What to Keep in Your Car for Emergencies
What you’ll need
Shopping list provided in the guide
Step-by-step guide
Putting together a small emergency kit for your car is one of those things you will be so glad you did when you need it. You can get everything on this list from a supermarket or online for a reasonable price.
Here is what we recommend keeping in your boot:
1. A high-visibility vest. If you break down at night or on a fast road, you need other drivers to see you. Some countries require you to carry one by law.
2. A warning triangle. Place it behind your car to alert approaching drivers. Again, required by law in many countries.
3. Jump leads (jumper cables). A flat battery is one of the most common breakdowns, and jump leads are useless if you only buy them after it happens.
4. A torch (flashlight) with spare batteries. Breakdowns love to happen in the dark. A head torch is even better because it keeps your hands free.
5. A basic first aid kit. Plasters, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medication you might need.
6. A phone charger. A USB cable and either a car charger or a portable battery pack. A dead phone when you need to call for help is a nightmare.
7. Bottled water and a snack. If you are stuck waiting for recovery, you will be glad you have these. Cereal bars or nuts last for ages.
8. A blanket or warm layer. If you break down in winter, your car gets cold fast once the engine is off.
9. Washer fluid and a small bottle of engine oil. These are the two fluids you are most likely to need on the go.
10. Your car's manual. It has information about towing points, jacking points, fuse boxes, and bulb types. If you have lost the paper copy, you can often download a PDF from the manufacturer's website.
Throw everything in a bag or small box in the boot and forget about it until you need it. Check on it once a year to replace anything that has expired or been used.
Here is what we recommend keeping in your boot:
1. A high-visibility vest. If you break down at night or on a fast road, you need other drivers to see you. Some countries require you to carry one by law.
2. A warning triangle. Place it behind your car to alert approaching drivers. Again, required by law in many countries.
3. Jump leads (jumper cables). A flat battery is one of the most common breakdowns, and jump leads are useless if you only buy them after it happens.
4. A torch (flashlight) with spare batteries. Breakdowns love to happen in the dark. A head torch is even better because it keeps your hands free.
5. A basic first aid kit. Plasters, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medication you might need.
6. A phone charger. A USB cable and either a car charger or a portable battery pack. A dead phone when you need to call for help is a nightmare.
7. Bottled water and a snack. If you are stuck waiting for recovery, you will be glad you have these. Cereal bars or nuts last for ages.
8. A blanket or warm layer. If you break down in winter, your car gets cold fast once the engine is off.
9. Washer fluid and a small bottle of engine oil. These are the two fluids you are most likely to need on the go.
10. Your car's manual. It has information about towing points, jacking points, fuse boxes, and bulb types. If you have lost the paper copy, you can often download a PDF from the manufacturer's website.
Throw everything in a bag or small box in the boot and forget about it until you need it. Check on it once a year to replace anything that has expired or been used.