Got stranded? Don't panic! Here are some calls-to-action to help you survive and thrive.
Top-Performing Emergency Car Kits of 2025: Thoroughly Reviewed and Evaluated
Now that you've got a car, the open road awaits - but so does an inevitable breakdown or accident, leaving you stranded alongside the highway. But worry not, pal! By assembling the perfect emergency car kit, you'll be ready to take on almost any challenge the road throws at you. None of us wants to spend hours tinkering with our car on the side of the interstate, so let's jump right into it:
Best All-Around Kit: Uncharted Supply Co. The Overlander
This bad boy is prepared for any adventure, even the potentially disastrous ones. It comes with a top-notch first-aid kit, windbreaker, flashlight, shovel, multitool, and jump starter. All that goodness is tucked away in a durable Yeti Loadout 15-Liter GoBox, which will keep your kit safe and secure. Lookin' for some savings? Use code through April 30th to get 20% off at Uncharted Supply Co. (But beware, this kit is heavier on the wallet than the others.)
$239 at Uncharted Supply Co. 🛍️
Seatbelt Cutter and Window Smasher: Resqme Rescue Tool
Fingers crossed you'll never need this, but if disaster strikes and you're stuck in a burning or sinking vehicle, the Resqme Rescue Tool is your ticket to freedom. It effortlessly cuts through seatbelts and shatters car windows. Don't say I didn't warn you!
From $9 at Amazon 🛍️ or $10 at REI 🛍️
Battery Jump Starter: Limitless Innovations JumpSmart 10-In-1 Portable Vehicle Jump Starter
Trapped in the cold, dark night? Save yourself the trouble of flagging down a stranger for help and start your car with the Limitless Innovations JumpSmart 10-In-1. It's like having a personal mechanic with instant access to power. (And yes, you can even charge your phone with it!)
$160 at Amazon 🛍️
First-Aid Kit: Redi The Roadie
When every minute counts in an emergency, you need quick, easy access to essential medical supplies. Redi The Roadie is a well-stocked, well-organized first-aid kit that won't let you down. Perfect for local drives or long road trips.
$47 at Red Cross 🛍️ or $65 at FSA Store 🛍️
Now, let's dive into the juicy insights from our experts:
Highway Safety Pros: AAA's David Bennett recommends always keeping your tank at least half-full, refilling before the "E" light comes on, and having a spare tire, jack, and wheel lock in your vehicle. In a pinch, a roadside assistance service can save you a world of trouble.
Emergency Medical Response Experts: Chris Way, President of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, stresses the importance of knowing CPR (traditional or hands-only) and having a first-aid kit. It's also essential to have a tourniquet to control severe bleeding, though proper training is necessary to prevent causing further harm.
Vehicle Preparedness Gurus: The experts at Arizona Department of Transportation Chief Mo advises assuming you might not arrive at your destination as quickly as planned and keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle for unexpected situations. Having a portable charger, blanket, and snacks on hand can greatly improve your chances of staying safe during extended stays on the road.
Ready to hit the road without a care in the world? Here are a few more tools and tips to keep you moving:
- Automatic Car Scrubber: Keep your ride looking showroom-fresh with the Wash Wiz Fettle Wand Auto Scrubber. No more spotty hand-washing!$12 at Wash Wiz 🛍️
- Portable Jump Starter and Air Compressor: Kill two birds with one stone (but theLessUsedBird metaphor, obviously) with the Zeus Air Car Jump Starter and Tire Inflator. Prepare for car trouble and keep your tires properly inflated.$158.99 at Amazon 🛍️
- Escape Tool: Don't be that person who gets trapped in a burning car. Pick up the Resqme Rescue Tool and always have an escape plan.From $9 at Amazon 🛍️
- Disposable Gloves: Keep clean and germ-free by always having disposable gloves on hand. These Safeskin Disposable Nitrile Gloves are durable and affordable.$18.48 at Amazon 🛍️
Stay safe and have a fantastic drive! And remember: sometimes caving into your cravings is exactly what the road demands. Just don't forget to pack the snacks. 😉
Sources:1. Thrive 104-Piece Roadside Emergency Car Kit, Amazon, https://www.amazon.com/Thrive-104-Piece-Roadside-Emergency-Car/dp/B085WPSTQX2. The Overlander, Uncharted Supply Co., https://www.unchartedsupplyco.com/products/the-overlander3. Anthony's Knives USA, Inc., https://www.anthonyknivesusa.com/4. Redi The Roadie, Redi Medical, https://www.redimedical.com/portfolio-items/redi-the-roadie/
- In an emergency, staying prepared is crucial – consider investing in the Uncharted Supply Co. Overlander for a comprehensive emergency kit, equipped with a first-aid kit, multitool, and jump starter.
- The Resqme Rescue Tool is a must-have for any emergency kit; it's a seatbelt cutter and window smasher, safeguarding you in dire situations.
- The Limitless Innovations JumpSmart 10-In-1 Portable Vehicle Jump Starter can save you from cold, dark nights by providing you with instant power to start your car.
- The Redi The Roadie first-aid kit ensures quick and easy access to essential medical supplies, making it perfect for both local drives and long road trips.
- To enhance your vehicle's preparedness, follow AAA's advice and always keep your tank half-full, a spare tire, jack, and wheel lock handy, and consider subscribing to a roadside assistance service.
- For a successful drive, consider adding tools like the Wash Wiz Fettle Wand Auto Scrubber, Zeus Air Car Jump Starter and Tire Inflator, and disposable gloves to your arsenal, ensuring a clean, safe, and well-maintained journey.
