8 Essential Items You Should Always Have In Your Car For Emergencies

Being prepared can save your life in an emergency. There is no way to predict when accidents happen, so planning for every contingency is an important part of driver safety. From getting stranded in bad weather to dealing with minor injuries after an accident, you should always carry the things you need with you right in your car.

All it takes is a bit of preparation and common sense to set your car up for an emergency. Beyond the proper insurance and paperwork, there are a number of things that you should have in your car at all times.

After an accident you may need to consult a personal injury lawyer, but during an emergency the things that will really help you are a bit more practical. Take a look at our list of the most essential things that you should carry in your car to help you face any emergency or accident with confidence.

First Aid Kit

You don’t need to go overboard with the size of the first aid kit for your car, but you should be carrying the essentials. Bandages, pain reliever and burn ointment are absolute musts for your car kit.

A LifeStraw water purifier is a good idea to keep in your car in case you run out of clean water to drink. It will allow you to drink directly from any questionable water source safely in an emergency.

Your emergency first aid kit should also have a slow burning candle. If you were to get stranded off the road in winter conditions, even a small candle can help to keep the temperature in your vehicle a bit warmer.

Water

If you get stranded in your vehicle, you will need to have water. It could be hours or even days before you are rescued, especially in severe weather conditions, and having enough water in your car can save your life. 

Carry enough water bottles with you at all times so that you won’t be caught without it in an emergency. One case of water should be enough to last you through any emergency situation, but keeping some water purification tablets with your stash is also a good idea.

Food

A human can go for many days without food as long as you have water, however, carrying some snacks in your emergency kit can make an emergency situation much more comfortable. Protein bars and snacks are the best alternatives for emergency food that will last while being stored and keep you going in an emergency. These types of food sources are easy to store and can last for a long time until they are needed.

Spare Tire

In the past, all vehicles came equipped with a spare tire, but no more. Many new car models don’t have a spare unless you pay extra. Make sure that you have a reliable spare in your trunk for quick roadside repairs that can help you avoid being stranded.

Flashlight & Flares

Getting stuck or in an accident at night can complicate matters worse than they already are. Without proper visibility, it can make it tough to change a flat or even take stock of the situation. Emergency flares can help to alert other drivers that you need help.

Emergency Contact Information

In the case of an accident, you may not be able to communicate with your rescuers. Make a list of your emergency contacts and any existing health conditions and store them in the sunshade over the driver’s seat.

Thermal Blanket

When you go off the road in the middle of a winter storm, a thermal foil emergency blanke​​​​t can help save your life. These thin, affordable and easy to store blankets can help keep your body from going into hypothermia and keep you more comfortable until help arrives.

Shovel

A collapsible shovel can be a valuable tool in a roadside emergency. Use it to help dig you out of a snowbank or a soft gravel shoulder. They don’t take up much room in your trunk and can be a lifesaver when you are stuck.

Emergencies can happen anytime, that’s why it’s important to always be prepared. Make sure you have these essentials in your car at all times.