When a sudden incident on the road leaves you stranded, you’ll need the necessary supplies to keep you and your passengers safe until help arrives. Having a fully stocked emergency kit is an essential part of being a successful driver. But while many of us know what these kits are supposed to do, deciding what to keep in them can be a bit confusing. Here is what to put in your roadside emergency kit to ensure you’re always ready for the worst.

Plenty of Food and Water

First and foremost, stock your kit with a supply of non-perishable food and bottled water. These items will help keep you satiated and healthy as you wait for someone to assist you. Since you won’t typically know how long you could be waiting, keep at least a day’s worth of food and water on hand.

Extra Clothing and Blankets

Your emergency kit should also contain extra clothing and blankets. You never know what the weather conditions will be when your car breaks down—or what time of day it’ll be, for that matter. Because of this, your kit should have supplies to keep you warm or cool, depending on the circumstances. Blankets and thick sweatshirts are great for maintaining body heat in the winter, while tank tops and shorts work well for helping you cool off in the summer.

First-Aid Supplies

Make sure that you pack first-aid items as well. Bandages, antiseptic, over-the-counter pain medications, and splints are all essential to treating any minor injuries you may sustain in a sudden breakdown event. They’ll help prevent any cuts from becoming infected and allow you to deal with the pain during your wait. For larger wounds, keep gauze and medical tape in this kit as well.

A Spare Tire

Another thing to put in your roadside emergency kit is a quality spare tire. Flat tires are one of the most common causes of vehicle breakdown while driving, but they aren’t too difficult to fix if you have the proper resources. If you keep a reliable spare in the trunk with the rest of your emergency kit, you can simply switch the old tire out and get back on the road. If you need a new spare tire for your vehicle, there’s no better place to look than RNR Tire Express. Our tire shop in Beaufort, SC, has a wide variety of quality tires for various car types and seasonal needs, so you’re sure to find a new spare you can rely on should things get tough on the road.