+ My New Car Essentials

After eight months of casually, then aggressively, car shopping—we did it. We pulled the trigger (or should I say throttle?) and got ourselves a new mom car. It’s the kind of purchase that felt both monumental and slightly terrifying. So many options, so many opinions, and two small kids riding backseat while we test-drove half of northern New Jersey.

I researched every brand. Went to more dealerships than I care to admit. Polled friends and strangers on Instagram. I was this close to making a spreadsheet. But in the end, we went with what we knew, what we were most comfortable driving, and what just felt right.

We landed on… drumroll… the 2025 Jeep Wagoneer Series II Carbide. It’s big, it’s beautiful, it drives like a dream, and most importantly, it fits our whole family (and the 1,000 things we need for a weekend down the shore). We leased it, which gave us a little mental breathing room—no stress about resale or long-term commitment. Just a chance to try on this next chapter of family life and see how it fits.

🚘 The Car Buying Process: Why Is It So Painful?

Let’s just say… I’m not rushing to do it again. Car shopping with two small kids in tow? No thank you.

Some of the biggest frustrations:

• Why isn’t there a flat price for everyone without the 45-minute sales pitch?
• Why does it take so long just to get a number on paper?
• Why can’t I just order from a catalog like I do everything else in life?
• Why do I always feel like I’m being upsold or out-negotiated?

I’ve had an amazing friend help me with cars for the last 15 years, so this was my first time navigating it solo. And unfortunately, we officially grew out of our trusty BMWs—so here we are.

But we made it. And I’m so happy with the result.

🧼 Keeping It Clean(ish): My Mom Car Essentials

Now that we’ve got this shiny new ride, I’m doing my best to protect it at all costs. Between snacks, spills, muddy shoes, and “surprise” art projects in the backseat, it’s only a matter of time before things get messy.

Here are a few of the must-have Amazon items I stocked up on to help preserve the magic:
🧽 Car Seat Back Organizer: Snack station meets sanity saver.
View on Amazon

👶 Dual Baby Car Camera with Ultrawide Monitor – Eyes on Everyone, Always
View on Amazon
Finally, peace of mind while driving. This 2-camera baby car monitor shows both kiddos side-by-side on a crisp 6.9″ ultrawide screen—no more awkward over-the-shoulder checks. It installs in minutes, works in day or night (without blinding infrared), and keeps you focused on the road while still watching your backseat circus. Perfect for parents juggling two car seats, three rows, and one sanity.

🔌 The Cable That Keeps Everyone Plugged In (Without the Tangled Mess)
Single: View on Amazon | Double: View on Amazon
This 2-in-1 coiled charging cable is my new glovebox hero. It works with both iPhone and Android (USB-C + Lightning), supports CarPlay/Android Auto, and the coiled design means no more cords wrapped around water bottles or flying into the backseat. Plus, it fast-charges—because there’s always one device hanging on by 2%.

🧴 Car Trash Can with Lid
View on Amazon
A total game changer. No more rogue wrappers and half-drunk juice boxes rolling around the floor.

👜 Clear Zip Pouch – The Glovebox MVP for Moms on the Move
View on Amazon
Perfect for stashing wipes, lip balm, sunscreen, crayons, or emergency snacks—this compact organizer keeps your car clutter-free and your essentials easy to grab. The clear PVC front means no more digging for that one rogue pacifier, and the sleek PU leather backing keeps it looking cute. Waterproof, wipeable, and fits perfectly in your console or door pocket.

🧼 Portable Handheld Vacuum
View on Amazon
Small but mighty. Lives in the trunk and saves my sanity weekly.

🚙 What Did You Pick?

If you’ve also been in the market for a new family car—or recently took the plunge—I’d love to hear what you chose and why. I learned so much from people who shared their experiences with me. Honestly, the real reviews from fellow moms beat any website comparison tool.

For now, we’re happily rolling around in our Wagoneer, snacks in hand (hopefully contained), and enjoying the little bit of breathing room that comes with choosing comfort, space, and sanity on wheels.