Most of us spend a good deal of our lives traveling in our cars. It is only natural, then, that we should be prepared in the event of an emergency. Flat tires and accidents are a daily part of road travel and as such, we should always have a tool box or bag in our car loaded with the essentials. However, this is not true in most cases; many people are unprepared and lack even the most basic of tools to get them back on the road again. To make matters worse, many car companies are no longer providing the necessary tools to change a flat tire. This means that we must be fully prepared and stock our cars with the essentials.
What All Cars Should Have
There are a few basic things that you should always have in your car. This is true regardless of how far you travel - to the grocery store or on a 500 mile road trip. You can never predict when disaster will strike and being prepared at all times is your best bet.
1. Jack - you should always have a jack in your car in case you get a flat tire or blow it out. All cars come with a spare tire, most with one that is fitted smaller than your normal size tires. A jack will help you lift the car up off the ground enough to get the old tire off and the new one on with ease. If your car did not come with a jack, be sure to pick one up at the local automotive store. They are relatively inexpensive and you certainly do not want to be caught without one.
2. Jumper Cables - If you find that your battery has died in your car, you have two choices. You can call triple A or you can have a friend help you jump start the start with jumper cables. Jumper cables are also cheap and a vital accessory to keep in your trunk.
3. Flashlight - you do not have to have a large flashlight. A simple one such as a rechargeable flashlight with AC Adapter will do. This will help come in handy should you experience trouble in the evening hours. It will also help you be seen by motorists who are passing by.
4. Basic tool set - A simple tool set that consists of wrenches, screwdrivers and a hammer will do. You want to be prepared should you need these items.