The cold of winter is one of the harshest elements the human body can survive. If you’re going to venture out into the cold weather during a long trip or a snow storm, it is best to travel prepared. That's why winter emergency car kits are so important. A winter emergency car kit is a collection of supplies and tools to help you stay safe in winter. It typically includes items like winter clothing, blankets and sleeping bags, a winter car tool kit, flashlights, food and water rations, a first aid kit, and other winter survival gear.
DIY Winter Emergency Car Kit Ideas
We created a list of some of the essential items for your car's winter emergency kit. There is no easier place to keep a winter emergency car kit than in your trunk. We recommend the following car kit essentials:
- A full tank of gas—don’t travel without it
- Backpack (to hold all these items)
- Duct tape
- Natural Alternative® Ice Melt
- 2 Beanies or warm winter hats
- 2 Pairs of warm winter socks
- 2 Pairs of warm winter gloves
- Pair of snow boots
- Water, lots of water
- Non-perishable food
- Coffee, hot chocolate, or tea
- Large candle in a metal coffee can
- Lighters or matches
- Cell phone and car charger
- Portable phone battery
- Heavy-duty black trash bags
- 2 Emergency blankets
- First aid kit
- Multi-tool with knife, pliers, and can opener
- Small toolkit
- Toilet paper
- Whistle
- Instant hand warmers
- Folding shovel
- Road reflectors or flares
- Self-powered flashlight
- Jumper cables
- Tow straps
- Strong rope
- Ice scraper
- Entertainment: cards and crayons
- Hygiene products: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, deodorant, and hand sanitizer
- Medicine: antacids, fever reducers, headache help, etc.
- Compass
- AM/FM radio
Having a winter emergency car kit can help you stay safe in winter and make sure that you're prepared for anything. Assembling a winter emergency kit for your car is a great idea and can make a huge difference if you ever get stuck on the road in a storm. Print out this checklist and create your own car kit for winter today; you won’t regret it if the time comes where you need some of these items. Sign up for our e-newsletter, The Monthly Dirt, follow our social channels or give us a call for the latest seasonal tips and DIY know-how.