Winter weather and driving can become a dangerous combination. Snow and ice can damage or strand even the most durable of cars, so it’s incredibly important that you keep certain safety items on hand when driving in winter.
Things like emergency blankets and water bottles can keep you warm and hydrated, while tools like emergency flares and traction aids can help you find assistance fast. Before you head out on any winter trips, make sure you have these things in your trunk this season.
Essential Winter Car Items
Ice Scraper and Snow Brush
Ice scrapers and brushes should be a crucial part of any car’s winter safety supplies, even in areas where it doesn’t get that cold. That ice will take longer to melt on its own than you may think—ice scrapers can quickly remove frost and snow from windshields, clearing up an otherwise-obstructed view.
Shovel
Shovels can clear away snow around your car and its tires, allowing you to move a vehicle that’s stuck. They can also remove mounds of snow that have piled on top of your car’s roof. But a heavy-duty garden shovel isn’t the best choice for your car. Instead, look for lightweight folding ones that can be tucked away in the trunk.
Winter Clothing and Blankets
Feeling a little chilly while stuck in a stranded car is more than just an inconvenience—it’s also a major safety concern. Keeping a few gloves, hats, and hand warmers on hand can provide a critical source of warmth while waiting in the cold.
Emergency blankets are another safety must-have. These types of blankets reflect the heat your body produces back onto you, keeping you warm. They’re also lightweight and easily stashed in a safety or first aid kit. Don’t skimp on having one of these around, even if you doubt you’ll need it.
Safety and Emergency Equipment
Emergency Flares or Reflectors
Emergency flares and reflectors signal to other motorists or emergency providers that you need help. They can be seen even from a distance, and they can be used outside of wintry weather conditions too, like in storms or fog.
Using Flares
To use emergency flares effectively, place one around 300 feet behind your car and another around 10 feet behind it.
Traction Aids (Rock Salt, Sand, or Kitty Litter)
Things like rock salt, sand, and cat litter can be a major help when your car is stuck on a snowbank or ice. They provide a textured surface for wheels to grab onto, and the traction aids should be applied directly in front of each wheel.
First Aid Kit
First aid kits can be a lifeline during slow emergency response times. They’re easy to acquire too, as many helpful ones can simply be purchased online. Make sure your first aid kit includes things to cover, clean, and disinfect wounds, along with pain relievers, tweezers, and a first aid guide.
Vehicle Maintenance and Tools
Extra Windshield Washer Fluid
Your windshields need to stay clear and clean during winter storms. Make sure you have extra windshield wiper fluid so that you can refill wiper fluid as needed.
Flashlight
A flashlight is another winter-weather must. They’re a long-lasting and simple-to-use source of light that won’t drain your phone battery either. Make sure you have at least one in your car.
Rope or Chain
Ropes or chains can be used for towing or driving in inclement weather. But ensure you know how to use them before keeping them in your car—take some time to read a few instructional guides or watch a how-to video.
Jumper Cables
Cold weather can drain a car battery and make it more difficult to start. That’s where a pair of jumper cables comes in handy.
To use them, clamp the positive end of one battery to the positive end of the dead battery. With the other cable, clamp the negative end of one battery to a bare metal surface in the car with the dead battery, like a screw or bolt. Start the working car, let it run for a few minutes, then attempt to start the dead car.
Car Maintenance Tasks To Know
Make sure you know a few basic car maintenance tasks before winter hits. These include things like opening the hood, changing a flat, or patching a tire.
Additional Considerations
- Small tool kit: A basic tool kit can come in handy any time of year. At a minimum, keep a multi-tool, a few wrenches, and a pair of pliers in it. Consider purchasing a roadside tool kit for a wider variety of items.
- Sunglasses: Sunglasses are for more than just summer weather. They’re also incredibly useful in daytime wintry conditions too, as they reduce the glare from snow and ice.
- Cell phone charger: Make sure you have a cell phone charger on hand that can either connect to your car or comes with its own power source. Include Lightning, USB-C, and micro-USB cables—you never know what types of phones your passengers could have on hand.
- Water and non-perishable snacks: Always keep a few water bottles in your trunk, along with a pack of granola bars or other non-perishable snacks. Hydration and calories are extra important when you’re stranded in wintry weather.
Pre-Trip Preparations
Before you set off on any cold weather journeys, make sure you do these three things:
- Check gas levels, and plan to refill ASAP if you have less than 1/4 tank left. Driving somewhere remote? Refill your gas if it’s less than 1/2 full.
- Inspect your wiper blades. Are they worn or damaged? Replace them immediately to avoid them failing when you need them most.
- Consider snow tires or chains if you know you’ll be driving somewhere with risky road conditions.
