When you think about a trip you’re taking, you usually plan for: how long it will take, whether you need fuel, and what the road conditions are like. What about all the things you need along the way, especially in case of an emergency?
Make sure you’re prepared for what the day might throw at you before you leave the house, and keep these 13 must-haves in your vehicle at all times so that you’re ready for anything!
13. Foldable Trash Can
Keep your vehicle clean and organized with this trash can that’s not only leak-proof, but has extra side storage for small items and has 8 designs to choose from! The attached strap makes it easy to use the headrest, middle console, or gear shifter to adhere the trash can to which stops it from being a potential projectile. This is a great way to keep on top of your car cleanliness and looks much better than a plastic grocery bag hanging from the gear shifter, and is another tried and true item from our team!
12. Hanging Organizer
If you’re tired of having items rolling around your trunk or don’t have enough space for everything, a rear seat hanging organizer is exactly what you need. This hanging organizer fits right over your back seats and increases storage while keeping your vehicle tidy. Whether you’re storing dog leashes, safety tools, or something else, you’ll have room for it all.
11. Vehicle Adapter
Ensure you always have a charged phone with a car charger adapter. This particular one features two usb ports and a charging cable. A fully charged phone is an important tool to have in case you need emergency services, or just need to call someone to check in, as making sure your loved ones can reach you is important. If the charging cable included isn’t the right one for your device, stock up on a multi-pack in case one gets damaged or lost.
10. Paper Road Map
It’s always a good idea to have a back-up, and in this case we’re talking about a back-up for your electronic gps! Paper maps are almost unheard of these days since just about every driver has a smartphone, or our vehicles are equipped with gps built-in. In case you find yourself without power or directions, you should have some paper maps available. Try and plan ahead for the specific locations you’ll be travelling through, but for those of us in North America, always keep a mapbook of Canada, the US, and Mexico handy.
9. Extendable Snow Brush
Getting the snow off of your car before heading out is important for the safety of yourself and other road users. With this extendable snow brush and ice scraper, you can be confident that your vehicle is cleared off and ready to hit the roads without any vision obstruction or flying snow. The extended handle ensures it's a perfect fit whether you have a small compact car, or a larger truck or SUV!
8. Steering Wheel Lock
Vehicles are expensive investments - protect your car and have some peace of mind with this anti-theft steering wheel lock that deters thieves. When it’s not in use, this steering wheel lock is small enough to slide under the passenger seat.
7. LED Safety Flares
In the event that you’re pulled over with no hazard lights or low visibility, these safety flares can ensure that other drivers are able to see you and leave enough room. These safety flares are small and compact, which means they’ll easily fit in that organizer we mentioned above!
6. Digital Tire Pressure Gauge
Don’t forget to check your tire pressure regularly. It can be the difference between a quick fill-up and a costly flat tire. This small gauge will fit nicely in your glove box for easy storage and the digital readout is accurate and easy to read, even if you’re stuck checking your tires in dim light.
5. Portable Air Compressor
Inflate your tires on the go with this easy-to-use, portable air compressor. Stay safe with an added LED light in areas with low visibility in the event that your tire deflates. This compressor is equipped with an auto shut-off, which means you can sit inside your car while it does all the work. Stay safe and warm while you’re on the side of the road!
4. Spare Tire & Tire Changing Kit
Get your vehicle back on the road quickly with a high quality spare tire that will tide you over until you can get a new one! Many vehicles already come equipped with a spare tire, or run-flat tires that eliminate the need for a spare tire altogether. A spare tire is a worthwhile investment to avoid getting stuck out on the road! Make sure that if you do purchase one that it fits your vehicle and consider getting a tire changing kit as well, if you don’t have the tools to build your own.
3. 3-in-1 Safety Hammer / Seatbelt Cutter / Window Breaker
In the event that you need to exit your vehicle quickly, this small 3-in-1 tool is your friend. This small, compact tool could save your life - make sure you’ve got one. Whether you’re cutting a seatbelt, breaking a windshield, or need a hammer, it’s got you covered.
2. Heavy-duty Jumper Cables
Add some jumper cables to your trunk, or the aforementioned hanging organizer!, and be prepared for any dead batteries that come your way, whether your own or helping someone in need! Jumper cables with a protective carrying case and durable plastic covering will ensure a long-life for your new cables!
1. Emergency Roadside Kit
Find an emergency roadside kit that comes with a variety of different items that will help you out in many situations. Getting stranded is no big deal when you’ve got all of these things, and some of our team swear by this specific kit that includes jumper cables, a safety hammer, reflective warning triangle, a tire pressure gauge, and a tow rope. That means if you get this roadside emergency kit, you don’t have to make a separate purchase for jumper cables or the 3-in-1 safety hammer!
No matter where you’re driving, make sure you have what you need to be prepared and safe no matter what comes your way! Grab these items to feel safe and confident every time you get behind the wheel.