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Emergency Essentials to Keep in Your Car

When you’re on the road, the unexpected can happen, which means sometimes you might be stranded in your car. If this happens, you’ll want to be well-prepared. By keeping the following list of items in your vehicle at all times, you can be prepared for whatever life throws at you.

Glove Box Essentials

Owner’s manual

This needs to be in your glove compartment, as it contains a lot of useful information that can get you back on the road, such as detailed images of how to change a tire.

Insurance card

Vehicle registration

Contact information to roadside assistance provider

Maps

Keep a detailed map of the state you’re in at all times. Never just rely on GPS.

Old cell phone with charged battery

Even without a subscription, an old phone can be used to call 911 or 999.

Trunk Essentials

Tire jack and gauge

Check your tire pressure frequently with a quality pressure gauge. Poor pressure can affect your brakes, gas mileage, and overall wear and tear on your car.

Bottled water and snacks

Water and snacks are essential for sustenance if you get stuck somewhere for a while. High energy snacks like nuts and jerky are always a good idea to keep around.

Blankets

Even if the weather is good, you might have to spend hours in the car. A blanket makes it easier to curl up, keep warm and sleep.

Flashlight

A flashlight is also essential if you need to make quick repairs to your car in the dark.

First aid kit

Your kit should include a variety of materials, including bandages, antibiotic ointment, pain medicine, protective gloves, and gauze dressing.

Basic tool kit

Jumper cables

Choose heavy-duty, high-quality jumper cables. Many jumper cables are too short, too thin, or not flexible during cold weather. Make sure the cables you purchase are at least 20 feet long and four gauges thick. Cables made of copper offer the least resistance.

Tire Repair Kit

If your tire has deflated rapidly, a tire repair kit makes it possible for you to patch it up well enough for a short period.

Road Flares

These are invaluable at night so others can see you when you’re changing a tire. They can also be used to flag down help.

Tire Air Gauge

This isn’t vital for emergencies, but it is essential for preventative maintenance. Keep your tires fully inflated to improve gas mileage and reduce the risk of tire explosions. You’ll want to keep your tire pressure around 30 to 35 PSI.

Portable Battery Charger

As some of these items require batteries, a portable battery charger can plug into your car and charge them up if they are dead.

For Poor Weather

A change of clothes

If you have to change a tire in the snow or rain, you’re going to get soaked. Sitting in wet clothes is unhealthy and uncomfortable, so make sure you have extra.

Shovel

This is essential if you ever face a giant snowdrift and need to unbury yourself. Keep a shovel in your trunk and avoid getting stuck in snow for hours on end.

Hat, scarf, and gloves

In winter, this can keep you warm and safe from frostbite if you’re stuck or need to perform repairs on the vehicle. Keep extra if you have passengers.
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