Becoming stranded on the road is always a stressful experience. However, you can prepare by carrying some key supplies with you. Many vehicles today are sold with emergency kits, and you can also purchase pre-made kits to have on hand. Even with these kits in your vehicle, you should conduct an inventory of what is included and potentially add some additional items based on your situation. Since people can become stranded in a wide range of conditions, it is important to think about those situations that you could find yourself in and to adequately prepare. Of course, there are always some essential items you should have, too, so it is imperative to check out the kit you have and add anything you think you might need down the line. The following are some items that you should consider including in your kit:
The basics
Every car—even a brand new one—should have some basic supplies, including a tool kit, jumper cables, and a spare tire complete with a wrench and jack. In addition, you should have drinking water and blankets, as well as safety materials such as flares and reflective triangles. Nowadays, many people put a cellphone charger in their kit just in case. Often, a flashlight with some extra batteries is extremely helpful. You should also make sure to have a first-aid kit on hand. Many people choose to throw some nonperishable food items such as protein bars into their kit. While the “basics” will be different for everyone, these items are a great place to start. If your kit does not have these items, consider adding them just to make sure you have everything you need on hand to keep yourself safe until help arrives.
Gear for harsh weather
If you live in a particularly harsh climate or often drive in the snow, you will likely need some additional items for your vehicle. For example, an ice scraper, brush, and shovel can quickly become essential supplies in the snow. You may also want to consider carrying a small bag of sand or kitty litter in your vehicle to help with tire traction in case you get stuck. Hand and foot warmers can also help to keep you much more comfortable. Of course, you may live in a very hot climate, in which case a hat, sunblock, and a battery-powered fan are important. A rain poncho could also prove helpful if you are stranded on the side of the road, as could insect repellant. Think about your typical driving conditions and what would likely be the most helpful for you.
Baby care
If you often travel with a small child, you will also likely need to carry some supplies to ensure that your baby’s well-being is never compromised. For example, you should have some spare diapers on hand, as well as formula and bottles in case you need to wait for help for quite a while. Diaper cream and wipes can also improve the situation. Depending on the child, various toys, blankets, and pacifiers can provide comfort in a stressful situation. Think about what you would need if you were alone with your baby for a few hours and make sure to have these items on hand in your vehicle to reduce the stress of breaking down while with a young child.
Pet supplies
If you have a pet that often comes along for rides, it may make sense to have some items on hand for it, too. Pack some extra water at a bare minimum and make sure to have clean bowls that your pet can use to drink. Having some food packed away can also be helpful and reduce the stress of the situation for both you and your loyal companion. Chew toys or other comfort items can help to keep your pets occupied while they’re waiting and distract them from the distressing situation. Also, while you will likely have a leash on hand while you are driving the pet, having an additional one in an emergency kit can prove beneficial.
Personal hygiene items
People tend to neglect their personal hygiene when creating an emergency kit. After all, you are probably not thinking about how you will keep yourself clean if you get stranded in the car. However, having some of these items in close proximity can be extremely helpful. A couple rolls of toilet paper and some disinfecting wipes can go a long way when you are waiting hours for help. Hand sanitizer and feminine hygiene products are also important. In addition, you should consider throwing some zipper bags into an emergency kit that can be used to keep items dry, to store wet items, or to keep trash separate from everything else in your vehicle.
Entertainment
Another consideration that you may overlook when creating an emergency kit is entertainment. Since you could find yourself waiting a long time for help, a book or simply a notepad and pen could go a long way toward staving off boredom. Also, a deck of cards is a small addition that can have a big impact since you can use them alone or with other people.