There are some non-negotiables that taxi drivers need, including a taxi badge, an appropriate vehicle, and valid taxi insurance. But most taxi drivers spend a large portion of their time in their car, so it’s no surprise that many also opt for stocking up their vehicle with extra accessories.
Whether you’re looking for tips on what to keep in your car for a seamless workday or looking for ways to boost customer ratings, this article will cover the top items taxi drivers should consider keeping in their cab.
Top 10 taxi accessories
1. Phone holder
In the UK, it’s illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, or tablet while driving. Therefore, a phone mount is a necessity for many taxi and private-hire drivers who use their phones to accept fares and those who use phone apps for navigation.
There are a few different types of phone holders, but most taxi drivers opt for a windscreen mount or dashboard holder. Whatever you choose, it will need to be set up so that it doesn’t block your view of the road.
2. Sat-nav system
Sat-navs are a handy accessory because they can provide live traffic information and offer alternative routes when diversions are needed.
Plenty of modern vehicles already have built-in sat-nav systems, but if yours doesn’t, consider keeping one in your cab to be on the safe side. Even if you already use a maps application on your phone, a spare navigation system could come in handy if your phone breaks or runs out of battery mid-fare.
3. Dashcam
Dashcams and CCTV are very popular amongst taxi drivers. Not only can they improve safety, but the footage collected can also be used as evidence in the event of an incident involving a passenger or in a taxi insurance claim.
However, before purchasing any dashcams or CCTV, be aware of any local licensing regulations and legal requirements for installing them in your vehicle. You can find more guidance by reading our article: CCTV and dashcams for UK taxis: What you need to know.
4. Charging cord for your phone
Keeping a phone charger in your car is a must if you work long hours and rely on your phone for navigation or accepting fares. Just make sure to choose one that’s compatible with your vehicle.
5. Sunglasses
Having a pair of sunglasses handy will be helpful year-round. Even if you primarily work at night, there’s no harm in keeping some spare for the off chance you work throughout the night until sunrise.
6. Small tool kit
Packing a small toolkit in your car could prove helpful in an emergency. Consider keeping items such as:
- Small tools such as a wrench or screwdriver.
- Windshield scraper.
- Tyre inflator/sealant.
- Flashlight and spare batteries.
7. Air fresheners
Having air fresheners in your cab will help keep it smelling fresh, which is essential for good customer ratings and tips.
You can also use odour eliminators such as Febreze to quickly get rid of any unpleasant smells – just be careful not to use anything too overpowering, as this could lead to customer complaints.
8. Cleaning products
Cleanliness should be at the forefront of your mind while working as a taxi driver, not only for yourself, but also for your passengers. Consider keeping cleaning wipes for use on seats between jobs, and offer hand sanitiser to customers when they enter and exit the vehicle. You could also keep napkins for any potential spills.
9. Seat covers
Seat covers can help protect the interior of your taxi, especially if you frequently transport pets. Even if you do not typically accept pets, all taxi drivers are legally required to accept guide/accessibility dogs, so it’s always best to be prepared.
10. First aid kit
Although taxi drivers are not required to be first-aid trained, a first-aid kit can be helpful, even for something as simple as handing out a plaster if someone has cut their finger.
Bonus tip!
Taxi drivers often work long hours on the road. You should always try to take care of yourself while working, including staying hydrated and feeling satiated. Consider keeping healthy snacks and bottles of water in your cab. You could also purchase a travel mug so you can take your coffee to work!
Summary
Keeping your taxi stocked with the right accessories can make all the difference when you spend most of your time working on the road.
No matter what you decide to keep in your vehicle, you should always make sure that you have the right taxi insurance in place. Whether you’re looking for a competitive quote or wondering if you can get a better deal at your renewal, we can help. Get in touch with us for a quote today by calling 0333 015 6886 or start by filling out our online quote form.
