No matter where you live or what type of climate you may experience on a given day, there are a handful of things all car owners should have in their vehicles at all times. Based on our experience as both car owners and auto repair technicians, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list that you should treat as a checklist before you leave the house next time.
- Owner’s Manual and Car Repair Documentation – If you have questions about how to fix something, what something should sound or look like, or other specifics of your car, you need your owner’s manual. Additionally, keeping auto repair documentation accessible can help if you need to recall when a repair was done in the past.
- Registration and Proof of Insurance – This should go without saying, but even in today’s technology age, it’s best to keep a physical paper copy of your insurance just in case.
- Tire Jack, Spare Tire, and Lug Wrench – Another obvious on the list, you always need to have the appropriate tools to change a tire. Even if you have AAA or roadside assistance, you need to be prepared with these three must-haves.
- Jumper Cables – Be prepared in case your battery dies so that you don’t get stranded.
- Tire Pressure Gauge – You won’t think about this until you need one, so pick one up at the store and toss it in your glove box for the next time you’re wondering if that tire looks a little low.
- First Aid Kit – Keep basic first aid supplies stocked. They could really save you or someone else in a difficult situation.
- Durable Flashlight – Don’t try changing your tire at night without a tactical flashlight or another durable flashlight.
- A Multi-Tool – This comes in handy far more often than you might realize. Scissors, blades, screwdrivers, and more come on these helpful little tools.
- Car Hammer – This can save your life and should always be in your car within reach of the driver. These can break your window if you’re trapped, and many come with seatbelt cutters as well.
- Ice Scraper – Even in warmer climates, you never know when you may need an ice scraper.
- Cold Weather Gear – Again, snowstorms, cold weather, and dead batteries tend to go hand-in-hand, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Water – A traffic jam, a car that won’t start, or other difficult situations are made worse when you have no water to drink. Better to be prepared and not need it!
