Some drivers keep their trunks empty, while others pack for a three-week survival trip. Finding the right balance is key. As experienced drivers ourselves, we've curated a list of 30 essential items every motorist should have on hand for repairs, safety, and more.
Contents
- To repair the car
- For your safety
- For winter and cold
- For your comfort and well-being
- Result
Ready-made emergency kits are convenient and available at auto stores, including jumper cables, towing strap, warning triangle, high-visibility vest, hand-crank flashlight, pump, whistle, and ice scraper. But you can assemble your own using items you likely already own at home.
Here's our expert-recommended list of 30 must-haves. Stay prepared:
To Repair the Car
Nothing's worse than a roadside flat tire with a useless spare—it's happened to us. Stock these reliable tools in your trunk:
- Spare wheel (checked regularly), jack, crank handle, and anti-theft bolt key if applicable. Learn how to change a tire here.
- Tire sealant to plug small punctures and get you to a garage safely.
- Jumper cables or portable jump starter for dead batteries. How to jump-start your car. Familiarize yourself with your engine first.
- Car manual in the glovebox.
- Tire pressure gauge. Regular checks improve handling, save fuel, extend tire life, and enhance safety.
- WD-40, duct tape, and anti-seize compound.
- Repair records: Mechanic's card, roadside assistance/insurer numbers, insurance certificate, and accident report form in the glovebox.
For Your Safety
Build a compact survival kit for your vehicle. If you have a home kit, duplicate essentials. These proven items prepare you for emergencies:
- First aid kit.
- Flashlight.
- Multi-tool.
- Matches or fire starter, plus a candle in a tin for extreme cold.
- Energy bars or freeze-dried rations.
- Water bottles.
- Hand-crank or solar radio.
- Emergency hammer for windows/seatbelts (glovebox). Break a window tutorial.
- Light sticks and warning triangle (mandatory for roadside safety).
- Paper road maps or offline Google Maps downloads. How-to guide.
For Winter and Cold Weather
- Ice scraper.
- Survival blanket for warmth during storms.
- Cardboard or carpet scraps for traction on snow/ice. Winter traction tips.
Also check: 25 Essential Winter Car Tips.
For Comfort and Well-Being
Enhance your drive with these practical additions:
- Paper towels or DIY wipes.
- Tissues or toilet paper.
- Pen and notepad.
- Umbrella.
- Cash for emergencies.
- Reusable shopping bags.
- Picnic/ground blanket.
- Change of clothes for wet/snowy mishaps.
- Solar USB charger.
- Inflatable mattress for overnight needs.
The Bottom Line
You're now equipped with our trusted list of 30 car essentials. Customize as needed—it's not exhaustive, but these items pack small and deliver big in crises. Safe travels!
