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
The basics are the most important for any emergency. The most common emergencies are flat tires and dead batteries and I’m glad you covered that. It’s very important to have a car jack and a tire wrench in your car together with your spare tire so you’d have no problem changing your tires if ever you’re sidelined by a flat tire.