Keeping some essential items in your car is advisable all year round, but even more so during the winter and colder months. Cars are unpredictable, even the most reliable of vehicles can break down, stall or get a flat tyre. Always make sure that you have handy items to help you get back on the road in case your car does breakdown. Some items that you should always have on hand include:

*Spare tyre - checked on a regular basis for punctures and wear and tear.

*Tyre iron and locking nuts

*Jack

*Oil - the type of engine will determine what kind of oil you need.

*Water - 1 or 2 litre bottles will hold enough to fill your tank and clean your windows.

*De-icer and scraper - cans of de-icer are excellent for quickly defrosting windows, but always keep a scraper as back up.

*Tow rope or nylon cord

*Warning triangle

*Jump cables

*Flashlight

*Extra batteries

*First aid kit - including antiseptic, bandages, tweezers, scissors and emergency rescue blanket.

*Small tool kit - including screwdriver, pliers, spare nuts and bolts.

*Blankets

*Extra gloves, hats and scarves

*Thick jumpers

*Spare socks and boots

*Flash jackets or tabards

*Drinking water - enough for everyone who is travelling.

*Food - nuts, dried fruits, candy and cereal bars.

*Energy drinks

*Cell phone charger

*Map - satellite navigation can go down, and if connected to the car may fail if the battery stops.

*Pen and notepad

*List of phone numbers - including your insurance company, recovery company and local police.

*Whistle

*Spare change - for public phones.

*Spare light bulbs and fuses

As well as making sure the car is well stocked, it is important to check that you are fully prepared before you leave the house. Ensure that everybody who is travelling is wearing warm clothes and that any cell phones are fully charged. If small children or babies are going in the car make sure that you have a fully stocked changing bag, including extra clothes, milk and diapers.

The most important part of travelling safely is to let people know where you are and how long you intend to be. That way somebody will know if you are late and in possible trouble. In the snow, frost and icy wind this can lead to dangerous and life-threatening situations for the driver and passengers making it essential to travel safely and always have the essential items for a winter survival car kit.

Learn more about this author, Charlotte Howard.
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