Hitting the road for long journeys with kids can sometimes feel less like an adventure and more like a test of endurance. I remember vividly how restless little ones could get in the back seat, the constant “Are we there yet?” and the struggle to keep them occupied. Finding a way to provide consistent, hands-free entertainment was absolutely crucial; without it, road trips could quickly devolve into squabbles and distractions, making the drive stressful for everyone and potentially less safe. A reliable portable DVD player mount would have been a lifesaver back then.
When you’re facing the challenge of keeping back-seat passengers, especially children, entertained during car rides, a car headrest mount for a portable DVD player can be a fantastic solution. These devices solve the problem of awkwardly holding a player or balancing it precariously, which not only frees up hands but also positions the screen at a better viewing angle. The ideal customer for this type of product is a family who frequently takes road trips, commutes long distances, or simply wants a stable, dedicated setup for in-car media consumption without relying solely on tablets or phones. If you don’t own a compatible portable DVD player (specifically a swivel & flip model within the 7 to 11-inch size range) or prefer streaming services exclusively via smart devices, a headrest mount for DVD players might not be the right fit; a tablet mount would be a better alternative. Before buying, you need to think about the compatibility with your existing DVD player (size and style), the ease of installation and removal, the stability of the mount on your car’s headrest, how securely it holds the player, and whether it allows for screen adjustment or access to controls and disc loading. Considering these factors ensures you get a mount that truly enhances your travel experience.
Introducing the Hikig HK-HD-MT-DVD-U11 Headrest Mount
The Hikig DVD Player Headrest Mount Holder is designed specifically to address the need for stable, secure, and hands-free viewing of portable DVD players in a vehicle’s back seat. It promises to make long car journeys more enjoyable for passengers by providing a dedicated spot for 7 to 11-inch swivel & flip DVD players. When you purchase this mount, you typically receive the plastic mount unit itself, designed for simple attachment to headrest posts. While I don’t have a direct comparison to every competitor or previous version, this particular headrest holder stands out for its focus on the swivel & flip screen type and its reliance on sturdy Velcro straps rather than potentially less secure clips or elastic netting that can obstruct the screen. It’s specifically for those who own or plan to use a swivel & flip portable DVD player in their car and want a reliable mounting solution. It’s not for standard tablet users or those whose DVD players don’t have the swivel & flip feature or fall outside the size range.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons based on long-term use and feedback:
Pros:
* Excellent compatibility with 7-11 inch swivel & flip players.
* Simple, tool-free installation.
* Allows full access to screen rotation and controls.
* Secure and stable, reduces shaking.
* Durable plastic and strong Velcro straps.
Cons:
* Only compatible with swivel & flip style players.
* Some users might find the initial strap adjustment a bit fiddly.
* Plastic material, while sturdy, isn’t indestructible.
Key Features & Their Benefits in Practice
Having used this type of car mount extensively, I can attest to how much these features contribute to a smoother travel experience. It’s not just about holding a device; it’s about integrating it seamlessly and safely into the car environment for passengers.
Wide Compatibility for Swivel & Flip Players
One of the standout features of the Hikig mount is its stated compatibility with a broad range of portable DVD players, specifically those with the popular 7 to 11-inch size range and, crucially, the swivel & flip screen design. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach for every gadget, which is actually a good thing here. By focusing on the swivel & flip type, the mount is designed to work *with* that functionality, rather than obstruct it. This was a major benefit for our family, as our DVD player had exactly this screen style. The mount accommodates the player’s dimensions whether the screen is flipped out or tucked back in, allowing for flexible viewing angles. This feature is vital because many older or generic mounts weren’t designed with the swivel aspect in mind, leading to awkward positioning or blocked access. The benefit here is simple: if you have a compatible player, this mount is highly likely to fit snugly and correctly, supporting a wide variety of common brands and models within that size and screen type range, saving you the headache of trial and error with multiple mounts.
Effortless, Tool-Free Installation
Nobody wants to spend precious pre-trip minutes fumbling with complicated installations. The Hikig DVD Player Headrest Mount Holder truly shines in its simplicity. It uses a system of adjustable Velcro straps that wrap around the headrest posts. There are no screws to tighten, no suction cups to fail, and no confusing clips. You simply position the mount against the headrest, loop the straps around the metal posts, and secure them tightly with the Velcro. Placing the DVD player into the mount is just as easy; the design allows the player to slide in and be secured by its placement within the mount’s structure and potentially additional smaller straps depending on the player’s size. I remember being impressed the first time I installed it – it took less than a minute. This ease of use is a significant benefit, especially when you’re rushing to get on the road or need to quickly move the mount between vehicles. Children could even help attach it (with supervision, of course). Removing the mount is equally quick, leaving no residue or marks on the headrest.
Secure and Robust Construction
The build quality of this headrest mount is surprisingly solid for something so easy to install. Made from durable plastic, it feels substantial enough to hold the weight of a portable DVD player without flexing excessively. The key to its security lies in the elasticated Velcro straps. These straps are wide and strong, creating a very firm grip around the headrest posts. Once tightened, the mount stays put; it doesn’t slide down or shift with bumps in the road. This provides peace of mind, knowing your relatively expensive DVD player isn’t going to wobble precariously or, worse, fall off mid-journey. The benefit here is reliability and safety. A secure mount means stable viewing for the passenger and one less distraction for the driver. The materials are designed to withstand regular use and resist wear, which is essential for a product used in the variable environment of a car interior.
Hands-Free Operation and Improved Viewing Angle
Before getting a mount like this, passengers (especially kids) might hold the DVD player on their laps, lean it against something unstable, or slouch down to see a player placed on the floor. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it can also lead to poor posture and potential neck strain. Holding a device for a long time is tiring! The Hikig mount positions the DVD player at eye level for a seated passenger, promoting better posture and a more comfortable viewing experience over extended periods. By holding the player securely, it keeps hands free – whether for snacking, reading, or simply relaxing. This hands-free benefit also contributes to protecting children’s eyesight by keeping the screen at a consistent, appropriate distance, avoiding the temptation to hold it too close. It transforms the back seat into a more comfortable media viewing area, reducing complaints of hand aches or neck pain on arrival.
Full Access and Swivel & Flip Functionality Preserved
Unlike some older or generic mounts that might use a restrictive frame or netting across the front, the design of the Hikig mount is open around the screen area. This “friendly design” ensures that the crucial swivel and flip function of compatible DVD players is completely unrestricted. Passengers can rotate and tilt the screen to the perfect viewing angle without the mount getting in the way. Furthermore, the open design means that access to the player’s buttons, ports, and the disc tray is typically maintained. This was a major advantage we noticed compared to other mounts we’d seen or used briefly in the past; changing discs or adjusting volume didn’t require removing the player from the mount. This preserves the core functionality of the DVD player itself while it’s mounted, adding significant convenience during a trip.
Minimizing Shake and Vibration
One of the banes of using devices in a moving vehicle is the constant vibration and shaking, especially on less-than-perfect roads. A wobbly mount translates to a shaky, potentially nauseating viewing experience. The combination of the sturdy plastic structure and the tight, elasticated Velcro straps of the Hikig DVD mount does an excellent job of minimizing this. Once installed correctly, the mount holds the player securely against the headrest, dampening much of the road vibration. While no mount can completely eliminate movement in a car, this one provides a remarkably stable platform, leading to a much more watchable picture and reducing the likelihood of motion sickness for sensitive passengers. This stability is a key performance benefit that makes a significant difference on longer drives.
Neat and Unobtrusive Design
Beyond function, the aesthetics and form factor matter too. The Hikig holder has a relatively simple and discreet design. When the DVD player is in place, the mount is largely hidden behind it. When the player is removed, the mount itself is fairly unobtrusive, primarily consisting of the plastic frame and black Velcro straps around the headrest posts. It doesn’t have large, bulky components sticking out. This “neat and elegant design” is a benefit for vehicle interiors, maintaining a cleaner look compared to mounts with visible clamps or complex articulated arms. It integrates well and doesn’t interfere with the normal function or comfort of the headrest when not in use with a player.
What Real Users Are Saying
Looking around online, it’s clear that many people have found the Hikig headrest mount to be a positive addition to their car setup. Users frequently comment on how well it holds their 7 to 11-inch portable DVD players, often noting that it provides a secure and stable viewing platform that doesn’t shake excessively while driving. Many appreciate the simple installation process, mentioning it’s much easier than other types they’ve tried. The design that keeps the screen fully visible and allows access to controls and disc loading is also a common point of praise, particularly compared to older mounts that might partially cover the player. However, a few reviewers have noted issues, such as the mount eventually starting to fall apart after some use or, in isolated cases, receiving a unit that didn’t match the description, perhaps having different, less effective clips instead of the described elastic straps. Overall, the sentiment seems largely positive regarding its function and ease of use for compatible players.
Final Thoughts on Making Car Rides Enjoyable
The struggle to keep passengers, particularly kids, happy and entertained on car trips is a real one, and without a solid solution, those journeys can quickly become stressful for everyone. The constant need to hold a device, find a precarious balancing spot, or deal with complaints of boredom can truly detract from the driving experience and the overall enjoyment of travel. The Hikig DVD Player Headrest Mount Holder offers a straightforward and effective way to tackle this problem head-on. It’s a great fit because it provides a stable, hands-free viewing setup, its design specifically accommodates common swivel & flip portable DVD players, and the easy, tool-free installation means you can get it set up in moments. If you’re looking for a reliable way to mount your 7 to 11-inch swivel & flip portable DVD player for back seat entertainment, this mount is definitely worth considering. Click here to check it out and make your next family road trip much more relaxed.