12 Things To Keep in Your Car at All Times
Whether you're traveling for a long road trip or commuting to work, it's a good idea to be prepared for when plans go awry. To make sure you're ready for just about everything, we've compiled a list of 12 items you need to keep in your car at all times.
Things You Must Always Have in Your Car
Whether you're stuck in the middle of nowhere or simply have a flat tire, this complete list of emergency essentials will ensure that you are safe at all times:
1) First Aid Kit
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The most important item that belongs in any car is a first aid kit. A medical emergency could occur at any time, therefore it's imperative to have a first aid package.
The glove compartment is a good place to store your first aid kit because it's secure and cool, and only you and your kids can access it. Many retailers offer first aid kits that come fully equipped with everything you need. The Emergency USA first aid kit includes tweezers, scissors, alcohol pads, bandages in various sizes, and all the other necessities you might need.
2) Jumper Cables
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A set of jumper wires will be useful if you have a dead battery and are located far from the nearest gas station or technician. But before using them, make sure you know how to. If you have a smartphone, you can check a variety of tutorials online to learn how to jump-start a car, or you can simply ask your local mechanic to demonstrate how in case of an emergency.
3) Tire Pressure Gauge
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It's challenging to determine whether a tire's air pressure is low by simply looking at it. A tire pressure gauge, however, makes it simple to find out.
Even if a single tire doesn't seem to be particularly low, routine checks of all four tires are typically advised. The handling, tire longevity, and fuel efficiency of your car will all improve with regular tire pressure maintenance.
4) Torch
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Although your smartphone may have a flashlight feature, it's not a good idea to rely only on your phone when using a torch. Your phone's battery may be low in an emergency, and if the flashlight is on, it may run out of power rapidly, putting you in a difficult situation. Due to this, it is advised to keep a backup torch in your automobile.
5) Tire Kit
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A flat tire can severely delay travel, so having tire tools on hand can help you get back on the road as soon as possible. Some vehicles will have a spare tire in the trunk, but it's a good idea to check to make sure you also have the tools necessary to change the tire. To handle any concerns with tire pressure, tire leaks, and flat tires, make sure to include the following items when creating your tire kit:
- Tire sealant
- Spare tire
- Tire jack
- Lug wrench
- Work gloves
Ensure that you always have access to all of these tools by keeping them in your car trunk.
6) Owner's Guide
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Every new car comes with an owner's manual in the glove box. These guides give you a ton of helpful information that you can use in case of a breakdown.
7) Towing Cable
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Even while it is always advisable to sign up for a roadside assistance service that should be contacted first if your car breaks down, having a backup plan is a smart idea.
There can be times when you can't get in touch with the roadside assistance team or the serviceman is late. In such cases, call a friend or a family member and ask them to assist you in pulling your car with a towing cord. These cables can hold up to 5 tonnes of weight and are normally 3 to 4 meters long.
8) Flares, or Emergency Triangles
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When your car is having trouble, it is generally advised to park to the side of the road at a safe distance to ensure your safety. Road flares can be used to signal other cars to slow down and pull over. A set of reflective emergency triangles is a great substitute for road flares.
9) Seatbelt Cutter Incorporated Into a Car Safety Hammer
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If you ever find yourself stranded in a car with jammed seat belts and frozen windows, this useful item might just save your life. The blades inside the hammer can assist you to cut seat belts, while the tips of the hammer can smash glass in windows.
10) Duct Tape
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Duct tape is the swiss army knife of the tape world. You can use it for everything. In cars, this is crucial equipment to keep on hand for plugging leaks in arteries as well as pipes.
11) Essential Documents
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It's always a good idea to keep duplicates of all your important paperwork in your car. This includes your car registration, driver's license, car insurance, and other important paperwork.
12) Blankets
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Hypothermia is a serious issue. You've probably heard stories of people getting stranded due to a flat tire and freezing to death in their vehicles. Blankets can be useful whether you're stranded in the summer, spring, winter, or fall. You'll want to stay warm at night or in the cold weather while you wait for a tow truck or a friend.
Things To Keep in Your Car for Convenience and Comfort
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In addition to the above-mentioned essentials, you might want to keep the following items in your car for convenience and comfort:
- Paper towels and wet wipes
- Reusable grocery bags
- Hand sanitizer
- Change of clothes
- USB car charger
- Power bank
- Aux cables
- Umbrella
- Emergency snacks
- Deodorant
- Mask
- Sunglasses
Summary
All drivers, regardless of age or experience level, should make sure their vehicles are ready for emergencies. If you're looking for a complete car emergency kit, be sure to visit Emergency USA. Our emergency car kit comes with everything, from first aid supplies to flashlights and even jumper cables. Check us out today.