Make sure to include a first aid kit like this in your roadside emergency kit.
Photo Credit: Lisa M. Federico
We never really think about having a roadside emergency kit until we need it, and oftentimes it’s too late. Breakdowns can occur at any time, anywhere, and unexpected, as well in times of weather disasters (e.g. Atlanta Snowmageddon 2014).
For drivers that travel lengthy distances, or on rural roads, it could be the difference of getting back on the road quickly, or being stranded for hours while you wait for help. Being proactive and having a roadside emergency kit in your Land Rover (even if you have roadside assistance coverage) can help keep stress levels down and increase safety. Let’s take a look at some of the items your Land Rover emergency kit should include.
- Batteries: For your flashlight if battery-powered. Keep a portable battery charger on hand as well.
- Blanket: To keep you warm in case you have to wait for help in cold conditions.
- Duct Tape: Because it can fix many things in a pinch (until you can get your vehicle to a shop), such as a hanging side mirror or a dragging bumper.
- Extra Clothing/Shoes: To keep you warm and dry.
- First Aid Kit: Stocked with band-aids, adhesive tape, gauze pads, aspirin, antiseptic wipes and cream, etc.
- Flares/Reflective Triangles: To alert an emergency, or distress, and give warning to other motorists.
- Flashlight: To be able to see at night in case of breakdown on road. Best to choose a waterproof one.
- Foam Tire Sealant/Inflator: For quick repairs to flats without having to change it roadside.
- Gloves/Rags: To help protect your hands from dirt and/or adverse weather conditions.
- Granola Snacks/Energy Bars/Water: In case of hunger if being stranded for several hours. Also, water can cool down an overheated engine, if need be.
- Ice Scraper: For the windshield, for visibility while driving in snowy and icy conditions.
- Jack & Lug Wrench: For changing a tire (usually included in your vehicle when purchased).
- Jumper Cables: In case you need a jump to restart your battery, from another car.
- Multi-Purpose Tool: Such as a Swiss army knife.
- Poncho: In case of rain, to protect your clothing if changing a flat tire.
- Road Maps: As old school as it may sound, it never hurts to have an atlas in your vehicle in case you phone goes dead and there is no way to charge it through your vehicle.
- Sand/Kitty Litter: For traction on slick roads, especially during winter weather months.
- Small Shovel: To use if you are stuck in the snow or mud.
- Small Tool Kit: Containing a screwdriver, pliers, wrench, etc.
- Snow Chains: For those driving in icy, wintery mountainous conditions, these tire chains can help with steep inclines or rough areas.
- Tire Gauge: To check inflation pressure in tires (including the spare!).
Easy enough to assemble/gather, and simple enough to store, such as in the trunk of your vehicle. Stay stress-free while keeping yourself and your passengers safe, by taking proactive measures with an emergency roadside car kit.
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