Getting stranded on the side of the road is never fun, but being caught unprepared makes it worse. I learned this the hard way when I got a flat tire in the middle of nowhere—and realized my spare was missing a jack. That’s when I knew I needed to rethink my car emergency kit.
A lot of us think we’ve packed all the essentials, but there are a few items that tend to slip through the cracks. From first-aid supplies to tools you didn’t even know you needed, being fully prepared means more than just having jumper cables.
After that experience, I made sure my kit had everything to handle unexpected situations. Here are often-forgotten items that could save you a ton of trouble on the road.
1. Forgetting to Include a First Aid Kit
A comprehensive first aid kit is a must-have for any vehicle preparedness kit. Make sure to include items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any prescription medications your family needs. Don’t forget to check and replace expired items regularly.
2. Not Storing Enough Water
Access to clean drinking water is crucial in an emergency situation. Store at least one gallon of water per person per day in your vehicle, and remember to include a water filtration system or purification tablets in case you need to source water from outside your vehicle.
3. Overlooking the Importance of Non-Perishable Food
Include a supply of non-perishable, high-energy food items in your vehicle preparedness kit. Good options include energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, and jerky. Rotate your food supply regularly to ensure freshness and replace any items that may have been exposed to extreme temperatures.
4. Failing to Include a Means of Communication
Communication with others is essential in an emergency situation. Your kit should include a mobile phone with a spare battery or a solar charger, as well as a two-way radio or satellite communication device. Don’t forget to include a list of important phone numbers and emergency contacts.
5. Not Having a Plan for Shelter
If you find yourself stranded or forced to evacuate your vehicle, having a plan for shelter is crucial. Include items like an emergency blanket, a tarp, and a portable tent in your vehicle preparedness kit. Make sure to also include warm clothing and rain gear.
6. Forgetting to Include a Means of Starting a Fire
In a survival situation, being able to start a fire can be a lifesaver. Include items like matches, a lighter, and fire starters in your vehicle preparedness kit. Make sure to store them in a waterproof container and practice using them before an emergency situation arises.
7. Not Including a Multi-Tool or Toolkit
A high-quality multi-tool or toolkit can be invaluable in an emergency situation. Include items like pliers, a knife, a screwdriver, and a wrench in your vehicle preparedness kit. Make sure to also include duct tape, rope, and a flashlight with extra batteries.
8. Overlooking the Importance of Personal Hygiene Items
Maintaining personal hygiene is important for both comfort and health in an emergency situation. Include items like hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and a small supply of toilet paper in your vehicle preparedness kit. Don’t forget to also include any necessary feminine hygiene products.
9. Failing to Include Spare Tire and Tire-Changing Tools
A flat tire can quickly become an emergency if you’re unprepared. Make sure to include a spare tire, a tire iron, and a jack in your vehicle preparedness kit. Regularly check the air pressure in your spare tire and replace it if necessary.
10. Not Including a Means of Signaling for Help
If you find yourself stranded in a remote area, being able to signal for help can be a lifesaver. Include items like a whistle, a mirror, and flares or a high-visibility flag in your vehicle preparedness kit. Make sure to also include a copy of your itinerary and let someone know your planned route before setting out.
11. Forgetting to Include Cash and Important Documents
Access to cash and important documents can be crucial in an emergency situation. Your vehicle preparedness kit should include a small supply of cash, copies of your driver’s license, insurance information, and any necessary medical information. Make sure to store them in a waterproof and secure location.
12. Not Including a Means of Charging Electronic Devices
In an emergency, charging your electronic devices can be essential for communication and navigation. Include a car charger, a portable battery pack, and a solar charger in your vehicle preparedness kit. Make sure to also include any necessary cables or adapters.
13. Overlooking the Importance of a Paper Map and Compass
While GPS technology is convenient, it can fail in an emergency. Include a paper map of your local area and a compass in your vehicle preparedness kit. Familiarize yourself with basic navigation skills before an emergency situation arises.
14. Failing to Include a Means of Staying Warm
Staying warm is crucial for survival in a cold weather emergency. Include hand warmers, a sleeping bag, and extra blankets in your vehicle preparedness kit. Make sure to also include warm clothing like a hat, gloves, and a heavy coat.
15. Not Regularly Checking and Updating Your Kit
One of the most common oversights in vehicle preparedness is failing to check and update your kit regularly. Check your kit at least twice a year and replace any expired or damaged items. Make sure to also update your kit as your needs and circumstances change, such as when you have a new family member or take up a new hobby.
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