Are you unsure of what to put in an emergency car kit or why you even need one to begin with? We’ve got you covered. In this post we’ll cover the basic items you’ll need in your kit along with some situational and seasonal items.
Before building or buying your car’s emergency travel kit, it is crucial to understand why the kit and its items are important. No matter the time of year, it is essential to have an emergency kit in your vehicle to be prepared in case of a breakdown, storm, or accident that could leave you stranded, potentially for hours in dangerous conditions, waiting for help.
The Basics
Ideally, kits should be checked every six months to replace expired items regularly. Your kit should be stored in your trunk with smaller items in a travel and water safe canvas bag or clear tote with a lid, and you should always have these basic items on hand:
- Spare tire, wheel wrench, and jack
- Jumper cables
- Flares, reflective triangles, or bright cloth to increase your vehicle visibility
- Small tool kit and/or a multi-purpose utility tool
- Utility knife
- Safety alarm or whistle
- Flashlight with extra batteries (or a flashlight that doesn’t need batteries)
- Map of your area or compass
- Non-clumping cat litter or sand (for tire traction)
- Car fire extinguisher
- First-aid kit (see more about first aid kit items here)
- Drinking water
- High energy, easy to open, non-perishable food items (stored in tightly closed plastic or metal containers)
- Cell phone car-charger and/or battery backup
- Duct-tape
- Pen/pencil and paper
- A list of emergency numbers (e.g. family, friends, roadside assistance, towing company, etc.)
Winter Supplies
With winter weather approaching for many, it is also important to consider adding specific items you may need for the new season in your emergency kit, such as:
- Ice scraper
- Shovel (collapsible or foldable to save space)
- Hand/foot warmers
- Warm blankets
- Extra weather gear (warm gloves, socks, hat, scarf, etc.)
- Car heating kit (waterproof bag, candle(s), lighter/safety matches, and fire-proof aluminum can)
- Sleeping bag
Extra Helpful Supplies
You may be asking yourself “what if these supplies aren’t enough?” If you’re traveling during a different season, with an infant, or with a pet, your supplies may not be sufficient for everyone in the vehicle in an emergency. For these situations, you may also consider adding the following items to your kit, as needed:
- Rain ponchos/umbrella
- Sunblock
- Battery-powered fan
- Insect repellant
- Baby items (bottles, formula, diapers, diaper cream, wipes, etc.)
- Pet items (food, water, food/water bowls, leash, medications, toy etc.)
- Sanitation items (toilet paper/paper towels, moist towelettes, disinfecting wipes, sanitizer, personal hygiene items, medications, masks, etc.)
- Boredom busters (cards, puzzles, books, etc.)
- Important documents (car insurance, ID, etc.)
- Change of shoes/clothing
- Non-prescription medications (pain relievers, antacids, etc.)
- Cash, check, spare change
With an emergency kit in your vehicle, you’ll be set for any situation. Be sure, as always, to get your vehicle checked by a professional regularly and before any trips and follow vehicle best practices and road safety.
Safe travels from MechanicNet!