How To Make a Winter Survival Kit for Your Car

Published: October 10, 2016

As cold weather arrives we are reminded of holidays, family gatherings, outdoor winter activities, and for some of us, snow. It should also remind us to prepare for cold weather emergencies while traveling in our cars. Our "Winter Survival" checklist will help you gather the necessary supplies to keep in your car just in case there is an unforeseen emergency.

Cold Weather Auto Emergency Supplies

These supplies will help you if you get stranded or need access to first aid. They will also alert others to your unexpected emergency. We suggest you have a plastic tub or other container to keep these supplies in the trunk of your car.

Emergency Tools

Cellphone & Charger
Windshield Scraper with Brush
Small Shovel
Rope or Tow Strap
Bag of Kitty Litter or Salt
Booster Cables
Emergency Flares
Signal Reflectors
Distress banner or flag
Battery Powered Radio
Flashlight with Extra Batteries
Candle and waterproof matches
Pocket Knife

First Aid Supplies

a fully equipped first aid kit
Appropriate Medications

Supplies to keep warm

Blanket
Socks
Gloves
Hat
Hand Warmers
Sleeping Bag

Supplies for Nourishment (Food)

Energy Bars
Candy Bars or Trail Mix
Bottled Water

Other ways to prepare

Use common sense. Be sure to bring a cell phone and charger along with you. If you plan to travel through remote areas, be sure to tell someone where you are going. Keep plenty of gas in your tank. If you get stranded, get your emergency distress banner out where it will be visible to others. If your car won't run, preserve your battery. Only turn your emergency hazards on if you hear or see an approaching vehicle. If the weather is bad, stay in your car where it is safe and warm. Take a look at this article about cold-weather automobile safety tips.

Vehicle Products & Accessories
MFASCO's Make a Kit Tool
First Aid Kit #16 Metal DOT ANSI Class A
DOT Deluxe First Aid Kit Waterproof 909 Red

Additional Resources for Reordering Vehicle First Aid Kits & Supplies
Roadside Emergency Preparedness - Infographic
What is in a First Aid Kit?
How To Pack a Car Emergency Kit

Contributing Expert

Mike Brinker

Mike Brinker has been working in the first aid industry for over 35 years. He has worked with thousands of businesses,groups, and organizations to provide a healthy and safe work environment. Mike helped create “Make-A-Kit”, the internet's only online first aid kit creation tool. He has also authored many helpful first-aid and safety-related resource articles found at the MFASCO Learning Center.

See all articles from Mike Brinker.