7 Things You Need in a Car Emergency Kit

Aug 7, 2017

The open road is not the only place travelers may experience a bit of roadside drama. Disaster can strike locally too, which means you should pack an emergency kit that accounts for your personal situation, local weather conditions, and travel destination. Here are two different lists to use in your planning.

Staying Local but Racking up Miles

Travelers who don’t take to the open road may find themselves in a predicament when a convenience store, medical center, or pharmacy isn’t within a quick walking distance. Things that should always be in an emergency kit, apart from tire-changing equipment, include:

First aid items such as bandages, antiseptic lotions, and gauze
A fire extinguisher
A flashlight and batteries
Multipurpose tool and fresh drinking water

Those who are on medication should also have some locked away in the glove compartment or a small lock box.

Heading for the Open Road

Apart from the items above, drivers should pack a few additional items for longer journeys. It’s not enough to prepare for the destination, but also all the areas in between. This means thermal blankets for extreme weather, ice scrapers, and some non-perishable, ready-to-eat food items. Other items that go a long way include:

Foam tire sealant
A tow strap or rope
Duct tape, and more

These items can make the difference between a safe journey and a very long, uncomfortable wait for assistance. Travelers are recommended to invest in thermal clothing and rain ponchos for adverse weather the ensure they remain dry as the heater can deplete battery life.

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