What to Keep in Your Car: The Essential Roadside Emergency Kit

You never plan for a breakdown or emergency – that's why it's called an emergency. But being prepared can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major ordeal. Here's what every driver should keep in their vehicle.

The Essentials

Communication

• Fully charged phone charger (USB and 12V outlet compatible)
• Portable battery pack for phone charging
• Emergency contact list (in case your phone dies)
• Towing company number saved and written down

Visibility and Safety

• Flashlight with fresh batteries (or rechargeable)
• Reflective triangles or flares (3 minimum)
• High-visibility vest for roadside situations
• Reflective tape for additional visibility

Basic Tools

• Jumper cables or portable jump starter
• Basic tool kit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
• Tire pressure gauge
• Duct tape (fixes more than you'd think)
• Work gloves

For Flat Tires

• Spare tire (check it's inflated!)
• Jack and lug wrench
• Wheel chocks or bricks
• Tire sealant (for small punctures)
• 12V tire inflator

Seasonal Additions

Summer

• Extra water (for you AND the radiator)
• Sunscreen
• Wide-brim hat
• Coolant/antifreeze

Winter

• Blanket or sleeping bag
• Hand warmers
• Ice scraper and brush
• Small shovel
• Cat litter or sand (for traction)
• Extra warm clothes

Personal Supplies

Always

• First aid kit
• Bottled water
• Non-perishable snacks (granola bars, nuts)
• Medications you take regularly
• Cash (small bills for emergencies)

If You Have Passengers

• Extra blanket
• Activities for children
• Pet supplies if you travel with animals

Documentation

Keep copies of:

• Insurance card
• Registration
• Roadside assistance info
• Owner's manual

Consider keeping these in a waterproof bag.

Items Most People Forget

1. Paper towels/rags – cleaning up is always needed
2. Pen and paper – for notes, leaving contact info
3. Plastic bags – trash, wet items, organization
4. Multi-tool or knife – useful in many situations
5. Fire extinguisher – small automotive-rated one
6. Rain poncho – emergencies happen in bad weather
7. Gloves – both work gloves and warm gloves

Maintaining Your Kit

Having a kit isn't enough – you need to maintain it:

• Check batteries in flashlight annually
• Rotate water and snacks every 6 months
• Verify spare tire pressure monthly
• Ensure phone charger works
• Update documentation as needed

When to Call for Help

Even with a full kit, some situations require professional help. Call roadside assistance when:

• You're uncomfortable changing a tire on a busy road
• The problem is beyond basic DIY
• You're in an unsafe location
• Weather conditions are dangerous

Dolooma Towing: Your Triangle Backup Plan

No matter how prepared you are, sometimes you need professional help. Dolooma Towing provides 24/7 roadside assistance and towing throughout Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the entire Triangle.

Save our number now: 1-877-47-PULSE – so it's there when you need it.