Creating a vehicle care package can be one of the most useful measures you can take as an automobile owner.
Glove compartments have become a storage space for just about anything we can cram inside. From snacks to vehicle documentation, this handy little box is often home to just about anything.
But there are a few must-have items you should always include in your vehicle. This list has grown so much that you should also make a kit for your trunk.
You should consider including key medical tools and even some quality of life items. Before we talk about important items to include, we should also discuss what not to include – most pieces of identification.
Care package necessities
There are few pieces of official documentation you should include in your glove compartment or trunk. It isn’t a good idea to store registration papers, receipts, and your driver’s license in your vehicle – keep them in your wallet instead.
You should not include your vehicle title or any identifying papers in your glove compartment, should your car be stolen. You may even become a victim of identity theft, if a car thief finds enough information. That includes even the smallest of receipts, which may show personal information. You should keep proof of your car insurance, maintenance schedule, and your owner’s manual in your glove compartment.
Even with your smartphone and GPS, keep a physical map in your glove box. Your phone could die, or your GPS could stop functioning, leaving you in a bad position should you get lost. Being
able to read and navigate a physical map is important. Pair the map with a compass and you should find it easy to navigate your way out of a mess.
If your vehicle is not functioning and you have no light, you’ll need a flashlight to see. A small collapsible or flat LED flashlight is a quick purchase. Don’t count on the weaker light provided by your phone’s flashlight for changing a tire. You’re going to need something stronger.
Medical items
Medical information is key if you’re in an accident. What happens if you’re injured to a point where you cannot speak for yourself? Having the information written down could save your life, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition. You should write down any allergies you have and every medication you take. Some even consider writing down the medical details of regular passengers.
For situations where an ambulance is not required (minor cuts, small bruises, scratches and insect bites), an emergency or first aid kit can be important for your health. Whether you’re under the weather or not, having a kit can be useful. As a driver, you have no way of knowing what will happen behind the wheel. Keep the first aid kit in your trunk, where you can access it.
If you’re going to be stuck in a long commute, consider putting small candies or even granola bars in your vehicle. Having these fast sources of energy won’t fill you up, but they can help you stay alert and focused.
Additional items
There are a few additional items that could go in your glove compartment or trunk for various reasons. Napkins and travel wipes are good for keeping things clean. Grocery bags are good for storing small items and keeping your glove compartment organized. Including a lint roller is excellent if you have pets. A car cellphone charger can come in handy, as long as you can resist texting while driving.
There are also items that will increase your quality of life as you drive. Gloves and sunglasses are great for comfort while driving, and useful for long trips. In addition, having a small amount of money (like a $20 bill) can be useful for highway tolls or sudden expenses. As a driver, you should be ready for any emergency: financial or otherwise.
Above all, keep your glove compartment, trunk and side compartments organized and cleaned regularly. If you have spills or crumbs in your vehicle, cleaning them up will help with odour. It can be hard to let things go, and some objects are more difficult to be rid of than others, but it’s worth it. Trust us: having a car full of junk will only take up space for something that could save your life.
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