In our homes we are prepared for “what if’s” with fire extinguishers and first aid kits, but when we get into our cars, we are generally without the supplies needed to remedy a minor problem.  If you don’t carry AAA, it can literally cost you hundreds of dollars for local roadside assistance. 

So, to save yourself time and money in the event of an unforeseen minor incident, keep this roadside assistance kit in your car.  Hopefully, you’ll never need it.

1.  Never leave home without a cell phone.  Pay phones nowadays are few and far between.  Even if you are only a mile from home, it’s important to be able to call a friend, relative or professional for help, should you need it.  More importantly, if you have children in the car, you want to avoid the need to exit the vehicle unless it’s absolutely necessary.

2.  Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but so are a wire coat hanger and duct tape.  I’ve fashioned a temporary support for a dragging muffler with a wire coat hanger and secured a dragging bumper with duct tape.  It doesn’t sound pretty, and it isn’t, but it affords you the ability to continue to drive your vehicle rather than calling for a tow. 

3.  Your vehicle should come equipped with a spare tire, but in addition, you will also need lug nut wrench and a car jack.  Keeping an old towel in your car is a good idea in case you need to change a tire.  You’ll want something to wipe your hands on while you are working.

4.  Slime Tire Sealant is a quick and easy temporary fix for minor tire punctures, allowing you to continue to drive your vehicle until you can get the tire repaired or replaced.

5.  Jumper cables are a must have for any car.  All it takes is for your child to accidently turn on an overhead light in the car and while you are grocery shopping, your battery is draining.  Hook one end of the cables to your car battery and the other to this fabulous DieHard Portable Power Source and you’ll be up and running in no time!

Before you set off on your next road tripping adventure, take the time to gather these essential items and store them in your car.  The fact of the matter is none of us can predict when they may be necessary. 

When it comes to your vehicle, the tried and true Boy Scout motto really does apply:  Always Be Prepared.