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A scenario we all hope to avoid: you're cruising down the highway when suddenly your car starts making strange noises, and the check engine light flashes. Do you have what you need if you end up stranded on the side of the road? Most drivers don't think about their car emergency kit supplies until they desperately need them — but it's too late by then.
To help you prepare, I consulted with David Bennett, senior repair manager at AAA, and Brian Dieringer, president of Allstate Roadside, to identify the roadside safety and essential items every motorist should keep in their vehicle. As a product reviewer, electric vehicle owner, and parent of a young driver, I've combined my own experience with their expert insights to create a comprehensive guide to building out everything you need to compile to create a car emergency kit so you can be prepared in case you're immobilized. Whether planning a cross-country road trip or just commuting to work, when coupled with the best roadside assistance plan, here's everything you need to stay safe on the road.
Essential safety items
DOT-approved warning triangles
When your car breaks down, visibility becomes critical for survival. Reflective triangles and warning devices create a vital safety buffer by alerting approaching drivers to your disabled vehicle from hundreds of feet away, which is particularly important in poor weather or at night.
As both the Allstate Roadside and AAA experts emphasized, getting hit while stopped on the roadside is a real danger — these devices give other drivers the time they need to react and move over safely. The DSV warning triangles offer essential roadside safety with their exceptional stability in extreme weather, highly visible day/night reflectivity, and DOT-approved design — all packed in a convenient carrying case with an 18-month warranty.
Reflective safety vest
Much like the reflective triangle increases your vehicle's visibility, a reflective safety vest makes it easier for other drivers to see you when working around a disabled vehicle. Dieringer said, "You're at significant risk when outside your vehicle on the roadside, especially in low-light conditions or with distracted drivers present." The vest acts as your first line of defense, giving motorists crucial extra seconds to spot you and react safely. This JKSafety vest offers crucial protection with its breathable lightweight construction, nine multi-functional pockets, and ANSI-compliant 360-degree reflectivity.
A flashlight
A reliable flashlight is a must for roadside emergencies, particularly since your phone's flashlight can quickly drain its battery — which you might need for calling help. Both experts stressed the importance of a dedicated flashlight with backup batteries, as it provides crucial illumination for checking under the hood, signaling for help in dark conditions, or changing tires. The ThruNite TC15 performed the best in our testing for the best flashlight guide. It has superior durability, battery life, and brightness compared to your phone flashlight.
A first aid kit
A first aid kit is a crucial safety net for unexpected injuries during roadside emergencies. "Minor cuts, scrapes, and other injuries can happen while changing a tire or performing emergency repairs," Bennett explained. A properly stocked kit with Band-Aids of various sizes, antiseptic wipes/towelettes, gauze pads, and adhesive tape allows you to safely and quickly treat injuries until professional medical help arrives if needed. The Homestock+ Professional First Aid Kit checks all the boxes, fitting in a durable, portable, and well-organized case.
A portable power bank
A portable power bank isn't just a convenience — it's a critical safety tool when your car's battery dies or you're stranded for extended periods. Both experts emphasized keeping a dedicated phone charger and power bank in your emergency kit, as your phone becomes your lifeline for navigating, contacting emergency services, or calling roadside assistance.
Never rely solely on your car's charging system, which becomes useless if your vehicle's battery fails. The Anker 525 PowerCore is the top pick in our best portable power banks guide because it can fully charge an iPhone in 30 minutes, has enough capacity to recharge phones up to five times, and has an extra USB port for charging a second device.
A basic tool kit
A basic tool kit can be the difference between an expensive tow and a quick roadside fix. Both experts suggest carrying essential tools — including pliers, a Phillips head screwdriver, a utility knife, and a flathead screwdriver — to handle common mechanical problems. These tools allow you to make minor repairs or tighten loose components, potentially turning a major breakdown into a manageable situation.
This Cartman tool set includes all the essential tools and more. It also comes in a compact case to keep all the tools securely organized without taking up excessive space. For more recommendations, check out our guide to essential tools everyone should own.
Jumper cables
A dead battery is one of the most common roadside emergencies. Bennett noted AAA responds to more than 30 million service calls each year, with battery problems being a frequent issue. If you know how to jump a car, jumper cables can get you on your way without waiting on roadside assistance. While jumper cables can quickly get a gas-powered car running again by transferring power from a working vehicle, it's important to note they won't help with an electric vehicle, which requires specialized equipment and professional assistance.
These Cartman jumper cables are necessary for every vehicle because their 20-foot length is specifically designed to reach batteries from various positions around vehicles (including full-size cars and trucks). Their higher copper content, safety clamps, and low-temperature operation ensure reliable power transfer, even in extreme weather.
A small shovel
A compact shovel can be a crucial tool for self-rescue in challenging terrain. Allstate's Dieringer emphasized the importance of freeing your vehicle when stuck, whether you're dealing with mud after sliding off the road or snow in northern regions. While it might seem unnecessary in fair weather, a shovel's potential to prevent a pricey tow and compact size make it an invaluable addition to any comprehensive car emergency kit, particularly if you travel through or live in areas with difficult terrain or are prone to severe weather.
This Lifeline shovel is the perfect emergency tool for motorists. It weighs under 1.5 pounds and collapses to just over 2 feet in length, providing convenient, space-efficient storage in any vehicle's trunk. For more recommendations, check out our guide to the best snow shovels.
A car escape tool
A spring-loaded car escape tool can be the difference between life and death in an emergency. AAA's Bennett explained, "This specialized device serves two critical functions: breaking tempered glass windows if you're submerged in water and cutting through seatbelts if they become jammed."
Traditional hammer-style tools can be ineffective underwater because of limited mobility, making the spring-loaded mechanism necessary for reliable emergency escape. In an ultra-compact design, the Resqme car escape tool device combines a spring-loaded window breaker and razor-sharp seatbelt cutter.
Lug wrench
A tire iron, or lug wrench, is an indispensable tool for one of the most common roadside issues: flat tires. Bennett revealed AAA responds to over 3.5 million tire-related incidents annually, making this tool an essential part of any emergency kit. This Cartman lug wrench is a great choice because its 14-inch forged carbon steel body supplies impressive leverage during tire changes. Its corrosion-resistant chrome plating and four universal socket heads accommodate most standard lug nut sizes.
Without a properly sized lug wrench, you'll be unable to remove your wheel's lug nuts to change a flat tire, leaving you stranded and dependent on roadside assistance even for this relatively straightforward repair. Here's how to change a tire.
A scissor lift jack
A scissor lift jack is necessary for safely elevating your car during repairs, like tire changes. While many vehicles have a basic jack, a scissor lift jack provides superior stability and safety through its wider base and more precise lifting mechanism. Both experts emphasized the importance of having reliable lifting equipment, as an unstable jack can lead to catastrophic failure during repairs. Never rely on a questionable jack — your life could literally depend on its stability. This Big Red jack is indispensable because its compact, collapsible design provides a powerful 1.5-ton lifting capacity with an extra-wide base for added stability.
Comfort & survival items
Bottled water
Bottled water is a critical survival resource for any vehicle emergency kit. "You never know when a simple commute might turn into an extended wait due to accidents, severe weather, or vehicle failure," said Bennett. "Having water on hand becomes especially crucial during extreme temperatures or if you're stranded in remote areas." Both experts suggested checking and replacing your water supply every few months to ensure freshness.
Non-perishable snacks
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Both experts pointed out how important non-perishable snacks are for unexpected delays and emergencies. "You might find yourself stuck for hours between exits during traffic incidents or weather emergencies. Having energy-sustaining snacks provides essential nourishment and helps maintain blood sugar levels and mental clarity during stressful situations," Bennett said. Check and rotate your snacks every few months to ensure freshness.
Blankets
Blankets supply essential warmth if you're stranded in cold weather, which can be life-saving during winter travel or in northern climates. Bennett also pointed out they serve a practical purpose as a clean, protective ground cover when you need to lie down or kneel for under-vehicle repairs or tire changes. This Rumpl blanket is great for your car because its materials mirror premium insulated jackets while providing convenient packability, hands-free wearability, and stain and water resistance.
Extra warm clothing
The experts we talked to stressed keeping extra warm clothing — specifically a warm coat, gloves, and hat — in your car can be life-saving. Even if you're just running a quick errand, vehicle breakdowns can expose you to dangerous temperatures for an extended time. "While your child might resist bringing a coat to basketball practice because they'll be sweating anyway, that warm clothing becomes crucial if you end up stranded in freezing conditions," Bennett noted.
Raincoat (or umbrella)
A poncho or raincoat is good to have around for year-round preparedness. When your car breaks down during wet weather, you may need to check under the hood, walk for assistance, or change a tire — all situations where staying dry becomes important for staying comfortable and maintaining your body temperature. This lightweight item occupies minimal space but supplies vital protection when you can't avoid exposure to the elements. Check out our guides to the best rain jackets for women and men.
Additional useful items
Duct tape
AAA's Bennett humorously pointed out, "Duct tape fixes everything." This versatile tool can temporarily repair various car problems, from patching a leaky hose to securing loose trim. Its highly adhesive and waterproof properties make it an invaluable part of any emergency kit for quick fixes.
Bungee cords
Keep bungee cords in your vehicle for securing loose cargo or parts. Bennett noted, "These flexible, strong cords can temporarily hold down a damaged hood, trunk, or bumper until you reach a repair shop, or secure items that might otherwise become road hazards." Stalwart bungee cords are a smart choice because they feature durable virgin rubber with UV-resistant wrapping and vinyl-coated hooks to provide a versatile securing solution for unexpected cargo situations.
Work gloves
Work gloves will protect your hands during repairs. "Gloves keep your hands clean and protected while changing tires, checking under the hood, or handling tools and equipment that might be hot, sharp, or covered in road grime," explained Bennett. The Mechanix Wear gloves are made of rugged synthetic leather with reinforced wear areas, providing essential hand protection during engine inspections or tire changes, while offering a breathable design, secure fit, and touchscreen compatibility.
Hand warmers
If in a colder climate, hand warmers can supply crucial warmth to your pockets and hands when your vehicle's heating system isn't available during a winter breakdown. HotHands are essential for your car because they offer up to 18 hours of warmth that activates without electricity — providing protection against frostbite and hypothermia if you're stranded in cold weather. The compact size makes them easy to store in your emergency kit or glove compartment.
Vehicle-specific items
Both experts stressed the critical importance of keeping vehicle-specific items readily accessible. Dieringer emphasized checking your manufacturer's website or owner's manual to identify any special tools your car requires, like a tire lock key, which is essential for changing certain types of wheels.
Bennett pointed out the crucial detail about spare tires: not only should you verify if your vehicle even has one — about 30% of new vehicles don't — but you should also regularly check its condition and pressure, as temporary spares usually need replacement after 10 years. Also, keeping your current insurance information and registration accessible is vital during traffic stops and emergencies. Consider a vehicle glove box organizer for quick access.
Optional items
Battery jump starter
A portable battery jump starter offers independence during one of the most common roadside emergencies — a dead battery. Unlike traditional jumper cables, you don't need to wait for another car to help. Both experts noted that battery problems are among their most frequent service calls, making this self-sufficient solution especially useful.
This Noco jump starter is good for your car because it's powerful enough to start most gas engines, while also featuring a versatile USB power bank and seven-mode emergency flashlight in a lightweight 2.5-pound package.
Tire inflator
While neither expert specifically mentioned a tire inflator in our interviews, based on their emphasis on tire safety and maintenance, a portable tire inflator is a crucial tool that allows you to keep proper tire pressure without searching for a gas station. This helps prevent unsafe driving conditions and potential tire damage while stranded with a slow leak. The Avid Power compressor offers fast inflation speeds for most vehicles, dual power options (car adapter or rechargeable battery), built-in LED lighting, and automatic shut-off to prevent over-inflation.
Multi-tool
A multi-tool combines essential repair implements in one compact device, making it invaluable for various roadside fixes. While both experts suggested carrying basic tools, a quality multi-tool offers a space-efficient way to keep multiple repair solutions readily available. The Leatherman Skeletool stands out as the superior multi-tool in our testing, combining minimalist design with maximum functionality in a lightweight, user-friendly package. Check out our guide to the best multi-tools for more recommendations.
Fire extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is a crucial safety device that can prevent a small engine fire from becoming catastrophic. In the critical minutes before emergency services arrive, it can prevent injury, protect your car, and potentially save lives. The First Alert fire extinguisher can tackle various fire types, including oil, electrical, and gas fires. It has a lightweight, all-metal construction and is rechargeable.
All-in-one kits
Pre-made emergency kits offer the advantage of having everything organized in one convenient, often foldable container. This makes accessing items quickly during an emergency easy without searching for scattered supplies, though both experts say building your own kit is equally valid. Pre-made kits ensure you don't overlook essential items and securely store everything in a purpose-built container that won't rattle around in your trunk. Bennett recommended AAA's Excursion Kit.
Car emergency kit FAQs
Why do I need an emergency vehicle kit?
Roadside emergencies are incredibly common — AAA responds to over 30 million service calls annually. A well-stocked emergency kit helps you handle everything from minor inconveniences to potentially life-threatening emergencies. As Allstate Roadside's Dieringer emphasized, "While emergencies don't happen often to individual drivers, being prepared is your best defense when they do occur." Having the right supplies can mean the difference between a slight delay and a dangerous situation
How often should I update or check my kit?
Check your vehicle emergency kit every three to six months to ensure all items are in good condition and haven't expired. Bennett specifically recommends testing flashlight batteries, checking equipment functionality, and verifying that snacks and water are fresh. Both experts also encouraged inspecting your kit before road trips, ideally two weeks in advance, so you have time to replace any expired or missing items.
What types of emergencies should drivers be prepared for?
According to Dieringer, motorists must be prepared for minor problems that can be resolved quickly and major issues that might leave them stranded for hours. About half of roadside emergencies require towing due to accidents, getting stuck, or vehicle immobilization. The other half involves more manageable problems like dead batteries, locked keys in the car, or flat tires. Bennett added that even simple traffic jams can become emergencies if stuck between exits without supplies.
