Emergency Car Supplies

My kids and I recently had to borrow a relative’s vehicle to take them to youth group since our family vehicle was out of town. And due to a series of events that was out of my hands, I found myself with a phone that had an extremely low battery, no way to charge it and no detour signs to help me navigate home. Thankfully, my husband was able to assist us all the way in the big city via text and get us home safely. It was a scary situation and I’ve developed a new sense of appreciation, not only for my husband but for having a well-stocked vehicle for emergencies.

Remember that these are to be separate from the emergency bag, which is meant to be grabbed when there’s a natural disaster or you have to quickly flee your home. The supplies you keep in your car are just for unplanned events that take place on the road.

• Flash Light (w/ extra batteries in a ziplock bag)
• Headlamp (w/ extra batteries in a ziplock bag)
• Drinking Water
• Non-Potable Water (for an overheating car or some similar situtation)
• First Aid Kit
• Jumper Cables
• Disposable Gloves
• Sunscreen & Bug Spray
• Car Phone Charger & Back-Up Car Phone Charger (Extra batteries if needed)
• Rain Poncho
• Pocket Knife & Multi-Tool
• Tool Kit
• XL Trash Bags or Small Tarp
• Duck Tape
• Fire Extinguisher
• Toilet Paper & Baby Wipes
• Emergency Radio (w/ extra batteries in a bag)
• Umbrella
• Handkerchief
• Rope
• Notepad & Pens
• Flares & Glow Sticks
• Small Bag of Unscented Cat Litter
• Emergency Blanket
• Junk Tablet (w/ Charger) or Phone (w/ Charger)
• A Physical Paper Map of Your Area
• Hand Warmers

While this list might seem, too short or too long, it really is going to depend on where you live within the United States. If you see more seasons with snow, then you will need to modify it to better fit your family needs.

Some individuals recommend keeping a small can of gas in your vehicle which may work fine in the bed of a truck but will be very dangerous to keep in the enclosed space of your car trunk.

Update 12/4/23

• Tire Gauge
• Zip Ties
• Fix-A-Flat