Vehicle Emergency Supply Checklist
Comprehensive checklist for roadside emergencies, breakdowns, and evacuation scenarios. Keep your vehicle prepared for any situation.
Vehicle Emergency Supply Checklist
Check items in kit. Note qty and expiration dates where applicable. Review every 6 months.
Roadside Emergency Supplies
Tools & Breakdown
| Item | In Kit | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jumper cables (heavy gauge, 20+ ft) | |||
| Portable jump starter / power bank | |||
| Tire inflator / air compressor | |||
| Fix-a-Flat or tire plug kit | |||
| Spare tire (inflated & usable) | |||
| Lug wrench & jack | |||
| Road flares or LED triangles | |||
| Hi-vis safety vest | |||
| Tow strap or rope | |||
| Flashlight or headlamp + batteries | |||
| Multi-tool or basic toolkit | |||
| Duct tape | |||
| Work gloves |
First Aid
| Item | In Kit | Exp. Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| First aid kit (stocked) | |||
| Bandages / gauze | |||
| Pain reliever / aspirin | |||
| Emergency blanket (mylar) | |||
| Nitrile gloves | |||
| CPR face shield | |||
| Prescription meds (if needed) |
Evacuation & Bug-Out Supplies
Food & Water
| Item | In Kit | Qty / Exp. | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water (bottled, 1L+ minimum) | |||
| Non-perishable food items | |||
| Energy bars / food | |||
| Portable water filter | |||
| Reusable utensils |
Clothing & Shelter
| Item | In Kit | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warm blanket or sleeping bag | |||
| Rain poncho | |||
| Extra clothing layers | |||
| Sturdy walking shoes (spare pair) | |||
| Emergency tent |
Navigation & Survival Gear
| Item | In Kit | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper maps (local area) | |||
| Compass | |||
| Whistle | |||
| Paracord (25 ft) | |||
| Lighter / matches | |||
| Phone charger / car charger |
Documents & Cash
| Item | In Kit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle registration | ||
| Insurance card | ||
| Roadside assistance card / number | ||
| Emergency contact list | ||
| Copies of key documents (ID, medical) | ||
| Cash (small bills) |
Seasonal Add-Ons
| Item | Season | In Kit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ice scraper / snow brush | Winter | ||
| Small shovel | Winter | ||
| Sand or kitty litter (traction) | Winter | ||
| Extra warm layer / hat / gloves | Winter | ||
| Sunscreen / insect repellent | Summer | ||
| Extra water (heat emergency) | Summer |
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be in a basic car emergency kit?
A complete car emergency kit includes jumper cables or a portable jump starter, a spare tire (inflated) with a jack and lug wrench, a tire inflator or fix-a-flat, a reflective triangle or road flares, a flashlight with extra batteries, a basic first aid kit, a rain poncho, an emergency blanket, basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, tape), water, and energy bars.
Should every car have an emergency kit?
Yes, every vehicle should carry at minimum a roadside safety kit. Breakdowns, flat tires, and accidents happen without warning. A basic kit can make the difference between a manageable situation and a dangerous one, especially at night, in cold weather, or on a remote road. Parents and new drivers in particular should always carry a well-stocked kit.
How do I store a car emergency kit so supplies stay in good condition?
Store your kit in a durable bag or bin that fits in your trunk and is secured so it does not slide around. Extreme heat inside a parked car degrades food, water, batteries, and medications faster than indoor storage. Use food and water pouches designed for high-temperature environments, check and rotate all consumables every 6 months, and keep the kit away from heavy cargo that could crush it.