Most of us spend a great deal of time in our cars, commuting to and from work, traveling to meet friends and families, or merely carrying out errands. Research suggests, however, that many of us are woefully unprepared when it comes to stocking our essentials car kit, leaving us vulnerable in a range of situations. Here is your ultimate guide to stock your car to make sure you are totally prepared for any incident involving your vehicle—no matter the time, place or weather!
Spare tire and jack
It seems simple, but it is astounding how many people fail to replace their spare tire. When you purchase a used car, you should always check this is included, or make immediate plans to replace one if not.
A spare tire can be a lifesaver if you experience a blowout on a dark night and should be number one on your list. Before you do anything else, purchase a spare, and learn to change it.
Blankets and coats
Weather can be unpredictable, and so it is best to be prepared. The weather may be clear when you set off, or you may think you only have a short way to go in adverse conditions.
Things can change quickly, however, and you may find yourself stuck in a traffic jam or run into a problem with your car. The inside of a vehicle can get cold quickly, so make sure you have blankets and jackets to keep you warm and safe.
Water
This may seem obvious, but carrying a stash of water in your trunk could save your life. If you are stranded on a hot day, get lost in the middle of nowhere, or are traveling longer than expected, access to clean water is essential.
The best tip is to buy a multipack and store it in the trunk; better to be safe than sorry.
Paperwork
In the (hopefully unlikely) event of an accident or incident, you will need to ensure that all of your paperwork is on hand. This includes documents such as your driver’s license and insurance details, as well as the information for a Cleveland car accident lawyer if you are worried about legal issues after a collision.
It is always better to have the numbers and details to hand. In the event of an accident, you will likely be too upset and shaken to want to find telephone numbers and suitable lawyers.
Spare change of clothes
This may seem an unusual item to include, but it can be a lifesaver on long journeys, or when traveling with children. A spare set of clothes could be the difference between a comfortable but long journey or traveling 250 miles covered in baby vomit.
It can also be nice to freshen up on a long trip stuck inside a car, so try and include face wipes, deodorant, and even a toothbrush and paste to help perk you up during a long day on the road.
