Being prepared for unexpected events when you are a car owner is a must. You should always be ready to deal with minor inconveniences and major emergencies on the road. Having the right items in your trunk can make a huge difference. That said, here are eight things every car owner should have in their trunk.
1. Jumper Cables – For Those Unexpected Dead Batteries
Jumper cables or portable jumpstart kits should always be in your trunk. A dead battery can happen at any time and it can leave you stranded if you don’t have the right tools. Having jumper cables will at least allow you to get a jump start from another driver. These are easy to store and will keep you from waiting for roadside assistance.
2. Spare Tire and Jack – Don’t Get Stranded
Every car needs a spare tire and jack in the trunk. Don’t get stranded without these things! A flat tire can happen unexpectedly and without a spare and a jack, you’re out of luck. You might wind up having to pay for an unnecessary tow to get somewhere where you can get a new tire. Having these items in your trunk is a must.
3. First Aid Kit – For Any Minor Injuries
It’s also a good idea to have a first aid kit in your vehicle. This will help ensure that you’re prepared for any minor injuries or medical needs that might come up while you’re on the road. A well-stocked kit will have bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, pain relievers, allergy meds (like Benadryl), and other basic medical supplies. These things will come in handy if you injure yourself while working on your car or you wind up dealing with another medical emergency on the road. A first aid kit is especially important if you travel with your children often.
4. Flashlight – See Clearly When It Matters
A flashlight is another thing you should always have in the trunk. This will come in handy if you have to take a closer look at your vehicle in the dark. No one wants to be stuck on the side of the road at night, but it happens. A flashlight will help you see clearly while you change a tire or do anything else that is necessary. Many flashlights will also come with magnetic bases that will allow you to work on your car hands-free.
5. Emergency Blanket – For Warmth and Comfort
It’s a good idea to have an emergency blanket in your trunk too. If you find yourself broken down on the side of the road in cold weather, things can get chilly fast. Emergency blankets are made out of insulating material that can help prevent hypothermia in extreme conditions.
6. Portable Air Compressor – For Tire Maintenance on the Go
Portable air compressors are another good thing to have in your car. Driving with low tire pressure can be dangerous, so it’s important to maintain proper pressure in your tires. Many portable compressors can plug into your car’s 12V socket and they often come equipped with pressure gauges to ensure the proper amount of inflation. Having this in your trunk will help you avoid scrambling to find a gas station with an air machine.
7. Multi-Tool – A Versatile Helper for Various Situations
I recommend having a multi-tool in your car as well. These typically have essential tools like pliers, screwdrivers, knives, and scissors on them. Each of these things can come in handy for small repairs or adjustments. With a multi-tool, you’ll have several essential tools at your disposal without taking up much space.
8. Roadside Emergency Kit – For Complete Peace of Mind
A complete roadside emergency kit is another good thing to have in your trunk. Many of these kits include warning triangles, gloves, basic tools, and other things that will come in handy when you are broken down. Each of these items will help keep you safe in the event that there is an emergency you need to take care of on the side of the road. It’s a small investment that can provide you peace of mind.
Pack Smart for a Safer Ride
Making sure you have each of these things in your trunk can make all the difference in the world when you run into unexpected problems arise on the road. You’ll be better equipped to handle minor issues and ensure your safety on the road with each of these things on board. Don’t wait for an emergency to come up, have these things on hand.