Owning an electric vehicle opens up a world of clean, quiet driving. But it also means being ready for different charging, maintenance, and emergency situations on the road. Having the right tools can make a huge difference in how easy and enjoyable your EV experience is, and help you avoid headaches when you’re out and about.
If you’re an EV owner, or just thinking about getting one, you might wonder which tools are worth having around. A few simple gadgets and pieces of gear can save time, reduce stress, and even save the day if you run into trouble with charging or maintenance.
You’ll find my favorite essentials below. These are the tools I always keep handy as an EV driver, and the ones I nearly always recommend to other EV owners to make life easier.
1. Portable Level 2 EV Charger: Recharge Anywhere
One of the first things I suggest picking up is a portable Level 2 EV charger. Most EVs come with a basic Level 1 charger that plugs into a regular outlet, but it can take a long time to fully charge your battery that way. A portable Level 2 charger plugs into a 240V outlet and charges much quicker, so it’s super helpful if you’re visiting friends, camping, or staying somewhere with faster outlets but no dedicated EV charging station.
What to Look For:
- Adjustable amperage: Being able to set the speed makes it easier on different circuits.
- Durable cable: Look for one that can handle wear and tear if you’re using it outside or traveling with it.
- Universal compatibility: Most EVs use the J1772 connector, but always check that your charger fits your car’s plug.
A portable charger gives you flexibility, so you’re not stuck searching for a public charging station in unfamiliar places. Making the most of a portable Level 2 charger can make your EV ownership much smoother, saving time and offering assurance on longer trips. Having this charger is a simple way to step up your everyday routine and is a huge confidence booster if you frequently commute or travel away from home.
2. Heavy Duty Extension Cord (for EV Use)
Sometimes, the outlet you want to use is just out of reach. A heavy duty extension cord made specifically for EV charging is really important for those moments. Ordinary extension cords aren’t designed for the amps and sustained loads needed for EVs, so you’ll want one rated for at least 240V use and with thick gauge wires.
I only use mine in a pinch, but it’s saved me more than once, especially at campsites or friend’s houses where the outlet’s just a little too far. Just remember to keep runs as short as possible and never coil the cable while charging, since cords can get warm under load. If you travel often or visit places where plugs are scarce, having this extension cord in your arsenal can make the difference between a quick charge and an uncomfortable wait.
3. Reliable Tire Inflator and Pressure Gauge
EVs can chew through tires faster because of their instant torque, and driving on underinflated tires not only wastes energy but can be downright dangerous. A portable tire inflator is quick to use at home or on the go, while a digital tire pressure gauge gives you reliable readings. Keeping your tires topped off also helps you stretch your driving range, something every EV driver can appreciate. Checking your tire pressure is a quick, easy step to step up your safety and efficiency on the road.
Extra Tip:
- Try to get a compressor that plugs into your car’s 12V outlet and has an auto shut-off feature when the set pressure is reached.
4. Charging Adapters: Plug In, Even Far From Home
Different locations have different power outlets and charger types. Having a small collection of charging adapters in your trunk means you’re ready for almost any situation. I carry:
- NEMA 14-50 to J1772 adapter: Super useful at RV parks.
- Tesla to J1772 adapter (if your car isn’t a Tesla): Lets you use Tesla destination chargers, which are everywhere in some areas.
There are lots of adapters out there, so find the ones that work best for the places you travel most. It’s a quick way to make sure you’re not caught off guard by a weird plug at your destination. Keeping a well chosen set of adapters on hand reduces stress when you’re traveling in unfamiliar territory.
5. EV Safe Jack and Tire Repair Kit
Many EVs don’t come with a spare tire, which stresses me out when heading out of town. A good tire repair kit, with plugs for punctures and a decent sealant, helps you patch up minor flats. Pair it with an EV rated scissor jack so you can safely and quickly lift your car if you need to make a fast repair or swap a wheel.
Why EV Safe?
- EVs are heavy, and battery packs make jacking points extra important. Always check your owner’s manual for safe lifting spots.
Even with roadside assistance available, handling minor flats yourself can prevent extended delays, giving you a sense of independence wherever you travel.
6. Insulated Work Gloves and Safety Glasses
Safety should always come first when dealing with vehicle maintenance, especially with high voltage systems in EVs. Keeping a pair of insulated work gloves and safety glasses in your kit might sound excessive, but I use them all the time, whether dealing with a blown tire, topping up washer fluid, or checking under the hood after long trips.
They’re cheap, add peace of mind, and can keep you protected from electrical shock or road debris. It’s a simple precaution that can save you from injury and bigger issues, so don’t skip this in your emergency toolkit.
7. EV Specific OBD2 Scanner
Modern electric vehicles keep a lot of info “under the hood,” and sometimes those dash warning lights don’t give you the full story. An EV compatible OBD2 scanner can read codes, check battery health, and give real time stats, sometimes even through a smartphone app. This tool has let me catch little issues before they become big headaches and is excellent when you want to track battery performance over time.
What to Buy:
- Plenty of wireless OBD2 dongles work with EV apps. Just double check that your model is supported, since EVs vary a lot in diagnostics.
Having an OBD2 scanner is like having an inside scoop on your car’s health, making you better prepared if a warning light pops up and helping you decide when professional service is really needed.
8. Insulated Trunk Organizer: Keep Things Tidy
Juggling cables, adapters, inflators, and emergency gear can leave your trunk a mess. I like using an insulated trunk organizer to keep everything sorted, so it’s easy to grab what I need in a hurry. Bonus points if the organizer is waterproof and sturdy, since charging cables can get wet or dirty after use outdoors. A tidy trunk not only makes it easier to find your gear, it keeps everything protected and prolongs the life of your essential tools.
9. Power Bank for Devices and Small Appliances
A high capacity portable power bank is another really underrated tool. Aside from charging your phone, you can use some versions to power a laptop or run small appliances if you’re waiting for a charge or camping off grid. Look for one with AC outlets and enough milliamp hours to get you through a long day or a camping trip. Extra power is also convenient if you use navigation apps or listen to music on long drives, ensuring your devices never run out of juice when you need them most.
10. Emergency Roadside Kit: Stay Ready
Every car should have a roadside emergency kit, and it’s especially handy with EVs since you might find yourself waiting for a tow or extra charge once in a while. Mine includes:
- Reflective triangles
- LED flashlight
- Blanket
- Basic first aid
Flatbed tow trucks are standard for EVs, but you’ll want to be visible and comfortable if you’re stuck at night, in the rain, or in very cold weather. Add a few bottles of water and a whistle or signal device for extra peace of mind during unexpected roadside incidents. Your kit can be personalized to your climate or region, ensuring you’re always ready for the road ahead.
Final Thoughts
Being prepared as an EV owner doesn’t mean loading your trunk with every gadget on the market. Investing in a few versatile, travel ready tools makes every drive a little easier and can save you from a tough spot when you least expect it. Got a favorite EV tool I didn’t mention? I’d love to hear about it! If you’re just starting your EV adventure, or looking to fine tune your setup, these essentials can give a big boost to your daily experience and make every mile feel smoother and more secure.