5 Things Every Tesla Owner Should Keep in Their Trunk (That You Won’t Find in the Manual)
As a long-time Tesla owner, I’ve learned one thing the hard way: there’s a big difference between what Tesla tells you to keep in your trunk… and what you’ll wish you had when something unexpected happens.
1. Portable Tire Inflator with Built-In Pressure Gauge
Let's start with a big one. Teslas don't come with a spare tire.
A compact, rechargeable tire inflator is a game-changer. I keep mine plugged into the rear trunk outlet and check my tire pressure every month or so. It's helped me avoid range loss due to low PSI, and I've even helped out a stranded driver at a Supercharger.
Pro Tip: Look for one with a digital display and automatic shut-off to prevent over-inflation. Bonus if it fits in the sub-trunk compartment.
3. Compact Emergency Kit (Jumper, Flashlight, Tools)
5. Trunk Storage Bin or Organizer
2. Microfiber Towels and Quick Detailer Spray
Final Thoughts
Your Tesla is smarter than most cars... but you still need to think like a smart owner. These five trunk essentials aren't about over-preparing. They're about making sure that when life throws a curveball, you're already two steps ahead.
Whether you're a brand-new Tesla owner or a long-time enthusiast, trust me... add these to your trunk, and you'll thank yourself later.
Got a favorite must-have item that I missed? Let me know. I'm always looking for ways to level up my Tesla game.
Teslas are incredible vehicles... sleek, smart, and tech-forward—but they're not immune to life's little curveballs. Whether it's a pot hole, an unplanned road trip detour, or a weather surprise, the right gear in your trunk can turn an "oh no" into a "no problem."
This list isn't based on theory; it's built from real-world experience. These five items have saved me time, stress, and even money. And no... you won't find any of them in the Tesla manual.
EVs don't run on gas, but they still have 12V batteries... and yes, they can die.
A basic emergency kit with a portable battery jumper, a glass breaker/seatbelt cutter tool, flashlight, and mini first-aid kit is worth its weight in gold. Especially if you road trip, drive at night, or live in an area with unpredictable weather.
I once used battery jumper to jump a friend's ICE car in a grocery store parking lot. Ironic, I know.
Pro Tip: Choose a jumper that's safe for use with lithium-ion systems and compact enough to fit in the lower side well.
This might sound boring, but hear me out.
Teslas are powerful, responsive cars... and if you've ever taken a sharp turn and heard something slam around in the trunk, you know what I mean. A storage bin keeps your gear (and groceries) from becoming projectiles.
I use one with Velcro on the bottom to keep it in place, and it fits perfectly above the sub-trunk area. Inside? Umbrella, wipes, charging adapters, inflator, towels... all neatly organized.
Pro Tip: Get one for groceries and other occasional items that folds flat when not in use, and use dividers to segment your essentials.
Fingerprints. Bird droppings. Coffee spills. Black trim that somehow attracts dust and spots like a magnet. A couple of microfiber towels and a small bottle of detailer spray can help you keep your Tesla looking showroom-ready... even on the go.
I've lost count of how many times I've pulled into a meetup or charging station and done a quick wipe-down before hopping out.
Pro Tip: Use separate towels for the interior screen and exterior paint to avoid scratches. Stash everything in a soft-sided pouch or organizer to keep it from rolling around.
4. Tesla Jack Pads (Lifting Pucks for Tire Rotations or Emergencies)
This is the item I really wish someone told me about sooner.
Teslas can't be lifted with a regular floor jack without risking serious underbody damage... including the battery pack. Instead, you need special jack pads that fit into the four lift points on the chassis. Many tire shops don't carry them, and some won't touch your car without them.
Don't count on roadside assistance services having them, either.
I keep a full set of 4 in a zippered case in the trunk. When I show up for a tire rotation or seasonal tire change, I hand them to the tech; no awkward conversations, no liability issues.
Pro Tip: Get the kind with rubber bumpers and a snug fit. They're cheap insurance against costly mistakes.
Bonus: The "Retired Items" List
Here are a few things I used to keep in the trunk that I've since ditched:
Giant tire plug kit; replaced by the inflator and roadside assistance
Random charging adapters I never actually used
Backup mobile charging cable that I never used (chargers are everywhere now)
Overkill emergency tools
Sometimes less is more.