What should you always keep in your car?

Start with the basics you will actually use

• Charged phone and suitable in-car charging cable; save breakdown provider contact details and offline emergency contacts.
• High-visibility clothing accessible before exiting the vehicle, plus a working torch, preferably hands-free.
• Warm, weather-appropriate outer layer and a spare blanket, especially in colder months.
• Small first-aid kit you know how to use; check its contents periodically.
• Bottled drinking water and shelf-stable snacks rotated before they become unsuitable for use.
• Tyre and wheel tools only if appropriate to your vehicle, its handbook and your ability to use them in a safe location.
• Notebook, pen, emergency contacts and relevant vehicle/breakdown details—useful if a phone battery fails.
• Window-cleaning cloth, suitable screenwash and ice scraper in colder weather.

Check the vehicle before checking the bag

Tyres, lights, wipers, fluids, fuel or charge, and secure loads matter more than buying extra gadgets. Make a habit of checking your own vehicle’s handbook and manufacturer-recommended pressures.

Winter and remote routes

Consider sturdy footwear, extra warm layers, a weatherproof jacket, an appropriate shovel where snow is possible, non-perishable food, a drink and backup navigation. Check the forecast and avoid unnecessary travel in severe conditions. Carry extra supplies for children, passengers and anyone depending on regular medication.

Breakdown safety is more important than the kit

Follow the Highway Code and breakdown service instructions. On a motorway, the priority is getting to a place of relative safety, not attempting roadside repairs. Never place a warning triangle on a motorway. If you cannot reach safety or safely exit, stay belted in, keep hazards on and call 999 for police assistance. A kit is not a reason to remain in danger.

What to buy—and what not to buy

Use what you own: a working coat, torch, phone charger or blanket may already be enough. Supermarket or ordinary retail: water, snacks, wipes and simple supplies are often cheapest locally. Specialist: high-quality jump starter or charging equipment only after checking vehicle compatibility and safe use. No unverified product links will be shown.

UK road safety resources: Check Met Office UK weather warnings, updates from the relevant local road authority and the Highway Code’s breakdown advice for Great Britain. Confirm locally applicable rules wherever you drive in the UK.

Related guides: Trip Planning Hub · Car Emergency Kit · Driving for Work · Road Trips · Camping · Bushcraft

Our approach: Check what you already own and buy ordinary supplies locally where practical. Specialist equipment should solve a genuine problem and be backed by specifications, not marketing.