Stranded, cold, and hungry along the highway is no way to reach your destination. A well-stocked emergency roadside kit could help you get back on the road quickly—or at least remain safely stranded.
Pre-assembled kits are available to purchase, but you might want to assemble your own or customize a purchased kit. Consider including the following items:
The Basics
- Cell phone and car charger, with a list of emergency numbers
- Fire extinguisher
- Two roadside flares
- Quart of oil
- Small first aid kit
- Flashlight
- Multipurpose tool or pocket knife
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tire inflator
- Duct tape
- Rags
- Your car’s manual
- Pen and paper
- Help sign
- Jumper cables or a portable battery booster
The Basics
- Cell phone and car charger, with a list of emergency numbers
- Fire extinguisher
- Two roadside flares
- Quart of oil
- Small first aid kit
- Flashlight
- Multipurpose tool or pocket knife
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tire inflator
- Duct tape
- Rags
- Your car’s manual
- Pen and paper
- Help sign
- Jumper cables or a portable battery booster
Extras
If your car has more trunk space, or if you’re planning a long trip, add these to the mix:- Jumper cables or a portable battery booster
- Gallon of antifreeze
- Extra fuses
- Extra flashlight batteries
- Basic tools: Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench
- Spray bottle with washer fluid
- Ice scraper
- Granola or energy bars
- Bottled water
- An approved gas container
- A road atlas