You never know if or when it will happen. It could happen on your way to work in the morning, on your way home in the evening, or in the middle of the night while you’re taking a road trip. It could happen in the breezy spring or in the dead of winter. Breaking down on the side of the road can happen at any time, no matter how new or well-maintained your vehicle is. That’s why it’s essential to be prepared at all times.
Courtesy of CDL Hunter, here is a list of 12 items that you should always have in your vehicle, no matter what:
- Reliable Smartphone
Having a reliable smartphone is one of the most practical items you can have in the event of an emergency. Not only does it allow you to contact someone to come help you, but it can also help you navigate through a storm-ridden area. First responders can use it to track your location if necessary.
- Power Bank
In order to be sure that your smartphone won’t die, keep a power bank in your vehicle. That way, you can quickly charge your phone’s battery without your car being turned on. Plus, some power banks come with several additional features, such as LED flashlights or the capability to jump-start a vehicle.
- First-Aid Kit
A first-aid kit is one of the first things you should put in your vehicle if you haven’t already. Here are a few things that it should include:
- Bandages
- Gauze
- Tape
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Antiseptic
- Triple-Antibiotic Ointment
- Hydrocortisone
- Pain reliever
If you or anyone in your household takes prescription medications, you will need to include those in the kit as well.
- Equipment to Change a Tire
A bad tire is one of the most common reasons for a car breaking down. Make sure you have an inflated spare tire and that you know how to install it. Also, store a car jack and wheel wrench in your trunk so that you can change the tire.
- Portable Jump Starter
It’s also common for car batteries to die. While jumper cables can get the job done, only if there is another driver nearby who is willing to help. A portable jump starter gets the job done all on its own, which can prove invaluable if you’re out in the middle of nowhere.
- Emergency Tool Kit
If you end up needing to do some work under the hood, you will want to have enough tools to cover a variety of tasks. Purchase or put together a tool kit that includes items like:
- Screwdrivers (Phillips-head and flat-head, multiple sizes)
- Pliers
- Vise-grips
- Pocketknife
- Wire cutters
- Monkey wrench
- Multipurpose utility tool
- Flashlight/Headlamp
Whether you break down on a dark, isolated road or you need to fix something under the hood, you will need a heavy-duty LED flashlight so that you can see properly. Make sure the flashlight is waterproof so that it will work in the rain or withstand fluids being spilled on it. Headlamps can prove especially useful because they allow you to see while keeping your hands free. If possible, keep one of each in your vehicle.
- Thermal Blanket
If you break down in harsh winter weather, such as what you will find in Colorado and surrounding states, you will need to stay warm as you figure out what to do. A quality thermal blanket will keep you warm, but it can also come in handy if you need to cover your seats in a storm, clean your tools and hands, or lie down to look underneath your vehicle.
- Winter Clothing and Gloves
Along with tucking away a blanket in your car, include warm clothing like sweatshirts, long johns, and a waterproof jacket or coat. Also, make sure you have a good pair of winter gloves so that your hands can stay warm as you work on your car or wait for help.
- Snacks and Water
In the event that you’re stranded and you’re not sure how long it will be until you can get help, you want to know that you have food and water available. Go with non-perishable foods that will provide you with energy (e.g., dried fruit, jerky, nuts, etc.). Also, include drinking water, whether it’s in the form of bottles, jugs, or cans.
- Reflective Materials
Finally, you don’t want to be in a situation where other drivers can’t see you—especially at night. Keep a reflective vest in your car so that you can wear it if you have to walk to get help, and keep reflective triangles handy so that other drivers will see your vehicle on the side of the road.
- Emergency Access to Cash
This one might not be one you hide under your seat but it’s definitely essential – especially if you’re traveling abroad and lose your wallet. You should also keep valuables safe while traveling, especially if you’re outside the US. Experts often recommend carrying a minimal amount of cash, which can lead to a tricky situation if you hit a snag. You should consider setting up an account with an affordable money transfer service so that if you get into trouble, you can get money fast. Right now, Remitly has a special offer of 20.86 Mexican pesos per U.S. dollar on your first transfer. Or if you find yourself in a financial pinch whilst touring the Dominican Republic, your family can help you and incur zero transfer fees on your first transfer as well.
You cannot be over prepared when it comes to roadside emergencies. Be sure to get all the items on this list, and find practical ways to store them in your vehicle. Lastly, remember to perform regular maintenance on your car, and practice safe driving each time you get behind the wheel.
CDL Hunter has partnered with hundreds of the top carriers in the United States and Canada, both large and small. We are the ONE STOP for a career in the transportation industry. We look at each application and review it with you, the driver, individually. Whether you have no experience or own a fleet of trucks, we are here to help you find the best jobs or job applicants as quickly as possible. Call (479) 616-1381.
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