If you’ve decided to road trip to your spring assignment, you’ll want to make sure you are prepared in case of any car emergencies. There are a few “must haves” that you should always have with you, especially if you’re traveling alone.
Car Emergency Essentials:
Flashlight. Vital for after-dark roadside repairs, emergency signaling, map reading or (if you must) walking in the dark.
Empty gas can. A one gallon can will be plenty to get your car to the nearest gas station. However, never keep a filled gas can in your car- you’re still going to have to walk to get the gas.
Compact Car-battery charger. Yes, jumper cables can be h and y too, but that would require you finding someone to help. With a compact battery charger, you’ll only need to plug into your car’s cigarette lighter/power adapter.
Aerosol tire inflator. Plug a small hole or a leak long enough to get to a service station. Be sure the product doesn’t contain flammable gases, such as butane, propane, and isobutene.
Reflecting triangles. When your car breaks down or you pull over for a repair, these will make yourself visible and warn off other drivers.
Window Scraper. If you’re traveling with to or through a location with cold weather and potential for snow and ice, this is a must. Be sure to invest in a decent quality one. Many of the cheaper/smaller ones easily break.
First-aid kit. This is an obvious. Use to help yourself or others.
A spare tire. And a jack. Most cars should have a temporary tire in the trunk, but be sure to check. Also, it might be a good idea to have a lesson on changing a tire.
Gloves. For changing tires or making any necessary repairs.
Also, it’s a really good idea to have your car serviced before you take off on your next adventure. Actually, every new assignment you should have an oil change and a check-up to prevent any unnecessary situations that would leave you alone on a dark highway.