We've updated our list of things to keep i your car in case of emergency. Twinkies aren't strictly necessary, but treats help in stressful situations.Canva/Walmart/Amazon
Portland is experiencing a “mess of wintry precipitation” as that could last through the weekend. No one plans to get stuck in their car in a snowbank or waiting for a tow truck as snow piles all around, but if it does happen, it’s best to be as prepared as possible, with at least a roadside emergency kit, if not snacks as well. With that in mind, we’ve updated our list of items you should have accessible in your vehicle as part of a winter emergency kit. automotive rear view camera
For under $50, this well-rated Everstart emergency kit packs a punch with the essentials you’ll want on hand when trouble hits. Jumper cables, a tire inflator, a first aid kit, a flashlight, knit gloves, a blanket, an emergency poncho, and an emergency triangle — all in one simple package. A solid backup plan for roadside surprises and a smart start to your emergency stash.
It’s smart to have a first aid kit on hand. Keep it stocked with bandages, gauze, pain reliever, disinfectant, scissors and other supplies that could be helpful in an emergency.
Time to dig the ‘ole chains or snow socks out of storage and put them in your trunk. Or if you don’t have a pair already, find out what size your vehicle tires are to know what size traction device you need. Chains and snow socks are available at Walmart and Amazon, as well as Les Schwab. They’re pretty easy to put on. If you have a truck, these chains are on sale for under $100 at Amazon right now.
Traction cleats, sometimes called Crampons, slip over your shoes, gripping ice and packed snow, making it easier to walk in wintry conditions. They provide stability on slick surfaces, distribute traction evenly, and even help on rocky terrain. Available in four sizes, traction cleats stretch to fit most shoe shapes. Keep a pair in the car for winter walks or unexpected icy conditions. Right now, the large size is $23.18 on Amazon.
Jumper cables are a must. Keep them stashed in your trunk. Even if you don’t need them, chances are someone else in dire straits will hope you have them. This pair of 20-feet jumper cables with a carry bag is $24.61 (15% off) right now at Amazon. Need something a little less heavy duty? This pair of 12-foot, 165-amp cables is less than $15 at Walmart.
Keep a working flashlight in your glovebox, center console or door compartment, along with fresh batteries. Avoid stashing it in the trunk where it may be difficult to find.
Make sure your phone is fully charged before heading out on the road in dicey conditions. Bring a fully charged portable phone charger in case your vehicle loses power and can’t charge your phone. This one is solar powered, has a flashlight and compass built in, and is just $17.85 (usually $49.99) as part of a flash sale at Walmart right now. Need multiples? This 2-pack of portable chargers is $17.98 at Amazon.
If your cell phone fails, the battery dies or there’s no service, a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio are the best choices for backup communication devices. This emergency radio can be charged with solar power, batteries, or by hand crank. It comes with a power bank, SOS alarm, and a flashlight and is $39.99 (usually $50.98) at Amazon right now.
Flares and a reflective triangle can help emergency responders and tow truck drivers see your vehicle at night if it’s on the side of the road. Some flares available are re-usable and require batteries. Make sure you have some extra batteries handy if you go this route.
If you are ever in a severe winter emergency and need to have a small fire to stay warm, you might want to have a pack of waterproof Inflame fire starters handy. You could also get an all-in-one flint and steel fire starter kit. If you need a cheaper option, you can always get a simple pack of trusty disposable lighters for around $10. Or, try one of these waterproof, rechargeable USB electric lighters as well, which sell on Amazon for under $10.
If you’re stuck in a cold vehicle for a while or have to walk for help, you’ll likely want a few extra layers of clothes. Pack an extra hat, scarf, sweatshirt, mittens, winter boots and socks for each person in the vehicle. (New clothing allows you to put old favorites in the car.)
It’s not recommended to sleep in a vehicle in the winter, but if you have to wait for help in your car, cozy blankets or a sleeping bag can make the wait a little easier.
Keep small, non-perishable, high-calorie snacks like protein bars, granola, nuts, dried fruit, or crackers in the glovebox or center console. Stash a treat or two for your future potentially stressed-out self, too.
Always bring fresh water with you, but don’t leave bottles in the trunk or backseat or they could freeze solid. Put your Stanley or Hydroflask to good use!
Every vehicle should be equipped with a handy ice scraper/snow brush. Don’t leave it in the garage and don’t be fooled into thinking that your gloved hand or a credit card will be good enough.
Shovels aren’t just for driveways and porch steps. A small, collapsible shovel could come in handy if you get stuck in deep snow. This one is just $23 at Walmart right now. Also available at Amazon.
Keeping some road sand or a container of kitty litter (make sure it is non-clumping kind) in the trunk can be the difference between continuing on your way and calling a tow truck. Spread the sand or litter around the wheels that are powered to create the traction needed to spring yourself from a jam.
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