Winter Car Emergency Kit: 12 Things Every Driver Should Carry

Winter weather can turn a normal drive into a long wait on the roadside. A small kit in your trunk can make all the difference. Here's what to pack.

The checklist

1. Ice scraper and snow brush. A cordless electric ice scraper makes frosty mornings much faster.
2. Warm gloves, hat and spare socks.
3. A thick blanket or emergency foil blanket.
4. Phone charger and power bank.
5. Flashlight with spare batteries.
6. Jumper cables. Cold weather is hard on car batteries.
7. Small shovel to dig out wheels.
8. Sand, cat litter or traction mats for grip on ice.
9. Bottled water and snacks.
10. First-aid kit.
11. Windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures.
12. Reflective warning triangle or flares.

Before every trip

• Clear all windows, mirrors, lights and the roof, not just a peephole.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full.
• Check tire pressure; it drops as temperatures fall.
• Tell someone your route on long drives.

Make the first item easy

Our Cordless Electric Ice Scraper with Winter Gloves covers items 1 and 2 in one set. It's rechargeable by USB, runs up to 60 minutes per charge and fits neatly in your glove box. Free shipping included.

Add it to your winter kit →