Emergency preparedness
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Keep an old, charged cell phone turned off in your glove box as a backup to call 911 if your primary phone dies.
You can still dial 911 even if the phone is turned off or your main phone is dead.
4 people, independently
Keep a blanket, pillow, or coat in your car.
To stay warm if stranded, if the car breaks down, or if you need to sleep in the vehicle unexpectedly.
8 people, independently
If you live somewhere where it gets cold, keep a coat or jacket in your car so you are not caught off guard.
It prevents being caught off guard by the cold.
6 people, independently
Seal spare clothing in vacuum bags to reduce bulk and avoid moisture damage.
This method saves space and stops humidity from causing mold.
- Proceed with caution for long-term storage; items may become super wrinkled if stored this way for more than a few days.
3 people, independently
Keep a full change of clothes (socks, underwear, shoes) in your car for emergencies or unforeseen mishaps.
Unexpected incidents like spills, tears, or bathroom accidents can happen anytime.
- Check annually to ensure the clothes still fit.
- Clothes can get dirty or wrinkly over time.
20 people, independently
Keep water bottles in your car for hydration or emergency use.
It helps if your car breaks down or you need water.
- Plastic bottles may leach chemicals when hot.
- Water in plastic can go bad over time.
6 people, independently
Carry thick socks and sturdy shoes in your car in case of natural disasters like earthquakes.
You may need to hike if you are trapped in dress shoes during a disaster.
3 people, independently
Carry baby wipes in your car for various cleaning needs, even if you do not have children.
They are effective for cleaning stains, bug splatter on windshields, and personal hygiene issues.
3 people, independently
- Keep wet wipes, hand cleaner, or makeup remover wipes in your car for hygiene, such as cleaning hands before touching the steering wheel or for outdoor needs.8
Pack a 'go bag' with basic survival gear, one or two MREs, and batteries for emergencies.
You do not need to be an extreme survivalist to prepare a basic emergency kit.
3 people, independently
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Store a towel in your vehicle for handling spills or unexpected rain.
8 people, independently
- Keep feminine hygiene products, such as tampons, in your car for unexpected needs.3
- Store a rain poncho or umbrella in your vehicle to handle sudden downpours or enable walking regardless of weather.3
Keep a compact fire suppression device in the car to address engine fires.
Using a dedicated extinguisher might be more effective than pouring water on hot electrical components.
3 people, independently
Keep plastic bags or a bin in your car for garbage disposal.
6 people, independently