by George Stranz

Created on: July 07, 2010

There’s nothing worse than being all alone, stuck on the side of the road, without a jack or a working cell phone. Before you head out on your next road trip, be sure that you buy all the essentials to make your trip a safe and bearable one.

Directions, Maps, and GPS

Sure, you may know where you’re going, but do you know exactly how to get there? Websites like

Google Maps and MapQuest provide printable step-by-step instructions to and from your destination. If you have a web-enabled phone, you can even get traffic data which can help you avoid those pesky jams.

If you don’t have another person to read the printed driving directions, than a GPS device could come in handy. These navigational aids are hands-free, as they stick to a windshield or mount to a dashboard, and provide voiced, turn-by-turn directions. It’s wise that you download the latest maps to the GPS before your trip so you don’t end up taking a wrong turn.

Oil, Funnel, and Rags

Having a bottle of motor oil on hand can help when your engine is running low. Be sure to check the car’s manual for the proper grade. A funnel will help you pour the oil cleanly and rags will help you clean things up.

Windshield Wiper Fluid

Don’t get caught without windshield wiper fluid. You can’t drive safely when your windshield is dirty. Get a bottle of the anti-freezing variety and fill up the reservoir and leave the remainder in the trunk. You’ll be glad you have it if you ever take off for a cold locale.

Jumper Cables

If your car doesn’t start, a set of jumper cables can help. With the assistance of another driver, you can use the jumpers to get your car started and back on the road. Many people don’t have jumper cables because they presume that they’ll find someone else that has them. Don’t make that mistake: just buy them.

Spare Tire, Lug Wrench, and Jack

A flat tire needn’t be a reason to despair. It’s actually a simple task to change a tire, provided that you have the right tools. A spare tire, of course, is necessary. Be sure to pack a properly inflated spare before trekking out. A jack is needed to safely prop up the car. If your car didn’t come with one, you can pick one up at your local Pep Boys or Wal-Mart. You’ll also need a lug wrench to loosen and tighten the lug nuts. Once again, this is something that you can buy at a local store, if you don’t already have one.

First Aid Kit

You don’t know

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