Gifts That’ll Warm A Commuter’s Heart
As the Christmas shopping season approaches (for me, that’s Dec. 23 and 24), it’s that time of year when newspapers everywhere devote vast quantities of newsprint to Christmas gift guides.
Not to be left out of this sacred journalistic tradition, here is a commuter-themed guide to gift items, many of which are available at finer auto parts stores everywhere.
Bench console: For between $10 and $80 you can buy one of these consoles that fit (maybe) on the floor next to the driver’s seat. The low-end models have a cupholder and a coin tray. A $76 model I saw had several large, deluxe cupholders, a tape/CD storage compartment, an elaborate coin dispenser and, I think, a wet bar. Unfortunately, with all those features it was too big to allow enough room for a passenger.
Muffed ice scraper: These combine an ice scraper with a fur sleeve that lets you remove ice from your windshield in high fashion; $8 to $18 (the upper-end one I saw had what looked like an entire arctic fox attached.)
Rain X: “Disperses rain, sleet, snow on contact”; $4.49 per bottle. While evidently for use on windshields, maybe this substance could be sprayed ahead of your car in icy conditions.
The Club: As heard about on radio; $35. This thing prevents virtually any thief from stealing your steering wheel, and Larry King swears by it.
Cassette and CD carrying cases: $10. I recommend the zippered, nylon cases, which are really compact and easy to use. They fit right under the seat.
Tool box: $10. A small one to fit in the trunk is good for holding a few tools, hose clamps, duct tape, tire pressure gauge, etc.
Tire gauge: $3 - $12. Like the public service announcements say, the right tire pressure saves gas.
Booster cables: Insurance policy against leaving the headlights on; $7 - $70. The longer the better. The 16-footers will let you reach either side of the engine compartment without jockeying the car around.
Oil drain container: $13. Lets you collect the dirty oil and store it until you get to the recycle center.
Red pepper spray: $12. For those lonely walks to the car in darkness.
Insulated go cup: Nordstrom has a cool-looking stainless steel cup with a rubber base for $24.99. If that seems excessive, they also have ceramic models for $12 and $13. Plastic models are available everywhere for $3-$5.
Snakelight: $26. As seen on TV. This bendable flashlight looks like a handy item and fun for kids if nothing else.
Cellular phone: Considering the expense, this is probably the gift for very special recipients. The expense of the phone itself is often negligible, but for the service, the cost depends on the calling plan you buy, starting at $30 per month.
Parking Violations Bureau gift certificate: $10. Give this to your friend or loved one who hyperventilates over parking tickets. Next time they see that infernal manila envelope on their windshield, they’ll be able to laugh it off. (Unfortunately, the Parking Violations Bureau doesn’t stock this item. “I’m sorry,” said a bureau staffer. “That’s a good idea though. You might want to take it up with the mayor.” Anyway, you could make up your own certificate pledging to pay off the next ticket for the recipient.)
STA bus pass: A month’s free bus travel for $25 (adults), $19 (youth) or $12.50 (over 65). Great way to encourage this economical, low-stress way to travel.
STA bus bank: A neat, STA-colored plastic bus with a slot for any denomination of coin; $10.
Happy shopping! And remember, get out there soon, because some eager beavers have already jumped the gun.
, DataTimes MEMO: On Your Way is a Valley Voice column focusing on commuter lifestyles and issues. Your views on any of the topics discussed are invited. Please write: On Your Way, The Valley Voice, 13208 E. Sprague, Spokane, WA 99216. Or fax us at 459-5482.