We’ve talked about household toolkit essentials, but what about the tools you carry in your car? Even if you can call on the professionals to fix issues you may have while on the road, you should be prepared with some basics. These include some basic lineman pliers, Kevlar scissors, and, of course, your cell phone so that you can call for help.
Car Toolkit Essentials:
- A Torch – required if you break down at night, need to change a flat tire, or simply need to find something in your car or trunk. Yes, your smartphone likely has an inbuilt torch, but it won’t be as strong or reliable as a proper purpose-built torch.
- Jumper Cables – to get you out of trouble if your battery suddenly dies. Jumper cables can be a lifesaver on the road and it’s better to get a new battery on your own terms than having to call roadside assistance while you are out an about.
- Jack and spanner – a flat tire can be a curse. Even if you have someone else change the tire for you, you need the tools in your car to get the job done. The spanner must fit your unique tire
- Inflated spare tire – speaks for itself!
- Repair tools – including at least a pair of lineman pliers and a size 10 spanner (which will work on many automobile screws). A multi-head screwdriver, adjustable wrench, and hammer.
ALSO:
- Keep 2-3 gallons of clean plain water in your trunk for emergencies for drinking, cleaning, rinsing, wipers, and to pour into your cooling system if the car overheats.
- First Aid Kit – including acetaminophen, ibuprofen, hand sanitizer, sticking plasters, burn cream, plastic gloves, tissues /toilet paper, and bandages.
- Phone hands-free kit
- Car charger – to charge the phone, iPod, etc.
- Portable GPS if you don’t have one built into your car’s computer system.
- Pen and notebook
- Small fire extinguisher
- Kevlar scissors
Keep these tools in your car so that, as the Boy Scouts say, you will Be Prepared!
