How to prepare an emergency kit for your car

Your car’s emergency kit can come in handy for a number of reasons. It can be used in situations which involve collisions with other drivers and when internal car faults occur. It can also be used in the event of another driver needing help. The tips provided below will help you know what to pack and why they are needed.

When preparing an emergency kit for your car, remember to save some space in your vehicle so that it can be accessed easily. Here are some of the things that should be included in your car tool kit:

Mobile phone and car charger

It may seem obvious to do so, but in a rush some people forget to carry these items with them. In the event of an accident of serious proportions, it may become a necessity to call an ambulance, the police or roadside assistance. So always carry your mobile phone and a charger to make sure it has some juice.

If you are using a smartphone and have a budget for a power bank, buy one. This handy charger can power up most gadgets including tablets and other portable devices.

Road flares, reflective hazard triangle, battery powered warning light

These items are really useful should you become stranded, especially in the darkness of the night. These items should be placed behind your vehicle in order to warn oncoming traffic of the hazardous situation ahead and help them react accordingly.

Flashlights and other illuminating devices could also help you navigate in the night should you ever find yourself in a dire situation. Just remember to also bring additional batteries should you need them to be turned on longer.

Oil, jumper cables and spare fuses

Store these in the trunk of your car as they may be able to help get you up and running again. Familiarize yourself with your car’s user manual and keep it in the glove compartment. It will have helpful tips on the items that you can use to help reboot your car.

If you notice anything unusual about your car, stop by a vehicle repair shop to have it checked. Do not ignore your engine’s problems for the sake of reaching your destination on time.

Properly inflated tire in usable condition, jack, lug wrench and tire gauge

Should you fall victim to a flat tire, these items will help you remove the punctured one and replace it with one that is functional in no time. Once you have done so you can get back on your journey. Additionally, do remember to put another properly inflated tire in the trunk.

Some cars are also equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system which you should constantly consult to ensure that your tires are in perfect condition. If you happen to be in an area where there is a vulcanizing shop or a vehicle repair center, have a mechanic assist you in fixing your flat tire.

Consumable fluids, non perishable foods, wool or emergency blankets and a first aid kit

You may be held up for a prolonged period of time with vehicle related issues. You may be alone and it may be cold or extremely hot. In case of these circumstances, make sure you have consumable fluids and non perishable food. Blankets are important to maintain a constant core temperature. Water will also come in handy should the car overheat.

First aid kits are also handy for any unwanted injuries that you may encounter during your journey. A basic medicine kit should have things such as bandages, gauzes, alcohol, antibiotic ointment, tweezers, pain relievers and an instant cold pack.

Basic tool kit

This is very useful for a number of small problems that you as a driver will be able to handle yourself. This toolkit should include screwdrivers, sockets and wrenches, a pliers, a hammer, a multipurpose knife and some duct tape. It could save you the cost of visiting a mechanic.

Do remember, however, to keep this tool kit out of reach of children as they could harm themselves when misused.

Additional ropes, rags and rain ponchos

For those carrying additional luggage on top of their roof rails, these things are necessary to keep them dry and in place. Ropes can also be used if you need towing, while rain ponchos can be used to cover your luggage against rain and other road elements such as dirt.

Shovel and a bag of sand

If your destination is an off-road location, expect the worst- this includes being stuck in a mud hole. Having a bag of sand for extra traction and shovel to help you remove some unwanted road debris could get your vehicle going despite the harsh terrain.

When traveling long distances it is important to be prepared for situations that require more than the usual daily in-car equipment. Also, plan your travel before hand and always consult the weather forecast for your intended travel dates.