A car emergency kit should include jumper cables or a jump starter, a tire inflator, a flashlight, a first aid kit, reflective triangles or flares, an emergency blanket, a whistle, water, food bars, basic tools, and seasonal items (such as hand warmers for winter).

Yes, most supplies tolerate hot-car conditions (up to 140 degrees F in summer). Water, batteries, medications, and food bars degrade faster in heat; swap those out annually. Items to watch: aerosol cans, lighters, and glucose tabs can fail in extreme heat.

Yes if you drive in regions with severe winter weather. Winter add-ons include a wool blanket, hand warmers, a snow shovel, cat litter or sand for traction, and heated packs. Summer kits prioritize water, electrolytes, and a sunshade.

Yes to a pre-made kit in most cases. Pre-made is faster and usually cheaper because components are bundled. Build your own if you drive in a specific region with unusual needs (desert, high altitude, very remote areas) where the standard kit contents will not cover you.

A first aid kit or jumper cables. Most roadside emergencies involve either a dead battery or an injury. After those, prioritize water, a flashlight, and a warm blanket.

Inspect twice a year (daylight saving time weekends are a good reminder). Rotate water and food bars yearly, batteries every 3 years, and tire inflators per manufacturer recommendations. Replace items immediately after any use.

Yes. Roadside assistance can take 30 to 60 minutes or longer to arrive in bad weather or remote areas. A kit keeps you safe, warm, and hydrated while you wait. AAA also recommends a self-sufficient kit in every vehicle.

For winter, add a wool blanket, hand warmers, ice scraper, snow shovel, sand or cat litter for traction, tire chains, hats and gloves, extra food and water, a candle and lighter, and matches to your standard car emergency kit.