The last place you want to find yourself is stranded on the side of the road due to a broken-down car or poor weather conditions. But these situations can happen to anyone. Make sure you’re prepared for a roadside emergency by stocking your everyday driving vehicle with these supplies.
What to Keep in Car or Truck for Emergencies
1. First Aid Kit
First aid supplies should be a top priority in all emergency preparedness situations, even when crafting your own DIY car survival kit. Whether you become mildly injured on the road or someone you love experiences a more serious injury, it’s important to be prepared.
For a first aid kit equipped with everything you might need in a crisis, consider ordering yours from 4Patriots. You’ll have everything you need to save the day with critical supplies like a first aid and CPR guide, antiseptic towelettes, gauze, and over 100 more essentials.
Note: Pack any other vital medications and prescriptions specific to your survival crew’s needs.
2. Emergency Food and Water
Water bottles and food seem like obvious preparedness items, but they can be easy to forget when organizing your car emergency kit. Stow non-perishable items like granola bars, dried fruits and vegetables, canned meat, and enough water to sustain your passengers for at least three days.
You’ll also want to store these items properly, so they don’t become heat damaged or frozen. Once everything is packed away, give them a once over every few months to ensure everything is still intact.
3. Roadside Emergency Kit
Keeping emergency tools on hand is essential for any driver. For survival situations, it’s even more important. Should you get a flat tire, become trapped in a remote location, or simply run out of gas, you’ll be grateful to have everything you need on hand.
Tailor your emergency road kit to general weather conditions in your area. You’ll also want to consider your driving habits and your vehicle’s age and current condition.
Here’s what to keep in your car or truck toolbox survival kit:
- Car escape tool
- Jumper cables
- Tool kit (be sure to include things like screwdrivers, pliers, and an adjustable wrench)
- Pocket knife
- Properly inflated spare tire
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tire iron
- Jack and jack stand
- Flares
- Triangle reflectors
- Ice scraper
- Solar Flashlight (or pack extra batteries for your regular flashlight)
- Multipurpose utility tool
- Portable car battery charger
- Portable solar phone charger
- Emergency radio to listen for inclement weather
4. Essential Car Fluids
Along with the tools needed to get you out of a sticky situation, don’t forget the essentials that keep your car running in the first place. We’re talking about motor oil, anti-freeze, and of course, gasoline. Keep these spare fluids properly stored in your car, and if an emergency pops up, you’ll sure be glad you did.
Prioritize these essential fluids:
- Washer fluid
- Motor oil
- Coolant
- Fuel (and gas can)
5. Shelter, Clothing, and Warmth Items
Let’s say you get stuck in the cold for long periods of time. Or maybe you’re left to survive in or near your car for more than a few days. Whatever the case, you want to stay warm and be prepared in every way possible.
One way to help extend your survival time is by keeping the correct clothing and warmth options on hand. Be sure to stow away these items too:
- Space blanket for thermal control
- Waterproof matches
- Lighter
- Dry tinder
- Tarp or tent
- Winter clothing
- Extra socks (insulated and non-insulated)
- Extra boots
- Sleeping bags
- Umbrellas
- Raincoats
- Hand warmers
6. Cell Phone and Navigation Essentials
In an emergency, it’s nice to be able to call for roadside assistance. Having a working phone and charger will be essential if you do have that option. However, if getting outside help isn’t possible, you’ll want to have the devices and supplies you need to get out of the situation yourself. Pack these items:
- Extra phone
- Phone charger
- Roadmaps
- Compass
- Hand-held GPS device
- Portable radio
7. Bug Out Box for Vehicle Supplies
You’ve got all of the car go-bag contents you need to stay prepared in an emergency, but where do you put it all? Many supplies can become damaged if they aren’t stored the right way or are rumbling around in your trunk every time you drive.
Make sure to put all of your essentials into a compact box or bag that’s easily accessible. Take your time organizing everything so that you can always find exactly what you need in a pinch.
With a little planning and organization, your DIY car survival kit could save the day in an emergency. 4Patriots can help you create yours. Shop online today to order necessities like a first aid kit, car escape tool, and emergency food bars.
