Imagine driving down a quiet highway when suddenly, your car sputters, the engine cuts off, and you’re stuck.
It’s dark, your phone battery is running low, and there’s no help in sight.
What do you do?
Wait and hope for the best, or take control?
Unexpected breakdowns, flat tires, dead batteries, or severe weather can leave you stranded. In moments like these, having a well-stocked emergency kit can be a lifesaver.
Here are 15 important items you must keep in your car to stay safe and handle any roadside emergency.
1. Portable Phone Charger
Your phone is your lifeline in an emergency.
But what if the battery dies when you need to call for help?
Keep a car phone charger and a fully charged power bank in your glove box at all times. If you travel in remote areas, consider a battery-powered radio for emergency broadcasts when cell service is unavailable.
2. Flashlight and Extra Batteries
A reliable LED flashlight is necessary if your car breaks down at night. Always carry extra batteries, or buy a rechargeable flashlight that can be charged via USB.
3. High-Visibility Safety Vest
Staying visible is crucial if you need to leave your car to change a tire or check under the hood. A high-visibility reflective vest makes you easier to spot, especially at night or in bad weather.
4. Reflective Triangles and Road Flares
If your car breaks down on a busy road or in low-visibility conditions, alerting other drivers is important to prevent accidents. Keep at least three reflective triangles and some LED or road flares in your car for safety.
Here’s how to position reflective triangles safely on one-way roads:
- First triangle 10 feet behind your car
- Second triangle 100 feet behind your car
- Third triangle 200 feet away to warn oncoming traffic
5. Jumper Cables or Portable Jump Starter
A dead battery can leave you stranded at the worst time. Always keep:
- Jumper cables (at least 10 feet long) to jump-start your car with another vehicle.
Or - A portable jump starter so you don’t have to rely on a stranger for help — especially useful if you’re stranded on an isolated road.
TIP: A jump starter with a built-in flashlight and USB charging ports can be a game-changer during emergencies.
6. Spare Tire, Jack, & Lug Wrench
Flat tires don’t wait for a convenient moment. Even if you call roadside assistance, it could take hours to arrive, especially in remote areas or in bad weather. Knowing how to change a tire yourself can save you time and stress.
When traveling, always keep:
- A properly inflated spare tire
- A jack that fits your car
- A lug wrench to loosen and tighten the wheel nuts
7. Tire Repair Kit & Sealant
Many small punctures can be sealed temporarily, giving you enough time to reach a repair shop. If you don’t have a spare tire or just need a quick fix, a tire repair kit with sealant or a plug kit can help you get to the nearest mechanic.
8. Tow Strap or Rope
If your car is stuck in mud, snow, or a ditch, a heavy-duty tow strap can help another vehicle pull it free. For safety, opt for a strap with a minimum strength capacity of 10,000 lb, which can handle vehicle weight greater than 5000 lbs.
9. First Aid Kit
Road injuries, big or small, can happen anytime. A well-stocked first aid kit should include:
- Bandages and gauze pads
- Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
- Pain relievers (like ibuprofen)
- Adhesive tape and scissors
- Emergency contact numbers
10. Drinking Water & Non-Perishable Snacks
Being stranded for hours without food or water can lead to dehydration and fatigue. Stay prepared for emergencies by keeping a stock of:
- Bottled water
- Canned food
- Granola bars, trail mix, or protein bars
- Electrolyte packets to stay hydrated
11. Blankets & Warm Clothing
If you’re stranded in cold weather, keep blankets, extra clothing, and hand warmers in your car. If you live in a region with frequent winter storms, consider adding cold-weather survival gear to your emergency kit.
12. Cold Weather Survival Gear
If you drive in snow-prone areas, ensure you have the right tools to stay safe and avoid getting stuck. These may include:
- Ice scraper and snow brush to clear your windshield
- A bag of sand, salt, or non-clumping cat litter for traction on icy roads
- Snow chains or tire traction mats for extreme conditions
13. Automotive Fire Extinguisher
Car fires can happen due to electrical issues or fuel leaks. A small, automotive-rated fire extinguisher can help put out small flames before they spread.
Look for a Class B or Class C fire extinguisher, as recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
14. Multi-Tool & Duct Tape
A multi-tool (like a Swiss Army knife or Leatherman) with pliers, screwdrivers, and a knife can be helpful for minor repairs.
A roll of duct tape is also handy for temporary fixes, like sealing a broken window or securing a loose part.
15. Emergency Escape Tool
A seatbelt cutter and window breaker can be lifesaving if you’re trapped after an accident. Always store your emergency escape tool within easy reach.
How to Store & Maintain Your Emergency Kit
A well-organized and up-to-date kit can save valuable time in an emergency. Here’s how to keep it in top shape:
- Keep it accessible: Store critical items like a flashlight, first aid kit, seatbelt cutter, and phone charger inside the car. Use a waterproof bag or storage box to keep everything neatly packed and easy to grab in an emergency.
- Check and replace expired items: Batteries lose charge, food expires, and water bottles can leak. Inspect your kit every six months and replace anything outdated.
- Prepare a seasonal kit: Your kit should be winter-ready with extra blankets and traction aids or summer-ready with sunscreen and additional water.