There’s some things that are a good idea to have in your car as you go about your daily drive. These items can be supplemented as the seasons change or as your mission dictates, but this is a half dozen of car necessities everyone should have. The mindset here, as with so many of our posts, is be an asset not a liability. Take into consideration who is usually with you and their level or preparedness. As my kids age there is an expectation that they will have some of these items along with them and an understanding of how to use much of what we carry in our vehicles. But don’t rule out that they may need to be reminded from time to time.
1. Med Kit: This doesn’t have to be robust, but it should be more than what you’re carrying on your person or EDC bag. This should be level 2 more sustainable equipment. Think mid term care of up to 12 hours. There’s a lot of great premade kits out there but I’m an advocate for building your own. It takes some intentional thought and brings focus on what is essential for your needs. As with anything we talk about with medical, it really comes down to knowledge and training. Learn how to use the equipment and practice, practice, practice!
2. Clothes: My kids hate when I ask if they have a coat. But we live in Michigan and the weather can change and temps can swing quite a bit. Even during the summer I always have a water proof shell (coat & pants) and baseball hat in the car to keep some of the elements off me. In all honesty I’ve only donned the pants once, but the coat gets used regularly. During the colder months I often add an insulation layer, beanie and warmer gloves. If it gets really cold sometimes insulated pants and insulated / waterproof boots. “I’m warm, I’m dry and I’m alive!”
3. Gloves: I’m a huge fan of a good pair of leather gloves. With over 25 years as a firefighter / EMT this is one piece of equipment that served me well on car accidents, dealing with animals and so many other things where I didn’t want my hands to be ripped up. Protecting my hands keeps me working and helps to maintain asset status.
4. Flashlight: While this is something that should be an EDC item, an extra, more powerful light is a great idea. Perhaps event something that can allow you to go hands free like an headlamp. My EDC is a Surefire stiletto which can clip to my hat, but I’m also a fan of a good headlamp.
5. Snacks (and water): I’m a huge advocate for having a snack or two in the car. For me it’s quite often gummy bears or some Wintergreen lifesavers. These are comfort items for me and can give me a quick mental boost and happiness. These items hit the mental wellness side of things. I attempt to have some sort of water too if I’m going to be out on the road for any given time. This has come in handy not only for hydration, but cleaning wounds and spills.
6. Sunglasses: These have so many functions and uses and is something that borders on EDC for me. A good pair of shades can be helpful in many driving conditions. A good set of polarized lenses in the rain can help provide clarity and comfort. They also become personal protective equipment (PPE) in the event of an accident or moving on foot. The challenge can come from using tinted lenses at night but the easy remedy is a cheap pair of safety glasses with stored in a ziploc bag in with your work gloves (#3).
Don’t over do it.
None of this stuff takes up much room and can often be thrown inside a bag or backpack. I’ve got a waterproof backpack that holds most of this stuff. And has room for additional layers during colder months. In the event of an emergency I can grab it and go. OR it can be transferred from one car to another if needed. The contents & bag either consolidate into my EDC bag or become worn for added protection from the elements or risks.
Keep it simple and keep it useful. This design isn’t intended for a long range patrol home or major excursion. It’s for the immediate needs to get you to the next layer of protection and care.
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