I could start this article with some nightmare scenario designed to scare the living daylights outta you and force you to read on in hopes that the author (that’s me) provides you with the answers needed for survival. But I’m not gonna do that – there’s more than enough scary shit on the web, I don’t need to add to it. Rather, I’ll just start by saying bad stuff happens, and when bad stuff happens, you’re gonna wanna be prepared. That extends to the things you keep in your car. So what are a few important items you’ll wanna make sure you’ve got stashed away before leaving the driveway?

First up, the most obvious – a spare tire (pumped up to full), a jack, and whatever tools you need to change a flat are all vital. Some cars use run flat tires in lieu of a spare, so make sure you know what you’ve got before you see that tire pressure monitor light up on the dash. A tire pressure gauge is useful as well. Next up – road flares and a flashlight. Bad stuff happens at night too, and if it does, you don’t wanna be bumbling around in the dark trying to figure it out. The road flares will help if you’re stuck in a less than optimal spot on the side of the road so other drivers will see you. A first aid kit is obvious, as is a pair of jumper cables, but don’t forget one of those little window smash hammers in case you need to make a quick exit. And if you happen to live somewhere cold, a blanket, hat, and pair of gloves are both highly recommended. A lighter or some matches is also a good thing to have. Also, a basic tool set is invaluable in a variety of situations, complete with the two basics of fixing anything, duct tape and WD-40. A few spare water bottles couldn’t hurt, plus some storable food like crackers or an energy bar. Finally, if you got it, a solar-powered cell phone charger is a good thing to have as well.

What are the important things you keep in your car at all times? Let us know in the comments.

References

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