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In this article, we will discuss the items which you should include in your car emergency kit. You can also download a car emergency kit checklist pdf. You can print it and use it for your reference.
The latest model cars are quite dependable, yet there is no absurdity that they will not break down. And if you are on a long drive and there is a breakdown, you will undoubtedly face difficulties. If you do not receive any help, then you sure can be in deep trouble.
There can be different problems that can cause a breakdown or get you stranded on the road. It can be low fuel, any mechanical issue, or even a punctured or flat tire. If you are traveling in winters, then the weather can be a primary hazard too. Thus, keeping an emergency kit along with you during a drive is very important, mainly if it is a long drive or a place where lesser people or vehicles pass by.
A car emergency kit can make you feel its importance when you are stranded on the road for hours. Instead, a car emergency kit can get you back on the road in a few minutes. Usually, car emergency kits are stored in the trunk of the car. These car emergency kits should be replenished and checked every six months or almost a year. Ensure that expired items are discarded and are replaced by new items.
As there are different issues that you can get stranded, car emergency kits usually are diverse and preferably custom built. We have also provided a detailed car emergency checklist pdf at the end. You can also download this car emergency kit checklist pdf and print it too. The essential items of the car emergency kit checklist are discussed below:
Note: –
It is always better to keep your family and friends’ phone numbers along with the phone numbers of your car insurance provider, a mobile car repair service provider, and a towing company in your phone.
Essential Items from Car Emergency Kit Checklist Pdf
Inflated spare tire, wrench (wheel), and Tripod Jack
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Most drivers get stranded due to flat tires. If you know how to replace a tire, you will require an inflated spare tire and tripod jack. The wheel wrench comes in handy too. As these items are a bit bulky, many tend to avoid them. Trust me! You will regret the decision of not having them with you if your tire gets punctured/flattened. You would then surely wish that they were in your car emergency kit.
Flashlight and Extra Batteries
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Many do not include them in their car emergency kits. They are convenient as you cannot always rely on the torch of your mobile phone. Torches in mobile phones drain the battery, and it is better to save it when you are stranded. Flashlights are handy when you are signaling for help (at night) or when you are changing a tire.
Extra batteries are always recommended. Having them in your car emergency kit will give you a safe and secure feeling. Many experts recommend that extra batteries should be stored inside the glovebox, rather than in the trunk. It is recommended that you not lose them in a large pile of car emergency kit items and, of course, your luggage (only if you are carrying).
Reflective Triangles or any Bright Colored Cloth
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They are instrumental when you are stranded at night. Accidents can be the worst possibility when you are stranded on the road. When you are stranded on highways, these items will warn other drivers as they are easily visible. Place the reflector a few yards near your vehicle.
First Aid Kit
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The essential items are bandages, antibiotic ointment, allergy, and other personal medicines (if you have a medical history), gauze, aspirin, pain-relieving sprays, thermometer, cotton, etc.
A First-aid kit is mandatory in any car emergency kit. They are handy for treating wounds and minor injuries if you are stranded due to an accident. First-aid kits can also help others if anyone has injured themselves and is not carrying one.
Car Fire Extinguisher (ABC Type)
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Most people carry extra gasoline, and when you talk about combustibles, a fire extinguisher is a must! Fires in a car can occur due to multiple reasons. And if the fire is put off before it becomes fierce, it can save you from potential burns and, of course, your car too!
High-Energy and Non-Perishable Foods and Drinking Water
You can be stranded for hours or even a few days, so it is always better to carry food and water to keep yourself energized and hydrated.
You can have unsalted (preferably) or salted nuts, dried fruits, dates, dark chocolates, honey, energy bars, and candies (do check expiry date).
Towing Strap or Chain
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There can be a condition where you are stranded because your car has been stuck in mud or ice. It will make the process of pulling much more comfortable. However, you would require the help of another vehicle to pull you out of it.
Other items are:
- Durable canvas bag to store supplies
- No-spill gas can (3-5 gallons)
- Jumper cables (12-20′, ensure you have the right gauge of your car), Flat tire inflation canister (non-explosive),
- Spare car fuses
- Reflective vest (useful at night time when you need to get out of the car to get some help)
- Car charger for your cell phone
- Duct tape
- Road maps
- Pen and paper
- Battery-powered radio
- Sleeping bag(s)
- Multipurpose tools like Swiss army knife etc.
- Small tool kit with screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, tire pressure gauge, etc.
Essential Car Emergency Gadgets
Stinger USB Emergency and Car Escape Tool
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It includes a seatbelt cutter and window breaker. After accidents, seatbelts and windows may get jammed. Seatbelt cutter (blade) is handy when you need to cut the malfunctioned seatbelt while the window breaker comes handy to break open the window. Please ensure that you are a Stinger emergency escape tool that is placed such that you can easily access it. Another advantage is that it works as a USB charger too.
Portable Jump Starter
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Jumper cables are usually recommended in the car emergency kits. But they require the assistance of other cars, provided the driver agrees to give a jolt to your broken car. So basically, you are stuck if you do not have any other vehicle around you. So, we recommend you go with a self-powered jumper cable kit. Ho for the models like DB Power’s jump starter can also charge devices like laptops, mobile phones, and other gadgets.
Exceptional ‘Weather’ Related Equipment
Rain Poncho
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When its pouring heavily, then a car breakdown is the last thing you would wish for! You may have to walk out of your car if the tire is stuck in mud or when a tire is flattened. In either case, it would be difficult to replace the tire or get your car out of mud under heavy pouring. A Rain Poncho will help you save yourself from the rain so that you could work your way out.
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This can be weird for many people (especially the ones who have cats! Do they exist?). Cat litter is the best traction source available. When driving on snow or, worst case, get stuck in it, apply cat litter on your tires. This will help you to get out of ice as cat litter improves the traction.
Additional items in winter include a snow brush, ice scraper, small (preferably foldable) shovel, windshield washer fluid, paper towels/rags, warm clothing and blankets, extra gloves, boots, socks and stocking cap, antifreeze (1 gallon) or salts and one-quart oil.
There are many companies such as 3M which provide basic car emergency kits, which are not custom built. You can surely buy them, but adding some items to them will surely not harm you! Different travel routes and climatic conditions require different items, and hence personalized, and custom-built car emergency kits are most preferred.
Now, here you can download the car emergency kit checklist pdf. This helps you to search and compile your list of car emergency kits. This checklist is convenient for custom-built car emergency kits. You can also share this pdf with your friends and family. Go ahead and download the car emergency kit checklist pdf!
