Driving is a different experience for everyone. Some of us feel at our most comfortable behind the wheel of a car and would live in our vehicle if it were possible. Others only get into the driving seat on sufferance, and feel endlessly irritated while there. However it is possible to make every journey go with a swing if you make a few purchases to improve or enhance the experience.

1. An in-car DVD player makes the longest journey feel at least two hours shorter – and the more DVDs you bring along, the shorter the journey is. As the driver, you ought to be watching the road – but even then it will be more relaxing when the only noise coming from the back seat is SpongeBob.
2. An iPod docking station for your MP3 player is a sound investment. When traveling alone, you can have the best jukebox in the world, and sing along badly. When the whole family is there, a playlist to suit all tastes will make the journey fly by.
3. A heated drinks mug is a really good idea. Making up some coffee before you set off and putting it in the mug will mean you can rely on a hit of caffeine when you need it most – those punishing last miles of the trip when you want to go to bed but cannot.
4. A back massager that hangs over the seat and gives you a relaxing back rub when you need it most? It works for a lot of people, but bear in mind whether you are likely to fall asleep from the relaxation before fitting one to the driver’s seat.
5. Heated, padded or cooling steering wheel covers. You forget how vital steering wheel comfort is until you try to drive with an overly hot one or a freezing cold one. It can really affect handling.
6. A drink cooler. Driving can be extremely tiring, and all the more so when you are uncomfortable. Sometimes the whole process feels like an endurance test, but a nice cold soda can make a big difference – and the kids will love it too.
7. A GPS navigation system. There are many people who pooh-pooh the usefulness of a GPS, but these are mainly people who drive a select few routes and have done so since they passed their test. For long and new routes, a navigation system makes all the difference.
8. A blanket. Yes, it is not terribly technological or innovative in any way. But sometimes you must nap, and it is better to do so than to drive while tired. Think comfort.
9. Bottled water. It has so many uses beyond drinking. Topping up your radiator in an emergency, cleaning a wound in the same situation, or washing your hands if they get sweaty. And drinking, of course.

10.  Duct tape. The solid sidekick of bottled water. You would be stunned how many things this comes in useful for. An excellent addition to any road trip survival kit.