Must-Haves for Your Roadside Emergency Kit

It’s important to be prepared for a flat tire or a dead battery so that when it happens, you aren’t scrambling for the supplies you need. Ever wonder what must-haves you should keep in your trunk at all times in case of an emergency? DMV.org recommends your roadside emergency kit include:

roadside emergency kit
  • First Aid kit
    • Band-Aids
    • Hand sanitizer.
    • Antiseptic.
    • Antibiotic ointment.
    • Bug spray.
    • Aspirin (or similar).
    • Cotton balls.
    • Gauze pads.
    • Tweezers.
    • Bandana.
    • Ace bandage.
  • Fire extinguisher (small one)
  • Road flares (if not already in your tire-changing tools)
  • Jumper cables
  • Rain ponchos
  • Tarp
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Rags
  • Duct tape
  • Scent-free baby wipes
  • Drinking water and non-perishable snacks
  • Multipurpose tool
Depending on what the climate is like in your area, you may also want to include an ice scraper, cat litter (to sprinkle on slippery roads), and an extra blanket or jacket. If you have a smaller vehicle, consider creative ways to store your emergency kit such as a shoe organizer hung over the back seat or thin bins with lids slid underneath each seat. You may have to stick to the basics if you don’t have the room to store everything, so when in doubt go with the most important things like a first aid kit, water, and flares. Don’t forget to have the number of a tow company on hand as well! The more prepared you are, the less stressed you will be.