Five essentials to always keep in your vehicle

Want to make sure you are fully prepared for any eventuality on the road? here are five essentials to always keep in your vehicle.

As a motorist, you need to understand that there is risk every time you get behind the wheel. Everyday motorists experience breaking down on the road, accidents, flat tyres, and other issues that are unforeseen and can create difficult situations.

There is a low chance of these issues happening, but luck favours the prepared and there are a few things that you need to always keep in your car to manage these situations.

1) Tools for changing a tyre

First, you should always have the tools for changing a tyre (and a spare) in the car. A flat tyre or a blowout are two of the most common issues that motorists encounter and you do not want to be stuck on the side of the road waiting when this is a task that you can do yourself.

You will need a cordless impact wrench, a car jack and a spare tyre and there are handy guides online that will show you how to change a tyre if you do not know how.

2) First-aid kit

Hopefully, you will never have to use it but it is important to have a first-aid kit in your car at all times and to know how to give basic first-aid whether this is to yourself, a passenger or a member of the public. Accidents happen all of the time on the roads and knowing basic first aid could prevent a serious medical situation from arising.

3) Documentation

Motorists should always keep important car documentation in the glove box in case you encounter a problem on the roads. This will include:

  • The car manual
  • Driving license
  • V5C
  • A valid insurance certificate(s)
  • A valid MOT certificate

4) Reflective triangle

A reflective triangle is another important item to always have on hand for alerting other road users to your presence if you are on the side of the road. Additionally, you should have a high visibility jacket that you can wear so that you are visible at all times. 

5) Portable phone charger

Phone access is vital if you break down, have an accident, or encounter any kind of issue on the road. Therefore you should always have a portable phone charger that will allow you to contact emergency services as well as loved ones. This could also be helpful in terms of tracking your location too.

These are all essential items that every motorist should keep in their car at all times. You never know what might happen on the road and it is important to be well prepared in case you have an accident, break down or encounter any other kind of problem that could create a difficult situation to manage.

Photo by Toa Heftiba