A well-stocked first aid kit is vital for treating minor injuries. Include plasters, antiseptic wipes, gloves, bandages, and scissors. In case of a small cut or scrape while changing a tyre, having the right supplies can prevent infection and make a painful situation manageable.
A flat battery can happen when you least expect it, often because lights are left on or cold weather drains the battery. Jump leads allow you to restart your car with the help of another vehicle. Knowing how to use them properly prevents damage to your car’s electrical system.
You can also use a portable battery pack to avoid needing another vehicle, but you must keep it charged.
A warning triangle alerts other drivers if your car has broken down, reducing the risk of accidents. Use two if possible—one close to your car and another further back to give oncoming traffic plenty of notice.
For example, if your car stops on a narrow country road, warning triangles can provide critical visibility.
Icy windows can delay your journey or create dangerous driving conditions. Keep an ice scraper and a can of de-icer to clear frost quickly and safely. A scraper with a built-in brush can also help remove snow.
Imagine needing to clear your windscreen before an early morning commute—having these tools saves time and keeps you safe.
A charged phone is crucial in emergencies. An in-car phone charger and a portable battery pack ensure you can call for help or check directions if needed.
The last thing you need is your phone battery dying just as you need to call a breakdown service—having a charger means you won’t be stranded without communication.
To minimise the chance of a breakdown, make sure to maintain your always check your vehicle's fluids.
A wind-up torch is invaluable if you break down at night or need to check something outside your car. Unlike battery-powered torches, it’s always ready to use. For example, if you have to change a tyre in the dark—a reliable torch provides the light you need to stay safe and see clearly.
Keeping your car owner’s manual in your vehicle is essential for quick access to important information. It helps you understand your car’s features, assists in emergencies, and provides maintenance and servicing schedules. The manual also contains legal and warranty details and can boost your car’s resale value. Having it on hand ensures you’re prepared for any situation, contributing to the long-term care and functionality of your car.
Keeping a basic toolkit in your car is important for handling unexpected situations and minor repairs. Items like duct tape, cable ties, a wrench, and a screwdriver can be invaluable in emergencies.
For example, duct tape could temporarily fix a broken hose or cracked light, while cable ties can secure loose parts. Having these tools on hand allows you to make quick adjustments or temporary fixes until you can reach professional help, saving time and reducing stress during an emergency.
It’s essential to have a spare tyre and the necessary tools in your car to avoid being stranded with a flat. Ensure your spare tyre has good tread and is inflated to the correct pressure. Familiarise yourself with the process of changing the wheel, practising at home if necessary, so you're prepared in case of an emergency. Along with the spare, you’ll need tools such as a jack, wheel brace, and the key for any locking wheel nuts. Some cars may have tyre sealant and a compressor instead of a spare, but these won’t fix all punctures, so be ready to call for assistance if needed.
Having a map in your car is important for navigation, especially in areas with poor signal or when your GPS fails. It provides a reliable backup when technology malfunctions or you’re out of range of mobile networks. A physical map also helps you plan your route in advance and explore alternative paths if necessary, ensuring you can continue your journey even without access to digital navigation tools. Keeping a map on hand adds an extra layer of preparedness for unexpected situations.
We’ve covered the key essentials to keep in your car, but it’s important to be realistic about how much you can store. The size of your vehicle will naturally limit your options, so prioritising is essential.
It can also be helpful to ask experienced drivers what they keep in their cars. Drivers with more experience are likely to have dealt with breakdowns and delays, and their insights can guide you in deciding which items should take priority.
Want to stay up to date on your car's home maintenance? Read 5 Important Car Fluid Checks you should be doing.