You never know when you could experience a breakdown and we've all been there. Typically it's cold, you're stuck in traffic, and your phone dies. You don't have any jumper cables or a portable charger, and the only thing you can think of is how much you wish you had had the foresight to keep some basic survival gear in your car at all times.
Whether you own a car or use car leasing UK, every car should be prepared for the winter months. Here are some outdoor items that are worth keeping in your vehicle for emergencies.
Outdoor gear you want to make sure to keep in your car
Here are some pieces of outdoor gear you're going to want to keep in your car in case of emergency.
Jumper cables
If the car's battery dies, you'll need to know how to restart it. Even though it's quite common to need to "jump" a car, it's important to know how to do so safely. To prevent sparks, the clamps should never be touched end to end, and snow and moisture should be kept away from the wires.
A multi-tool
If you're an outdoor enthusiast, having a multi-tool on hand is never a bad idea. A multi-tool is a compact tool that combines many different tools into one unit. You can buy one that includes everything from a knife to pliers and screwdrivers - all in their own little section.
These tools are handy for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities too because they're lightweight and easy to carry around with you wherever you go. Plus they make fixing things easier than carrying all the separate pieces individually!
Ice cleats
Ice cleats are incredibly useful for when you're out and about in winter. They're small, lightweight, and can be easily stored in your glove compartment or boot. What exactly are they though?
Ice cleats are usually made of rubber or plastic with tiny spikes that dig into snow and ice when you step on them. The spikes help you get traction on icy, which makes walking around outside much easier.
How do they work? When wearing your shoes, the cleat will fit over the heel of your footwear like an add-on sole - similar to how some people wear strap-on heels to make themselves taller. You'll also want to lace up any boots or shoes so that the cleat doesn't move around as much during use (though it still might slide upward slightly).
First aid kit
Many travel first-aid kits are small enough to fit in a glove compartment and are ideal for use on outdoor excursions. Waterproof and compact, outdoor first aid kits fit easily in backpacks or jacket pockets. It provides everything a person needs to give basic emergency treatment while on the go. You'll have the tools necessary to treat and seal wounds, as well as treat broken bones.
Lightning cable
Lightning cables are a must-have for any car. Not only are they easy to use, but they're also more durable than regular micro USB cables. If you ever find yourself stranded and in need of a charge, you can use your lightning cable to power up your phone or tablet.
Lightning cables have been around for years now and you might think it's unnecessary to buy one. However, if you're going on long trips and plan on taking pictures with your phone, having one handy is always better than being stuck without it!
Hand warmers
Hand warmers are a great way to keep your hands warm in cold weather, but they can also be used for other things. Hand warmers are inexpensive and easy to find, so you should have a few of them stored in your glove box at all times. You don't want to leave home without them!
Be aware though, that hand warmers shouldn't be stored in extremely hot or cold temperatures; they should be kept in a dry, cool place like the glove box of your car.
Emergency kits
No matter where you're headed, it's important to be prepared for anything. Your car should always include a few key items that can assist in an emergency. Often it's easier (and cheaper) to fill a bag and create your own emergency kit.
You should include the following gear:
- Spare tire and jack (or tow rope)
- Water
- Flashlight
- Fire extinguisher
- Thermal blanket
- Phone charger
- Snow shovel
- Plastic ice scraper
Reflective triangles
If you break down by the side of the road, you put yourself in danger from other motorists, particularly in bad weather or when visibility is limited. Reflective triangles can make your vehicle more visible in low light and act as a shield from potential dangers.
You never know what can happen, and especially if you are undertaking longer drives in wintertime, it's important that you're prepared. This list should help guide you to keep some handy essentials in your car so that you're always prepared.
Have anything you want to add to this list? Let me know in the comments!
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