10 things to keep in your car in case of an emergency

Keeping emergency supplies in your car is essential in case of unexpected situations, such as a breakdown, accident, extreme weather, or getting lost. These supplies can help you address minor injuries, provide warmth and shelter, and keep you safe while you wait for help. Depending on the type of emergency, having the right supplies on hand can prove to be of great use and will always take some stress out of the situation. We recommend you keep the following ten things stored away in your boot at all times: 

First Aid Kit

Having a first aid kit in the car could not only be useful if you find yourself in trouble on the roads but also if you’re out and about with family or friends. A basic first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic wipes, gloves, dressings and a pair of scissors is perfect to keep in your car. 

Ice Scraper and De-icer

During the winter months, the weather can turn harsh at any moment. If you’re going to be parked up and leaving your vehicle, there’s a chance your windscreen could get frosted over, leaving you unable to see out of your window. Always be equipped with de-icing tools so you can get back on the road as quickly as you can. 

Snacks and Water

Breakdowns or traffic jams can put you right behind your schedule. If you’re stuck for a long period of time, it won’t be long until hunger and thirst set in, which can affect concentration behind the wheel. Having bottled water and snacks will keep you hydrated and curb the hunger until you get moving again – making the situation a lot more pleasant. 

Jump Leads

Don’t be left waiting hours for recovery in the event of a flat battery. If your battery dies, having jump leads at hand will get you moving again in no time by restarting your battery, meaning you won’t need to wait for help from a recovery team. If you have jump leads at home, pop them in your car so you always have them – you never know when you’ll be caught out, especially in winter months. Remember, if you need to use your jump leads, you’ll need to connect to another running vehicle. Alternatively, having a jump starter pack would help you get going without relying on someone else to help.

Blanket or Coat

It is always a good idea to have a blanket or coat tucked away in the boot in case of a car emergency. If you’re stuck at the roadside, especially in winter or during the night, you’ll need an extra layer whilst you wait for recovery. It is never safe to wait in your car in any circumstance, so make sure you’re prepared to wait outside in any weather conditions. 

Warning Triangle or High Vis Clothing

A warning triangle can be placed behind your car if you break down, to alert other road users that a hazard is coming up. Equally, if you have broken down, it is not only crucial for road users to spot your vehicle is stationary, but also spot you at the side of the road. That’s why high-visibility clothing is another essential to keep in your car. Waiting roadside can be dangerous, so increasing your visibility is always the best course of action. 

Spare Tyre and Tyre Changing Equipment

You never know when you might encounter a tyre issue. Carrying a spare tyre will give you peace of mind, knowing you’re equipped in the event of a puncture or flat tyre. Having a spare tyre in your car is no good without the tools to use it. Having all the equipment you need will allow you to change your tyre and get moving again as quickly as possible, meaning your journey won’t be delayed by a flat tyre. 

Maintenance Essentials

It is a better idea to check your vehicle is stocked up on screenwash, water and oil before a journey, but if for whatever reason you find yourself running out of any of these products, it could be detrimental to your journey. Low visibility from a dirty windscreen puts you and others road users at risk of accidents, and no engine oil is a dangerous problem to have. Knowing you’re equipped will allow you to top up the essentials on your rest break. 

Map

Road users nowadays rely on GPS systems or phone maps to plan their journeys. Having a paper map as a backup is always a good idea to fall back on if your signal cuts out or if your phone battery dies. 

Torch

It’s all good and well stocking your car up for every eventuality, but it’s no use if you can’t find anything! Always keep a torch at reach on nighttime drives, just in case you find yourself in trouble on a dark road. A torch will also help you identify any damage to your vehicle or tyres easier if it’s dark outside. 

Having emergency supplies in your car can give you peace of mind and help you feel prepared for unexpected situations. It is always better to be over-prepared than underprepared when it comes to emergencies on the road.