clean afterwards, just roll and store. It's little touches like this that make your camping experience just a little more fun.
Camping is supposed to be relaxing, not a stress-fest over messes and ruined upholstery. Outfitting your car with the right protective gear means you can focus on the fun—hiking trails, roasting marshmallows, and telling stories under the stars—instead of worrying about what your car will look like after.
So before you load up for your next summer escape, take a little time to prep your vehicle the right way. It’ll save your seats, your sanity, and maybe even your weekend.
When you get home you don't want to drag all the mess and dirt in from your getaway so check out our other blog about WeatherTechs Vs Competitor home products! Such as the indoor mats.
And if you are a loyal Galaxus customer please be aware we also have our collection of wares right over there!
1. What’s the difference between a cargo mat, boot liner, and a truck bed liner?
Great question. While they all offer protection, they serve slightly different areas of your vehicle:
- Cargo mats cover the floor of your trunk or cargo space, shielding it from spills, dirt, and scratches.
- Boot liners often include side coverage in addition to the floor, offering more complete protection.
- Truck bed liners are for pickups and handle heavy-duty use—think tools, camping gear, and firewood—protecting your truck bed from dents and damage.
2. Why should I use seat covers for camping trips with kids and pets?
Camping means mess: muddy shoes, snacks, spills, and shedding pets. Seat covers help keep your original upholstery protected from all of it. Most are waterproof and easy to remove and clean, making post-trip cleanup a breeze. Plus, they come in styles to fit just about every type of vehicle.
3. Do pet barriers and harnesses really make travel safer?
Yes—and they’re not just helpful, they’re recommended. A pet harness keeps your dog secure during sudden stops, reducing the chance of injury. A pet barrier prevents pets from climbing into the front seat, keeping the driver focused and everyone safer. Safety and sanity in one.
4. Are raised food and water bowls actually better for older pets?
Definitely. For senior dogs or cats with joint issues, raised bowls reduce the strain on their neck and shoulders, making it easier (and less painful) to eat and drink. They’re also easier to clean and help prevent spills at the campsite or in a tent.
5. Are these accessories easy to install and remove?
Most of them are designed to be tool-free and hassle-free. Cargo mats, boot liners, and seat covers are typically either custom-fit or adjustable to your vehicle. Pet barriers are adjustable and simple to secure in place, and harnesses just clip into standard seat belts. No headaches here—just gear that works.
Pro Tip: Prepping your vehicle with these accessories before your trip can save you hours of cleanup—and potentially hundreds in repairs. Protect now, relax later