Nobody plans to change a tire on a dark shoulder or jump a battery in an empty lot. But a small, well-packed kit turns those moments from scary into routine. Here's what to keep in the car, split into the glovebox, the trunk and seasonal extras.
In the glovebox (or on your keys)
- A compact light. Dropped keys under the seat, reading a fuse diagram, checking a tire. A keychain light like the Spark is always with you.
- A seatbelt cutter and window breaker. Mounted where you can reach them from the driver's seat. The Sentinel combines both with a light and lives on your keyring.
- Phone charging cable and a small power bank.
- Registration, insurance and your roadside assistance number.
- A pen and a small notepad.
In the trunk
- Hands-free work light. Tire changes need both hands. A magnetic light on the wheel arch or a headlamp makes all the difference. Our pick: Pivot — it sticks to steel, stands on its own and has a red warning mode.
- Reflective warning triangles (or a red flashing light) placed well behind the car.
- Jumper cables or a portable jump starter.
- Tire inflator and a tire pressure gauge.
- Lug wrench and jack — check that yours are actually in the car.
- First-aid kit.
- Work gloves and a rag.
- Water and a few snack bars.
- Blanket.
- Duct tape and zip ties.
Winter extras
- Ice scraper and snow brush.
- A small shovel.
- Kitty litter or sand for traction.
- Hand warmers and a warm hat.
- Extra washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures.
Summer extras
- More water than you think you need.
- Sunscreen and a sun shade.
- Coolant, if you drive older vehicles in the heat.
Five habits that matter more than gear
- Check your spare's air pressure twice a year.
- Recharge your lights and power bank when the clocks change.
- Know how to turn on your hazards and where your jack points are.
- Pull as far off the road as safely possible, and stay behind a barrier if you can.
- When in doubt, call for help — your safety matters more than the tire.
Build your kit
See our lights for the glovebox, trunk and toolbox in Garage & Auto. Orders over $75 ship free, so it's easy to keep a light in every car.