Vehicle Winter Emergency Kit

Why a vehicle kit matters

Winter storms, accidents, or mechanical breakdown can trap you in your vehicle for hours in cold temperatures. A kit keeps you visible, warm, and able to get help until a tow truck or emergency responder arrives.

In your vehicle (year-round, but especially November–April)

Warmth & shelter

Heavy blanket or emergency bivvy - Reflect heat loss; a space blanket weighs nothing
Warm jacket or parka - Keep in the vehicle, not at home
Winter hat, gloves, and scarf - Easy to grab
Extra socks - Wet socks lead to hypothermia
Hand and toe warmers (chemical) or hot water bottle (if you have a way to heat water)

Visibility & communication

Flashlight + extra batteries (not a phone light; it drains battery)
High-visibility vest or reflector - So other drivers and rescuers see you
Emergency triangles or flares (optional, requires safe handling knowledge)
Cell phone fully charged + car charger
List of emergency contacts (written, not just in your phone)

First aid & minor injuries

First aid kit - Bandages, pain relievers, antihistamine, anti-diarrhea medication
Medications you take regularly - 2–3 days' supply

Food, water & fuel

Bottled water - 1–2 liters; rotate every 6 months
Energy bars or nuts - High-calorie, shelf-stable
Non-alcoholic drinks - Coffee in a thermos if possible (warmth matters)

Mechanical & roadside

Jumper cables (and know how to use them) or portable jump starter
Tire patch kit or plug kit (understand your tire condition first)
Multi-tool or knife - Practical for many tasks
Duct tape - Wrapped around a pencil to save space
Rope or paracord (30 metres)
Flares or reflectors (for visibility if pulled over)

Optional but useful

Tire chains or traction aids (sand, kitty litter in a bag for tire grip)
Small shovel (folding) - Clear snow or dig out
De-icer and ice scraper - Keep one in the car, not at home
Engine oil and coolant - In case of leak
Small tire pump (manual or electric, if your car has a power outlet)

Before winter

Service your vehicle. Battery, tires, lights, antifreeze, wipers, brakes.
Fill a go-bag. Pack items from the list above in a waterproof bag or box.
Store it under the seat or in the trunk where it won't slide around in an accident.
Check every November and again in March. Replace food/water if expired, batteries if old.

If you break down or get stuck

Turn on hazard lights and turn off the engine (or run it 10 minutes per hour in extreme cold, with the tailpipe clear of snow, cracked window for ventilation).
Stay in the vehicle. It is warmer than outside and easier for rescuers to spot.
Call 911 or highway patrol. If no signal, turn on hazard lights and wait.
Dress warmly, huddle under blankets, and consume snacks and water to maintain energy.
Do not leave the vehicle. You will lose heat faster and be harder to find.

Connection to your home kit

The vehicle kit is separate from your 72-hour home emergency kit, but many items overlap (water, food, first aid, light). Stock both.