18 Essential Items That Should Be in Your Car Emergency Kit

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Whether the forecast is sunny, rainy, snowy, or somewhere in between, a car emergency kit is a great way to be ready for just about anything. But what all should you pack in your vehicle before hitting the road? Not to worry–you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a checklist of all the must-have items that you need for your emergency kit, so you can have some peace of mind the next time you head out.

1

First-aid kit

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Your kit doesn’t have to have all the trimmings, but it should have the bare essentials, like adhesive bandages, gauze, roller bandages, adhesive tape, a thermometer, a cold pack, antiseptic, rubbing alcohol, tweezers, and a needle. You can even go the extra mile by including: [1]
    • Latex gloves
    • Hard soap
    • Safety pins
    • Petroleum jelly
    • A snake bite kit
    2. Advertisement
2

Cell phone charger

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/87\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/87\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Depending on the make and model of your car, a USB cord or cigarette lighter-style charger might do the trick. If you don’t want to rely on your car’s fuel line, pack a portable charger instead. [2]
    • Portable chargers are very affordable, with some costing less than $20. The price point really depends on the amount of juice you’d like your battery pack to store, though.
3

Flashlight and batteries

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7d\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7d\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It can also help you search your car in the dark, so you don’t have to drain your car’s battery in the process. Make sure you have plenty of extra batteries stashed in your car as well, so you don’t run out of light. [3]
    2. Advertisement
4

Bottled water

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Stick a small package or case of plastic water bottles in the back of your vehicle so the bottles won’t crack or break if the temperature drops. Although packaged water lasts for a while, it’s a good idea to replace your bottles every 6 months to keep the water as fresh as possible. [4]
5

Spare tire equipment

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/11\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/11\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Check once every few months to make sure that your spare tired is filled up and in good condition. Make sure your jack and tire iron are stored nearby too, so you can change the tire if you need to. [5]
    • A tire gauge is also handy so you can check your tire pressure.
    • Stop by your local auto shop or car repair place if you need to replace or update your spare tire tools.
    2. Advertisement
6

Jumper cables

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/27\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/27\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Keep these cables in your car at all times in case you need to phone a friend or flag down a good samaritan. [6] A portable jump starter is also a great option if you don’t want to rely on another person to get your car up and running. [7]
7

Gas can

PDF download Download Article
  1. Top off your car quickly if you’re stranded on the side of the road without fuel. Pick up a gas can from your local gas station and fill it up. Seal the container so no gas can leak out, and keep it in the back of your car in case you run out of fuel. [8] Keep in mind that gasoline lasts about 6 months when stored in a securely-sealed gas can, so be sure to dispose of the gas if you haven’t used it by then. [9]
    • You can also pack an empty gas can and siphon if you’d rather not keep a full can of gas in your car.
    2. Advertisement
8

Tow strap

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/95\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/95\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Check the label on the tow strap to ensure that it’s the right size and durability for your car. Also, always double-check your car’s user manual before using a tow strap so you don’t damage your vehicle in the process. [10]
    • You can buy tow straps online or at a hardware or auto supply shop for less than $25.
9

Simple tool kit

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    From an uncooperative glove compartment box to a jammed car door, there’s no telling when a basic toolbox may come in handy. Stash a multi-tip screwdriver and wrench set in your kit, along with a: [11]
    • Knife
    • Wire cutter
    • Pair of pliers
    2. Advertisement
10

Rain poncho

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/50\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/50\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-13.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The weather can change really quickly when you’re on the road, and a rain poncho definitely comes in handy if you have to brave the elements. Stash one in your glove compartment so it’s easily accessible if you need it. [12]
11

Reflective vest

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/47\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-14.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Maybe you’re exiting the car to inspect your tires, or you’re checking to see if emergency help has arrived. A reflective vest will reflect off oncoming headlights, which gives you an extra layer of safety on the road. [13]
    • You can buy a reflective vest online for less than $20.
    2. Advertisement
12

Road flares

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/13\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/13\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-15.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you get stranded on the side of the road, light the flares and set them about 10 to 20 yd (9.1 to 18.3 m) behind the boot of your car. This way, passing a helpful driver or roadside assistance vehicle won’t park too close to your vehicle. [14]
    • Reflective triangles can also help your vehicle stand out to passing drivers.
13

Warm clothes and blankets

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/80\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/80\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Slip on a hat, coat, scarf, and mittens if you’re stranded in a car for a long period of time, especially if the temperature starts to drop. You can even double up on layers, too–it’s better to be too warm rather than too cold! [15] A thick blanket is another great way to stay nice and toasty without draining your car’s fuel in the process. [16]
    • Consider packing multiple quilts and blankets if you live in an especially cold area.
    2. Advertisement
14

Shovel and ice scraper

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-16.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-16.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-16.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-16.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Ice scrapers typically have a scraping tool on 1 end and a snow brush on the other. Remove any tough patches of ice with the scraper part of your tool, and clear away mounds of snow with the brush. If you get stuck in a snowbank or other snowy terrain, use a foldable metal shovel to clear your way out. [17]
    • It’s actually against the law in some places to drive with snow and slush on your car, so it’s really important to have this tool on hand.
    • You can get an ice scraper and brush at a big-box retail or home improvement store for less than $20. You can get a foldable shovel online for around $25.
15

Sand or non-clumping cat litter

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-17.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-17.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-17.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-17.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you find yourself stuck on a really snowy or icy road, scatter a handful of sand or non-clay, non-clumping cat litter in front of your tires. The gritty texture of the litter or sand can help your vehicle get some traction on the ground, and may help you get back on the road more quickly. [18]
    • Clay cat litter doesn’t have the right texture to provide tire traction.
    2. Advertisement
16

Battery-powered radio

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-18.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-18.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-18.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-18.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Keep the radio juiced up with fresh batteries, and keep an extra pack of the appropriate batteries stashed somewhere in your car. If you get caught in a patch of bad weather, you can tune into the radio for an up-to-date weather forecast. [19]
    • Hand-cranked radios are a great alternative, and don’t require any electricity or batteries to operate.
17

Fire extinguisher

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/34\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/34\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    A 5 lb (2.3 kg) model should be enough and is easy to fit in the back of your car or in your truck. [20] In the event of a big car fire, focus on getting out of your vehicle and wait for emergency vehicles to arrive–don’t try to put it out yourself. [21]
    2. Advertisement
18

Duct tape

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/02\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/02\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While it shouldn’t be a long-term solution for any type of car repair, duct tape can provide a temporary solution when you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere. [22]
19

Non-perishable food

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7a\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7a\/What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Should-Be-in-a-Car-Emergency-Kit-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Stock up on plenty of especially high-calorie snacks and food, so you don’t get too hungry during a roadside emergency. [23] Here are some foods you could keep on hand:
    • Dried fruits
    • Nuts
    • Dry cereal
    • Extra pet food (if you travel with your pets often)
    2. Advertisement


Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Inspect your emergency kit and supplies once every 6 months to make sure everything is still in good condition and unexpired. Replace any expired items right away so your kit stays up-to-date. [24]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Remember to top off your fuel tank before hitting the road in the winter. A full tank means more car heater time in an emergency; plus, a topped-off tank prevents your car’s fuel lines from freezing over. [25]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Some reputable organizations like AAA sell pre-made car emergency kits for anywhere from $50 to $80. [26]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Show More Tips
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • Avoid storing extra medicine in your car, since some medications are temperature-sensitive. [28] Instead, bring a spare dose or 2 with you in a plastic bag before climbing into your car.
        Thanks
        Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
      • Always stay in the car if you’re stuck in a traffic jam—never get out and see what’s happening. That’s the best way to stay safe (and warm, if you’re stuck in cold weather).
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Don’t drive on the shoulder of the road, even if you’re stuck in a traffic jam. Keep that part of the road clear so emergency vehicles can use it as needed. [29]
        Thanks
        Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Escape from a Sinking Car
      How to
      Use a Coat Hanger to Break Into a Car
      Service StabiliTrack Meanings & How to Reset It
      How to
      Use a Car Jack & Where to Put It
      How to
      Break Into a Car
      How to
      Jump from a Moving Car
      How to
      Escape From the Trunk of a Car
      How to
      Stop Manual & Automatic Cars without Brakes
      How to
      Light a Road Flare
      How to
      Drive and Pull Over with a Flat Tire
      How to
      Unlock Your Car with String
      What Does a Triangle with an Exclamation Point Mean?
      How to
      Handle a Stuck Accelerator Pedal
      How to
      Drive on Black Ice
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.ready.pa.gov/BePrepared/BuildKit/Pages/For-Your-Vehicle.aspx
      2. ↑ https://www.aarp.org/auto/driver-safety/info-2018/car-emergency-kit-essentials.html
      3. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/beforestorm/preparehome.html
      4. ↑ https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/kts/cr-kt-en.aspx
      5. ↑ https://www.weathersafety.ohio.gov/VehiclePreparednessKit.aspx
      6. ↑ https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/kts/cr-kt-en.aspx
      7. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/winter-driving/winter-car-emergency-kit-review-winter-driving-safety-a9935578560/
      8. ↑ https://www.abc4.com/news/how-to-prepare-an-emergency-kit-for-your-car-during-a-snowstorm/
      9. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-long-does-gasoline-last/
      1. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/winter-driving/winter-car-emergency-kit-review-winter-driving-safety-a9935578560/
      2. ↑ https://www.ready.pa.gov/BePrepared/BuildKit/Pages/For-Your-Vehicle.aspx
      3. ↑ https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/emergency-supplies-for-car ?
      4. ↑ https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/emergency-supplies-for-car ?
      5. ↑ https://www.aarp.org/auto/driver-safety/info-2018/car-emergency-kit-essentials.html
      6. ↑ https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-before
      7. ↑ https://www.aarp.org/auto/driver-safety/info-2018/car-emergency-kit-essentials.html
      8. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/winter-driving/winter-car-emergency-kit-review-winter-driving-safety-a9935578560/
      9. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2011/01/what-to-do-if-you-get-stuck-in-snow-sand-or-mud/index.htm
      10. ↑ https://www.weathersafety.ohio.gov/wintervehiclesafetytips.aspx
      11. ↑ https://www.weathersafety.ohio.gov/wintervehiclesafetytips.aspx
      12. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/winter-driving/winter-car-emergency-kit-review-winter-driving-safety-a9935578560/
      13. ↑ https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/emergency-supplies-for-car ?
      14. ↑ https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-before
      15. ↑ https://www.weather.gov/owlie/emergencysupplieskit
      16. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/beforestorm/preparehome.html
      17. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/winter-driving/winter-car-emergency-kit-review-winter-driving-safety-a9935578560/
      18. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2015/11/winterizing-your-vehicle/index.htm
      19. ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/winter-driving/winter-car-emergency-kit-review-winter-driving-safety-a9935578560/
      20. ↑ https://www.ontario.ca/document/official-mto-drivers-handbook/dealing-particular-situations

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 31,943 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Apr 26, 2023

        "I am very heath and safety obsessed, so this is perfect and will help me in an emergency. Thanks. "
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement