How to: Stock Your Car

There’s no excuse for being a poorly prepared motorist. It will impress no one when things go pear-shaped. You may use these items once—or never—but you’ll be glad they are there when and if the time comes. Keep them securely fastened in your trunk at all times.

Gloves
To keep your hands grime-free in case you need to change a tire on the way to the opera.

Water and energy bars
So you don’t end up in the news as someone who followed their GPS into the wilderness.

Warm Blanket
See previous, but also useful for your road-trip companion to curl up under on long drives.

Jumper Cables
In case you happen upon a comely stranded motorist. Or just left your dome light on overnight.

Towel
For cleaning the dipstick when you check the oil. You do check the oil, right?

Roadside Assistance Number
Because there are some problems you can’t fix on your own.

Warning Triangle
So other motorists can see you’re there, stopped beside the road changing a flat.

Flashlight
Helps when you’ve got to find the cottage key at night. Make sure you keep extra batteries.

Old cell phone and charger
Even cell phones without service plans can call 911. Just make sure it’s charged.

Tire sealant and a 12-volt air compressor
So you can limp your car home. – MB