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15 Items You Should Always Keep In Your Car

White electric SUV with front end engulfed in flames and thick smoke in urban street setting during daytime
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Madison Clark

Madison Clark

When it comes to car ownership, preparation is key. You never know when you might encounter an unexpected situation on the road. Having the right tools and essentials in your car can make all the difference in your safety, comfort, and the outcome of a challenging situation.

This article lists 15 items that are a must-have in every car for those unexpected moments on the road.

First Aid Kit

Blue rectangular first aid kit with white cross and red oval first aid kit on white background
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A first aid kit is one of the most crucial items you should always have in your car. Minor accidents like cuts, scrapes, or burns can happen anywhere and anytime, and a first-aid kit can help you deal with these effectively. It should contain band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, and gauze pads at a minimum.

However, it’s not enough to just have a first aid kit, you also need to know how to use the items in it. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the contents of your kit and how each item should be used. You never know when this knowledge could come in handy.

Jumper Cables

Red and black jumper cables with clamps and yellow connectors laid out on gray asphalt surface
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Jumper cables are a lifesaver when your car battery dies. This could happen for a variety of reasons, such as leaving the lights on for too long or simply because the battery is old. Having jumper cables on hand allows another vehicle to give your battery the boost it needs to start again.

Keep in mind that using jumper cables properly is crucial for your safety and the health of your car. Before attempting to jump-start your car, make sure you know the correct procedure. If not done correctly, it can result in damage to your vehicle or even injury.

Spare Tire

Open trunk of yellow classic car showing full-size spare tire with whitewall and wooden toolbox on black carpet
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A flat tire can happen at the most inconvenient times, and having a spare tire in your car can save you from being stranded. It’s also essential to have the necessary tools to change the tire, including a car jack and a lug wrench.

However, a spare tire is useless if you don’t know how to change a tire. This is a basic skill that every driver should have. There are many resources available online that can guide you through the process step-by-step.

Flashlight

Black flashlight with blue accent ring and metal keychain attachment on white grid paper background
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Whether you’re trying to change a tire in the dark or looking for something you dropped under the seat, a flashlight can be incredibly useful. While most smartphones have a flashlight feature, a standalone flashlight is often more powerful and won’t drain your phone battery.

When choosing a flashlight for your car, consider one that is compact, durable, and has a long battery life. LED flashlights are a great option as they are energy-efficient and have a long lifespan.

Blanket

Handmade crocheted blanket with colorful granny squares in pink, purple, and teal with white scalloped border edges
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A blanket is not just for comfort, it can be a lifesaver in certain situations. If your car breaks down in cold weather, a blanket can keep you warm while you wait for help. It can also be used for picnics or to protect your car seats when transporting items.

Choose a blanket that is compact, easy to fold, and store. It’s also a good idea to choose a blanket that is machine washable for easy cleaning.

Multi-tool

Leatherman Crunch multi-tool with pliers, knife blade, and various tools extended on dark textured surface
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A multi-tool is a compact device that combines several tools in one, such as a knife, pliers, screwdriver, and can opener. It can come in handy in many situations, from cutting a seatbelt in an emergency to fixing a loose screw.

When choosing a multi-tool for your car, consider one that is durable and has the tools you think you’ll need the most. Remember, it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

Water Bottles

Four reusable water bottles of different styles and colors arranged on a reflective surface against a beige background
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Keeping water bottles in your car is important for both hydration and emergency situations. If you’re stranded or stuck in traffic for a long time, having water on hand can be a lifesaver.

It’s a good idea to keep a few bottles in your car and replace them every few months to ensure they are fresh. In addition to drinking, water can also be used for cooling an overheated engine or cleaning wounds in an emergency.

Snacks

Tray with bottled water, coffee cup, chocolate croissant package, and potato crisps box snacks
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Just like water, having snacks in your car can be essential in emergency situations or when you’re stuck in traffic. Choose snacks that are non-perishable and easy to eat on the go, like granola bars or nuts.

Remember to replace the snacks periodically to ensure they are fresh and safe to eat. It’s also a good idea to choose snacks that are high in protein and fiber to keep you full longer.

Phone Charger

White and black phone charging cables with wall adapters and USB connectors on light beige surface
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In today’s digital world, a phone charger is a must-have in every car. It can keep your phone charged in case of emergencies or when you need to use your GPS.

Choose a charger that is compatible with your phone and consider getting a car charger that has multiple USB ports so you can charge more than one device at a time.

Umbrella

A compact umbrella with colorful raindrop pattern lies folded next to its matching storage sleeve on beige surface
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A compact umbrella in your car can protect you from unexpected rain or intense sun. This can be particularly useful if you need to change a tire or check your engine in bad weather.

Choose an umbrella that is durable and compact so it can fit easily in your car. Consider a wind-resistant umbrella to withstand strong winds.

Pen and Paper

An open blank notebook with cream-colored pages lies next to a black fountain pen on light wooden surface
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While it might seem old-fashioned, having a pen and paper in your car can be very useful. You can use it to leave a note, write directions, or exchange information after a car accident.

Remember to check the pen periodically to make sure it works. You don’t want to find out it’s out of ink when you need it the most.

Maps

A woman with green headband holds an open road map while sitting on white car in desert landscape
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Even in the age of GPS, having a physical map in your car is a good idea. Technology can fail, and in those situations, a map can be your best friend.

Choose a map that covers the area you drive in most frequently. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with how to read the map before you need to use it.

Ice Scraper

A woman in olive green winter jacket uses an ice scraper to clear snow from her car windshield
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If you live in a place where it snows, an ice scraper is a must-have. It can help you clear ice and snow from your car windows and mirrors.

Choose an ice scraper that is durable and has a comfortable grip. Consider one with a brush on one end to clear snow and an ice scraper on the other end.

Fire Extinguisher

A red and black fire extinguisher with yellow safety pin is secured in gray vehicle trunk compartment
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A fire extinguisher in your car can help you deal with a small fire before it gets out of control. It’s particularly useful in case of an engine fire.

Choose a fire extinguisher that is compact and designed for use in vehicles. Make sure you know how to use it properly and check the expiration date periodically.

Towels

Two purple towels on beige surface - one folded neatly with ribbed trim, one torn and damaged with frayed edges
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Having a few towels in your car can be useful in many situations. You can use them to clean up spills, as a makeshift blanket, or even to provide traction if your car gets stuck in snow or mud.

Choose towels that are absorbent and easy to clean. It’s a good idea to have a few different sizes for different uses.

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