Being a safer driver or motorcycle rider is beneficial for everyone. And how to get there doesn’t have to be boring…

Looking for the perfect gift for the car lover in your life?

I am, too.

In the search for some cool swag, here are a few places you can stop by or check out online for some unique pieces of automotive goodness.

Blipshift.com ($15.00 + shipping)

Direct from the website, it says, “Blipshift brings you high quality, limited edition auto-enthusiast focused shirts for just $15. Each shirt is available for only a few days before it is towed off to the crusher, never to be printed again.”

If you wan to torture yourself and see some amazing designs from weeks past, you can do so by scrolling through the different pages.

Sometimes, there are extras in specific designs, so you might just be in luck.

Carry all for the Motorcycle: Ogio Rig 9800 Rolling Luggage Bag $250 (approx.)

For anyone carrying motorcycle gear frequently, this is a fabulous bag. I recently purchased one and I love it. It fit both my motocross gear (big, chunky boots), pants, shirt, elbow and knee pads and my one-piece leather racing suit, track boots, gloves and a helmet. Yes, there’s a specific area to put your helmet. I checked it in at the airport and there were no issues. It’s heavy duty, and has handles at very convenient sports. The kicker? It can stand upright by itself. It’s pricey but worth the investment.

Ogio.com

Wilkinson Automobilia (Various prices)

Need a book, DVD, poster or die cast model? Chances are Wilkinson Automobilia will have it. With unique items in store every day, it really is a place where any car lover could spend most of their pay cheques.

Should you not live in the Lower Mainland, fear not, they have an online store, which is eAutomobilia.com.

There are items there that appeal to both four and two-wheel enthusiasts.

A Visit to the Spa (for your Car… various prices)

It’s a good feeling when you’re feeling clean. And we all know that winter is not a season that promotes spotlessness. With salt on the roads, grime hanging around, and foreign objects getting stuck to your vehicle, you’d wonder how a bath can even help. Well, it does. Washing it cleans off the salt that covers the roads and can help prevent corrosion. And on the inside, think of what your boots bring in. A trip to the spa prevents stains from totally setting in and can leave your car smelling good, too. Whether getting just a quick treatment or the full shebang, your ride will thank you for it.

Build a Racecar in 158 Pieces ($24.99)

Building a racecar can be done in 158 pieces thanks to Lego. If you’re young, or young at heart, surely you’ll have a good time assembling this toy! Plus, it looks cool.

Shop.LEGO.com

Steering in the Right Direction (From approx. $240.00)

Want to spice up your ride? Perhaps add a sporty element? Sparco makes steering wheels for both street and race cars. Then again, it’s kind of a one-stop shop. They also sell race attire, seats, shoes and more. If nothing else, they make some very comfortable hats!

SparcoUSA.com

Safety First (Name your price!)

The gift of practicality is priceless. How about an emergency car kit? You could even pack it yourself by using these guidelines at getprepared.gc.ca. Or you can get one already prepared at various stores like Canadian Tire or your local automotive retailer.

The Gift of Knowledge (Various)

Being a safer driver or motorcycle rider is beneficial for everyone. And how to get there doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, it’s a lot of fun. The Advanced Rider Training (ART) course through the West Coast Superbike School is one way (WestCoastSuperBikeSchool.com) to learn a lot and have a good time. Or, if you want to do it behind the wheel of a car, check out Morrisport Advanced Driving (MorriSport.com) Whether it’s your first time or not, there are new skills to be picked up each time the tires roll onto the track.

Contact: alexandra [dot] straub [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca