10 Car Accessories to Keep Handy for Emergencies and Safe Driving

Essential Car Accessories You Should Always Keep in Your Vehicle

When it comes to car accessories, there are a few essentials that every driver should have on hand. These items don’t just make life easier - they’re often critical in emergencies and can help you handle unexpected situations with ease. Let’s dive into the top recommended car accessories, why they’re important, and how to use them when you need them most.

1. Portable Jump Starter Kit

A dead battery can happen anytime, especially in cold weather or if you accidentally leave your lights on. A portable jump starter kit is a lifesaver because it allows you to jump-start your car without needing another vehicle. This is especially useful if you’re in a remote area where roadside assistance may take a while.

• How to Use: Connect the positive and negative clamps from the jump starter to your car battery terminals (positive to positive, negative to negative). Turn on the jump starter and start your car as you normally would.
• Tip: Make sure to recharge the jump starter regularly so it’s ready when you need it.

2. Tire Inflator and Pressure Gauge

A flat or low tire can disrupt your trip, and driving with low tire pressure isn’t safe. A portable tire inflator, along with a tire pressure gauge, allows you to quickly inflate your tires if they’re low on air, which is especially important during road trips or if you drive in rough terrain.

• How to Use: Plug the inflator into your car’s power outlet, connect it to the tire valve, and set the desired pressure. Most inflators automatically shut off once the tire is fully inflated.
• Tip: Check your tire pressure monthly, as tires can lose air over time.

3. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential item for any vehicle. Whether it’s a minor cut or a headache, having basic medical supplies on hand can make a big difference. Look for a kit with items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

• How to Use: Familiarize yourself with the contents of your first aid kit so you can quickly find what you need in an emergency.
• Tip: Replenish items as you use them, and check expiration dates on medications regularly.

4. Emergency Roadside Kit

An emergency roadside kit usually includes items like flares, reflective triangles, a flashlight, gloves, and a multi-tool. This kit can help you stay safe and visible if your car breaks down, especially at night.

• How to Use: Place the reflective triangles behind your car to alert other drivers. Use the flashlight to see clearly if you’re changing a tire in the dark.
• Tip: Invest in a quality kit with durable items that won’t fail you in critical moments.

5. Fire Extinguisher

Most people don’t think about fire extinguishers as essential car accessories, but they can be invaluable if a small fire starts. Look for a compact, automotive-rated fire extinguisher, usually rated ABC, which covers most types of vehicle fires.

• How to Use: Pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle, and sweep from side to side. Always ensure you have a safe escape route if the fire grows.
• Tip: Check the expiration date on your fire extinguisher regularly.

6. Basic Tool Kit

Having a basic tool kit in your car can be a huge help for minor repairs. Look for a kit with essentials like pliers, screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, and a few spare fuses. This can be useful if something small needs fixing on the go, like a loose battery connection.

• How to Use: Follow your vehicle manual for guidance on minor repairs, such as changing a fuse.
• Tip: Know your limits—if a problem seems complex, it’s best to call for professional help.

7. Spare Tire and Jack

A flat tire is one of the most common issues drivers face. While many cars come with a spare tire and jack, it’s crucial to check if they’re in good condition and that you know how to use them.

• How to Use: Consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions. Generally, you’ll place the jack under a designated point, lift the car, and then replace the flat tire with the spare.
• Tip: Check the air pressure of your spare tire regularly, so it’s ready when needed.

8. Portable Phone Charger

Our phones are lifelines in emergencies, so keeping a portable charger ensures you’ll never run out of battery when you need it most. A portable charger, or power bank, allows you to charge your phone even if your car battery is dead.

• How to Use: Keep your charger in your glove compartment or center console. Charge it periodically to ensure it’s fully powered when you need it.
• Tip: Choose a power bank with at least 10,000mAh for multiple charges.

9. Window Breaker and Seatbelt Cutter

In an emergency, such as if your car is submerged in water or if you need to exit quickly, a window breaker and seatbelt cutter can save lives. These tools allow you to quickly cut through a stuck seatbelt and break a window to escape.

• How to Use: Use the seatbelt cutter to slice through a seatbelt if it’s stuck. For the window breaker, apply pressure at the edge of the side window (not the windshield) to shatter it.
• Tip: Keep this tool within easy reach, like on your keychain or in your center console.

10. Maps and GPS Backup

While most people rely on smartphones for navigation, having a paper map or a standalone GPS device as a backup can be incredibly useful in areas with poor reception. This can also be a helpful resource if your phone battery dies and you have no immediate way to charge it.

• How to Use: Familiarize yourself with reading a map, or learn the basic features of your GPS device.
• Tip: Keep maps in your glove box, particularly if you’re going on a road trip to unfamiliar areas.

Final Thoughts

Car accessories can make a world of difference in your driving experience, comfort, and safety. While some of these items are emergency-only, others are everyday essentials that you’ll be glad to have close at hand. By equipping your car with these recommended accessories, you’re ready for almost any situation the road throws your way. 

From keeping you safe to helping you manage small inconveniences, these essentials will make you a more prepared and confident driver. Safe travels!