What to Include in a Winter Weather Emergency Kit for Your Car

Winter weather has arrived across much of the U.S. and the holiday season is here, and for many that can mean extra time on the road as we travel to visit family, friends and other loved ones.

Winter travel can be hazardous however, between ice, snow, wind and more. Before you hit the road, it’s a good idea to stock your car’s emergency kit with items to help you stay safe if you’re unexpectedly stranded or experiencing car trouble in winter weather.

Winter weather supplies

Depending on where you live or are traveling to, winter weather can call for specialty items to be added to your car’s emergency kit. Think about what weather conditions you can expect where you are and where you’re going, and plan accordingly.

Include items such as:

• Road salt or cat litter, to help with tire traction if you’re stuck in snow or ice
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Shovel, for digging out your car
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Waterproof matches and candles
• Rain poncho, boots and umbrella

Health and safety supplies

Don’t just think about what you’ll need for your car if it breaks down – think about what you’ll need for yourself or your family, too. Whatever you’d need to survive for 24 hours, make sure you have it in your car’s emergency kit before traveling.

Think about including things like:

• First aid kit
• Gloves, hat, scarf, and other warm clothes
• Warm blankets or a sleeping bag
• Nonperishable food items, such as trail mix or protein bars
• Bottled water, ideally several gallons
• Reflective gear (wearable)
• Flags or reflective signage to place around your car
• Necessary medications (if applicable)
• Hand warmers

Car repair equipment

No one wants to experience car trouble – especially if it happens while you’re on the road far from home. It helps to keep an emergency kit with equipment in your trunk year-around in case of a dead battery, flat tire, or other minor issue.

Items can include:

• Vehicle manual
• Jumper cables
• Spare tire
• Tire repair kit
• Tow rope
• Auto or travel tool kit
• Portable air compressor, to fill up tires
• Tire sealant, for temporarily repairing a small hole

Navigation tools

What if you get stranded and find yourself without cell service? Many of us rely on our cell phones for directions and more during travel. Make sure you have a backup plan in case you can’t access your phone.

Consider including:

• Road maps
• Compass

Other items

Finally, think about items that could help you if you get stuck for a long period of time, such as chargers for electronics, a way to take notes and more.

Items could include:

• Cell phone car charger
• Notepad and pen or pencil
• Duct tape

With all of these items in your trunk or back seat, you can travel this holiday season with greater confidence, knowing that you’re prepared for whatever might happen on the road.

If you find yourself stranded due to an accident, use Carwise.com to find a repair shop near you wherever your travels take you. Search Carwise.com to get started today: https://www.carwise.com/auto-body-shops/.