Be Prepared: 9 Essentials to Carry In Your Truck or Car

Breaking down in the middle of nowhere -- especially on a cold, stormy night -- is not fun.  If you are having auto trouble in a remote area, it might take some time before a helpful driver comes your way.

Here are 9 things that you should carry in your car or truck at all times.  Ideally, you will not need them.  In the event you do experience auto problems, however, you might be very glad that you were prepared.

1. A fully charged cell phone so that you can call for help -- or let your family know that you are stranded.
2. Jumper cables in case your battery goes dead, or in case someone else on the road needs a jump from you.
3. Normally, your vehicle will be equiped with a spare tire and jack.  Make sure that your spare tire is not flat.
4. A flashlight and, if you can get your hands on one, a flare.  You might need to look under the hood when it is dark outside.  You can use this light to alert other drivers that you're having an emergency.
5. Always carry at least a gallon of potable water.  You can get dehydrated during the winter time, too.
6. A warm thermal blanket and dry matches that you can use to start a campfire may be critical during bad weather.
7. You will need a map to steer you back onto the right track if you get lost.  You might also need a map to identify your location in case you need to call for help.
8. Basic tools such as a wrench, screw drivers and so forth may come in handy.  A roll of duct tape might be helpful in a pinch, too!
9. A gasoline can is a good thing to have in case you run out of fuel and need someone to deliver some gas to you.

Portable auto emergency stations are quite useful.  These units often are equiped with a jump starter, an air compressor and a strong light.  Be sure that you keep these units fully charged.  Most of them can be charged wtih an AC or DC plugin.  While they are very handy to have, these portable units are worthless if you break down in a remote location and discover that the battery is dead.

Several manufacturers have created car emergency kits that contain tools, first aid items and other materials that you may need in an emergency.  For additional tips and discounted automotive accessories, visit Motor Vehicle Tips.