12 Must Haves for Your Car

Whether you are on the road for a few hours – or a few days – be ready for the unexpected roadside emergency. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a list of items to keep in your kit.

1. Cell phone, charger and battery back-up (fully charged)

2. First aid kit (rotate any medications on a regular basis to ensure quality)

3. Flashlight and extra batteries

4. Warning devices such as flares, emergency markers and a white flag

5. Jumper cables

6. Jack and ground mat for changing a tire

7. Work gloves and a change of clothes

8. Basic repair tools and roll of duct tape (for temporarily repairing a hose leak!)

9. A jug of water and paper towels for cleaning up

10. Nonperishable food, drinking water, and medicines
(for longer trips or when driving in lightly populated areas)

11. Extra windshield washer fluid

12. Maps (in case your phone/tablet battery dies or GPS can’t get a signal)

**Know Your Stuff BONUS: Cold Weather Safety Items **
1. Snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper
2. Abrasive material (sand or kitty litter) for traction on icy patches
3. Blankets for protection from the cold
4. Extra clothes (socks – for feet and hands!), snow boots, hats

Thanks to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and their driving tips here and here.