Car Prepping: 10 Tools and Gear You Should Always Have in Your Car
Would you be prepared if something went wrong while you were driving? We call it “car prepping” and luckily, just a few items can make you far more prepared should you encounter trouble on the road. So check out the 10 things you should always have in your car to guarantee you’ll be ready for anything!
Source: Driving Test VIC : Driving Test VIC is an online resource to assist people preparing for all three Victorian licensing tests. The site’s resources were designed to inform and motivate – giving you the best chance to pass on your first attempt!
Car prepping 101: The basics
Jumper leads
Why?
Whether it’s to get you started after your battery goes flat or to help out another driver in need, jumper leads are a must have in all cars.
Where?
Boot/Trunk
Spare tire (with tools)
Why?
A flat tire could leave you stranded. Making sure you have an inflated spare and tools to change a flat could save you hours of time and a lot hassle. This is a basic of car prepping.
Where?
Boot
Phone charger
Why?
Your phone is your most valuable lifeline in an emergency. A charger could be the difference between a minor inconvenience that’s sorted in minutes and a major hassle that lasts for hours.
Where?
Glove box or console
First-aid kit
check out our prepareme emergency kits
Why?
The simple items in a first-aid kit could help a first-responder save a life in an emergency situation. Outside of that, it’s always handy to have some medical supplies nearby. Um, car prepping 101.
Where?
Glove box or back seat
Water and non-perishable food
Why?
Depending on where you breakdown, help could be a while away. Being fed and hydrated during a long wait for help will make that stretch of time a lot more comfortable.
Where?
Boot
Cash for emergencies
Why?
Money is universal and will never be declined at the most inconvenient time. Whether it’s fuel, food or a phone call for help – emergency cash can save you in a pinch.
Where?
Glove box or console
Torch (Flashlight) and spare batteries
Why?
If you need to stop at night, you’ll want to be able to see. A torch is better than your phone’s flash and phone battery is best saved for other emergencies.
Where?
Glove box or console
Blankets and spare clothes
Why?
Blankets come in handy during a wintery night in your broken down car. After changing a tire in wet weather, the spare clothes will keep you warm and dry.
Where?
Boot
Pen, paper and disposable camera
Why?
These items will allow you to collect all the details and evidence you need for insurance after an accident. They’re essentially a backup in case your phone isn’t working.
Where?
Glove box or console
Map
Remember, real preppers know how to read a map without GPS.
Why?
Although less and less common, physical maps and street directories never lose signal or run out of battery. Keep a good old-fashioned map of your state just in case.
Where?
Side door compartment
- Published in Auto Safety, Driver Safety, Emergency Preparation, Family Safety
Never Drive Without These 5 Things
Writting by “Social Monsters“
When you’re a new driver, hitting the road is exciting. But whether it’s a short drive around town or a cross-country road trip, you should always be prepared. The most important things a driver can take on the road are proper skills and safety, but there are also a few other necessities that no new driver should be without.
1. Backup Cell Phone; Charger
You probably take your cell phone everywhere, but if your battery dies or your phone breaks during an emergency you will need a way to contact help. Many drivers use their phone’s GPS for driving directions or listen to fresh tunes on Pandora or Spotify. Both of these activities can quickly suck up battery life. A car charger can help you stay connected on a long drive. When all else fails, however, MSN Autos recommends keeping an old cell phone in your car at all times. Did you know that even a can be used to call 911? Make sure to keep the phone fully charged and in an accessible place.
2. Tire Repair Essentials
According to WyoTech Automotive School, tire repairs and replacements are one of the most common breakdown problems drivers encounter. Always carry a tire gauge in your car and check your tire pressure often before leaving the house. Refer to your vehicle owner manual to know exactly where your tire pressure should be. You should also carry a spare tire and a jack so if you do have a flat or a blowout you can quickly change your tire to get to the nearest auto repair shop. A tire repair kit can also quickly patch a punctured tire. Just remember these are short-term fixes and you should never drive for a long distance on a patched or a spare tire.
3. Emergency Kit And Personal Necessities
Always keep in your car for minor injuries or ailments. According to the Red Cross, this should include bandaids and bandages, alcohol wipes, ointment, gauze, a breathing barrier, scissors, cloth tape, aspirin, cold compress, thermometer, scissors and a first aid manual.
You should also include other emergency essentials like a change of clothes, an emergency blanket, duct tape, a multitool and a flashlight in case you breakdown in the dark. Check your kit regularly to make sure nothing is outdated and your flashlight batteries are still good.
Think about your personal needs when building an emergency kit. Motion sickness medication and extra water in BPA-free bottles are good additions to your kit.The Red Cross suggests checking with your doctor for specific medications. If you need corrective eyewear to drive, keep a spare pair of contacts or glasses in your car at all times. Online retailers like are often a less expensive place to buy extra.
4. Jumper Cables
You’d be surprised at how many people forget this essential. According to AskMen.com, people who winterize their car or live in hotter climates need a jump as often as people in cold climates and might forget to bring cables too late. The important thing is to check your owner manual to make sure you have the right kind of cables for your car. You might need something different from the standard four-clamp cables.
5. Map
Most drivers rely on GPS to get them where they need to go. But if you lose power or service you could end up lost and out of luck. Always carry a standard paper map or atlas in your car and update your copy every few years.
- Published in Auto Safety, Driver Safety, Emergency Preparation
resqme Holiday Gift Guide 2013
This year, resqme, Inc. is offering a Holiday Gift Guide to make your shopping experience just a little bit easier. We encourage practical presents that are handy all year long. Below are a few items to consider for your loved ones that would be great additions to any Car Emergency Kit. The gift of peace of mind is priceless.
Happy Holidays and Merry Gifting!
- Published in Auto Safety, Community, Driver Safety, Emergency Preparation, Family Safety, resqme News