Recently, we had to drive from Southern Maine to Pittsburgh. Sadly, a friend had died suddenly, and we didn’t have time to get a dog sitter. So, our pups Oscar and Sadie had to come with us, thus why we drove versus flying. We also were able to book a dog-friendly hotel in Pittsburgh, but I’m getting off track.
Before we hit the road, we knew we would be driving in some winter weather. So, we put together an emergency car kit and put it in the trunk with our suitcases. Also, like we do with any road trip we take with our dogs, we strapped them into the backseat, where they would be safest in case something went sideways — literally or figuratively — while driving.
Finally, we replaced our windshield wipers, which were at the end of their lifespan. And we refilled the windshield wiper fluid reservoir. Together, this should make it easier to wash and clear our windshield on the go.
The necessity of a winter emergency car kit
Winter weather can be unpredictable, and accidents or breakdowns can happen whenever you’re traveling. A winter emergency car kit is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity. It’s the difference between being stranded in the cold, waiting for help and having the means to take control of your situation until assistance arrives.
In addition, I would recommend getting some kind of roadside assistance before leaving. This could be signing up for AAA Roadside Assistance or getting it through your car dealership. For example, when we bought a Subaru, we could get roadside assistance through the car company.
But back to AAA: you can use this link to save $10 on AAA Membership with Automatic Renewal. You’ll get 24/7 roadside service, trip planning, hotel discounts and more.
Essential Items for your winter emergency car kit
Here is a list of essentials for your emergency car kit and why you need them, whether you’re taking a day trip from Maine or going on a longer drive like we did to Pittsburgh.
Blankets
A thick, warm blanket can be a lifesaver when you’re stuck in a cold car. It provides insulation and helps retain body heat. If you’re traveling with animals like we do, make sure you pack enough blankets for them, too.
Extra clothing
This includes gloves, a hat, scarves and extra layers of clothing to keep you warm. You may also want to pack extra pairs of socks and a second pair of boots in case your feet get wet.
Hand warmers
We use these little hand warmers when we need an extra quick warm-up. These reusable hand warmers are excellent, too. If you like going to football games, you can buy extras for keeping warm on the sidelines.
Non-perishable snacks
Granola bars, nuts, jerky and dried fruits are good options. They provide energy and sustenance. You can also bring homemade cookies on your travel days. Our favorite snack to keep in the car — primarily to stave off my tendency to get hangry — are cases of these little bags of Chex Mix.
Bottled water
Staying hydrated is crucial, even in cold weather. Keep a few bottles of water in your kit. This can be tricky when you live in a cold area because the bottles can freeze and burst.
Therefore, we always bring fresh water, in reusable cups, with us on every trip. A thermos of hot cocoa is nice to take with you whenever you’re heading out. Also, coffee. We love coffee.
Basic first aid kit
Either purchase a first aid kit or make your own to include bandages, antiseptic wipes and adhesive tape. These can help treat minor injuries. When our daughter was playing travel soccer and travel basketball, we always kept these products in the center console because, invariably, she sustained some minor scrap or cut on the pitch or the court.
Be sure to include over-the-counter pain relievers in case of discomfort or pain. We found that liquid gels work the fastest so that’s what we always keep on them on hand now, in travel size.
A light source
This can be a flashlight or an emergency lamp with a rechargeable battery. Portable emergency lights often include accessories like a jump starter, air compressor or phone charging ports. Also, you always have the flashlight app on your phone so be sure you have phone charging cords with you, too.
Snow and ice tools
A good shovel can help you get out of a ditch. Also, you’ll want an ice scraper to clear your windows.
Something for traction
This can be sand or kitty litter or these easy-to-use traction pads. Another hack when you’re stuck in snow or ice are door mats or thin rugs. We find these on the cheap at Aldi and keep them in the trunk. If you’re really desperate, you can take out your floor mat and put them under your tires.
Jumper cables
A dead battery can happen in cold weather. Jumper cables can get your car back on the road. Then again, if you sign up for AAA membership, they will come and jump your battery or, in a worse case scenario, replace it on the go.
Portable phone charger
Ensure your phone remains charged to call for help or access information. Everyone in our family has a rechargeable battery just for their phones. Also, the next time you go to a trade show or a conference, look for free rechargeable batteries. They’ve become common items in swag bags.
Reflective triangles or flares
Help make your vehicle visible to other drivers and emergency responders. Flares show up nicely in the dark but do burn out, so triangles are a longer-term product. We keep both of these in cars for the best protection.
You may also want to invest in reflective mini traffic cones that you can put out like triangles. However, if you do get them, please don’t do what we saw a driver doing during last weekend’s blizzard. Her car had broken down on the Mass Pike and she was standing behind the car, waving the cones to warn other drivers. She should have put the cones down and gotten out of the way. I hope she didn’t get hit by a car skidding to avoid her.
Multi-tool or utility knife
A versatile tool that can assist in various situations. Years ago, my husband got this Leatherman multi-tool as a gift for being in a friend’s wedding. He still keeps it handy when he needs a tool kit but doesn’t have access to his tool kit.
Also, consider a few more ideas
Winter tires and chains or studded tires can make life easier in winter driving. But remember, they don’t make you infallible; you can still slip, slide or get stuck when using them.
A full tank of gas is also a good idea for winter driving. You may be stuck in traffic and need to keep it running for an extended period.
When driving, wear weather-appropriate clothing and boots. If you’re stuck somewhere, these will serve you well.
Finally, regularly check the contents of your car emergency kit to ensure they are in good condition and replace any expired or damaged items. Check them monthly and replace items as needed.
How to use your winter emergency car kit
The first step is knowing what to include in your winter emergency car kit for winter travel. The second step is understanding how to use it effectively is equally important.
Stay calm: In a winter emergency, remaining calm and collected is essential. Panic can lead to poor decision-making.
Signal for help: If you’re distressed, use your reflective triangles or flares to make your vehicle visible to others.
Stay inside: If you’re stranded in your vehicle, it’s generally safer to stay inside, where you’re protected from the cold and other vehicles sliding around. So, again, don’t be like the driver on the side of the road I saw this past weekend.
Run the engine wisely: Only run your engine intermittently to conserve fuel. Prevent carbon monoxide buildup by keeping your tailpipe clear.
Stay informed: Watch weather updates and emergency alerts on your phone.
Conserve supplies: Use your supplies sparingly. Taking fresh snacks, water and a hot drink with you will help stretch your supplies.
Call for help: If your phone is functional, call for assistance and provide your location as accurately as possible. Once more, this is where AAA can come in handy.
An emergency car kit is an investment that can improve your safety and well-being during cold-weather travel. Assemble your kit, maintain it and drive defensively in cold weather. With the right supplies and knowledge, you can navigate the challenges of winter driving with confidence and peace of mind.
Portions of this article first appeared on Food Drink Life.