12 Must Have Emergency Items Everyone Should Have in Their Car
No one plans on having a roadside emergency, but let’s be honest, things happen. Flat tires, dead batteries, getting stuck in bad weather, or even minor accidents can throw a wrench into your day. That’s why it’s always a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car. Whether you’re driving across the country or just commuting to work, these must-have items can help keep you safe and prepared for whatever the road throws your way.
1. Jumper Cables or a Portable Jump Starter
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A dead battery is one of the most common car issues, and it always seems to happen at the worst possible time. Keeping a set of jumper cables in your trunk means you won’t have to rely on the kindness of strangers to get your car running again. Even better? A portable jump starter allows you to revive your battery without needing another vehicle at all. Many jump starters also have built-in flashlights and USB ports, making them even more useful.
2. Spare Tire, Jack, and Lug Wrench
If you’ve ever been stranded with a flat tire, you know how frustrating it can be. A properly inflated spare tire, along with a jack and lug wrench, can get you back on the road quickly. If you’re not sure how to change a tire, consider watching a few tutorial videos or practicing in your driveway so you’re not figuring it out for the first time on the side of the highway.
3. Tire Repair Kit and Sealant
Sometimes, you don’t have the luxury of swapping out a tire—maybe your spare is also flat, or the damage is minor but enough to cause an issue. A tire repair kit or a can of tire sealant (like Fix-a-Flat) can temporarily patch small punctures and give you enough time to get to a repair shop.
4. Flashlight and Extra Batteries
Car troubles don’t always happen in broad daylight. A good flashlight (or even better, a rechargeable one) can help you see what you’re doing if you need to change a tire or check under the hood at night. Even if your phone has a flashlight, having a separate one is always a good backup.
5. First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit can be a lifesaver if you or a passenger gets injured. Look for one that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, gauze, pain relievers, and any personal medications you might need. Bonus points if it includes an emergency blanket for warmth!
6. Multi-Tool or Pocket Knife
A multi-tool can be handy for all sorts of situations, from cutting a seatbelt in an emergency to tightening a loose bolt on your car. Look for one that includes pliers, a knife, screwdrivers, and scissors.
7. Bottled Water and Non-Perishable Snacks
Getting stuck in traffic or stranded in a remote area can be a lot less stressful if you have water and snacks on hand. Granola bars, trail mix, or even canned goods (with a pop-top or small can opener) are great options. They can also be useful in extreme weather conditions when you might be stuck for a while.
8. Emergency Escape Tool
An emergency escape tool, like a seatbelt cutter and window breaker, can be critical in a crash. If your seatbelt jams or your windows won’t roll down, having a tool designed to cut through restraints and break glass can help you escape quickly.
9. Reflective Triangles and Road Flares
If your car breaks down on a busy road or at night, you need to make sure other drivers can see you. Reflective triangles and road flares help alert oncoming traffic that your car is stopped, reducing the risk of an accident. LED flares are a great reusable, battery-powered alternative to traditional flares.
10. Warm Blanket and Extra Clothes
If you get stranded in cold weather, staying warm is crucial. A heavy-duty emergency blanket, extra socks, gloves, and a hat can help keep you comfortable while you wait for help. Space blankets, also known as Mylar blankets, are compact and excellent for retaining body heat.
11. Duct Tape and Zip Ties
MacGyver was onto something—duct tape and zip ties can fix almost anything temporarily. Whether it’s securing a loose bumper, fixing a broken mirror, or holding a cracked hose together until you reach a mechanic, these simple tools can come in surprisingly handy.
12. Portable Phone Charger and Charging Cable
A dead phone battery can make a bad situation even worse. A fully charged portable battery pack ensures you can call for help, look up directions, or use emergency apps even if your car battery is dead. Keeping an extra charging cable in your glove box is a good backup, too.
Bonus Items for Extra Preparedness
If you really want to be ready for anything, consider adding these items to your kit:
- Shovel and Cat Litter or Sand (for traction in snow and ice)
- Rain Poncho and Waterproof Gloves
- Matches or a Lighter (for emergency heat or signaling for help)
- Maps (yes, the paper kind—GPS isn’t always reliable)
- Extra Fuel (if legal and safe to store in your area)
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to pack your car like you’re preparing for the apocalypse, but having these essential emergency items can make a huge difference when something unexpected happens. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping you safe, reducing stress, and helping you handle minor car issues like a pro. So, take a few minutes to stock your vehicle with these must-haves—you’ll thank yourself later!
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Winter brings a whole new set of challenges for car owners. From icy roads to frigid temperatures, preparing your car for the winter months is crucial to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Let’s get your car ready for winter and avoid unnecessary breakdowns and accidents.
READ: How to Get Your Car Ready for Winter: 10 Tips for a Safe and Smooth Season
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Last update on 2025-06-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
