Keeping an emergency kit in the back of your vehicle can be an extremely wise decision. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to predict everything, and it’s always good to be prepared for every scenario.
There are many lists out there that you can follow when creating your kit, but some things are easy to miss. It’s better to overpack than to not have enough.
In this article, we will look at just five items that you may want to add if you haven’t already.
Let’s get started!
Important Paperwork
Paperwork might be one of the last things you think about when it comes to an emergency, but it’s often one of the most essential. You always want copies of anything important, especially if you’ve been involved in a rather severe accident.
Alongside your insurance, AAA extended warranty, and car owner manual, it can also be worth including information such as medical history.
Cash
Leaving cash in your car might seem like a bad idea, but it’s something you should do. If you accidentally forget your wallet or visit a store that doesn’t accept cards, you’ll always know you have a backup.
That being said, don’t put large amounts in plain sight. Instead, keep it under $100 and store it somewhere secure. You can even get mini safes that can sit neatly in your console.
Toilet Paper
Needing to go to the bathroom when you’re in the middle of nowhere on a road trip can undoubtedly be considered an emergency. So, while it may seem a little silly, a roll of toilet paper or even disposable wipes can really come in handy.
We aren’t just talking about its intended use, either. It can be used to wipe up spills and even clean off debris from your windows. Trust us when we say you won’t regret packing it.
Road Map
Many of us rely on technology and GPS when traveling, but keeping a paper road map in your emergency kit is always a good idea. If something happens and you have no power or cell service, you don’t have to worry about getting lost.
Of course, you can keep an extra charging cable and power bank nearby too. But, you can never be too careful, especially if you know you live in a relatively remote location.
Umbrella
Finally, while you may have blankets, jumper leads, food, and water already packed, a good quality umbrella is one of the most important things you shouldn’t forget. Bad weather can strike any time, and the last thing you want is to change a tire in the middle of a downpour.
A light and compact raincoat or poncho can also be a good investment. Just make sure to store them in a plastic bag when wet, so they don’t ruin any of your other items.
Final Words
As you can see from the above, there are a lot of essential items that you should keep in your vehicle emergency kit. However, remember that everyone is different. What you need depends on various factors, such as the current season and your location.