Light & visibility
- Reflective triangle or road flares
- Reflective safety vest — wear before exiting
- Headlamp, hands-free
- Flashlight + extra batteries
- Glow sticks, 2–3
First aid
- Small first aid kit
- Burn cream or gel
- Emergency whistle
Food & water
- Bottled water, replace regularly
- Collapsible water bottle
Shelter & comfort
- Blanket or sleeping bag
- Poncho or plastic sheeting
Communications
- Car phone charger
- Portable power bank, kept charged
- Written emergency contact card
Tools & safety
- Jumper cables or jump starter
- Tire pressure gauge
- Spare tire, verified aired up
- Lug wrench + jack, matched to vehicle
- Duct tape or multi-use tape
- Multi-tool or basic tool kit
- Ice scraper (seasonal)
- Small fire extinguisher, auto-rated
Documents — waterproof folder
- Registration & insurance
- Emergency instructions card
- Roadside assistance contact info
Run the Kit Check, Dead Battery, and Tire Change drills monthly, or before a long road trip — with anyone who drives the car.
