Car Chick Quick Tip: What to Include in a Roadside Emergency Kit

Roadside emergency kit

Because "stranded on the side of the road" isn't the vacation memory you're going for.

Whether you’re planning a cross-country adventure or just making the dreaded trek to visit your in-laws two states away, having a well-stocked roadside emergency kit is one of the smartest (and cheapest) ways to keep a bad situation from turning into a total disaster.

Let’s be honest — your car doesn’t care how great your playlist is. A flat tire, dead battery, or random engine tantrum can happen anytime, anywhere. And when it does, you’ll want to be prepared instead of panicked.

So, what exactly should you keep in your car’s emergency kit? I’m so glad you asked.

🚨 First, Safety First (Stuff That Makes You Visible and Protected)

• Flares and reflective hazard triangles – Warns other drivers that you're broken down and not just parked there for fun.

• White cloth – Tie it to your antenna or window as a universal distress signal.

• Bright flashlight (preferably tactical) – So you can actually see what you're doing at night, unlike that useless phone light. Don’t forget extra batteries.

• Pepper spray or a stun gun – Just in case that “Good Samaritan” turns out to be more sketchy than helpful.

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🛠️ Gear That Gets You Moving Again

• Jumper cables or a jump box – Because dead batteries happen, and that AAA wait time? Not the vibe.

• Small air compressor – Super handy for low tires or slow leaks when you're not near a gas station.

• Jack, wheel chock, and lug wrench – Check that these actually exist in your car and aren’t missing or rusted.

• Basic toolbox – A few screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches can go a long way in patching a quick fix.

  
  

📱 Communication & Charging Tools

• Cell phone car charger – No one wants to be stuck with 2% battery.

• Portable power bank – In case your car battery is dead and your charger becomes nothing more than a decorative cord.

🧰 Comfort, Cleanliness & Staying Sane

• Blankets – Essential for cold weather, or keeping someone warm if they’re injured.

• Disposable gloves or work gloves – So you don’t ruin your manicure while changing a tire.

• Wet wipes – Because messes happen.

• First aid kit – Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and anything your family may need.

• Bottled water – For drinking and topping off an overheating radiator.

• Granola or protein bars – You may be stuck for hours. Hangry is not a good look. Be sure to avoid snacks that melt in your hands and not in your mouth.

• Extra gloves, hats, and an ice scraper (in winter) – Don’t rely on your sleeve to scrape ice off your windshield.

• White cloth (yes, again) – It’s a universal SOS flag. Keep an extra on hand in case yours gets gross.

🧾 Bonus: Pro Packing Tips

Keep your emergency kit in a durable tote or plastic bin in your trunk. Don’t just throw it all into the back seat where it’ll get buried under soccer gear, dog hair, and five-month-old fast food wrappers.

And test your flashlight, air compressor, and jump box every so often. The last thing you want is to find out they don’t work when you actually need them.

Final Thoughts: Better Safe Than Stranded

A roadside emergency kit isn’t just for road trips — it’s for everyday peace of mind. Whether you're five minutes from home or five states away, being prepared can save you time, money, and stress. Or, at the very least, keep you comfortable while you wait for a tow truck with a sense of humor and your dignity intact.

Stay ready, stay safe, and as always — don’t let your car be the weakest link in your travel plans.