You spend a lot of time in the car. From getting groceries to trips through the mountains, many hours are spent driving. While often a second thought, roadside emergencies (both major and minor) can happen when you least expect them. However, if an emergency kit is on board there is no reason to worry, you’ll be back driving in no time. We’re here to help you answer the question of what should be in a car emergency kit to begin with and how you should customize yours based on seasons or location.

Having maintenance items, emergency equipment and extra parts makes unexpected moments on the open road easier to tackle with confidence. While cars are large and complicated machines, we’re here to help you create a trusted car emergency kit list that is personalized to you, learn more about your vehicle and help protect what matters most on your journey. Don’t be scared, by following our tips you’ll be the neighborhood automotive expert in no time! 

Invest in a diagnostic code reader

Is your car making a weird noise? Is the check engine light on? Why won’t the engine start? For unknown vehicle troubles, a code reader (diagnostic scanner) allows you to discover the problem fast. These helpful tools range from $20 - $200 and can include different features based on price. From checking your battery health to engine issues, having a code reader in your roadside emergency kit can save you an expensive diagnostic trip to the shop or help you get back to driving in no time.

Pack overnight essentials in your car emergency kit

For breakdowns and flat tires while out on the open road, it’s important to keep an emergency car kit to get you through a surprise camping night in your vehicle. Having blankets, a flashlight (with extra batteries on hand) and a lantern keeps you visible to others, allows you to see your surroundings and keeps you warm if it’s chilly out.

Carry extra food and water (for your pets too)

If you’re stuck waiting for help due to emergency situations like a flat tire or road closure, having extra bottles of water and easy snacks handy for your passengers and your pets is essential. Even a simple snack like granola bars will keep for a long time and get you through a skipped meal or two. While keeping extra food on hand may initially sound silly, you’ll thank yourself if the moment arises. 

Backup parts will get you moving in no time

If a roadside emergency does occur, backup parts allow you to quickly get back driving. In your roadside emergency kit, key items such as extra fuses, headlight bulbs and fluids are easy to store and can save the day in an emergency situation. Based on your vehicle, personalize your car emergency kit by asking your mechanic common problems and how you can tackle them if they come up when you’re alone. 

Download ADT’s personal safety app, SoSecure, for an extra layer of protection

SoSecure is your portable, personal connection to 24/7 monitoring from the #1 smart home security provider. If you need help, we'll call 911 and share your location. You can even keep your family and friends updated if there's an emergency. With SoSecure in your pocket, you can start any adventure confidently.

What should I put in my winter car emergency kit?

Pending the season or the locations you plan on going to, we suggest that you include seasonal equipment like an ice scraper in your car emergency kit. Keeping a winter emergency kit is essential no matter how far you’re traveling, especially if you live somewhere with seasons. From ice patches to road closures, you never know what is ahead until you’re in the moment. Make sure to also include thick blankets for all passengers, gloves, coats and items if you are stranded. A winter emergency kit makes inclement weather easy to handle if you’re prepared. To free up space in your vehicle for summer months and warmer weather, keep your winter emergency kit in a separate storage place from the rest of your car emergency kit so it can be easily set aside when not in use.

Organization will minimize stress

Make sure to keep all your emergency kit supplies organized so they’re easy to access if you need them. We suggest the window-breaking tool to be kept in your front door pocket and your other roadside emergency kit essentials in a box, bag or glove compartment. For moments of uncertainty, we’re here to make you and your loved ones feel safe.

What’s in your car emergency kit? If you’re heading out on an adventure, check out these road trip safety tips from the most trusted name in security.

 

Emergency Kit

Maintenance:

  • extra wiper fluid
  • 1 quart of oil

Emergency:

  • blanket
  • bottled water and granola bars
  • flashlights (and extra batteries!)
  • window-breaking tool
  • battery-powered jumper cables
  • roadside lantern
  • ice scraper (for winter months)
  • first-aid kit
  • ADT’s personal safety app, SoSecure

Parts:

  • spare tire and car jack
  • diagnostic code reader
  • extra fuses
  • replacement bulbs for headlights
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