There are many different truck accessories on the market, so many that it can be hard to know where to start searching. The best truck accessories will either improve your vehicle or improve the way you experience your vehicle. From safety equipment to stylized lighting, there are plenty of options that allow you to customize your rig and prepare it for whatever may come your way.
We looked at dozens of different truck accessories and have identified the best in their respective categories. As we reviewed these truck accessories we considered factors such as utility, uniqueness, and practicality in choosing our top picks. Not everybody will find our top picks to be useful for their trucks, however, which is why we created a detailed list of 20 more great accessories for you to browse.
Get your motor running after an on-road issue with the Car Covers Highway Safety kit.
Check PriceAfter looking over all of the different accessory options, we chose the Car Covers Highway Safety Kit as our overall top pick. Roadside safety is an important consideration that affects every motorist on the road. Having a well-rounded emergency kit is essential, and this kit from Car Covers has the tools you need.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Truck Accessories
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Truck Accessory Overall | Car Covers Highway Safety Kit | 5.0 |
| Best Truck Recovery Accessory | Rhino USA Shackles and Tow Strap | 4.9 |
| Best Budget Truck Accessory | Xprite Bed Light Kit | 4.5 |
| Best Truck Bed Accessory | AMP Research Retractable Bumper Step | 4.7 |
| Best Truck Camping Accessory | Napier Backroadz Truck Tent | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon and Car Covers at the time of publication and can change
Best Truck Accessory Overall: Car Covers Highway Safety Kit
The Car Covers Highway Safety Kit has the tools you need to fix minor roadside emergencies so that you can get back on the road to a service shop or your originally intended destination. This kit includes the tools you will need to repair minor mechanical and electrical issues, enabling you to fix many common truck ailments that may cause you to pull over, but don’t necessarily demand a tow truck or professional mechanic. Plus, it all comes neatly stored in a folding storage case.
One of the most fundamental emergency tools has been included, and that would be the jumper cables. A dead battery can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere, and oftentimes the easiest solution to the problem is to get your battery jump-started by another vehicle. Likewise, a blown fuse can cause any number of issues with your vehicle’s electronics, even going so far as to completely disable it. Having a set of backup fuses on hand is a great way to ensure you’re not left standing in the middle of the highway waiting for a mechanic to show up for a simple fuse replacement.
This kit has your basic mechanical repair needs covered, too. You’ll find a flathead screwdriver, a Phillips screwdriver, a pair of slip-joint pliers, and a socket and driver set included. These basic tools can be used to repair many simple and easy-to-access components of your vehicle. There is also a tire pressure gauge and a roll of electrical tape. A collection of basic tools such as this should be considered vital for every truck owner to have in their vehicle. Hopefully, you’ll never need to use this kit, but if you do, you’ll be glad that you had it.
Car Covers Highway Safety Kit Key Features:
- Includes jumper cables
- Six included fuses and connectors
- Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers and slip joint pliers included
- Black folding storage case keeps it all organized
Best Truck Recovery Accessory: Rhino USA Shackles and Tow Strap
Though we all hope to never need to be towed, or to have to tow someone else, it would be wise for any truck owner to carry a tow kit in their truck. The Rhino USA Shackles and Tow Strap is above and beyond the strength needed for any truck, making it unquestionably dependable for when you need it most. This tow strap and its shackles are strong enough to pull any pick up truck out of a ditch, even when substantial momentum is required.
With a 41,580-pound break strength, this tow rope can haul well over 15 tons. The two 3/4 D ring shackles are made from powder-coated steel and have 7/8-inch pins. To top it all off, this tow kit comes backed by a lifetime replacement warranty. Towing may be its primary purpose, but truck owners are sure to find other purposes for it as well such as stump removal or boulder hauling.
Rhino USA Shackles and Tow Strap Key Features:
- 30-foot tow strap
- 41,850-pound break strength
- Two 3/4-inch D ring shackles
- Lifetime warranty
Best Budget Truck Accessory: Xprite Bed Light Kit
Many pickup beds are not equipped with lights, and those that are often aren’t all that bright. The Xprite Bed Light Kit is an easy way to add extra illumination to the bed of your truck so that you can see it at night while you’re moving equipment around. Designed to be completely waterproof, these LED pod lights can be installed in eighter a covered or exposed bed without issue.
There are eight LED pod lights in this kit, each housing three LEDs for a total of 24 sources of light. An easy-to-install wiring kit has been included that can connect directly to your truck’s DC battery. A toggle switch has been included as well, giving you manual control over the functionality of the lights. The kit comes packaged with screwed and a roll of 3M adhesive tape, making installation a breeze. While white light is the default option, there are six other brilliant colors available if you want to give your truck bed a stylish accent.
Xprite Bed Light Kit Key Features:
- Eight LED pod lights
- IP67 waterproof rating
- Wiring, tape, screws, and toggle switch included
- Multiple colors to choose from
Best Truck Bed Accessory: AMP Research Retractable Bumper Step
As trucks get taller, and your knees get weaker, it can become quite difficult to climb into the bed of your pickup truck. The AMP Research Retractable Bumper Step facilitates that process by giving you a leg up, literally. No longer will you have to heave yourself up into the back of your truck, dragging yourself over the tailgate and driving your knees into the hard metal. Now, you can step right up like you’re walking onto the stage of The Price is Right.
The simple, 10-minute bolt-on installation requires no drilling or expensive power tools. It is an exceptionally easy installation, at least for the RAM trucks that it was designed for. You may be able to install this step on other trucks as well, but you’ll have to be sure of the mounting area’s strength and positioning before you do.
This step has a 300-pound weight limit. The crucial pivot pins are made from strong stainless steel to give you confidence each time you step up and into your truck bed. It has been made corrosion resistant, and the glass-reinforced composite step pad has a non-slip design for sure footing even in rain, snow, or mud. The retractable design is both sophisticated and practical. You’ll hardly notice the step when it is folded away which keeps your truck looking sharp and keeps the step out of the way from obstacles that may otherwise damage it.
AMP Research Retractable Bumper Step Key Features:
- Stainless steel pivot pins and die-cast aluminum linkage components
- Designed specifically for RAM trucks
- Anodized and coated to resist corrosion
- 300-pound weight capacity
Best Truck Camping Accessory: Napier Backroadz Truck Tent
If you’ve got a truck, there’s a good chance that you enjoy camping. Get off the ground away from all of nature’s bugs and critters by sleeping in the Napier Backroadz Truck Tent. While there are popular hard-walled truck campers and rooftop tents that are multiple times more expensive than this tent, you can get essentially the same experience without breaking the bank.
This large tent can comfortably sleep two adults no matter the size you choose. No matter the size of truck bed you have, whether it be eight feet long or five, there is a size that’ll fit your truck. The extra-large doorway is easy to climb into at the end of your truck’s tailgate, and there are two large mesh windows that’ll provide you with excellent airflow and views over the bed’s sidewalls. A series of poles keep the tent upright even during fierce storms, and there are multiple tie-down straps that can be used to securely fasten the tent to your truck to stop it from budging an inch.
When compared to campers and rooftop tents, this Napier Backroadz Truck Tent is by far the more practical option. This is because it can be stored away in a compact bag, allowing you to use your truck bed as you normally would until you want to sleep at night. Campers and rooftop tents are much heavier, and they cannot be compacted. If you need one more reason why you should purchase this tent, consider that with every purchase of this product Napier plants a tree in partnership with Trees for the Future. Not only is purchasing this tent a smart decision but an ethical decision, too.
Napier Backroadz Truck Tent Key Features:
- Different sizes available for different truck bed lengths
- Full waterproof rainfly
- Two large mesh windows and several interior storage options
- Up to 62-inches of interior vertical height
Who Should Buy Truck Accessories
When it comes to truck accessories, there are endless possibilities. Accessories can help you personalize a truck, making it your own in looks and in functionality. There are many different interior and exterior accessories that will make your truck more convenient and enjoyable to use. In that respect, every truck owner should buy truck accessories that will improve the overall experience they have with their trucks.
More specifically, hard-working trucks and off-road going trucks would benefit greatly from enhanced lighting, more durable and easy to clean components, and truck bed storage accessories that’ll help keep belongings secure and organized. People who spend a lot of their time commuting or road tripping in their trucks will appreciate simple conveniences like interior trash cans, storage netting, and seat covers. One accessory that all truck owners should consider is a quality truck cover to protect their rig from the elements.
Get your motor running after an on-road issue with the Car Covers Highway Safety kit.
Check PriceImportant Features to Consider
There are a few important considerations to think through before purchasing a truck accessory.
- Your needs. What is it that you are looking to improve on your truck? Is there an accessory that would make your truck more enjoyable to use? More effective at accomplishing certain tasks? More convenient? Or do you wish to improve its aesthetics with a personalized touch that will make it stand out from the sea of vehicles out on the road? Figure out what it is you want most from your truck, and focus your efforts on finding an accessory that will achieve the effect you are looking for.
- Replacing aged accessories. Sometimes it is not about adding something new to your truck but replacing a component that has aged beyond its effectiveness or has become damaged. You’ll likely be able to find aftermarket parts and accessories that function as well as your original equipment, if not even better, and at a fraction of the cost of what the dealership would charge you for a new OEM component.
- Enhancing your truck. There are many different types of accessories that will make your tuck better at certain tasks. For example, by equipping lighting accessories on your vehicle, you’ll be able to improve visibility at night in a variety of situations.
- Safety equipment. Most important of all is the safety and recovery equipment you keep in your vehicles for emergencies. Whether you get a flat tire on a highway or get stuck in the mud when wheeling off-road, your safety equipment is what will help you get back on the road to your destination. There is an endless list of emergency supplies you could collect, but be sure to grab the basics which include items like a tow rope, hitch shackles, a tire repair kit, a reflective safety vest, and some common tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What truck accessories do I need?
In general, this depends upon how, where, and why you use your truck. Nearly every truck driver will benefit from a roadside safety kit and recovery accessories, but most everything else depends on the way you use your vehicle. If your truck is a daily driver during long commutes, you’ll want to make the interior as comfortable and convenient as possible. Those who frequent off-road trails will want to strengthen their vehicle and protect it from the elements. Work trucks often benefit from extra lighting and handy truck bed accessories that make tying down equipment easier. The list of possibilities is endless.
What are useful truck bed accessories?
Interior lights and organizers are arguably the most useful truck accessories. Everyone can benefit from a little extra lighting and organization. Though you may never use it, a vehicle safety and recovery kit with items like jumper cables, tow straps, and tire plugs may be the most useful accessory you keep in your truck.
What are accessory lights good for?
Exterior accessory lights can be useful in many different situations. Work trucks can benefit from extra lighting all around so that you can light up a job site at night and work safely. Off-roading trucks that travel the trails at night will benefit greatly from light bars and floodlights that can brighten up a dark forested trail, and they will make it much easier to see obstacles and animals out on the road.
Are off-road accessories worth it?
Off-road accessories can make your off-roading experiences safer and more fun. The best off-road truck accessories enable you to travel further than ever before. Exterior lighting, mud flaps, tie-down ratchets, heavy-duty mudflaps, and all sorts of durable gear can improve your off-road adventures. They’ll help you see further, secure your gear better, and clean up more quickly after the day’s trails have been traveled.
Other Truck Accessories We Reviewed
Get your motor running after an on-road issue with the Car Covers Highway Safety kit.
Check PriceWe looked at 20 other truck accessories. Even though they didn’t make our five best truck accessory list, they’re still excellent at what they do and may be just the thing your truck needs. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Exterior Truck Accessories
Useful for farm and off-road trucks, the Alien 4×4 Rapid Tire Deflator will have you aired down in seconds so that you can safely travel well off the beaten path. This reliable device comes with a lifetime warranty.
Key Features:
- Rapid tire deflator
- Accurate pressure gauge
- For valve stems and caps included
Cost: $30
Bully Powder Coated Side Step Set
While we did choose a retractable step as one of our top picks, the Bully Powder Coated Side Step Set features a pair of solid aluminum steps. They’re less complicated and more durable, making them a great option for those who like to keep things simple.
Key Features:
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Each step is rated to hold 350 pounds
- Multiple sizes and colors available
Cost: $60
Lower your tailgate more safely with a DEE ZEE Truck Tailgate Assist. This single hydraulic unit can be fitted to Ram and Rebels trucks to enable tailgate dampening. Not only is this safer for you, but it’ll help prevent damage to your truck.
Key Features:
- Hydraulic tailgate dampener
- Designed for Ram and Rebel trucks
- Easy no-drill installation
Cost: $30
There’s no need to purchase an exorbitantly expensive truck camper or rooftop tent when the Guide Gear Truck Tent accomplishes the same goal at a fraction of the price. You’ll be sleeping in a fully-enclosed, water-resistant tent that’s off the ground. It packs down well, too, so that you can maintain the utilization of your truck bed.
Key Features:
- Sleeps two adults
- Fits most full-sized truck beds
- Fully enclosed and features a rainfly
Cost: $100
Towever Trailer Hitch Tri Ball
Tow anything and everything with the Towever Trailer Hitch Tri Ball. There are three different hitch balls in 1-7/8 inch, 2 inch, and 2-5/16 inches sizes, as well as a tow hook.
Key Features:
- Three hitch balls and a towing hook
- Works with two-inch receivers
- Up to 10,000-pound towing capacity
Cost: $40
Why settle for a step when you can have an entire ladder? The Traxion Tailgate Ladder will enable you to get into your truck bed with ease. It’ll fit virtually any standard truck tailgate and folds away with minimal impact on your truck bed’s storage capacity.
Key Features:
- Universal design and easy to install
- Weight capacity of 300 pounds
- Tucks neatly against the tailgate when stored
Cost: $50
Tyger Auto Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover
The Tyger Auto Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover will protect your belongings from prying eyes and slippery fingers. It has been designed specifically for GM and Chevy trucks, and there are a number of sizes and styles to choose from so that you can get one that perfectly matches your ride.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Chevrolet and GM trucks
- Multiple sizes and styles available
- Lifetime warranty
Interior Truck Accessories
Having all of your recovery gear on hand is important, but keeping it all organized can be a pain. the ARB Recovery Gear Bag has been designed specifically for your vehicle’s recovery gear. It has sections for your tow straps, shackles, and other roadside tools.
Key Features:
- Durable and compact storage bag
- Compartmentalized sections
- Secure and easy-to-use buckles
Cost: $65
HAIPHAIK Emergency Roadside Toolkit
If you don’t have any recovery or roadside emergency equipment, the HAIPHAIK Emergency Roadside Toolkit is a one-and-done purchase that contains everything you’ll need if your car has troubles out on the open road.
Key Features:
- 124-piece emergency roadside kit
- Toolbox included
- Safety equipment included
Cost: $45
Motor Trend FlexTough Floor Mats
When things get rough and dirty, you’ll want a high-quality set of durable floor mats like the Motor Trend FlexTough Floor Mats. They’ll hold up well against your work boots, and they’re easy to clean.
Key Features:
- Advanced rubber polymer construction
- No-slip grip
- Multiple colors available
Cost: $35
Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps
There are few items more useful for securing large items to your truck or trailer than a quality ratchet strap. The Rhino USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps perform well and have an excellent break strength rating.
Key Features:
- Four-pack of 15-foot ratchet straps
- 1,823-pound break strength each
- Multiple colors available
Truck Accessory Lights
The dual-function DireyRed Combo Lights can be used as 15-degree spotlights or 170-degree floodlights. The bolt-on installation is a breeze, and they can rotate to point in whatever direction you need.
Key Features:
- Combination floodlight and spotlight
- Fits crew cab UTVs
- One-year warranty
Cost: $30
Whether for form or function, the LED Exterior Rock Lights provide excellent lightning underneath your vehicle. This can be helpful while navigating trails or approaching your vehicle at night. They can also be used solely for style purposes.
Key Features:
- Four RGB LED lights
- Smartphone compatibility
- Timing and Bluetooth control
Cost: $45
Nilight Spot Flood Combo Lights
Light up the night with this impressive Nilight Spot Flood Combo Light set. The 126w light bar features both floodlight and spotlight functionality, and the dual floodlight pods allow you to spread the light across a wide-angle.
Key Features:
- Combo light bar and dual floodlight pods
- Wiring harness included
- Two-year warranty
Cost: $45
Cover all four corners of your truck in a wash of light with the Turbo SII LED Flood Lights. You’ll have no issue navigating trails or job site with all four of these 6.5-inch LED lightbars at full blast.
Key Features:
- Four-pack of 36w light bars
- Dust and waterproof
- Sliding and rotating bracket design
Cost: $40
This Yitamotor 21 Inch Light Bar is all the additional luminosity that most people will ever need no matter where they roam. It produces a whopping 10,800 lumens from its combination spotlight and floodlight design.
Key Features:
- 21-inch 120w lightbar
- 60-degree flood beam and 30-degree spot beam
- Mounting bracket and wiring harness included
Budget Truck Accessories
Easy to install, the Govee Interior Lights are a fantastic way to add some extra lighting, and a flash of colorful style, to any truck’s interior. The two-line design enables this setup to light up both driver and passenger seating areas, as well as the rear seating area.
Key Features:
- Parallel two-line interior LED strips
- Smartphone compatible
- 12V power plug
Cost: $25
Every truck owner can make use of a HOTOR Trash Can. This extremely useful accessory can be strapped just about anywhere. It features a leakproof inner lining, buttons to hold on to the trash bag, and multiple storage pockets.
Key Features:
- Durable and leakproof inner lining
- Collapsible design
- Multiple pockets and handles
Cost: $15
Show off your patriotism with these Tactillian Valve Stem Caps. Not only do they show off your pride of country, but a portion of the proceeds from each purchase goes to support Wounded US Veterans and Homes for Out Troops Foundation.
Key Features:
- Four aluminum twist-on valve stem caps
- American flag design
- A portion of proceeds are donated to veterans
Cost: $10
Zento Mesh Three Pocket Bed Organizer
Simple, yet effective, the Zento Mesh Three Pocket Bed Organizer is an exceptionally helpful accessory. You can use it to store long-term items and keep them from rolling around in your truck’s bed, or use it to organize your weekly groceries.
Key Features:
- Stretches from 44 to 56-inches in width
- Contains three large storage pockets
- Easy to install
Cost: $15
