DIY Winter Weather Car Kit – 15 Must Have Items

Keep in mind the best thing you can do is to stay home but we all know sometimes it hits while at work and just getting home is a chore. So be prepared!

1. First Aid Kit – This should really be in your car all year around because you just never know. Make sure you have the basics, Band-Aids, antiseptic, tweezers etc.
2. Tire Repair Sealant – We have all gotten a flat tire, and it happens at the worst possible time! Keep a can of Fix a Flat in your car to fix your tire and get you some place safe to get it fixed.
3. Bright Colored Rain Poncho – If you break down on the side of the road you want to keep dry because you don’t know how long you will be stuck but you also want other drivers to be able to see you!
4. Drinking Water – Always keep drinking water in your car, I like to keep a case of bottled water and you can use it even when out running errands, as long as you replace it as used. It’s always great to be able to grab a bottle instead of buying when running errands!
5. Food – If you get trapped in a snow storm sometimes in can take 24 to 48 hours before you are able to get help depending on the length of the storm and where you get stuck. Keep food high in protein and individually wrapped is always best.
6. Three Reflective Warning Triangles – If you break down on the side of the road you want to have one in the back of your car, one on the side, and the other at the front to show the outline of your car.
7. Jumper Cables – If these aren’t already in your car get them there now. This is a must especially in winter when batteries drain in the cold! Many people will be nice enough to give you a jump if you already have the cables.
8. Emergency Flashlight – You want a flashlight that you crank to charge that way you don’t have to worry about batteries and it will work when you need it.
9. Gloves/ Hand Warmers – Your feet and the hands are the first things to freeze as your body gets cold you want to keep some extra waterproof gloves in your emergency kit along with hand warmers. I suggest having a box of the hand warmers. Each pack has a set of 2 in them and they last for up to 10 hours and you can use them in your shoes too for your feet.
10. Thermal Blankets – Many also suggest having a sleeping bag for the added heat and comfort as well.
11. Shovel – If you get stuck sometimes you will need to shovel yourself out!
12. Ice Scraper – This is a must have in every car you never know when the ice will cover your window even in warmer states like Florida!
13. Jacket – You should always have an extra jacket, if possible, a size larger then you wear so you can double up.
14. Car Hammer – This is also known as a Seatbelt Cutter, Glass Window Punch or Breaker. In case you get stuck IN your car you want to make sure you have a way out in an emergency.
15. Tire Chains –Make sure to get the chains that will work for your vehicle and tires. These can help your vehicle gain the traction it needs to get you unstuck.

As a bonus, you could also carry an activity book for your kids in case you ever end up stuck on the side of the road or while waiting for help. If the kids can stay happy and entertained, that will greatly help the situation.

Make sure to keep your car maintained so it is in best working order at all times. If you need to purchase a new (or new to you) vehicle, check out East Hill Chevrolet. What else do you suggest having in your winter car kit?