Essential Things you should keep in your Car
With the winter season fast approaching, now is a great time to get your car organised and in order. Whether you are driving to work or heading out for a long road trip away, no one ever expects long delays or to even break down, but these things do happen and drivers tend to be less equipped to deal with the situation. It is always a good idea to be prepared and have all the essential items you need packed into your car. Being prepared is the key to a stress-free journey. Let's look at the essential items you should keep in your car.
Car Maintenance and Repair
Spare Tyre and Jack
You would be surprised by how many breakdowns happen due to a punctured tyre. There are many reasons why a tyre bursts, tears or deflates and you may not be in a suitable place when this may occur. It is important to keep a spare tyre, a jack, and a wrench in your boot in case of an emergency. No car should be without a spare tyre unless it has high-quality run flats.
Jump Start Cables
Another common reason for breakdowns on the road is due to a flat battery, particularly in the colder months. Every driver should carry a pair of jump start cables. They are relatively cheaper to buy in any retail store. You should always feel confident and know how to use them.
Duct Tape
When it comes to emergency car repairs, there is little you can't do with duct tape. There are endless ways to use duct tape as a DIY tool for unexpected cracks, breaks, or leaks.
Torch
If your vehicle breaks down at nighttime, then a LED torch with plenty of illumination is an essential item that you should keep in your car. It will make things a lot easier for changing a tyre, checking under the bonnet of the vehicle, and anything else required in an emergency situation.
Fuel Can
Pack a 5-litre fuel can in the boot of your car in the event you break down, you can fill your fuel tank up with petrol or diesel with just enough to get you to the nearest fuelling station.
Safety Items
First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit will come in handy to have in your car in the event of you finding yourself in an emergency situation. Your kit should contain all the basics such as bandages, gauze dressing, scissors, antiseptic cream, plasters in various sizes, safety pins, disinfectant hand wipes, medical tape, and much more.
Hi-visibility Vest
A high visibility vest is a must have, even more so for using in the dark. It is for your safety to let others know that you are there.
Winter Essential Items
Winter is a cold season which brings plummeting temperatures, snow, and icy roads. The likelihood of long delays and breaking down increases. Adding some winter essentials to your vehicle is ideal. Learn more about winter road safety tips!
De-Icer
Prior to driving in the wintertime, your front and back windscreens must be clear of ice and snow if present. A bottle of De-Icer has many uses. De-ice the windows and any other frozen parts of the car such as door handles and locks.
Windshield Wiper Fluid
Driving in any type of precipitation such as ice, rain, and snow is a potential hazard. To prevent potential hazards caused by road sludge, rain, insects, and splash-back on your windscreen, you will need windshield wiper fluid in your vehicle. Windshield wiper fluid will keep your screen clean and visible.
Items you should Carry with You
Mobile Phone and Phone Charger
Mobile phones provide the best means of communication to seek help from emergency services, friends and family in the event of an emergency. It is a crucial accessory for every driver. It is also wise to store a spare phone charger in your glove box in case you need to charge your phone.
Food and Water
Water and food are essential items that you should carry with you in any type of emergency on the road, whether you are sitting through long delays, have gotten lost or if you have broken down. It is a good idea to carry non-perishable foods, energy bars, dried food, crisps, and bottles of water. Always ensure there is plenty for everyone to go around. Water will keep you hydrated while you wait.
