It has happened to all of us: you are halfway to your destination and the car makes a strange noise or a light comes on on the dashboard, and the first thing you feel is that cold feeling in your stomach thinking about the cost of the tow truck and the loss of time. But did you know that many of the calls we receive from helpdesks are for problems that could be solved in 5 minutes?
I am not talking about changing an engine on the road, but about having the basics in the car so that a small unforeseen event does not turn into a major problem. Here is the “survival kit” that should be mandatory in your trunk if you want to keep the tow truck away (at least for today).
Why a basic emergency kit can save your day.
Sometimes we rely too much on the car being new or on the insurance policy. But the reality is that a discharged battery from leaving a light on or a small puncture should not be a reason to cancel your plans. Having the right tools not only saves you money, it saves you time.
You may also be interested in: Towing service in Spain: a complete guide if your car breaks down on the road or motorway
Plan against common breakdowns
1. Portable battery jump starter
Forget about the old cables and waiting for a good Samaritan to lend you his car, it’s out of fashion. Modern jump starters are the size of a large cell phone, have a flashlight and can start your engine several times on a single charge.
2. Air Compressor: Puncture Solutions
Being stranded by a nail in the tire is frustrating, especially if you don’t have a spare tire. A small air compressor can be your best ally to inflate the tire while you can and continue the ride to a service point.
3. Spare fuse set
Did the lights suddenly go out? Sometimes it is just a blown fuse. Carrying a small box of spare parts gets you out of trouble instantly.
Safety and visibility: What protects you while you work
V16 lights and reflective vests
We already know that V16 lights are the future (and the present), but make sure they have batteries. If you have to get out of the car, the vest is not optional: it is your life insurance.
Headlamp
Trying to change a tire or check the oil while holding your cell phone in your mouth is a risky sport. A headlamp that you put on your head leaves your hands free and lets you see exactly what’s going on under the hood.
You may also be interested in: V16 lights: when they are mandatory, fines and common mistakes
The "Wellness Kit": Because you matter too
Water and some energy food
If the breakdown is not “silly” and you really have to wait, hunger and thirst make the mood much worse. Energy bars and a bottle of water are essential, especially if you are traveling with children or in summer.
A travel blanket or thermal insulator
In winter, the car cools down in a matter of minutes once you turn off the engine. A lightweight blanket takes up little space and keeps you comfortable if the wait takes longer in a cold area.
In conclusion, having a car survival kit does not make you paranoid, it is being a cautious driver. Check your tools today, charge that jump starter and travel with the peace of mind that you’re in control.
And you, do you already have your kit ready for the next trip? Tell us in the comments what you always carry with you (or what has saved your life on occasion).
