Car Emergency Essentials Checklist

Plug a small hole or a leak long enough to get to a garage. (Be sure the product doesn't contain flammable gases, such as butane, propane, and isobutene.)

In case a tire is too busted to drive any further, a properly inflated spare can save the day. Make sure to also store a wheel wrench and tripod jack in order to change the tire.

Forget the hassle of jumper cables. Get a jump-start with a compact charger that renews your battery via the car's cigarette lighter.

After an accident, use the reinforced tape to patch things together temporarily.

When filled, a one-gallon jug will hold enough to get you to a service station, without being burdensome to lug back to your car.

You know how scary car fires can be if you've ever seen flames shooting from under your hood. Enough said.

Stow a kit in an easily accessible space to treat cuts, burns, and traffic headaches

Crucial for after-dark roadside repairs, emergency signaling, and, of course, old-school map reading. Make sure to include extra batteries if storing a battery-operated flashlight.

When your car breaks down or you pull over for a repair, make yourself visible—and warn off other drivers—with emergency reflective triangles.

In case you need a hitch—or want to give one.

Include screwdrivers, pliers, a tire gauge, wire cutters, and a socket set for repairs.

Lay these lightweight metal panels under your drive wheels when you're stuck in slush, ice, or sand.

Avoid dehydration by storing water bottles or jugs in an insulated cooler in the trunk.

Non-perishable, high-energy foods like dried fruits, nuts, and protein bars can last for months and give you a boost when needed.

If you live in an area where cold weather brings ice and snow, choose a scraper that can tackle both.

A small shovel can make a big difference if your car gets stuck in the snow and needs a clear path to drive out.

Storing a couple of heavy bags in your trunk can help weigh down rear-wheel vehicles, providing more traction on slippery roads. Plus, the contents can be poured around your tires to create more traction on the road and help get your vehicle out of snow or ice.

If you're spending a lot of time scraping your car or shoveling the snow, you'll need to stay bundled up to stay warm and prevent frostbite.

If your car breaks down and you can't rely on its heater, you'll need extra layers to keep you warm.

Sunglasses aren't typically considered a winter accessory, but the sun's reflection off the snow can be just as bright as the summer sun. Wearing sunglasses while driving in the snow can make it easier to see and drive more safely.