Vehicle Emergency Checklist
What every car needs for roadside and short-term shelter emergencies.
2 min read · 4 sections
Always In the Car
- [ ] Jumper cables or jump starter pack
- [ ] Reflective triangles or road flares
- [ ] Tyre inflator / fix-a-flat (or spare + jack)
- [ ] Multi-tool
- [ ] Flashlight + batteries
- [ ] First aid kit
- [ ] Emergency mylar blanket
- [ ] Rain poncho
- [ ] High-visibility vest
Seasonal Additions
- [ ] Winter: ice scraper, snow brush, sand or kitty litter
- [ ] Winter: warm blanket, chemical hand warmers
- [ ] Summer: extra water (refill regularly — heat degrades plastic)
- [ ] Summer: sun shade for windshield
Documents & Money
- [ ] Vehicle registration and insurance (and copies at home)
- [ ] Roadside assistance membership card
- [ ] Small amount of cash
- [ ] Pen and notepad
Maintenance Checks
- [ ] Tyre pressure (monthly)
- [ ] Fuel level — never go below quarter tank
- [ ] Check kit every 6 months — rotate food/water
- [ ] Replace expired items immediately