Summer Car Emergency Kit
Updated: Feb. 10, 2023You know about preparing a winter emergency kit for your car, but what about a summer kit? High temperatures can cause problems when it comes to vehicle performance and the summer heat can be brutal if you're stuck waiting for a tow or roadside service. Here are some things that should be in everyone's summer car emergency kit.
Visibility Equipment
Keep visibility equipment such as flares or reflective hazard triangles in your vehicle in case of roadside trouble. Consider an LED flameless flare which will last longer than its traditional counterpart.
Water
Hydration is key when it comes to staying healthy during the summer months, so be sure to keep water in your vehicle at all times.
Blanket
You may not need the blanket to stay warm, but you can use a reflective emergency blanket for shade. If you don’t have a reflective blanket, the blanket from your winter car survival kit will work to shade you from the blistering sun.
A Small Tool kit
A small tool kit is one of the 15 things you should have in your car year round. Include an adjustable wrench, some duct tape, a couple screwdrivers and pliers—you never know when a simple tool might help to get you back on the road.
Sunscreen
Purchase a couple sunscreen sticks to keep in your glove compartment or your first aid kit for times you’re stuck in the sun. When they’re empty, you can use them as a clever way to store cash in your car.
Flashlight
Flashlights are one thing every DIYer should own, and it’s smart to keep one in your car. An LED flashlight is a good option since the batteries and the bulb will last a long time.
Phone Charger
The last thing you need when stranded is for your phone to die. Keep a spare charger in the car, but don’t use it to charge your phone regularly.
Tire Sealant and Gauge
You can stop a flat tire before it happens with tire sealant, which can quickly repair the punctures up to 1/4-inch in diameter in the tire’s tread area. Make sure it’s an item on your car emergency kit list. Use a tire gauge to make sure your tires are properly inflated.
Jumper Cables
Jumper cables can come in handy throughout the year, not just during the winter months, and should be part of any vehicle emergency kit. Before using, make sure you know how to jump a car safely.
Snacks
Keep some snacks, that won’t melt, such as granola, dried fruit and nuts in your car emergency kit. Use a recycled container for storage.