7 essential things you should always keep in the car

Our car is an extension of ourselves. It is a compact space where every inch of space should be valued and should always serve a purpose. The storage capacity, depending on your car model is limited and keeping a lot of unnecessary things there not makes your load heavier but it also makes your car messy and disorganized.

Maximizing the space and the things that you store inside your compartments like the dashboard and the trunk should be planned smartly.

The things you keep inside your car should always provide you a sense of security, relief, and comfort during emergency situations like a flat tire, severe weather conditions, or even accidents. Philkotse.com prepared a shortlist of car essentials that we recommend each driver should keep inside their cars regardless of the driver’s personality and the type of car.

1. Emergency first aid kit

Of course, getting into an accident is something that we don’t want, but sometimes it happens to you or maybe to some other drivers and commuters. This is where an emergency kit comes into play and is something that you should always have inside your car.

Your emergency first aid kit can be pre-packed as these sets are widely available in pharmacies or you can also assemble your kits. Make sure you have a stash of bandages, gauze, antibiotic cream, pain killers, allergy medicine and some cotton swabs. A bottle of alcohol or hand sanitizer will also need to be included.

If you still have some space, consider adding in a thermometer, some heat pads and battery-powered radio too. If any of your family members have known illnesses or is in a regular dose of medicine, consider putting in packets of their prescriptions.

Your emergency first aid kit can be pre-packed as these sets are widely available in pharmacies

2. Basic car tools

Sometimes road misfortunes happen where you get a flat tire or the battery of your car dies. Your car breaks down, and you are out in the boonies with the nearest gas station or repair shop miles away.

It does seem like the makings of a horror movie. This is where keeping that spare tire and the knowledge on how to replace it comes in handy.

Along the tire will be your car tools essentials like a jack, wrench or tire iron, and a pipe. It is also recommended to have screwdrivers, tire gauge, pliers, brake fluid, oil, duct tape, tire sealer, and a pocket knife or a Swiss knife at the back of your trunk.

You might be disregarding those little calling cards of repair shops and tow trucks but next time, just safely tuck it in your dashboard. You never know if your cellphone battery decides to let you down too.

Sometimes road misfortunes happen where you get a flat tire or the battery of your car dies

>>> Read more: 8 must-have items for your car emergency kit.

3. Stashing some snacks

No, you are not turning your car into a mobile cupboard but for instances where you are waiting for some help. Eating can ease some anxiety so keep a stash of those non-messy snacks that don’t need to be refrigerated or cooked. Granola bars, cereals, chocolate, crackers, nuts, dried fruit, and turkey jerky can be good options.

If you can have some MRE’s or Meals, Ready to Eat in your compartment then better. Do not forget some bottled water too. It won’t just quench your thirst but water can keep you clean too after changing that tire, or you can also pour that water into the radiator if it overheats. Water can do many things for you and your car.

Eating can ease some anxiety so keep a stash of those non-messy snacks that don’t need to be refrigerated or cooked

4. Visibility is key

A heavy-duty and waterproof flashlight can make your work easier. It can make inspecting under the hood clearer and if an emergency happens while driving during the night, being able to see your surroundings better can bring about a sense of security and comfort. It makes the waiting less scary.

Although you can use your cellphone’s flashlight, you’d want to save as much battery as possible, and the light from your cellphone doesn’t provide much anyway. In worst cases, your emergency blinkers may not be enough especially if you are in a secluded area.

Other drivers might not be able to spot so keeping those orange or red reflective flares and surrounding your car with it will warn other passengers about your existence.

A heavy-duty and waterproof flashlight can make your work easier

5. Battery boosters

A dead battery can still be revived by using jumper cables, so it is a must to always have one inside your trunk. Simply attach your jumper cables to both the positive and negative battery terminals of another car, and you’ll be back on the road before you know it. 

But always follow instructions and ask for assistance if you are in doubt. Also, make sure that you have those portable car chargers for your phone. Your communications system can prove to be your lifelines for emergencies like this so make sure that you have the car chargers or power banks with you.

A dead battery can still be revived by using jumper cables, so it is a must to always have one inside your trunk

6. Keep it clean

Car problems commonly involve dirt, oil, and getting messy, so it’s a good idea to have some wipes, tissues, or paper towels. These absorbents can help you clean up a spill and wipe the oil off your hands. A clean car and clean driver is always welcome. Disposable gloves also take so little space in your compartment so you might add this up to your car essentials.

>>> Check out: 10 must-have car care products.

7. Identification and manuals

Just like you that you have your identification with you always, it should also be the same with your car. Make sure that you have a copy of your car’s registration, manual, and insurance.

As mentioned above, the business card of your auto repair shop is also a good keep. These paper works should be kept in clear plastic and kept inside your glove compartment. 

Make sure that you have a copy of your car’s registration, manual, and insurance

This is not an exhaustive list but it pretty much covers the essentials should you be faced with an emergency.

Aside from these suggested things to always have in your car, it is of utmost importance to have the presence of mind during predicaments. It might be difficult but keeping calm and not being impulsive can also do wonders so you can do what you need to do.