Sand or kitty litter? How many space blankets should I keep in my car? What the heck is a winter emergency kit? Do you actually need that?
Whether you’re a seasoned winter veteran or this is your first Idaho winter, winter prep can be daunting. There’s a lot of varying advice on the internet.
That’s why we combined research and real-life experience to give you the best of the best when prepping a winter car kit. We’ve narrowed it down to:
- 12 essential items
- 5 “extra credit” items
Plus, a before-you-go to-do list at the end.
Why do I need a winter emergency kit for my car?
Consider the following:
- You’re stuck in a blizzard with whiteout conditions and have to pull over.
- Your tires are spinning in a snowbank, and no one’s around to help.
- Your car breaks down in below-freezing temperatures.
These are real-life scenarios in which an emergency kit can be a lifesaver, helping you stay safe and warm. Set aside time to create your own Idaho Winter Emergency Car Kit. Winter is coming
❄️The Everyday Idahoan’s Idaho Winter Emergency Car Kit ❄️
Here, we’ve listed the essential items every Idahoan should keep in their car during winter months—typically November- March. We suggest keeping these items in a waterproof or insulated container in your trunk or back seat.
1. First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is good to have in your car year-round. It should contain the basics: bandages, disinfectant/alcohol wipes, tweezers, scissors, gauze roll, and gloves. Hardcore first aid kits may also include a space blanket, utility knife, and flashlight.
2. Tire Chains
In addition to switching out your tires to winter or studded tires during the snow season, we suggest keeping something in your kit that will help with traction should you get really stuck. There is some debate about whether to use kitty litter, sand, or salt; however, research and real-life experience have proven chains to be your best bet.
3. Small Shovel
Stuck in a snow bank? Never fear; you’ve got a shovel in your kit. Keep a small shovel in your car for moments when you need to dig out the snow around your tires.
4. Jumper Cables
Another year-round necessity. A common occurrence in cold temperatures is a dead battery. Don’t assume someone else will have them—keep jumper cables in your car.
5. Tow Rope or Strap:
In case you need assistance from another vehicle to get unstuck.
6. Flashlight + Glowsticks
Invest in a good flashlight. Make a note to switch out your flashlight batteries yearly. Even if you don’t use them, the batteries can go bad. We suggest storing some extra batteries in your kit, just in case. We also recommend keeping snap glowsticks in your kit. As one Idahoan said, “For each powered thing, always keep a “manual” or non-powered backup.”
7. Ice scraper + Snow Brush
You need a way to keep your windshield free from snow and ice. Besides blasting your defroster at full heat, keep an ice scraper and a snow brush in your car. This is essential for day-to-day use during those icy months.
8. Space Blanket and/or Wool Blanket
In a scenario where you may have to wait outside in freezing temps, you’ll want to have a way to stay warm. A space blanket is designed to reflect your body heat back to you, trapping heat close to your body, and is a lightweight option to keep in your kit. Another option is to keep a wool blanket or down jacket in your trunk.
9. Hand and Foot Warmers
Hand and foot warmers are small packs that use a chemical reaction to produce heat. They are safe and can be placed in gloves and boots to keep hands and feet warm. Extremities get the coldest, and these will help prevent frostbite if you need to be outside for long periods.
10. Food and Water
Pack enough bottled water to last a day or two, and insulate it to keep it from freezing. Also include non-perishable snacks such as granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit, and high-calorie energy bars, for sustained energy in cold conditions.
11. Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife
Always comes in handy!
12. Flares
You’ll want people to see you during a blizzard or a whiteout. If you’re off the road, flares warn other drivers to slow down and move to one side. It can also help emergency personnel hone in on your location faster.
Extra Credit:
Portable Phone Charger: To keep your phone powered for emergencies.
Matches/Fire Starter: In case you need to start a fire for warmth.
Whistle: To signal for help if needed.
Extra pair of dry clothes: Important for staying warm should you have to move through the snow.
Snow boots: A good pair of waterproof, heavy-traction snow boots will come in handy should you need to walk through snow.
To-Do List Before You Winter Travel:
Now that your winter kit is prepped, you’re ready to handle a winter emergency. However, you can avoid an emergency altogether by doing these things before you travel:
- Cold weather puts extra stress on your vehicle. Double-check that your car is road-ready—check tire pressure (cold weather deflates tires), make sure you have enough gas, and check that your emergency kit is in the trunk (it’s no use to you if it’s not!).
- Check 511 for weather and road conditions. Make sure it’s safe to drive. When in doubt, don’t go out.
- Be sure to let a loved one know your travel plans, especially if driving through an area without cell service.
- Buckle up, drive slowly on snow, and leave extra room for other drivers—especially snow plows. Winter driving requires extra attention, so stay distraction-free and focused on the road.
You’re Idaho winter-ready!
Consider yourself prepared. Creating an emergency winter kit for your car is a proactive way to stay safe during winter. Always check 511 for road conditions, drive distraction-free, and go slow on the snow!
Send us a picture of your emergency kit and include the hashtag #shiftidaho so we can share it. Happy winter prepping!
