10 must-have items to keep in your car

Nobody plans for a breakdown or sudden bad weather. That’s why it helps to keep these 10 essential items in your car, just in case.

There’s nothing quite like that sinking feeling when your car suddenly breaks down or extreme weather turns a routine drive into an unexpected ordeal, miles from home and far from help.

In moments like these, being prepared can make all the difference – which is why we’ve put together 10 things you should always keep in your car so you’re never caught out.

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

1. Basic tools

A basic set of tools in your car can help with minor roadside issues and is usually quite affordable (£15-£30). A compact toolkit often includes screwdrivers, spanners, and pliers. It’s also useful to keep cable ties and duct tape for temporary fixes if something comes loose.

Keep in mind that these are only temporary solutions. Any repair should be checked by a professional as soon as possible, especially before driving on faster roads such as motorways for safety.

2. Car’s manual

Your owner’s manual is one of the most useful things you can keep in your car. It includes key information such as tyre pressures, dashboard warning lights, and basic maintenance advice, all in one place.
Keeping it in your glovebox means you can quickly check details whenever you need them, especially in an emergency or when something unexpected comes up.

3. First aid kit

A first aid kit can be a real lifesaver for minor injuries on the go. It’s perfect for treating small cuts, scrapes, and other everyday mishaps when you’re away from home.

You can easily buy a ready-made kit from most pharmacies or even supermarkets, and they usually include essentials such as plasters, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and sometimes a space blanket for added safety and warmth.

4. High-visibility clothing

A key part of staying safe if you break down is making sure other drivers can see you, especially at night or in poor weather. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep high-visibility clothing in your car.

A hi-vis jacket or vest is usually enough, ideally in a bright fluorescent colour such as yellow, orange, or green, with reflective strips that catch headlights.

5. Ice scraper/de-icer

Keep a scraper and de-icer in your car to quickly and safely clear frozen windows – driving with ice on your windscreen can be dangerous and may be illegal.

A brush/scraper combo is also useful for removing snow before setting off. This helps protect other road users, as loose snow can blow off your vehicle and reduce visibility for drivers behind you.

6. Jump leads or portable jump starter

Flat batteries are annoying, but easy to sort if you’re prepared. Keep jump leads in your car so you can get a boost from another vehicle when needed – just follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the electrics or causing a fire risk.

Or, for a simpler option, carry a portable jump starter, which lets you get going again without another car. Just remember to keep it charged and ready.

7. Phone charger/lead

Keep a phone charging cable and a 12V charger in your car so you can power up from the cigarette lighter socket if your battery runs low. It may also be worth keeping a powerbank in your car. That way, you’ll always be able to make a call if you break down or get stuck.

8. Spare tyre and wheel-changing tools

A flat tyre can leave you stranded, so be prepared with either a spare wheel or a tyre repair kit. If you have a spare, check it’s in good condition, properly inflated, and make sure you know how to change it safely. Keep essential tools in the car, including a jack, wheel brace, and locking wheel nut key if needed, and know where they’re stored. Also consider keeping a tyre inflator if you don’t have one so you can inflate a spare properly.

If your car uses tyre sealant and a compressor instead of a spare, remember these only fix small punctures, so you may still need roadside assistance for more serious damage.

9. Warning triangle

If you break down, you need to warn other drivers that your car is a hazard. Keep two warning triangles in your car for this.

Place one about 10 feet (3m) behind your vehicle, and the second around 100 feet (30m) further back on the same side of the road. Position them in line with the centre of your car, well away from the road edge.

Always be careful when setting them up or collecting them, and never use warning triangles on motorways.

10. Water/food

Keep sealed bottled water and a few non-perishable snacks (such as cereal bars) in your car. They’ll help if you’re stuck in traffic or waiting for roadside assistance.

Water can also be used to top up your radiator or windscreen washer fluid in an emergency.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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