Check Your Must-Haves
Here's a recommended must-have list from Christie Hyde, a spokeswoman for AAA.
- A tool kit—Flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, pliers. All-in-one roadside kits, such as the Lifeline AAA Road Adventure Kit ($60), has these things plus other essential items, such as an air pump that can be plugged into your cigarette lighter.
- Emergency flares or a reflector
- Snacks and water—Pack a few bottles of water in case you're stuck in the heat. Nutrient-dense foods such as protein bars or nuts are handy to keep around in the event of a car breakdown.
- Mobile devices charger—The last thing you need is a dead cell phone when you're facing an emergency. Keep a car charger in your glove compartment in case you need to charge your phone, GPS, or Bluetooth. All-in-one devices, let you charge multiple electronics at once.
- A battery booster—Jumper cables aren't enough anymore. If your battery dies and you don't have a companion car to use for a jump, you're out of luck. Battery-booster boxes hold enough charge to jump your car as many as five times, sometimes more, before they need recharging, and they're compact enough to be carried in your trunk. Recharge after you use it.