Breakdowns and minor incidents rarely happen at a convenient time or place, so keeping a well-stocked emergency kit in the car means you're prepared whatever the weather or time of day.
The essentials
- A warning triangle and a high-visibility vest for each occupant, to keep you visible and safer if you need to leave the car.
- A torch with spare batteries, since roadside repairs and checks often happen in the dark.
- A basic first aid kit.
- Jump leads or a portable jump starter.
- A phone charger or power bank, so you can always call for help.
- A tyre pressure gauge and, if your car has one, the tools needed to use your spare wheel or repair kit correctly.
Check your handbook for what your car is actually fitted with, since not all cars carry a full-size spare, and some rely on a repair kit or run-flat tyres instead.
Extra items worth carrying
A reflective blanket or warm layer, bottled water, and some food can make a real difference if you're stuck for a while, particularly in winter or on quieter roads with less passing traffic. A small tow rope, a basic tool kit, and screen wash top-up are all useful for minor issues you might otherwise need to call someone out for.
In colder months, add a windscreen scraper and de-icer, plus a blanket for extra warmth if you're waiting a while for assistance.
Using the kit safely
If you break down, get the car off the road where possible, put your hazard lights on, and place a warning triangle well back from the vehicle if it's safe to do so. Keep yourself and passengers behind a barrier or well away from moving traffic rather than standing near the car itself, and call for breakdown assistance rather than attempting a roadside repair you're not confident with.
None of this kit is expensive or takes up much space, but it can turn a stressful, potentially dangerous situation into a manageable one. Check it every few months, replace anything used or out of date, and you'll be glad it's there the one time you actually need it.
