Survival Supplies For Your Car

For some of us traveling is a way of life. For others it is an occasional occurrence; either way everyone should be prepared for an emergency. Here is a quick list of items that could save your life if you find yourself stranded.




Some Old Sleeping Bags or Blankets

Some Warm Clothing

At Least One Lighter

A Few Trash Bags
The big, durable contractor lawn and leaf bags are best, but any large trash bags will work. These can be worn as a poncho, or opened up as a tarp to help make a shelter.

A Small Cook Pot


Packs of Ramen Noodles

You can get creative on what food items you keep in your kit, Be aware that in most areas, food items will be subjected to temperature extremes when left in a trunk, so stick to dry food items. Even canned food will be damaged when repeatedly frozen and heated. Some other dry food items to consider are individually wrapped dry (not chewy) granola bars. Also think about instant coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and other powdered beverage mixes (provide quick energy and/or heat).

WATER
You may opt to keep an empty container for filling with what ever water is available. An eye dropper bottle with bleach or water purification tablets should be kept in the trunk for this option. If you decide to store water in your trunk, make sure you have containers that can withstand the harsh temperature changes that come naturally with the seasons. Some plastics get quite brittle when they're cold and will crack. Test the containers you plan to use in your freezer before tossing them in your trunk.  If the area you live in is hot, consider carrying a 12 pack of bottled water in the back seat of your car. Change it out often so it doesn't get nasty... whenever you go food shopping, put a new 12 pack in the car, and then bring in the old one to use in the house.

A Duraflame Log
 
A Can of Gasoline 
One that is specifically marked as being safe in your trunk.

Flares

Folding Shovel
Any small shovel will work, but I like the small Glock folding shovels because they have a built in saw. Gerber makes a nice one as well. These are another item that can avert a potentially dangerous situation.

Bag of Sand or Rock Salt
These can be used to give you traction and get you unstuck!