Road Side Emergency Kits: Your Survival Guide

We can all agree that being stranded on the roadside due to an emergency or accident is scary and dangerous.

Equipping your car with a well-stocked emergency kit can provide critical supplies and peace of mind when you need it most.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the essential items every roadside emergency kit should contain - from first aid to signaling devices and more - plus tips for customizing your kit for optimal preparedness no matter where you travel.

Introduction to Road Side Emergency Kits

A roadside emergency kit is a vital component of emergency preparedness, especially for those who frequently drive long distances or in remote areas. These kits contain supplies and tools to help you survive if your vehicle breaks down and you find yourself stranded far from help. Being prepared with a well-stocked kit could make the difference between life or death in an emergency roadside situation.

Defining Roadside Emergency Kits

Roadside emergency kits, also referred to as roadside survival kits or car emergency kits, are packs containing equipment and gear specifically selected to help drivers respond to emergency situations. Kits are designed to address common issues faced during automotive breakdowns such as running out of gas, flat tires, dead batteries, overheated engines, etc. They allow stranded motorists to signal for help, administer basic first aid, make repairs, and survive until rescue teams arrive. Standard roadside emergency kits contain supplies like jumper cables, tire inflator/sealant, flashlights, blankets, non-perishable food, water, basic tools, duct tape, flares, reflectors, etc. Customized kits may also have additional items like fire extinguishers, two-way radios, shovels, maps, extra gas, medical supplies, and more depending on intended use and local weather conditions.

Importance of Being Prepared

Having a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle at all times is absolutely vital for safety and survival. Even a short breakdown on a deserted backroad could become life-threatening without access to water, warmth, or means to call for help. Roadside emergency kits give stranded drivers the crucial ability to signal their location to rescuers with flares or reflectors, treat injuries with first aid supplies, make basic repairs to get the vehicle running again, and survive for multiple days if needed with food, water, and blankets. Investing in a comprehensive car emergency kit tailored for your needs could give you the tools, resources, and time necessary to get out of an emergency situation alive. Don't get caught unprepared - equip your vehicle today with an essential roadside survival kit for security and peace of mind on the road.

What should I put in a roadside emergency kit?

When it comes to being prepared for roadside emergencies, having a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle can make all the difference. At a minimum, your roadside emergency kit should include:

Basic Supplies

Jumper cables - A 12-foot set of jumper cables can help you get your car started if the battery dies. Look for heavy-duty cables for maximum power transfer.
Flashlight - Pack an LED flashlight and extra batteries so you have light even if it's dark out and your car battery is dead.
Rags - Keep some clean rags or paper towels for cleaning up spills or leaks.
Help sign - Keep a high visibility help sign that's at least 8 inches so other drivers can see you if your car is disabled.
Water - Bottled water can keep you hydrated while waiting for help. Replace yearly.
Fuses - Carry common spare fuses for your make and model vehicle in case you blow a fuse while on the road.
Heavy duty bag - Store all the loose supplies in one place like a heavy duty nylon bag so they don't get scattered around your car.

Additional Tools

Some other handy items to consider keeping in your roadside kit include an air compressor, tire gauge, fire extinguisher, traction mats for stuck vehicles, warning flares or triangles to alert other drivers, work gloves, basic tools like pliers and a pocket knife, zip ties, duct tape, and even emergency food like granola bars. Customize based on your needs!

What should be in a car first aid kit?

An emergency roadside first aid kit is crucial for any driver, providing essential medical supplies in the event of an accident or injury. While every kit should be tailored to your specific needs, here are some recommended items to include:

Personal Protective Equipment

Keep yourself safe when administering first aid with nitrile gloves, face masks, eye shields, and biohazard bags. Be sure to have enough supplies to protect both yourself and the injured person.

Wound Care Essentials

Carry gauze pads, rolled gauze, adhesive bandages, butterfly wound closures, and adhesive tape to treat lacerations, stop bleeding, and secure dressings. Optional items are trauma pads, tourniquets, and splints for serious injuries.

Antiseptics and Medications

Clean and disinfect wounds with antiseptic wipes, hydrogen peroxide, antibiotic ointment, alcohol swabs, and saline. Useful medications are anti-inflammatory pills, antihistamines, pain relievers, and any personal prescriptions.

First Aid Guides

Reference guides on emergency procedures, CPR, injury assessments, and vital sign monitoring can assist with decision making when panicked. A flashlight, blanket, and roadside flares should also be included.

Tailor your roadside emergency kits to your needs, but always have basic wound care supplies, protective equipment, disinfectants, and reference materials on hand. Kits should be easily accessible and routinely inspected to replace expired items. Proper preparation with a first aid kit can help drivers handle injuries confidently until professional care arrives.

What is a breakdown kit?

A roadside emergency kit, often called a breakdown kit, is a collection of essential tools and supplies specifically designed to help you handle common roadside incidents like flat tires, dead batteries, running out of gas, overheating, and minor accidents.

Having a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle at all times enables you to troubleshoot basic mechanical issues, protect your safety, and potentially get yourself back on the road quickly in the event of a breakdown on the roadside where cell phone reception or services may be limited.

Roadside kits usually contain a combination of practical tools like jumper cables, jack stands, an air compressor, road flares, flashlights, bungee cords, gloves, and basic hand tools. They also have vital supplies including first aid essentials, water, high protein snacks, emergency blankets, work gloves, road maps, toilet paper, and other necessities to survive comfortably until help arrives.

The best roadside emergency kits provide not only the gear to make basic repairs and ensure safety in a break down, but also the provisions to sustain stranded drivers and passengers for prolonged periods if needed. Having these critical items on hand can be the difference between an inconvenient breakdown and a life-threatening emergency scenario.

What is a car survival kit?

A roadside emergency kit is a crucial part of any vehicle's safety equipment. As the name suggests, it contains supplies to assist you in an emergency situation if your car breaks down or you get stuck on the side of the road.

At a minimum, a basic roadside kit should include a flashlight, blankets, jumper cables, flares or reflective triangles, basic tools, and first aid supplies. However, more extensive kits may also contain items like a tire inflator/sealant, fire extinguisher, rain ponchos, water, non-perishable food, battery jump starter, and other gear.

Having roadside emergency kits properly stocked with essential equipment not only gives you peace of mind, but could also be extremely valuable if you ever find yourself in a dangerous situation far from help. Ultimately, these kits help drivers and passengers survive critical incidents while waiting for assistance. With roadside emergencies, being fully prepared with the right supplies can make all the difference.

What Should Be in a Roadside Emergency Kit

This section outlines must-have items that every roadside emergency kit should contain. We cover survival basics like food, water, blankets and more.

Car Emergency Kit with Jumper Cables

Having jumper cables in your roadside emergency kit is crucial for jump starting your battery if it unexpectedly dies. Make sure to get a set with heavy duty clamps and sufficient cable length to connect to another vehicle. You'll also want to pack other car utilities like a portable phone charger, flashlight with extra batteries, duct tape, work gloves, and basic tools. These will help you safely perform roadside repairs while stranded. Don't get caught off guard - equip your vehicle so you can handle common issues yourself.

Comprehensive Car Emergency Kit List

Prepare an emergency kit checklist with all necessary items and review it a few times a year. Essentials include non-perishable snacks, several bottles of water, blankets, first aid supplies, flares/emergency beacon, and maps. Check expiration dates, replenish used items, and confirm things are working properly. Having a complete list makes it easy to verify your roadside preparedness. Print multiple copies to store in the car and your home so anyone driving has access.

Roadside Emergency Kit with Air Compressor

An air compressor is a must-have for any roadside emergency kit. Even slow leaks can leave you stranded, so being able to re-inflate tires is critical. Get a portable, battery-powered model that plugs into your car's 12V outlet. Units that include pressure gauges, built-in lights, and multiple nozzle adapters provide added functionality. Test it periodically to ensure the battery charges properly. Proper tire pressure is vital when off-roading or driving in poor weather.

Roadside Emergency Kit with Fire Extinguisher

Vehicle fires happen without warning and spread rapidly, making a small fire extinguisher an essential addition. Opt for an ABC extinguisher that handles common combustibles. Check charge level gauges monthly and get it recharged or replaced as needed. Position it near the driver seat where it can be easily accessed. Make sure all passengers understand how to operate it properly. Combined with other basics like flares and blankets, an extinguisher greatly improves your roadside safety preparations.

Survival Tools to Enhance Your Roadside Emergency Kit

In addition to basics like food and first aid, several key tools can help you survive until rescue comes your way.

Emergency Blankets for Temperature Extremes

Emergency blankets, also known as space blankets or thermal blankets, are a must-have for roadside emergency kits. These ultra-lightweight sheets of heat-reflective thin plastic can prevent hypothermia if you get stranded overnight or encounter extreme cold.

The low-bulk blankets fold up into a tiny package, making them easy to store in a glove box or trunk kit. Their special metallized surface reflects up to 90% of radiated body heat back to you. This traps warmth generated by your body, helping maintain a survivable temperature in frigid conditions.

While emergency blankets don't provide cushioning or padding, they can be lifesavers for retaining core body heat. Having a few packed can make a difference between getting through a cold night stranded versus developing dangerous hypothermia while waiting for assistance.

In extremely hot environments, the reflective blankets can also provide shade and heat protection. Placing one as a sun barrier against your car's window can lower interior temperatures. Adding an emergency sleeping bag on top gives insulating cushioning for greater comfort until help comes.

Signaling and Communication Tools

When stranded roadside, signaling devices and communication tools are essential for calling attention to your location and requesting assistance. Pack an assortment of the following gear:

Flares - Red emergency road flares contain combustible chemicals that burn for up to 60 minutes at over 1,800°F. The bright flaming glow is visible for a mile or more at night, making them ideal distress signals. Flares alert passing motorists to pull over or notify authorities of your stranded vehicle's location. Just be sure to place them at a safe distance upwind from people, animals, brush and flammable liquids.

Flashlight - A reliable waterproof LED flashlight with spare batteries can serve many purposes during a roadside emergency. Use it to inspect your vehicle, change tires in the dark, or signal "SOS" to catch the attention of other drivers. High-powered spotlights and lanterns work well to illuminate large areas when stranded overnight.

Reflective Triangles - Also called hazard or warning triangles, these foldable metal-backed signs feature high-visibility reflecting strips. Position them far behind your disabled vehicle to alert oncoming traffic of potential obstacles. This allows approaching drivers extra time to spot your car and slow down. Reflective triangles are mandatory emergency roadside equipment in some regions.

Whistle - Safety whistles conveniently attach to key rings or backpacks via lanyards, making them easily accessible. During daylight hours, loud whistling blasts can signal your location better than shouting voice alone. Three short bursts is a commonly recognized distress call that may prompt others to investigate and locate your vehicle.

Two-Way Radios - Portable two-way radios enable communication with nearby travelers, work crews or emergency services within range. While less reliable than mobile phones, they operate independently without cellular networks using VHF frequencies. Having compatible radios in both your car kit and home disaster supplies facilitates contacting your family if stranded en route. Waterproof models add crucial resiliency.

smart addition to any roadside emergency kit. Their ability to call for help, provide light sources and raise awareness of your situation can buy precious time while waiting for assistance. Select gear designed for reliability, brightness and durability to serve you well for potential survival scenarios.

Customizing Your Emergency Kit for Optimal Preparedness

While some basics are universal, you can customize kits based on climate, destination and specific needs. Having an emergency kit tailored to your specific needs and situation can mean the difference between life and death in a crisis.

Regional Considerations

Where you live plays a major role in determining what should go in your roadside emergency kit. Those living in areas with cold winters need extra blankets, gloves, hats, a shovel for snow, chemical hot packs, and other cold weather gear. On the other hand, those in hot regions need more water, electrolyte tablets, sunscreen, sunglasses, and other heat protection items. Consider your climate and pack accordingly.

Some key regional considerations include:

Cold climates: thermal blankets, hand/foot warmers, winter jacket/hat/gloves, ice scraper, shovel, salt/sand, battery jumper cables
Hot climates: extra water, electrolyte tablets, sunscreen, sunglasses, breathable clothing, battery-powered fan
Mountainous terrain: traction devices (chains, sand, kitty litter), tow strap, winch
Desert: more water, head wraps, electrolyte tablets
Hurricane zones: weather radio, tarp, duct tape, bungee cords

Packing region-specific items allows your roadside emergency kit to properly serve its purpose wherever you may be stranded.

Personalizing for Health Needs and Specific Risks

Beyond regional factors, you should also tailor your emergency kit based on personal health considerations and potential risks you may face.

If anyone in your family has an ongoing medical condition or requires prescription medications, be sure to pack at least a week's supply of medications and any medical devices needed (such as an EpiPen, inhaler, blood glucose monitor, etc.) in your car kit. Having backup options for those with health issues can prevent minor incidents from becoming life-threatening.

You'll also want to take into account risks related to your destination. For example, if you'll be driving through a remote area with wildlife, pack some bear spray in case of animal encounters. Those traveling long distances far from gas stations should carry extra fuel cans. Include tire repair kits, flares, chains, and other relevant gear based on potential roadside hazards.

Special Needs for Children and Pets

Don't forget to accommodate children and pets when preparing your emergency kit! Kids have unique needs, so be sure to pack extra non-perishable nutritious snacks, baby bottles/formula if applicable, blankets, extra clothing layers, favorite toys or comfort items, and activities to keep them occupied (books, coloring books, puzzles, tablet loaded with movies, etc.)

For pets, include at minimum a week's supply of food (canned is best), bottled water, bowls, leash, waste bags, grooming supplies, pet first aid items, and their favorite toy or blanket. Having creature comforts on hand will help lower stress levels for animal companions.

No matter who or what you're traveling with, customizing your roadside kit to the specific needs of all passengers ensures you can handle unexpected scenarios when away from home. Don't take a one-size-fits-all approach - personalize based on climate, health factors, risks and individual needs for optimal emergency preparedness.

Evaluating the Best Roadside Emergency Kits

We compiled this list of top-rated and reliable roadside emergency kits based on reviews and expert recommendations. Having a well-stocked roadside emergency kit in your vehicle can provide essential tools and supplies in the event of a breakdown, accident, or other roadside emergency.

Top Picks for Best Roadside Emergency Kits

The Artic Zone Pro 18 is a top pick for its reliability and range of survival tools. This roadside assistance kit includes jumper cables, an air compressor, tire gauge, traction mats, poncho, flashlight, and more. It receives high marks from customers for the quality of items and ease of storage under a car seat.

Other top options are the Ready America 70385 and the Lifeline Roadside Safety Kit. The Ready America option is a comprehensive 126-piece kit with food, water, first aid, tools, and other emergency gear. The Lifeline kit is a simpler 36-piece option focused on roadside assistance tools like jumper cables, flashlight, and tire inflator.

When choosing the best emergency kit for your needs, consider factors like budget, storage space, and desired features like food, water, medical supplies versus just basic roadside tools.

Key Features to Look For

When choosing an emergency car emergency kit for your vehicle, prioritize:

Reliability - Ensure the products and tools are high-quality and durable for emergency situations. Check reviews and brand reputation.
Range of features - Choose a kit with the survival gear and tools you need, whether focused just on roadside assistance like jumper cables and tire inflator or more extensive supplies like food, water, first aid.
Ease of storage/accessibility - Pick an emergency bag that fits conveniently in your trunk, backseat, or other spot for easy access in roadside emergencies.

Other useful features include flashlight, safety tools like cones or triangles, poncho, multi-tool, duct tape, work gloves, emergency blanket, and more. Customize based on your climate and roadside assistance needs.

Budget-Friendly Options

The Lifeline AAA 40040RS is a budget pick under $50 that still contains essential survival items like an air compressor, jumper cables, tow strap, poncho, flashlight, gloves, and more. While it doesn't have the full range of features as more premium options, it provides reliable roadside assistance gear at an affordable price point.

There are also DIY options for building your own inexpensive roadside kit if you already own some basic tools and supplies. You can customize it exactly how you want. Just be sure to include jumper cables, a tire inflator/sealant, poncho, flashlight and other roadside necessities.

Having emergency supplies on hand can provide safety and peace of mind in case of a roadside mishap. Evaluate your needs and budget to choose the best roadside assistance kit for your vehicle.

Maintaining and Restocking Your Roadside Emergency Kit

Like any preparedness supplies, roadside emergency kits need regular maintenance to maximize their lifesaving potential.

Checking Expiration Dates and Sustainability

Keeping perishable items like food, water, and medications current is critical for an effective roadside emergency kit. Every 6 months, do an inventory check of all expiration dates. Toss anything that is expired or will expire soon, including:

Medications and ointments
Food rations like granola bars, jerky, canned goods
Bottled water

Restock anything that is expired or nearing expiration with fresh replacements right away. This ensures you always have edible, safe sustenance on hand during an emergency scenario.

Updating Supplies Regularly

In addition to expiration checks every 6 months, a full overhaul of kit contents 1-2 times per year helps keep your roadside preparedness current. Update first aid supplies with the latest ointments, bandages, etc. Check for recalls or new recommendations on emergency gear like flashlights, blankets, tools. And refresh perishables like water bottles and food rations. An up-to-date emergency kit ensures you can survive comfortably until help arrives.

Recharging Tools for Readiness

Today's roadside emergency kits integrate various electronic tools like flashlight, glow sticks, tire inflator/jump starters, two-way radio and more. Maintain full charge levels on these items so they work when you need them most. Mark your calendar to recharge battery-powered devices every month or two. Checking charge levels should be part of your regular maintenance routine.

Cycling Out Damaged Goods

As part of standard maintenance, thoroughly inspect the contents of your roadside emergency kit during each check. Look for corrosion, leaks, tears or other damage that may impact item effectiveness or longevity. If anything seems worn or unable to perform its intended purpose, replace it right away. This ensures your survival preparedness isn't compromised by damaged goods when an emergency strikes.

Key Takeaways: Ensuring Roadside Readiness

Equipping your vehicle with road side emergency kits can provide security and potentially lifesaving preparedness for the unexpected.

Customize For Your Needs

While basic elements like first aid supplies, flashlights, and jumper cables are essentials for any road side emergency kit, you can tailor the contents based on your specific needs and situation. Those who take frequent long road trips or live in extreme weather climates may require more substantial emergency kits, while keeping a compact version for everyday commuting is more sensible for some drivers. Consider regional risks like snow storms, floods, or extreme heat when packing your kit to ensure you have the necessary tools to handle common emergencies in your area. If you or your passengers have medical conditions, include any vital medications, snacks, or supplies that may be immediately needed in an emergency.

Inspect and Update Routinely

Road side emergency kits require routine maintenance checks every 6 months to keep their contents fresh, functional and response-ready. Check expiration dates on medical supplies, food, flares, batteries and other perishable items. Restock any used or expired elements of your kit. Perform test runs on electronics like flashlights, chargers and tire inflator air compressors if included. Ensuring all components are operational and up-to-date will allow your road side emergency kit to serve its purpose when you need it most.

Research Top Recommendations

With many road side emergency kit options available, research is key to choose a trusted brand that fits your budget and needs. Consult best-selling kits with high customer ratings and reviews. Experts suggest prioritizing basic elements like first aid, reflective safety tools, car chargers and jumper cables over gadgets in your initial kit purchase. Assess your regional risks and vehicle model(s) when selecting any vehicle-specific items like tire inflator/sealants, shovels, traction mats or fire extinguishers. Invest in quality for critical items like jack stands but can save on budget-friendly refills for medical and food supplies over time.