I am always blown away by how many people just assume if something goes wrong they’ll be able to call a number, whether it’s CAA or their manufacturer roadside and be fine. It’s shocking that people are willing to completely rely on someone else. You do not have to be a mechanic or know too much about cars to get yourself home from a sticky situation. In order to get this done, you’ll want to keep some tools in your vehicle and I highly recommend you start with these six basics.
Socket and screwdriver set
There are many problems on a vehicle that can be fixed simply by tightening whatever is loose. Things like a loose battery terminal or lug nut can easily be fixed on the go. Just make sure you can a set that definitely has the socket sizes you’ll need for your vehicle (or get a big enough one with a lot of variety).
Duct tape
Duct tape is the ultimate fix for anything from body work to patching hoses. It’s also ridiculously cheap for how versatile it is and what you can do with it. Buy a roll and through it in your vehicle.
Window/seatbelt escape device
I have a LifeHammer but you can buy any generic one that you like. I keep mine under my seat, within reach of my hands by using Velcro. This way it will easily come off in an emergency situation where time is of the essence and you can go to work with it by breaking a window or cutting a seatbelt.
Tow strap
Not only will a tow strap help get a vehicle out that is stuck but it can also be used for other things. You can also use it to tow a disable vehicle or as rescue rope or even an emergency strap.
Jumper cables
There is nothing more frustrating than a dead battery on the road as it can be such an easy fix. A set of jumper cables will get back on the road in no time.
Flashlight
Not only will it be handy when its dark out and you’re stuck on the side of the road, but a flashlight will also let you get into tight dark spaces that are dark even in day light.
