7 things to keep in your car in case of emergencies

While we often think that the worst won’t happen to us, there are many situations that can occur while driving - and so it’s important to be prepared. From breakdowns to adverse weather situations, or even traffic jams, it’s a good idea to keep some items in your car that help you to stay safe no matter what’s happening around you.

Here, we’ve picked out 7 of the items we’d recommend all drivers keep in their car to make any experience that little bit less stressful.

1.) Warning Triangles

In many European countries, carrying a warning triangle in your car is a legal requirement. While that isn’t the case in the UK, warning triangles still make for a really handy addition to your car. You can buy them online, in garages, or in many high street stores, making them easy to get hold of - and cheap to buy. If you happen to break down, you can put the triangle behind your car to warn other drivers that there’s an obstruction ahead. Just always remember to do so safely - and to avoid putting yourself near oncoming traffic on motorways.

2. First aid kit

A first aid kit is handy to have in so many different situations. Keeping one in your car will help you to treat any minor injuries that might occur, from accidents that happen while you’re out and about with family, or if you do get caught up in a road traffic accident. Look for kits that contain things like waterproof plasters in assorted sizes, cleansing wipes, gloves, dressings, and a pair of scissors.

3. Torch

Trying to find items in the dark is always impossible, and if you’ve broken down then this will only add to your stress. A torch can help you to stay safe when you’re outside your vehicle in the dark, such as if you’re trying to move to safety after breaking down. Test your torch periodically, and keep spare batteries in the car too - just in case.

4. Jump leads

If your car battery dies, having jump leads to hand can feel like a real win - and be the difference between getting you back on the road quickly, or waiting at the roadside for recovery to come and help. Only use them if you feel confident that you know what you’re doing, however.

5. Ice scraper and de-icer

This is more of a seasonal must-have, but if you’ve ever been caught out on a cold, wintery morning having to de-ice your car windscreen with a credit card, then you’ll understand why it pays to be prepared when it comes to an ice scraper and de-icer. You can thank us later.

6. High-vis clothing

Similar to the warning triangle, carrying a hi-vis jacket is a legal requirement in many European countries - and while it’s not in the UK, it can still be a really good idea to tuck one in your car just in case. If it’s dark, or there’s adverse weather, then a hi-vis jacket can help other road users to spot you if you’re having to wait outside your vehicle. Don’t forget, if you do break down you should never wait in the car - find out more about why in our recent blog.

7. Snacks and water

This can feel like a ‘nice to have’, but if you’re stuck in a long traffic jam, getting hungry and thirsty can affect your concentration - which could have adverse effects on your driving. Equally, if you break down and have to wait a long time for recovery to come and help, then having some water and some snacks on hand can make things that little bit easier.

Have you got any car essentials you always have nearby? Let us know over on Twitter - we’d love to add to our list!