Being stuck in your car with a flat tire, a dead battery, or in an unexpected snowstorm is bad enough, but not having the right tools can make the situation even worse.
Having the right supplies on hand can mean the difference between a quick recovery and a stressful ordeal. Following are 12 essential items to keep in your car for emergencies and peace of mind:
1. Jumper Cables
Even if your car has never left you stranded, a dead battery can happen at any time.
Equipped with jumper cables, you can quickly restart your car or help someone else in need. A reliable set of cables can save you a tow or long wait. For battery safety tips, check out the battery safety guide.
2. Tire Pressure Gauge
Older cars may not have built-in tire pressure monitoring, so a tire pressure gauge is essential to ensure your tires are properly inflated.
Proper tire pressure helps maintain optimal fuel efficiency and safety. The NHTSA tire safety page recommends checking tire pressure monthly and before long trips.
3. First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a must-have for treating minor injuries or managing emergencies until help arrives. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, and more. You can learn more about what should be included in your kit at Ready.gov’s emergency supply kit page.
4. Portable Phone Charger
If your vehicle doesn’t have a charging port or if your phone dies unexpectedly, a portable phone charger can be a lifesaver.
Make sure to keep it charged so it’s ready when you need it most.
5. Flashlight
A flashlight is essential for roadside emergencies, especially at night. Whether you need to check under the hood, find a dropped item, or use it as self-defense in an unexpected altercation, a flashlight can make the task much easier.
Ensure your flashlight has working batteries or consider a rechargeable model. See tips on emergency preparedness at FEMA’s preparedness guide.
6. Ice Scraper
In colder climates, an ice scraper is crucial for clearing your windshield on frosty mornings.
Using a credit card can damage the card and is far less effective. Invest in a quality ice scraper to make the task quicker and easier.
7. Emergency Blanket
An emergency blanket can provide warmth if your car breaks down in cold weather or you’re stranded for an extended period. It can help prevent hypothermia and keep you comfortable while waiting for help.
The American Red Cross emergency kit supplies resource recommends including an emergency blanket in your car kit.
8. Multitool
A multitool, which may include pliers, screwdrivers, and a knife, is handy for minor car repairs and everyday tasks.
It’s a compact solution for various situations that might require a tool.
9. Gloves
There’s a reason why it’s called a “glove box.” Gloves can be an essential addition to your car emergency kit, especially if you live in a colder climate or may need to perform minor repairs.
A sturdy pair of work gloves can protect your hands while changing a tire or handling other maintenance tasks, while insulated gloves provide warmth during cold weather.
Having gloves on hand can make a big difference in comfort and safety when unexpected situations arise on the road.
10. Reusable Bags
Reusable bags are not only great for environmental reasons but also for unexpected stops at the store or carrying items from your car to your home.
They are compact and easy to store in the trunk or glove box.
11. Towing Service Information
If your car breaks down, having contact information for AAA or another towing service on hand can save you valuable time. Keep a paper copy of this information in your car, even if you have it stored on your phone.
Car insurance does not cover towing if you have a liability-only policy, but it might if you have full coverage. Many full coverage car insurance policies will reimburse drivers for towing that results from a collision but won’t cover towing due to a mechanical issue or breakdown.
Some full coverage policies only cover towing if you pay extra for roadside assistance, though. Roadside assistance is usually an easy and affordable add-on. You can add it to your policy for around $5 to $15 per car, per month.
Right now is also a great time to switch and save up to $600 on your car insurance.
12. Water Bottles
Keeping a few bottles of water in your car can help keep you hydrated during a long wait or provide water for an emergency.
Whether it’s a breakdown or an impromptu roadside rest, having water available is a smart precaution.
Visit the Ready.gov water safety and storage page for more information on water storage.
Be Ready for the Unexpected
Stocking your car with these essentials can make a significant difference when emergencies strike.
From dealing with sudden car troubles to managing unexpected weather, having these items can help ensure that you’re prepared for a range of situations.
Keep your supplies organized and check periodically to make sure items like batteries and water bottles are still usable. A well-prepared car is a safer car, so take the time to plan smart and stay ready.
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