You never know when you’ll get the urge to hop in your car and just drive.
One of the best parts of car ownership is the freedom that it provides. Whether you’re taking a short jaunt to visit friends across town, or embarking on the great American tradition of a road trip, you’ll need to be prepared.
Here are the most important car essentials to keep in your vehicle!
For Roadside Repairs
We’re not going to lecture you about the importance of keeping a spare tire and jack in your trunk — your dad probably already has that covered.
Other car-related items that will come in handy? A pressure gauge, spare wiper fluid, an empty gas can, tire sealant, WD-40, jumper cables, and some good work gloves.
Things that double as other things make perfect car essentials. For example, a combination crank-powered radio and flashlight is almost better than a combination Taco Bell and Pizza Hut.
For Health and Safety
For just $12, you can buy a first-aid kit stocked with 100+ medical-related car essentials. Do it now. (Don’t come crying to us when you traffic gives you a headache and you don’t have any Advil.)
A tube of sunscreen can save your hide (literally) during those impromptu beach trips. Consider having a spare toiletry kit on hand, too. There may come a day when you’ll be grateful for antiperspirant, a toothbrush, or even extra hair product.
If your first-aid kit doesn’t have a mylar blanket, pick one up. Here’s why.
Nutritious non-perishable food items are a must. Think granola bars, energy bars, dried fruit, and nuts. Of course, you should also include a few bottles of emergency water and vodka.
Just kidding about the vodka, of course.
For Spontaneous Fun (the Best Kind of Fun)
If you’re the type who slams on the brakes when you see a roadside chicken BBQ or other food fundraisers, make sure you have what you need for al fresco dining (Al who?).
This can be as simple as a baggie you’ve filled with disposable cutlery, napkins, and some leftover fast-food salt and pepper packets. Or you can purchase a fully-stocked picnic backpack or basket. These are great even when the picnic is planned.
In a pinch, a frisbee (lined with a napkin, please) will double as a plate or serving dish.
For Old-School Survival Needs
You’ve probably already got a spare cell phone charger in the glove box, but consider a solar-powered one, too. For backup, stock up on analog supplies.
A paper atlas (paper? what’s paper?), a pencil and notepad, an actual book to read if you get stranded, and a roll of quarters in the event you stumble across a pay phone — or a vending machine.
Lastly, a change of clothes (and shoes, unless you wear sturdy boots 24/7) and a spare jacket or sweater are good car essentials. You will also get a lot of mileage (ha! see what we did there?) out of an old comforter, or that hideous old afghan your Aunt Millie crocheted.
For Your Inner McGuyver
Just think what you can accomplish with a multi-tool, a roll of paper towels, wet wipes, some plastic garbage bags, a small bucket, clothespins, and an umbrella. (That sounds like a great concept for a new reality show.)
Of course, duct tape is the quintessential all-purpose lifesaver.
If you’ve followed our advice, your vehicle should now be fully stocked with car essentials. We just hope there’s enough room for you in there, too!
