Dealing with a dead battery, a flat tire, and forms you can't find is never fun. And these things always happen at the worst time! The fix isn't luck, but with these five items, stored ahead of time, you’ll be ready to solve these common roadside problems.
Here are the 5 things every vehicle should have on board at all times:
Jumper Cables
If your battery dies, you'll want cables on hand so you're not stuck waiting on a stranger to have a pair. Keep them handy and you can also be the one who helps, if it's someone else's battery instead.
A Jack and a Spare Tire
A flat stops your day fast. Check your spare's air pressure once in a while, so when you actually need it, it works.
A First Aid Kit
You're most likely to use this for something minor, like a cut, a splinter, or a headache after a long drive. Keep the basics on hand so you’re not caught off guard.
A Phone Charger
Your phone is your map, your insurance card, and your way to call for help. Keep it charged so you're never without it when you need it most.
Your Paperwork (and the Manual)
Keep your insurance card, registration, and owner's manual together in your glove box, so you're not searching for them when you need them.
The bottom line
None of this is exciting, and that's the point. A good emergency kit sits unused for months, until the one day it's exactly what you need.