We are in that part of the year where it gets cold. When you are traveling, you never know how the cold weather will act on your car. So, you should always be ready.

Here's a short list of stuff to have in the trunk.

Hot Packs ~

Most of the time these are cheap, and are very nice when you get in and out of the car a lot. Nice to put on your seat when drive long distances, and good to have if you drive an unreliable car.

Blankets ~

A no brainer. Keep warm if you are driving, keep others warm if you should stop to help. If you pull someone out of water, the first thing you should do is wrap them in a blanket. You simply cannot have too many blankets when you live in a cold-weather area. Doesn't hurt to lay some on the seats to stay warmer.

Cell Phone ~

If you end up stuck in your car in the winter, you do NOT want to try to walk for help in most cases. Staying put, and calling for help is your best plan. Even if you don't normally carry a cell phone, consider getting one of the emergency-only models to keep in your car's cold weather kit. That'll let you call 911 if you need to, so that help can come to you while you stay as warm as possible in the car. Don't forget your charger either.

 

Energy Snacks, food that can stay for a while ~

If the weather makes it so you have to stay in your car, these are the things that will sustain you till help arrives. If you frequently transport people with special nutritional needs (infants, diabetics, etc.) be sure you have something appropriate for them, too.

Water ~

Water is essential so you don't dehydrate if you are stuck.  It's a good idea to store them under your front seats, so that the floor heat vents keep them from freezing while you drive.

Jumper Cables ~

Essential all year round, but the cold drains the battery it seems. Good to have to lend a hand too.

First Aid Kit~

You never know if you might hurt yourself doing something to free your tires or car in the event you go off the road, you might need a patch job, or someone else might.

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