Partnered Post
Driving can be an unpredictable experience, and anything can happen when you’re on the road. Whether you’re heading out for a long road trip or just running errands around town, it’s always important to stay prepared for any situation that may arise, such as a flat tyre, a dead battery, or becoming distracted. That’s why we recommend keeping a few essential items in your car at all times. From emergency supplies to everyday essentials, these items can help you stay safe and comfortable no matter where your travels take you. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!
It’s important to always be prepared on the road
It’s important to always be prepared on the road because, the real truth is, driving can be dangerous and accidents and breakdowns can happen at any time. When you’re out on the road, you never know what kinds of situations you might encounter. You could get lost, run out of gas, get a flat tyre, or, worse, become distracted while driving.
No matter what happens, it’s always better to be prepared than to be caught off guard. By keeping a few essential items in your car, you can be ready for most of the situations that come your way. Not only will this help you stay safe and comfortable, but it can even save you time and money in the long run. So let’s take a look at the seven basic items you should always have in your car.
First-aid kit
Accidents can happen at any time while driving, and having a well-stocked first-aid kit can help you provide immediate care to yourself or others in the event of an injury. A good first-aid kit should include items such as bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and adhesive tape. It’s also a good idea to include items like pain relievers, antihistamines, and other over-the-counter medications that can help address common ailments while on the road.
Jumper cables
Another essential item to keep in your car is a set of jump leads, or jump starters. If your car battery dies, having one on hand can mean the difference between quickly getting back on the road and being stranded on the side of the road. To use jumper leads, you’ll need to find another car with a working battery to connect to your own, whereas jump starters with power packs may be more ideal if you’re travelling to a remote location and there are no other cars around. Be sure to review the proper procedure for using jump cables or leads before you need them.
Spare tyre and tools
If you have a flat tyre while driving, having a spare and the tools to change it can help you get back on the road quickly. Most cars will come with a spare tyre in the boot, but make sure to check that it’s properly inflated and in good condition before going on long trips. You’ll need a jack and a lug wrench to remove the flat tyre and install the spare. Also, review the process for changing a tyre ahead of time so you know what to do in an emergency.
Emergency food and water
For many people, being stuck in traffic or stranded on the side of the road can be stressful, which is why having access to food and water can come in very handy for keeping you comfortable and hydrated. It can be life-saving in some cases. Granola bars, nuts, and other non-perishable snacks are good options to keep in your car. You should also keep at least one gallon of water in your car at all times. This can be especially important if you’re travelling in a remote area where access to food and water may be limited.
Blanket and warm clothing
If you’re travelling in cold weather, having a blanket and warm clothing in your car can help you stay comfortable if you get stranded or stuck in a long traffic jam. A warm blanket can help keep you warm if your car’s heating system fails, and warm clothing can help protect you from the cold if you need to venture outside of your car. It’s also a good idea to keep an extra pair of gloves and socks in your car, as well as a hat and scarf.
Flashlight and extra batteries
Having a flashlight in your car can be incredibly useful if you need to change a tyre or make repairs in the dark. It can also be helpful if you need to signal for help. Make sure to keep extra batteries on hand so that you can replace them if the flashlight’s batteries die. You might also consider keeping a headlamp in your car to free up your hands while working on repairs.
Other useful items to consider
In addition to the essential items we’ve already discussed, there are a few other items you may want to consider keeping in your car. These include things like car cleaning products, such as microfibre cloth, glass cleaner, and interior cleaner. Although it may appear unnecessary, keeping your windscreen, mirrors, and interiors clean can help you see better and avoid becoming distracted while driving. You may also want to keep a small tool kit on hand, as well as a fire extinguisher and a reflective warning triangle, for breakdown emergencies.
Final words
All in all, staying prepared on the road is essential for any driver. By keeping these seven essential items in your car, you can be ready for any situation that comes your way. Remember to check these items periodically, or before going on long trips, to ensure they’re in good condition and replace them as needed. With a little bit of preparation, you can enjoy a safer and more comfortable driving experience.
