How to Create a DIY Roadside Emergency Kit

Going on a road trip? You’ve heard (or read) over and over again that before going on a long trip you’re supposed to first check your car parts, whether it is made from aluminum, glass, special fibers, or steel tubes. In the Philippines, many car breakdowns are caused by inclement weather or poor maintenance of the vehicle.

This is why you have to be ready for anything, and why you should always have a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle. A roadside emergency kit is a simple kit that contains basic supplies that may assist you in case of road emergencies. No idea what to put in there? Read on.

Charged Cell Phone

Remember that old mobile phone you have at home that no one uses anymore but is still functioning just fine? Keep that fully charged and place it in your roadside kit just in case. You never know when you may need it.

Tire Gauge

The tire gauge is used to check the air pressure of your spare tire. Make sure that it is properly inflated.

Flashlight and Spare Batteries

Flashlights are helpful for many reasons, the most obvious being when you experience sudden car breakdown or other emergencies during the night or when it’s raining. Opt for a waterproof flashlight to be sure. Always have an extra set of new batteries in case the other ones run out.

Reflective Triangles

A reflective triangle is an equilateral triangle that is made from a reflective material. Its purpose is to alert other vehicles that there is a disabled vehicle on the other side of the road.

Car Toolbox

Duct tape, gloves, pliers, wrenches, and screwdrivers are some of the essential tools that should be in your car toolbox. Such tools will come in handy in case you need to repair the car or maintain its shape. There are lightweight and compact toolboxes you can purchase that can easily fit into the trunk of your vehicle.

First Aid Kit

Your first aid kit should have Band-Aids, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, aspirin, antiseptic cream or ointment, among others. This kit would be helpful in case you experience any injuries along the road or come across an accident.

Water

Keep a spare of bottled water inside your car at all times. This may be used for drinking or for adding water into your car’s radiator.

Whether your car breaks down or gets stuck in inclement weather, it is important that you have an emergency kit composed of the mentioned items above. Remember to keep these items together in your trunk or in an organized bag. If you have more than one vehicle, ensure that each one has their own set of roadside emergency kits. After all, car emergencies can happen to anyone at any time, regardless of how well-maintained the vehicle is.