Make life on the road easy by putting together a basic car kit to get you through any emergencies or mishaps that might occur.

In you glove box keep:

• Car registration and insurance papers (and accident check list)
• Vehicle owner’s manual
• Maps
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Pre-paid telephone calling card and a few dollars in change (in case you’re in an area with no cell coverage)
• Copy of your AAA or other auto club card
• Waterless hand cleanser
• Small towel (for cleaning up spills or wiping down windows)

In your trunk keep:

• Spare tire (make sure it’s inflated properly), tire jack, and wrench
• Change of clothes, shoes (especially if you’re usually in heels), and a pair of work gloves
• Ice scraper (move it into the glove box if it’s wintertime)
• First Aid Kit
• Duct tape (the universal “McGyver” fix all)
• Jumper cables
• Spare fan belt
• Another flashlight and extra batteries (you may want to consider a larger work light)
• Small tool kit
• Empty gas can (never put a full can in your car)
• Blanket
• Bottled water (you can drink it or use it in your radiator)

With these items you’ll be prepared for most mishaps or emergencies.  Then all you have to do is pack up for your adventure and hit the road.

My car is pretty well outfitted.  How about you? And did I miss any of your must-have items for a road trip?

Photo credit: SXC

Post from: Fly Away Cafe