Hacks for Working in Your Car

By Kevin Shirley, Associate Broker (DC), ASP, GRI, e-PRO

Whether you are looking for a change in your work schedule or need to get work done between client meetings, a work set-up in the car may increase your comfort and productivity. Among other things, this pandemic has shown us new scopes of working from home or remote locations. However, to make a work-from-car routine comfortable and fruitful, you may need to invest in some essential accessories.

Here are a few items that will help round out your mini car office:

• A laptop desk. Holding a laptop for hours on your lap may lead to significant discomfort. It is better to invest in a lightweight and sturdy steeling wheel desk that can help you put your laptop safely in front of you. These specially designed desks can be fixed easily on the steering wheel, and you can disconnect them while driving. The compact design makes them suitable for back-pocket storage.
• Power inverter. You cannot charge everything with a car adaptor plug or USB. Most of the laptops even require a traditional AC outlet. In this situation, a lightweight, ultra-compact car inverter can serve your needs. These power inverters generally come with two-three USB ports and few AC outlets, so you can hook-up multiple devices with ease. But while buying one, you should ensure that it can serve the rating of your gadgets.
• Wi-Fi connection. While working in the car, you may also need a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Of course, you can grab Wi-Fi from a nearby restaurant or store that offers free connectivity to all visitors; but make sure you are connecting legally and securely. Whenever a reliable public connection is not available nearby, you may be able to turn your smartphone into a Wi-Fi hotspot and share internet access with your laptop.
• Mobile printer. If you are serious about remote working from your car, you may also need a portable printer. There are so many options in the market; most modern printers work perfectly well with Android and iPhones to give instant print commands. But make sure to protect your heat-sensitive printer during the hot summer days.
• Food and drinks. It is not just about work essentials. When you plan a long work session in the car, arranging for food and snacks is also essential. It may save you from interrupting your work to find a café or coffee shop time and again. Also, having a hot coffee with some snacks may power up your energy, enabling you to work over the long haul.

Now you have gone through the essential tips and tricks to work from your car. It is good to get these necessary tools, and soon you will be able to boost your productivity on the go.