Owning a vehicle provides the freedom to go places that would otherwise not be available, but sometimes, unexpected problems surface. These are 10 essential items to keep on hand for some of the possible scenarios.
No. 10 – Ice scraper
Those who live in the northern states already have at least one ice scraper in the car. Some also keep brooms on hand to push the loose snow off the vehicle. Some people in southern states, however, don’t deal with snow and ice on a regular basis.
This creates potential problems when random winter storms happen. Keeping an ice scraper around is crucial for unexpected weather.
No. 9 – Blanket
Another common item in northern states is a blanket. Many people keep these in the car just in case they have to spend an extended amount of time waiting for help. Others keep the blankets around in case the heater just suddenly stops working.
Blankets should not be only a “northern” item. Those residing in warmer climates can still take advantage in emergency situations.
No. 8 – Jumper cables or jump starter
Having a dead battery strand a vehicle is extremely frustrating. Sometimes, the cause is an old battery. Sometimes, the cause is a light left on by accident. Regardless of the reason, it’s essential to have a set of jumper cables or a portable jump starter on hand.
Jumper cables are useful for any willing passerby who wants to lend a hand, but they are not always around. This is why a jump box is handy. It can give the battery a much-needed boost when help is not nearby.
No. 7 – Flashlights
Not all emergency situations take place at night, but many do. This is why it’s essential to have at least one flashlight and/or headlamp in the car with some extra batteries. You need the light to check wires, change tires, or address any other issues that disrupted the trip. No one wants to use a cell phone flashlight while dealing with unexpected problems.
No. 6 – Camping shovel
As any off-road enthusiast has learned, camping shovels are incredibly useful. They are portable and can fit in any vehicle, so it’s no problem to keep one around. These shovels can help dig out a car stuck in the mud, snow, or gravel.
No. 5 – Work gloves
Work gloves are not something that immediately come to mind when discussing in-car items. Yet, it’s hard to argue against their value. These gloves can protect the hands from cuts when working in the engine compartment or while changing tires. They can provide some warmth while out in the elements.
No. 4 – Umbrella
Like a flashlight, the umbrella is perfect for so many situations. It can help provide shade in the blistering heat. It can protect from the rain, sleet, or snow. The umbrella won’t fix the problem that left you stranded, but it will provide comfort while you work on getting back on the road.
No. 3 – Phone charger and power bank
Newer cars have built-in USB and USB-C plugs for phone chargers. Many have wireless charging pads, so it’s possible to keep at least one device fully charged while on the road. Older cars, however, do not have this advantage. This is why it’s essential to bring along extra chargers. Keeping a portable power bank in the car is also important in case the car won’t start.
No. 2 – Window breaker
No one wants to think about being stuck in their car in an emergency situation with no way to open the doors. Unfortunately, this is something that happens. This is why it’s important to keep a window breaker/car escape tool in the vehicle. These portable devices can shatter tempered glass and provide a way out of the car. Many also have built-in seatbelt cutters in case the need arises.
No. 1 – Safety kit
Numerous items fall under the category of “safety kit.” What we mean is any kit that includes road flares to alert other drivers of an accident or breakdown and a fire extinguisher. We also prefer these kits to include first aid items. Band-aids, gauze, scissors, tape, and over-the-counter painkillers should all be on the list. Bonus points if it includes a tourniquet.