What to Pack in Your Cars Emergency Kit

Whether you just bought a new car or have had one for a while, be sure to add an emergency kit because life is unpredictable, and you never know what could happen! Whether you run out of gas, puncture a tire, or slide off an icy road, a car emergency kit can help you get back on the road or aid in emergency situations.

Many people have roadside assistance or are lucky enough to find someone nearby to help, but it's imperative to be prepared and self-reliant if you find yourself stuck in a position where you'll need to handle things on your own. There are everyday situations that people run into that are easily avoided and/or fixed by simply being prepared with an emergency kit and knowing how to use its contents. Below we'll go over some examples of where your kit will come in handy.

Tires often experience issues that include: flats, punctures, low tire pressure; by adding these simple items in your emergency kit, you can easily address these problems. A tire pressure gauge, tire plug kit and a portable tire compressors are readily available that can hook up to your battery or cigarette lighter. Although most cars come with a car jack and tire iron, make sure it's with your spare; if not, remember to add it to your kit.

While you are collecting supplies, remember to pack jumper cables, a tow strap, a gas can, road flares, and a small tool kit. Dead batteries happen all the time. If you forgot to turn off your lights, or left a door open you'd likely end up with a dead battery, having those jumper cables or a portable jump box can get you safely back on the road. If you happen to be away from civilization when experiencing car problems, road flares can signal for help with a strike of a match. So remember to pack matches with the flares in your kit! Once someone comes to the rescue, the tow strap can aid in towing you to the nearest mechanic.

A small tool kit can help in all sorts of situations, from changing a broken tail light to pulling a nail from your tire. Here is a list of tools to include in your car: screwdrivers (Phillips & flathead), pliers, duct tape, small fire extinguisher, zip ties, and flashlight with extra batteries.

First aid kits are essential to an emergency kit. Make sure your kit has band-aids, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, antibiotic cream, and medical wraps in case of minor injuries. Extra items to add to your first aid kit are sanitizing wipes, feminine products, sunblock, insect repellent, and of course, toilet paper.

Remember to pack water and snacks that are non-perishable, like granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, and hard candy, are also good to have on hand. We wouldn’t want anyone to get hangry. :)

If you plan to travel where there is snow, we recommend adding blankets, gloves, hats, socks, and coats for extra warmth in cold weather. In more technical snowy conditions where you could get stuck, it's great to pack tire chains, a foldable snow shovel, an ice scraper, and sand for traction.

Many of us also tend to travel with our pets, and in times of emergency, you'll want your furry friends prepared too. Keep food/water bowls, pet food, leash, and a toy or comfort item in your kit for those of you with pets.

It can sometimes take a while for emergency roadside assistance to come to the rescue, so pack a few things to fight the boredom. There are a few smaller items that you can add to help the time pass, such as a deck of playing cards, notepad, and pen & pencils.

Customers from Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, Portola Hills, Rancho Santa Margarita, Coto De Caza, Mission Viejo, and Trabuco Canyon have come to trust our commitment to quality auto repair. For preventive maintenance, repairs, tire service, or a check engine light diagnosis, call us today or schedule an appointment online so we can take great care of you and your vehicle—experience the Foothill Auto Service difference. You'll be glad you did! We are located at 26911 Vista Terrace, Lake Forest, CA 92630. We look forward to seeing you!