Editorial

10 Luxury Gift Ideas for BMW Owners

BMW enthusiasts know that owning one of these high-performance machines is more than just having a car — it’s a lifestyle. When shopping for a fellow Bimmer aficionado, finding the perfect gift that complements the luxury and sophistication of this classic brand can be challenging.

BMW owners appreciate quality, style and function. The gift you give must complement their passion for precision engineering, and design is key. Here are 10 luxury gift ideas that are sure to delight any BMW lover, from high-end accessories to unique experiences.

1. BMW Art Print

Consider a high-quality print featuring classic or modern Bimmer models for the BMW enthusiast who appreciates the brand’s rich history and iconic designs. Art pieces serve as long-serving reminders of the aesthetics of this world and bring joy.

Look for limited edition prints signed by renowned automotive artists, or choose a piece that showcases the specific model owned by the gift recipient.

2. Custom License Plate Frames

A customized license plate frame is a subtle yet stylish addition to any BMW. You can never go wrong with a sleek, minimalist design in brushed aluminum or carbon fiber in a color that matches their car’s exterior.

Engrave the recipient’s name, their specific BMW model, a mantra or a special message. This small touch adds a big dose of personality to their beloved vehicle.

3. Luxury Driving Gloves

For a touch of classic elegance, purchase a pair of luxury driving gloves. Typically made from premium leather, these accessories are designed for comfort and provide a better grip on the steering wheel. Whether used for spirited weekend cruises or long road trips, these gloves are perfect for long drives.

4. Premium Car Care Kit

Help your BMW enthusiast keep their ride in showroom condition with a premium car detailing care kit. Look for sets that include high-quality microfiber towels, pH-neutral car shampoo, premium wax or ceramic coating, and specialized cleaners for wheels and interior surfaces. Brands that cater specifically to high-end vehicles often offer superior products that are safe for use on BMW’s delicate finishes.

5. High-End Wireless Charging Pad

BMW’s modern interiors are equipped with cutting-edge technology, and a sleek wireless charging pad is the perfect addition. Choose a model that’s compatible with BMW’s onboard systems so it fits seamlessly into the car’s console. Look for models with fast charging and temperature regulation, ensuring the latest tech meets the high standards BMW drivers expect.

6. Luxury Timepiece

For a timeless gift that reflects the essence of BMW’s luxury, consider a high-end timepiece. A watch with intricate craftsmanship adds a touch of sophistication, making it a present that’s sure to be cherished.

Opt for a sporty yet elegant design, perhaps featuring a tachymeter bezel that echoes the precision engineering of BMW vehicles. High-quality automatic movement and water resistance ensure the watch can keep up with an active owner.

7. Advanced Dash Cam

Consider gifting an advanced dash cam for the tech-savvy BMW driver who’s always traveling. Models that offer 4K resolution, wide-angle lenses, and features like GPS tracking and Wi-Fi connectivity are recommended. Some high-end dash cams even have dual cameras to record front and rear views, providing comprehensive real-time coverage to several channels. A dash cam with innovative features will come in handy for those unexpected moments on the road, including accidents and questionable tickets.

White BMW driving down the road

8. Bespoke Luggage Set

For the person who’s always on the move, nothing complements a luxury car quite like a set of bespoke luggage. Look for high-quality leather or carbon-fiber pieces designed to fit perfectly in a BMW’s trunk. Some luxury brands even offer luggage sets that match specific Bimmer interiors, creating a seamless blend of style from car to cargo.

9. High-Performance Driving Experience

Give the gift of adrenaline with a BMW driving experience. Many dealerships and specialized racing schools offer programs where drivers can push their skills to the limit on professional racetracks.

Participants can drive some of BMW’s high-performance models under the guidance of expert instructors in a controlled environment. It boosts their wheel skills and is the perfect adrenaline rush if they value speed and precision.

10. BMW M Performance Apparel

M Performance apparel offers a stylish solution for the BMW superfan who wants to wear their passion. The M Division, known for its high-performance vehicles, also produces a line of premium clothing, from jackets and polos to caps and driving gloves.

The clothing is designed with the same attention to detail as the automobiles, incorporating subtle branding and the highest quality materials. It’s a great gift for those who want to showcase their love for BMW, even when they’re not behind the wheel.

Indulge the BMW Taste With the Perfect Gift

It’s essential to focus on the attributes that draw enthusiasts to the brand when selecting a gift for a BMW owner. Whether you choose something to enhance their driving experience, maintain their vehicle or celebrate their passion for BMW, your thoughtful gift is sure to be appreciated.

Car Care, Information

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Taking Your BMW on a Camping Trip

Your bimmer is tougher than you think. Many of the SUVs feature AWD that’s perfect for exploring tough terrain, with ample skid plates to protect their undercarriages. Still, many owners hesitate and never head into the wild.

Why hold back when adventure awaits? Knowing how to avoid the following five mistakes when taking your BMW on a camping trip frees you to marry your love of the great outdoors with your passion for your ride.

1. Paint Scratches 

Rugged, off-road terrain can harm your vehicle in two ways. Fortunately, the right skid plates protect your underbody. The new X5 Silver Anniversary Edition comes with these pre-equipped, although those with other models can invest in after-market versions. While many sports models sit a bit too low to the ground to navigate dirt comfortably, the SUVs provide ample ground clearance for all but the rockiest climbs.

Skid plates won’t protect your paint job. However, your average grocery parking lot poses as many dangers from wayward carts as random branches along the typical forest road. Of course, you could stick to established campgrounds close to paved thoroughfares, like many KOAs. Take heart, though. You can avoid paint scratches by driving carefully and fixing any minor ones with a miracle paint pen or a polishing compound and microfiber cloth.

2. Going Flat 

A flat tire can put a serious damper on any camping trip, especially if roadside assistance charges extra for rescuing you on dirt. However, one feature that makes BMWs so ideal for camping is the run-flat tires features on many models. These are designed to let you travel up to 50 miles to the nearest shop should you roll over a particularly sharp stone.

Furthermore, a spare tire, a quality jack and a little know-how assuage flat tire fears. Practice in your driveway, playing “pit crew” — your kiddos will love it. Investing in a hydraulic floor jack is a must if you lack upper body strength.

3. Pulling Too Much Weight

The X3, X5 and X7 models can tow small pull-behind campers — if you know your limits and don’t overload your vehicle. To determine how much your bimmer can safely tow, you must understand the following few key terms and do a little math:

  • Towing capacity: The maximum weight a vehicle can tow behind it on a trailer
  • Load/payload capacity: The amount of weight a vehicle or trailer can safely carry in its cabin and bed
  • GVWR: Gross vehicle weight rating, or the maximum weight capacity of a vehicle with passengers and cargo — including your trailer — indicated on the sticker inside your driver’s door

You can calculate the load capacity by subtracting the weight of your unloaded trailer from the GVWR. Then, add the weight of any gear you stow in your BMW or trailer and compare it against the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Give yourself a 10% buffer, as factors like rough terrain and inclement weather can make towing more difficult. Towing too much can damage your suspension or even lead to accidents.

4. Getting Stuck

Even if you head into the wild in broad daylight, accidents happen. Going off the beaten path can mean getting stuck in the mud — or even a deep hole you didn’t see. You might have a buddy to assist if you travel in a group, but if not, carrying a portable winch is a must. A little kitty litter also comes in handy when icy or slushy conditions make things a bit slick.

5. Going Cold and Hungry

Who needs a tent? BMWs are known for luxurious interiors that are perfect for sleeping. Models like the X7 allow you to fold down three rows of seats to create a far more comfortable bed than even the best air mattress.

However, those who lack an X5 plug-in hybrid’s ability to run the heat via an electric motor need a way to keep warm at night. A well-insulated sleeping bag is a must, even if you watch the stars through your moonroof.

Are you headed to Yellowstone? Don’t think car camping makes it safe to keep your jerky in your ride — bears can break into cars, even as you sleep within. Use the bear boxes provided by the campsite or, better yet, bring your own.

Keep Yourself and Your BMW Safe While Camping

You may have never considered taking your bimmer on a camping trip, but doing so is a fun way to test your sweet ride’s off-road performance. Whether you stick to established campgrounds or head out for a bit of quiet boondocking, your BMW can carry the gear you need, serve as a temporary shelter and provide oodles of fun while traversing rough terrain. Get on out there and see what your car can really do.

Editorial, Information

Planning a Cross-Country BMW Road Trip? Here Are a Few Things to Keep in Mind

You love your bimmer, and you’d rather be behind the wheel than just about anywhere. Why not combine your driving fun with vacation? Planning a cross-country BMW road trip is only slightly less fun than living out the dream. 

The ultimate escape deserves a mindful approach. Here’s what to keep in mind as you plan.

Gear Up 

The right supplies make smooth sailing even more enjoyable and transform major headaches into minor inconveniences. Ensure you cross the following items off your BMW road trip checklist before departure: 

  • Copies your license, registration and insurance, including enrolling in your state’s digital id program, if available where you live. Electronic copies make everything easier. 
  • A spare tire and repair kit, including flares, triangles and a jack. Many BMWs come with run-flat tires, which let you travel up to 50 miles at low speeds to reach a repair shop — no dangerous changes by the side of the road. 
  • A roadside emergency kit with reflective vest, rain poncho, tire pressure gauge, window breaker, some pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers and spare gas. 
  • A paper map, just in case, although many newer bimmers have built-in navigation systems. 
  • Auxilary and charging cables 
  • An ice scraper, de-icer and gloves 
  • Comfort supplies not otherwise in your luggage, such as a blanket if you must wait for roadside assistance in the cold, spare cash, snacks, toys for the kiddos and, most importantly, plenty of bottled water — especially if traveling through desert regions. 

Plan the Perfect Itinerary 

The journey is as important as the destination on a BMW road trip. On the east coast, Florida’s Overseas Highway connects the Florida Keys and features the Seven Miles Bridge, where you can pretend you’re Bond, James Bond. Finish in Key West and hobnob with the celebrity set. 

Out west, the Pacific Coast Highway or Route 101 provides breathtaking views of the world’s largest ocean. It’s also one of the safer routes in the Golden State, as the I-405, SR 60, I-10 and I-105 saw over 3,500 fatalities in 2018. Although you could theoretically make this 10-hour drive in a single day, why rush? Stop by the sleepy mountain town of Felton to visit the Bigfoot Museum or go hiking in the rugged mountains surrounding Big Sur to stretch your legs. 

What about America’s heartland? You can still get your kicks on Route 66 and see 2,448 miles of the nation’s countryside. If traveling as winter approaches with your kids, a stop in Williams, AZ is a must for the genuine Polar Express experience. If traveling earlier in the fall, get your tickets for the nation’s biggest rodeo. Of course, you must stop a bit further east and take your picture standing on the corner in Winslow, AZ. 

Although you’ll need to make a few detours on your way to Chicago, thanks to time taking its toll on the road, the side trips are all part of the fun. Remember, the fastest route isn’t necessarily the best, and your GPS system makes plugging in new directions a snap. The Meremec Caverns in Stanton, Missouri once stood as the underground hideout for Jesse James, and the Shea Gas Station Museum and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum await you in Illinois. 

White BMW driving down the road

Finding Lodging and Supplies 

If nothing else, you’ll need to refuel or charge your bimmer if you’re driving one of the newer all-electric models like the i4XDrive40 or i4M50. Fortunately, you’ll find plenty of charging stations nearly anywhere you go. Making your reservations in advance and calling your hotel before you depart is always wise to ensure your accommodations meet your discriminating tastes. 

What if you just want to catch some quick shuteye without leaving your ride? Download an app such as Trucker’s Path or iOverlander before you depart to find the safest rest stops along your route. 

Timing Is Everything 

Another consideration for your BMW road trip is when to go. Of course, spontaneous types might throw a dart at a map, anytime, anywhere and go where the highway takes them. However, if, like most mere mortals, you have limited vacation time, combining your excursion to coincide with festivals and special events can make the journey extra memorable. Some up-and-coming fun to consider for the fall include: 

  • Elk Fest in Estes Park, Colorado, lets you see the massive beasts live and in the flesh while experiencing Native American performances. Stop for lunch at the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining.” 
  • Salem, MA, is the ultimate Halloween destination for lovers of all things spooky. Can you communicate with the ghost of Giles Corey and others from beyond the grave? 
  • Oktoberfest Zinzinatti brings America’s heartland alive with German music, dance and, of course, fantastic beers and microbrews. 

Planning a Cross-Country BMW Road Trip 

When it comes to your next getaway, make the journey as much fun as the destination. Planning a cross-country BMW road trip marries your love of your ride and the open road with whatever destination you choose. Enjoy the best drives America has to offer in your bimmer.

The Ultimate BMW Forum