9 Essentials for Your Winter Car Emergency Kit

Whenever it snows, we’re reminded of a heartwarming article from a few years ago that profiled several ways snow makes you happier. From inspiring a sense of wonder and its calm, relaxing vibes to its link to our childhood memories and fun with others, there’s no doubt that snow is one of the most enchanting parts of winter. However, this snowy season can also bring frigid temperatures, icy roads, and storms that cause hazardous road conditions and roadside emergencies. To ensure you’re prepared for anything Old Man Winter throws your way, we recommend assembling a winter car emergency kit filled with essential supplies and tools to help you stay warm and safe. In this post, we’re sharing our top nine essentials to include in a winter car emergency kit to help you prepare for any hiccup that could arise on the road this season.

9 Winter car emergency kit essentials

To assemble your winter car emergency kit, toss the following nine essentials into a sturdy box, a plastic bin, or a duffle bag and tuck them into a corner of your trunk or backseat for easy access during a winter emergency:

1. Warm blankets and extra layers of clothing
   
   If you get stranded in your car during a winter storm or need to get out of your vehicle to help someone else, staying warm is critical. Having blankets, hats, gloves, and extra layers of clothing on hand can keep you warm and comfortable when you’re out in the cold.
   
   
2. Emergency food and water
   
   It’s always a good idea to have some non-perishable food and bottled water in your car for a winter emergency. Granola bars, nuts, crackers, jerky, dried fruit, and other non-perishable snacks can help you stay fueled up.
   
   
3. Flashlight and extra batteries
   
   If you experience a nighttime emergency, a flashlight or flares can signal for help and provide illumination in case you need to make roadside repairs to your car. Be sure to pack extra batteries, so your light won’t run out of power. You might also consider installing a flashlight app on your smartphone to instantly access bright light at your fingertips.
4. Phone charger
   
   Keeping a car-compatible phone charger in your winter car emergency kit can help ensure your phone stays juiced up during an emergency, so you can call for help and keep loved ones updated on the status of your situation.
   
   
5. Jumper cables
   
   Packing a set of jumper cables in your winter car emergency kit can jumpstart a dead battery while you’re out on the road this winter – or any time. To reduce the chances of a surprise battery failure this season, follow our tips on checking your battery and request your free battery check appointment.
   
   
6. First aid kit
   
   Accidents can happen anytime, making a first aid kit a helpful addition to your winter car emergency kit. Fill your first aid kit with bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, and any other supplies you might need in case of injury.
   
   
7. Small shovel
   
   A folding or collapsible shovel is a useful winter car emergency tool if you get stuck in the snow, allowing you to clear a path and get your car moving again. Also, consider popping a small bag of kitty litter in your vehicle for extra traction If the roads are incredibly slick.
   
   
8. Ice scraper
   
   An ice scraper and snow brush are essential for clearing ice and snow off your car’s windows and mirrors before you hit the road this winter. In addition, ensuring you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid can help expedite the windshield defrosting process.
   
   
9. Tire repair kit
   
   The air pressure in your tires can fluctuate in the winter. If your tire has flattened, a tire repair kit is a handy addition to your winter car emergency kit. In addition, products like Fix-a-Flat aerosol spray are quick, easy, and convenient short-term flat tire repair solutions until you can see a mechanic at your local tire shop.

With the winter car emergency kit essentials in this post, you’ll have everything you need to face any storm. Are you looking for more winter preparedness tips? Then, head to our blog to check out this cold weather checklist that every driver should know.

As a Best of the Best-Bucks County award winner for twelve years in a row, we’re local mechanics providing trustworthy and reliable auto repair in Doylestown. So, as you enjoy the enchantment of this winter season – and the driving challenges that come with it – trust us to help keep your car safe on the road, no matter the weather. Contact us online or call our office at 215-345-8620 to learn more.