40 Essential Items That More People Should Keep In The Car At All Times

There are few better feelings in this world than hitting the open road — especially if you’re setting out on a fun road trip. But whether you’re off on a long adventure or just making your way from A to B, there are a lot of potential hazards that can crop up while driving. And it’s important to be equipped for any situation. So, next time you hit the road, make sure you have these key items that lots of people forget to keep in their cars. Because, as our Pops used to say, “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail!”

1. Dash cam

A dash cam is a small camera you place on your dashboard. It can often provide invaluable evidence in the aftermath of an accident, or if your car suffers a break-in. After all, if you can prove via video footage that you weren’t at fault, or your camera films the person who robbed you, you’ve got the perfect material to turn over to the authorities. Can you really put a price on that peace of mind?

2. Change

These days, we barely ever carry cash. After all, why keep dirty bills in our pockets when we can pay for things with a card or even a phone app? An exception to this outlook, though, is the fact we always keep some change in the car. Why? Because toll booths still accept cash, as do some parking meters, and it’s quicker in these scenarios to use loose coins than it is to pay by card or app.

3. Blankets/towels

A super-cozy blanket and a bunch of fluffy towels are essentials for your car; they’re handy for passengers on long trips to wrap themselves up in to get some shut-eye. Equally, though, if you have pets and you’re concerned about them having an accident on the upholstery, simply lay the blanket or towel under them. They’ll be comfortable for your furry friend and keep the car clean!

4. High-visibility/reflective jacket

If you do a lot of driving at night and you don’t have a high-visibility jacket in your car, you’re taking an unnecessary risk with both your life and the lives of others. If you break down and have to leave your vehicle — especially in a rural area with no street lights — you need other motorists to be able to see you in the gloom of the night. They won’t be able to do that if you’re wearing a dark hoodie!