When you’re on a road trip or just heading off to work for the day, the last thing you want is car trouble that strands you on the side of the road.
If you keep your car stocked with emergency supplies, you may be able to fix the problem and get back on the road, or stay comfortably inside your car while you wait for roadside assistance.
Here are some essentials you should keep in your car at all times, and you can pack them into a bag or plastic container so they are all in one place:
* Simple tools – Hammer, screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, duct tape and paper towels.
* Fluids – Window washer fluid and extra oil are good to have on hand, especially when you’re on a longer road trip.
* Tire replacement tools – Lug wrench, tire jack and spare tire.
* Flashlights – Make sure the batteries work by turning them on and off every once in awhile. You can also invest in wind up flashlights, although these might cause you troubles if you need them to work on your car.
* Jumper cables – You never know when you, or someone else on the road, may need to jumpstart a dead battery.
* Non perishable food items like energy bars and crackers, in case you need to stay with your car for a long time.
* Water bottles – Enough for four or five people, or more if you drive a van.
* First aid supplies – You can either purchase a pre-made box, or put together one of your own including bandages, antibacterial ointment, pain killers and gauze wraps.
* Warm clothes – Top your container off with blankets, jackets, sleeping bags, mittens, hats, etc. in case you get stuck in the middle of winter and have to spend extra time in your car.
Finally, keep a cell phone and charger in your vehicle when ever you get behind the wheel so you can report your breakdown and call for a ride or a tow truck if needed.
