10 Absolutely Essential Items Everyone Should Keep in Their Car
Life is unpredictable.
You never know when you’re going to get into a collision or have your car break down. Are you prepared for an emergency?
No matter what you’re doing, there are some essential car items you should have. Read on to learn the most essential items everyone should keep in their car.
1. Spare Tire and Tools
Tires don’t last forever. You should always keep a spare tire ready in your car in case you get a flat tire.
Along with a spare tire in good shape, you’ll need some tools to switch out your flat tire. Make sure to have a tire jack, a lug wrench and a tire iron inside your vehicle.
Read this article for a few other auto repair tools you should carry in your car.
2. Jumper Cables
Jumper cables are one of the essential car accessories. Whether you left your headlights on or need to rescue a friend, you’re going to need to a way to recharge a battery.
Purchase a reliable set of jumper cables and store them away in your trunk. They don’t take up much room and you’ll be grateful you have them.
3. Tow Strap
Stranded but don’t have the cash to pay for a tow truck? Having a tow strap inside your vehicle can save you some money.
All you need is a friend or kind passerby with a vehicle large enough to tow yours. Depending on where you’re stranded, they can tow you to a repair shop or your home.
4. Gas Can
As simple as it may seem, a gas can is an essential car accessory.
The most obvious benefit of having a gas can on hand is for running out of gas while driving. But it’s also beneficial if you have forgetful friends that you need to rescue.
5. Owner’s Manual
Your vehicle’s owner’s manual is like it’s very own search engine. It contains the answers to all your questions regarding your vehicle.
Lost track of your vehicle’s manual? Find it online here.
6. Important Documents
Always have your registration and insurance information inside your vehicle. Always make sure you have your driver’s license on you when you’re inside your vehicle.
Don’t keep your car title inside your vehicle, but do keep it somewhere safe. By keeping your car title handy, you’ll also be ready if you ever find yourself in need of car title loans.
7. First Aid Kit
No car emergency kit is complete without a first aid kit.
Whether it’s a finger jammed in a car door or an accident with serious injuries, a first aid kit is important. Buy a complete first aid kit from the store and restock items as you use them.
8. Blanket
A blanket is great for when the cold weather hits.
You never know when you might get stranded by a snowstorm or a flat tire. If you’re on the side of the road, you might turn your car off to conserve gas. By having a blanket, this helps you and your family stay warm while you wait for help.
9. Flashlight
A flashlight is great for any emergency situation that happens after dark.
Whether you’re changing a tire or trying to stop a passerby car, you’ll be thankful for your flashlight. Make sure to keep spare batteries handy as well.
10. Emergency Food and Water
Your emergency car kit should contain food and water in case you get stranded. You never know how long it will be until help arrives so it’s best to be prepared.
Check out this list for non-perishable food options. Supplement the food items with a package of bottled water and you’ll be set.
Beyond Car Items for Emergencies
Now that you know 10 essential car items for emergencies, here are some things you should have on hand for non-emergency situations.
- A change of clothes for you and your family members.
- A stash of cash for unforeseen purchases.
- Extra cell phone charger.
Need more car expertise? Read this article to learn about the first things you should do when you’re in a vehicle collision.