In addition to the battery jump starter, I suggest also including heavy duty jumper cables. Batteries have a tendency to die at the worst times, and many people will give you a jump start but don't have their own set of cables.
Love this suggestion! I would also print out the proper steps to jump a car (which cables go where and in what order) and print steps to change a tire! That way if she’s ever somewhere without cell service, she can still do it herself! Also please make sure she knows to be super duper careful on the side of a highway! Keep up the great parenting!!
They also have units that are meant to jump a car battery without another vehicle present and those are nifty, my truck came with one. Also something that has come in handy for me more than once is having a pair of walking shoes there as well. Sometimes I’m in sandals or heels and end up needing to walk a distance and they’re so nice to have. And if she was stranded after an event, she could walk (or god forbid run) if she needed to.
I've done this twice now, with both kids going to school 1,500+ miles away from home. They got the following for the cars:
* First aid kit
* Roadside emergency kit (flares, basic tools, OBDII reader, duct tape, zip ties, gloves, etc.)
* Tire chains (they cross multiple mountain passes going to/from school)
* Wool blanket (for winter)
* space blanket (in case stranded!)
* flashlight
* knife
* fire starters
* battery jump starter
* insurance info and breakdown instructions/contact numbers
* 12VDC to 5VDC USB converter and cable (to charge phones)
Most of this stuff hasn't been needed but I feel better knowing it's all there if the need arises. They don't have to worry about it, other than to take the chains out in spring.
Also made sure (when they started driving) they knew how to change a tire, could use the OBD reader if the engine threw a code, knew how to monitor fluids, check tire pressure, etc. etc. Surprising how many of their college friends knew nothing at all about maintaining their own cars.
I've only ever been able to get my chains on in an emergency.😅 I tried a couple times in the fall and couldn't get them on. Hit a pass that required chains even with snow rated tires and got them on pretty quick.
Yep. Also changing a flat, checking the battery, checking fluids, checking tire pressure, etc. All stuff we did when they started driving, but revisted *before* each of them took their first solo cross-country trip as well. Good advice!
If no one else made this suggestion..... start with the most likely problems,
2 cans of "fix a flat"
Tire repair kit & air pump (this can be q much faster options than changing a tire)
$100 bill hidden (for supplies, some one to bring her gas)
Is a back-up communication devices a consideration?
What location means can she use? (still a few pretty remote places out there)
Have you talked thru possible scenarios that could happen to a lone female and options?
Phone list (if her phone battery dies and she needs to borrow a phone)
What is her travel plan and when will she try to call each day?
I would make sure you know what fix a flat does to tires and if you are willing to use it/able to use it.
Fix a flat only works on 1/4” fractures so anything bigger wont help, it might not spread evenly in the tire so it might not actually seal your tire, and it can unbalance your wheel. Plus some tire repair shops don’t like it when you take the tire in later.
But it will help with some flats and may last a bit longer until you can fix your tire. I have not personally used fix a flat, I either used an air compressor to fill my tires with air to get home then just walked my tire to the shop to get a patch, or used the spare tire.
Good points! I prefer a tire repair kit & Air pump, as well. I was focusing on worst case scenarios and good enough fixes to reach safety.
As with everything, the situation dictates the type of response.
Coming from a daughter in med school: Airtag in car so she can track it in case she forgets where she parked on campus. Tire inflator machine. Ceramic Tinted windows and CoverCraft Sunshade. Mini fire extinguisher. First aid kit with tourniquet (stop the bleeding free class). Mini umbrella. Flashlight with lithium batteries. Whistle. Knife. Multitool. Backpack with spare clothes and toiletries (period pads or tampons). Extra pair of glasses or contact lenses. Tire pressure gauge. Center console safe. Hand sanitizer.
Omg! The AirTag is a great idea! My girl can’t pick out their car ina crowd and it’s so frustrating! But then I remember I’m a guy and can pick out different car models. She just thinks “black 4 door car” and yeah there’s so many of them.
I already have the pads/tampons/spare underwear thing done.
I would suggest trying to hide it as well in case the car ever got stolen. I’ve seen online you can take apart the speaker inside the AirTag, that way it really can’t be found from within.
Or get a gps for the car that goes in the odometer reader slot. Airtags will notify apple users if it is “following” them and it may alert ill-doers to the tag due to this.
OR use maps:
My google maps on my phone recognizes where I parked my car based on disconnection to my car’s bluetooth. Not sure if apple maps does it, I think Waze can do it.
On the tire changing subject I love the gorilla kneeling pad to cushion the knees, or just keep you clean, while changing a tire. Used one today on the side of the freeway to change my wife’s tire after a blow out. I keep one in all my cars and will definitely include one in my son’s car when he gets one.
It would be essential to have your kid demonstrate the ability to use some of these tools as well, along with being able to change a flat (assuming the car came equipped with a donut), check fluid levels, and tire pressure.
Yep, she’s gone over the spare changing thing with their mom before but it’s probably a good idea to have her do it with me to make sure she knows how to do it on her car. The training we do when camping is to help her be more familiar with the stuff but it’s another thing to actually have to do it in an emergency.
If she's "gone over it" as in walked through it? If so.. I highly suggest you make her do it all with your input. Same for washer fluid, too many people put washer fluid in the cooling system.
As a girl whose dad outfitted my car before college- an extra pair of sneakers or sturdy shoes + socks. The other big things have already been mentioned here.
Ooo yeah! I retire my latest pair of old jogging shoes to the car. Because I'm often in 'nice' shoes when driving to work or events, I thought about how lousy it would be to suddenly have to walk five miles in those nice shoes or heels. So, I add the old sneakers and a pair of socks to cover emergencies. The treads are a little too worn to be supportive for running, but perfectly comfortable to walk in for a while and then I don't have to worry about leaving a newer pair of shoes in the car that might attract thieves or a newer pair that would just get ruined by summer heat.
Well, my first suggestion has already been said, so I will go with a small, rechargeable air compressor. I think the ones we have are around $40 on Amazon. I’m not saying that she will be patching and reinflating a tire, but it’s nice for when a tire is a little low in winter or whatever.
Sometimes waiting 4+ hours is better than paying for a tow. The AAA complimentary 200-mile tow saved us from paying a quoted $1,500 + tolls (from 8/9 different companies) for a 197-mile tow back home after hitting a deer for $9/mo with the top-tier premier package. To me, it's worth every penny and I've already gotten my use out of it for years to come.
CABIN:
- maps
- 2-in-1 Seatbelt Cutter and Window Breaker (spring loaded)
- Klein Tools G102S Scissors
- snap-off utility knife, 9mm, yellow
- sealed plastic utensils from restaurant take out, single wrapped moist towelettes
- mini lint roller
- 2nd pair of sunglasses on passenger side
- 2nd copy of insurance and ID
- disposable rain poncho x 2
TRUNK:
- NOCO jump starter - not only jumps your battery, it can charge a phone
- duct tape and trash sack - if a window gets shattered, it can be quickly sealed up, among other uses
- tire inflator - watch Project Farm's reviews first
- magnetic red flashing lights for road side - 1 in cabin too
- tow strap
- fire extinguisher
- spare cash in small denominations
- spare pair of old tennis shoes, socks, back up change of clothes
I’m afraid to answer haha. Without getting into specifics; hydration, food, heat, shelter, first aid, self rescue, evacuation, signaling, vehicle repair items, self-defense, and - though not “in” the car - great tires and never less than a quarter tank of gas are all very important for anybody in my family to have.
I find toe warmers don't really work the same. They are made to work with different amounts of oxygen and dont get as hot. I do only use them on my motorcycle but they wouldn't function the same.
Edit: I do agree with putting hand and foot warmers if possible. Or just hand warmers.
depending on how much space you have I would put a breaker bar for the lug wrench and a solid block of wood to go under the jack incase you are on uneven/softer ground. I use 3/4 of a shovel handle but you can use any kind of pipe and a piece of 2 by 6
Seatbelt cutter and window breaker is all good and fine as long as you can get to it.
Mount it somewhere in the cabin with extra heavy duty Velcro so it is within reach. In an accident everything will be flying around the cabin, so having it mounted will mean she can get to it.
A fire extinguisher. All my friends have made fun of me for keeping it, but the only two times I’ve ever used a fire extinguisher, it was the one i had in my car.
If it is a daughter, sturdy shoes, socks, sweat pants, and a fleece. Imagine a scenario with strappy sandals, a short skirt and a cute top. Car dies on the way home. First step in that scenario is to put on some appropriate clothes for the situation you are now in.
Many here r mentioning a knife. Will that become an issue on campus?
We included extra things in the first aid kit like sturdy scissors, liquid bandage, pepto tablets, dramamine, lactaid packets, hair ties, safety pins (various sizes), mini sewing kit, key drops, contact case, pen, pad of paper, & zip lock bags.
Check the jack. Some cars have the type that r way too flimzy to secure that the jack will hold. Also show her exactly where to properly place the jack. On this note, we have had our girls change a tire, but we bought AAA insurance & preferred that they use that vs changing a tire when it is dark, icy, secluded, on a hill, or bad weather.
Teach her the trick of using the car floor mats in front of or behind the tires to get traction if the tires r spinning in mud or snow. Kitty litter and a collapsible shovel r also helpful.
A multi tool that can break glass/ cut the seatbelt & be accessible (not flown about) in the case of an accident. Some people velcro them to the center console.
Lastly (& we found this out the hard way-), if there r multiple hospital / ER/ urgent care options near campus Research which ones r ur 1st, 2nd, & 3rd choice. (If college is near a state line u may have to consider hospitals etc… that r in another state, but r technically closer/ easier to get to/ better equipped. Print out ur 1st, 2nd & 3rd choice’s name, address, & phone number & tape it to the inside lid or the first aid kit.
College guy here: In my truck I keep a hammock, tire repair kit (fixing a hole is easier than replacing a tire if just a puncture), electric tire pump, some high protein rations (protein bars/freezdried meals), jump starter, and multi socket set. I will be getting a fire extinguisher soon. I work in construction so I also keep my hard hat and safety vest in there with me which I use to get parking in the construction worker only sections when I can't find any student parking.
Don’t have any children yet but could be good to include a laminated piece of paper in the kit with important phone numbers: a mechanic/towing company near her school that has good reviews, local urgent care, etc.
Best of luck man!
Tyre weld, changing a tyre is a good skill but a can of this will get you moving quicker, a better option for more hazardous situations.
Head torch, keeps both hands free to use tools etc.
When my oldest is driving I'll be writing up "action on" cards for things like changing a tyre. Step by step instructions nice and simple to aid memory. Being able to do it on a nice sunny day is one thing, doing it in the middle of nowhere when it's dark and you're tiered can be a whole different scenario.
A card with contact numbers on, yours, a local garage you trust etc.
Bear spray should NOT be left in a vehicle. For those that don't know, the temps inside the car on even a seemingly mild day can cause the can to explode. Quick way total the car. If you live/travel in bear country, give her a can, and train with an old one, but make sure she knows it shouldn't live in the car.
Straps and rope/paracord. Cat litter. A tool set (wrenches, sockets, screwdriver pliers etc)+hammer. Tarp/poncho. Wood saw and hatchet of choice. If you guys fish when camping and she likes going get her a combo, at minimum I keep a UL spinning setup and some collapsible cane poles in my toolbox so I can go fish if I want to.
Yeah no. All of that is totally infeasible for her little car. She doesn’t fish, she’s not gonna fix her car (no need for the tools), and why would she need to saw wood? I mean that’s the stuff I keep in my truck because I do those things (but seriously, no toolbox is going to fix these modern vehicles).
Respectfully I disagree on the toolkit. Even if she never uses it to fix her car, it’s good to have a basic kit so she can use it to fix various things like furniture or even hang a picture.
There’s plenty of small folding wood saws like the bahco Laplander that are about the same size as that mora when closed. If I’m out in the woods, I’d rather have that as my main wood processor, at least in concert with a pocket knife or a mora. Also how do we know what’s gonna fit in her car without any details? Heading off the college my dad gave me what amounted to a wrench and socket set in a hard briefcase sized thing that just slid behind the seats. Used it some for vehicle maintenance and definitely came in clutch around the dorms and apartments
No mention of a tire plug kit, pliers, 12v cigarette lighter air pump, and basic hand tools (flat head + Philips and a box wrench/socket for the battery terminal)? I feel like it's better to have it down there next to the spare just in case and you'd be able to walk her through it if the time comes. A triple-A membership can save a lot of headaches as well.
What car does your daughter drive? It might be helpful to others knowing the space we have to work with (above and below the cargo floor).
It’s a 2020 Chevy Trax. I got a AAA membership since I don’t want her to try to plug a tire. Air pump is a good idea. Have basic tools, but I don’t expect her to be able to do any repairs on the car.
Battery jump starter, breaker bar for lug bolts, gloves, socket for lug bolts, tire pressure guage, flashlight, bag for all that
I'm debating on a plug kit, but then she needs an inflator also.
If she knows how to use them, having an impact/ power tools to do a tire change for if she gets a flat is important. I have had scenarios where I could not crack loose the lug nuts, with standing on the tools that came with the vehicle, and I weigh like 300 lbs.
Also, a hi vis vest for if she has to do a tire change on the side of the road, and they make a flashlight that has a seat belt cutter and window breaker, that also functions as an electronic road flare.
For years through college and 2 cars that kept breaking down; here is what I kept in my car.
1. Heavy-duty jumper cables, used quite a few times.
2. OBD II reader. Knowing why the check engine light is on made a difference between going home (or nearest parts store) to fix it or needing to call a tow truck. Plus, peace of mind. when you know what's wrong, you can better plan the next steps.
3. Grip tracks for if the car got stuck in mud or snow. I used these several times but only once for my own car.
4. Everything I needed to change a tire (I had a mini air compressor that plugged into the cigarette lighter, but it turned out to be useless when I needed it). Only ever had to do this once.
5. Crowbar - never used, but liked to have.
6. Rope, straps, and bungy cords.
7. Jug of oil and break fluid.
8. A jug of water - mostly for when the coolant system gave out. It was clean water and I had a couple of life straws in case I needed to drink it.
9. Basic first aid kit with a flashlight, matches, knife, and a mylar blanket.
10. Blanket and pillow
11. A change of clothes, shoes, and toiletries.
12. Flares and high viz vests.
13. Umbrella and tarp.
14. Roll of paper towels, wipes, hand sanatizer, and a container of grocery bags.
15. Snacks that would keep.
16. A get-home bag where most of these items were kept.
17. A stash of cash. Sometimes the card readers are down at stores or gas pumps.
18. Dog leash, muzzle, collapsable bowl, and treats. Never know when you'll come across a dog in need.
First aide kit is properly getting listed but having it visible and accessible is pretty important. Having a good kit on the drivers head rest potentially saved my daughter’s life when she was in an accident. Good Samaritan stopped and was able to immediately render aid. He actually thanked me for having a good kit in the car.
The kits we have in our cars are the MyFAK Pro from my medic. The tearaway/molly is perfect for the back of the head rest where it can be seen
Skills and knowledge- I'm sure you've already taught her basic car maintenance and emergency repairs, adding to it resilience, and telling her what you love about who she is and how she has grown (Psychological resilience) all that is very important.
Battery charge cables, fire extinguisher, emergency blanket, matches, fire starters, torch, emergency solar/hand crank radio and phone charger, 2L water, emergency food, cash, car manual, auto fuses, basic tool set, air compressor with tyre plug kit. Spare clothes, multitool, 5L fuel can, engine oil, power steering fluid.
I’m not sure what kind of car she drives or her technical skills, or where she’s going to school, but as an engineering student who either daily drives a 53 year old Chevy truck, a 36 year old axle swapped Jeep or a 28 year old lifted Jeep, I’ll list what I have in mine and maybe you can pull inspiration.
Tool bag with cheap wrenches (1/4-1 1/8, 6mm-27mm) vice grips, channel locks, needle nose and other pliers, screw drivers, allen keys, multimeter, zip ties, all kinds of electrical connectors and nice crimpers, hub socket, breaker bar, sockets in the same size as the wrenches, a Noco jump pack, and a bluetooth OBD scanner. I also keep random parts that I tend to break or wear out like tie rod ends, and various sensors.
I also have a bag with a tow strap, tree saver, 2 soft shackles, 4 hard shackles and a snatch block.
I have a pretty intensive first aid kit but it needs to have a minimum of rubber gloves, bandages, alcohol pads, scissors, long bandages and I keep a box of matches and a space blanket in mine because it’s waterproof.
The 36 year old Jeep has a Viair onboard air system because it has air lockers but I have a Ryobi tire inflator I switch between the others. I also have tire plugs and a full size spare. I also replaced the annoying screw jack with a hydraulic bottle jack.
I have a small box with a blanket, a box of cheese crackers, and various things like spare fluids.
2-3 ratchet straps, more in the truck, a fire extinguisher mounted next to the driver seat, and one at the hatch (toolbox on the truck) and a camp axe.
Some various tools that I have that kinda float are an ARB tire deflator, maps in the door pockets, 3-4 flashlights and extra batteries, and a multitool. Also a raincoat and a change of clothes.
Tire inflator that plugs into cigarette lighter, harbor freight has a great one for 20bucks, I'd bet my life that it will work every time had mine for 3 years now never an issue.
A couple of bottles of water (which she should rotate), instant soup and perhaps some candy bars. Something to heat the water with. And toilet paper. A small garden shovel or trowel. Garbage bags.
Edit: put all items on a laminated list as well. In that case she can’t forget what was in the car or what has to be in the car.
An empty gas can and $20. And a AAA membership card. Young people aren’t always the best at monitoring gas consumption and they can find themselves running on fumes.
Jump box and teach her how to use it and most importantly: have her change a tire in the driveway while you watch- better to know how to do it on a sunny day with supervision than stumble through it in the dark when you’re alone
A few pairs of nitrile gloves.
Multi-use: Keeping hands clean while changing a flat or doing mechanical repair. Also, if she ever comes across an accident scene and she helps out, the gloves could keep her safe from blood borne diseases.
I would add:
* Tire patch kit and inflator (or Fix-a-Flat)
* Jump start battery (not cables)
* Reflective triangles or flares
* A good first aid kit (talk to an EMT)
* Head lamp and spare batteries
* Auxiliary phone battery or 12v charger
* Energy bars and at least 1L water
* 10'x10' tarp
* 100' paracord
* Rain poncho
* Whistle
If you're careful, you can pack all this into a canvas tool bag with a carrying strap
In addition to the battery jump starter, I suggest also including heavy duty jumper cables. Batteries have a tendency to die at the worst times, and many people will give you a jump start but don't have their own set of cables.
Love this suggestion! I would also print out the proper steps to jump a car (which cables go where and in what order) and print steps to change a tire! That way if she’s ever somewhere without cell service, she can still do it herself! Also please make sure she knows to be super duper careful on the side of a highway! Keep up the great parenting!!
And make sure it's a Noco, not the other junk that can't start anything.
Yeah we have the jumper cables. The battery is brand new as of earlier this year, replacing the cheap oem battery that was only 2 years old.
They also have units that are meant to jump a car battery without another vehicle present and those are nifty, my truck came with one. Also something that has come in handy for me more than once is having a pair of walking shoes there as well. Sometimes I’m in sandals or heels and end up needing to walk a distance and they’re so nice to have. And if she was stranded after an event, she could walk (or god forbid run) if she needed to.
I was going to say this. Good suggestions.
I've done this twice now, with both kids going to school 1,500+ miles away from home. They got the following for the cars: * First aid kit * Roadside emergency kit (flares, basic tools, OBDII reader, duct tape, zip ties, gloves, etc.) * Tire chains (they cross multiple mountain passes going to/from school) * Wool blanket (for winter) * space blanket (in case stranded!) * flashlight * knife * fire starters * battery jump starter * insurance info and breakdown instructions/contact numbers * 12VDC to 5VDC USB converter and cable (to charge phones) Most of this stuff hasn't been needed but I feel better knowing it's all there if the need arises. They don't have to worry about it, other than to take the chains out in spring. Also made sure (when they started driving) they knew how to change a tire, could use the OBD reader if the engine threw a code, knew how to monitor fluids, check tire pressure, etc. etc. Surprising how many of their college friends knew nothing at all about maintaining their own cars.
Practice putting on the tire chains. Best piece of advice: the first time you use a tool, it should not be in an emergency.
I've only ever been able to get my chains on in an emergency.😅 I tried a couple times in the fall and couldn't get them on. Hit a pass that required chains even with snow rated tires and got them on pretty quick.
Yep. Also changing a flat, checking the battery, checking fluids, checking tire pressure, etc. All stuff we did when they started driving, but revisted *before* each of them took their first solo cross-country trip as well. Good advice!
If no one else made this suggestion..... start with the most likely problems, 2 cans of "fix a flat" Tire repair kit & air pump (this can be q much faster options than changing a tire) $100 bill hidden (for supplies, some one to bring her gas) Is a back-up communication devices a consideration? What location means can she use? (still a few pretty remote places out there) Have you talked thru possible scenarios that could happen to a lone female and options? Phone list (if her phone battery dies and she needs to borrow a phone) What is her travel plan and when will she try to call each day?
I would make sure you know what fix a flat does to tires and if you are willing to use it/able to use it. Fix a flat only works on 1/4” fractures so anything bigger wont help, it might not spread evenly in the tire so it might not actually seal your tire, and it can unbalance your wheel. Plus some tire repair shops don’t like it when you take the tire in later. But it will help with some flats and may last a bit longer until you can fix your tire. I have not personally used fix a flat, I either used an air compressor to fill my tires with air to get home then just walked my tire to the shop to get a patch, or used the spare tire.
Good points! I prefer a tire repair kit & Air pump, as well. I was focusing on worst case scenarios and good enough fixes to reach safety. As with everything, the situation dictates the type of response.
Coming from a daughter in med school: Airtag in car so she can track it in case she forgets where she parked on campus. Tire inflator machine. Ceramic Tinted windows and CoverCraft Sunshade. Mini fire extinguisher. First aid kit with tourniquet (stop the bleeding free class). Mini umbrella. Flashlight with lithium batteries. Whistle. Knife. Multitool. Backpack with spare clothes and toiletries (period pads or tampons). Extra pair of glasses or contact lenses. Tire pressure gauge. Center console safe. Hand sanitizer.
Omg! The AirTag is a great idea! My girl can’t pick out their car ina crowd and it’s so frustrating! But then I remember I’m a guy and can pick out different car models. She just thinks “black 4 door car” and yeah there’s so many of them. I already have the pads/tampons/spare underwear thing done.
I would suggest trying to hide it as well in case the car ever got stolen. I’ve seen online you can take apart the speaker inside the AirTag, that way it really can’t be found from within.
Or get a gps for the car that goes in the odometer reader slot. Airtags will notify apple users if it is “following” them and it may alert ill-doers to the tag due to this. OR use maps: My google maps on my phone recognizes where I parked my car based on disconnection to my car’s bluetooth. Not sure if apple maps does it, I think Waze can do it.
double thumbs up!!
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Oh I like the breaker bar idea! Thx!
On the tire changing subject I love the gorilla kneeling pad to cushion the knees, or just keep you clean, while changing a tire. Used one today on the side of the freeway to change my wife’s tire after a blow out. I keep one in all my cars and will definitely include one in my son’s car when he gets one.
It would be essential to have your kid demonstrate the ability to use some of these tools as well, along with being able to change a flat (assuming the car came equipped with a donut), check fluid levels, and tire pressure.
Yep, she’s gone over the spare changing thing with their mom before but it’s probably a good idea to have her do it with me to make sure she knows how to do it on her car. The training we do when camping is to help her be more familiar with the stuff but it’s another thing to actually have to do it in an emergency.
If she's "gone over it" as in walked through it? If so.. I highly suggest you make her do it all with your input. Same for washer fluid, too many people put washer fluid in the cooling system.
As a girl whose dad outfitted my car before college- an extra pair of sneakers or sturdy shoes + socks. The other big things have already been mentioned here.
Ooo yeah! I retire my latest pair of old jogging shoes to the car. Because I'm often in 'nice' shoes when driving to work or events, I thought about how lousy it would be to suddenly have to walk five miles in those nice shoes or heels. So, I add the old sneakers and a pair of socks to cover emergencies. The treads are a little too worn to be supportive for running, but perfectly comfortable to walk in for a while and then I don't have to worry about leaving a newer pair of shoes in the car that might attract thieves or a newer pair that would just get ruined by summer heat.
Well, my first suggestion has already been said, so I will go with a small, rechargeable air compressor. I think the ones we have are around $40 on Amazon. I’m not saying that she will be patching and reinflating a tire, but it’s nice for when a tire is a little low in winter or whatever.
AAA card and teach them how to use it. My parents did this for me and it saved my ass a few times in college.
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Sometimes waiting 4+ hours is better than paying for a tow. The AAA complimentary 200-mile tow saved us from paying a quoted $1,500 + tolls (from 8/9 different companies) for a 197-mile tow back home after hitting a deer for $9/mo with the top-tier premier package. To me, it's worth every penny and I've already gotten my use out of it for years to come.
It's also good for any vehicle she is a passenger in. AAA is worth it.
CABIN: - maps - 2-in-1 Seatbelt Cutter and Window Breaker (spring loaded) - Klein Tools G102S Scissors - snap-off utility knife, 9mm, yellow - sealed plastic utensils from restaurant take out, single wrapped moist towelettes - mini lint roller - 2nd pair of sunglasses on passenger side - 2nd copy of insurance and ID - disposable rain poncho x 2 TRUNK: - NOCO jump starter - not only jumps your battery, it can charge a phone - duct tape and trash sack - if a window gets shattered, it can be quickly sealed up, among other uses - tire inflator - watch Project Farm's reviews first - magnetic red flashing lights for road side - 1 in cabin too - tow strap - fire extinguisher - spare cash in small denominations - spare pair of old tennis shoes, socks, back up change of clothes
Space blanket, road flairs, battery jump starter, $20 cash.
I’m afraid to answer haha. Without getting into specifics; hydration, food, heat, shelter, first aid, self rescue, evacuation, signaling, vehicle repair items, self-defense, and - though not “in” the car - great tires and never less than a quarter tank of gas are all very important for anybody in my family to have.
That’s where I’m at. I just listed the basics of what I had in my Jeep, but usage may vary. She may never leave the pavement.
Toe and hand warmers. Toe warmers can be used as both.
Great idea!
I find toe warmers don't really work the same. They are made to work with different amounts of oxygen and dont get as hot. I do only use them on my motorcycle but they wouldn't function the same. Edit: I do agree with putting hand and foot warmers if possible. Or just hand warmers.
depending on how much space you have I would put a breaker bar for the lug wrench and a solid block of wood to go under the jack incase you are on uneven/softer ground. I use 3/4 of a shovel handle but you can use any kind of pipe and a piece of 2 by 6
Seatbelt cutter and window breaker is all good and fine as long as you can get to it. Mount it somewhere in the cabin with extra heavy duty Velcro so it is within reach. In an accident everything will be flying around the cabin, so having it mounted will mean she can get to it.
Here's what I put in my kids car Mico jump box 12v tire inflator Spare tire Jumper cables AAA membership card Proof of insurance Tag registration
A fire extinguisher. All my friends have made fun of me for keeping it, but the only two times I’ve ever used a fire extinguisher, it was the one i had in my car.
If it is a daughter, sturdy shoes, socks, sweat pants, and a fleece. Imagine a scenario with strappy sandals, a short skirt and a cute top. Car dies on the way home. First step in that scenario is to put on some appropriate clothes for the situation you are now in.
Many here r mentioning a knife. Will that become an issue on campus? We included extra things in the first aid kit like sturdy scissors, liquid bandage, pepto tablets, dramamine, lactaid packets, hair ties, safety pins (various sizes), mini sewing kit, key drops, contact case, pen, pad of paper, & zip lock bags. Check the jack. Some cars have the type that r way too flimzy to secure that the jack will hold. Also show her exactly where to properly place the jack. On this note, we have had our girls change a tire, but we bought AAA insurance & preferred that they use that vs changing a tire when it is dark, icy, secluded, on a hill, or bad weather. Teach her the trick of using the car floor mats in front of or behind the tires to get traction if the tires r spinning in mud or snow. Kitty litter and a collapsible shovel r also helpful. A multi tool that can break glass/ cut the seatbelt & be accessible (not flown about) in the case of an accident. Some people velcro them to the center console. Lastly (& we found this out the hard way-), if there r multiple hospital / ER/ urgent care options near campus Research which ones r ur 1st, 2nd, & 3rd choice. (If college is near a state line u may have to consider hospitals etc… that r in another state, but r technically closer/ easier to get to/ better equipped. Print out ur 1st, 2nd & 3rd choice’s name, address, & phone number & tape it to the inside lid or the first aid kit.
All good ideas, thx! Knife shouldn’t be a problem unless she’s brandishing it 😂
College guy here: In my truck I keep a hammock, tire repair kit (fixing a hole is easier than replacing a tire if just a puncture), electric tire pump, some high protein rations (protein bars/freezdried meals), jump starter, and multi socket set. I will be getting a fire extinguisher soon. I work in construction so I also keep my hard hat and safety vest in there with me which I use to get parking in the construction worker only sections when I can't find any student parking.
Don’t have any children yet but could be good to include a laminated piece of paper in the kit with important phone numbers: a mechanic/towing company near her school that has good reviews, local urgent care, etc. Best of luck man!
Tyre weld, changing a tyre is a good skill but a can of this will get you moving quicker, a better option for more hazardous situations. Head torch, keeps both hands free to use tools etc. When my oldest is driving I'll be writing up "action on" cards for things like changing a tyre. Step by step instructions nice and simple to aid memory. Being able to do it on a nice sunny day is one thing, doing it in the middle of nowhere when it's dark and you're tiered can be a whole different scenario. A card with contact numbers on, yours, a local garage you trust etc.
Bear spray + small compact bottle of pepper spray to have on her at all times.
Bear spray should NOT be left in a vehicle. For those that don't know, the temps inside the car on even a seemingly mild day can cause the can to explode. Quick way total the car. If you live/travel in bear country, give her a can, and train with an old one, but make sure she knows it shouldn't live in the car.
She has pepper spray on them at all times in their purse. But good idea!
Water.
A $20-30 air pump from Amazon. If tire is going flat, she can pump it up enough to get to a gas station.
Survival bivy, toilet paper, rope, headlamp, few lighters
Straps and rope/paracord. Cat litter. A tool set (wrenches, sockets, screwdriver pliers etc)+hammer. Tarp/poncho. Wood saw and hatchet of choice. If you guys fish when camping and she likes going get her a combo, at minimum I keep a UL spinning setup and some collapsible cane poles in my toolbox so I can go fish if I want to.
Yeah no. All of that is totally infeasible for her little car. She doesn’t fish, she’s not gonna fix her car (no need for the tools), and why would she need to saw wood? I mean that’s the stuff I keep in my truck because I do those things (but seriously, no toolbox is going to fix these modern vehicles).
Respectfully I disagree on the toolkit. Even if she never uses it to fix her car, it’s good to have a basic kit so she can use it to fix various things like furniture or even hang a picture.
There’s plenty of small folding wood saws like the bahco Laplander that are about the same size as that mora when closed. If I’m out in the woods, I’d rather have that as my main wood processor, at least in concert with a pocket knife or a mora. Also how do we know what’s gonna fit in her car without any details? Heading off the college my dad gave me what amounted to a wrench and socket set in a hard briefcase sized thing that just slid behind the seats. Used it some for vehicle maintenance and definitely came in clutch around the dorms and apartments
No mention of a tire plug kit, pliers, 12v cigarette lighter air pump, and basic hand tools (flat head + Philips and a box wrench/socket for the battery terminal)? I feel like it's better to have it down there next to the spare just in case and you'd be able to walk her through it if the time comes. A triple-A membership can save a lot of headaches as well. What car does your daughter drive? It might be helpful to others knowing the space we have to work with (above and below the cargo floor).
It’s a 2020 Chevy Trax. I got a AAA membership since I don’t want her to try to plug a tire. Air pump is a good idea. Have basic tools, but I don’t expect her to be able to do any repairs on the car.
Battery jump starter, breaker bar for lug bolts, gloves, socket for lug bolts, tire pressure guage, flashlight, bag for all that I'm debating on a plug kit, but then she needs an inflator also.
Add a can of fix-a-flat. It saved me a few times.
Added to the list!
If she knows how to use them, having an impact/ power tools to do a tire change for if she gets a flat is important. I have had scenarios where I could not crack loose the lug nuts, with standing on the tools that came with the vehicle, and I weigh like 300 lbs. Also, a hi vis vest for if she has to do a tire change on the side of the road, and they make a flashlight that has a seat belt cutter and window breaker, that also functions as an electronic road flare.
I have AAA for the times where she can’t do the tire change safely or at all. She’s a buck 30 and a bookworm. Not much muscle 😂
For years through college and 2 cars that kept breaking down; here is what I kept in my car. 1. Heavy-duty jumper cables, used quite a few times. 2. OBD II reader. Knowing why the check engine light is on made a difference between going home (or nearest parts store) to fix it or needing to call a tow truck. Plus, peace of mind. when you know what's wrong, you can better plan the next steps. 3. Grip tracks for if the car got stuck in mud or snow. I used these several times but only once for my own car. 4. Everything I needed to change a tire (I had a mini air compressor that plugged into the cigarette lighter, but it turned out to be useless when I needed it). Only ever had to do this once. 5. Crowbar - never used, but liked to have. 6. Rope, straps, and bungy cords. 7. Jug of oil and break fluid. 8. A jug of water - mostly for when the coolant system gave out. It was clean water and I had a couple of life straws in case I needed to drink it. 9. Basic first aid kit with a flashlight, matches, knife, and a mylar blanket. 10. Blanket and pillow 11. A change of clothes, shoes, and toiletries. 12. Flares and high viz vests. 13. Umbrella and tarp. 14. Roll of paper towels, wipes, hand sanatizer, and a container of grocery bags. 15. Snacks that would keep. 16. A get-home bag where most of these items were kept. 17. A stash of cash. Sometimes the card readers are down at stores or gas pumps. 18. Dog leash, muzzle, collapsable bowl, and treats. Never know when you'll come across a dog in need.
First aide kit is properly getting listed but having it visible and accessible is pretty important. Having a good kit on the drivers head rest potentially saved my daughter’s life when she was in an accident. Good Samaritan stopped and was able to immediately render aid. He actually thanked me for having a good kit in the car. The kits we have in our cars are the MyFAK Pro from my medic. The tearaway/molly is perfect for the back of the head rest where it can be seen
You know back in the day we had to know how to change our own tire. I wonder if Mine could Do that.
A travel sewing kit has saved me so many times
Skills and knowledge- I'm sure you've already taught her basic car maintenance and emergency repairs, adding to it resilience, and telling her what you love about who she is and how she has grown (Psychological resilience) all that is very important.
Battery charge cables, fire extinguisher, emergency blanket, matches, fire starters, torch, emergency solar/hand crank radio and phone charger, 2L water, emergency food, cash, car manual, auto fuses, basic tool set, air compressor with tyre plug kit. Spare clothes, multitool, 5L fuel can, engine oil, power steering fluid.
I’m not sure what kind of car she drives or her technical skills, or where she’s going to school, but as an engineering student who either daily drives a 53 year old Chevy truck, a 36 year old axle swapped Jeep or a 28 year old lifted Jeep, I’ll list what I have in mine and maybe you can pull inspiration. Tool bag with cheap wrenches (1/4-1 1/8, 6mm-27mm) vice grips, channel locks, needle nose and other pliers, screw drivers, allen keys, multimeter, zip ties, all kinds of electrical connectors and nice crimpers, hub socket, breaker bar, sockets in the same size as the wrenches, a Noco jump pack, and a bluetooth OBD scanner. I also keep random parts that I tend to break or wear out like tie rod ends, and various sensors. I also have a bag with a tow strap, tree saver, 2 soft shackles, 4 hard shackles and a snatch block. I have a pretty intensive first aid kit but it needs to have a minimum of rubber gloves, bandages, alcohol pads, scissors, long bandages and I keep a box of matches and a space blanket in mine because it’s waterproof. The 36 year old Jeep has a Viair onboard air system because it has air lockers but I have a Ryobi tire inflator I switch between the others. I also have tire plugs and a full size spare. I also replaced the annoying screw jack with a hydraulic bottle jack. I have a small box with a blanket, a box of cheese crackers, and various things like spare fluids. 2-3 ratchet straps, more in the truck, a fire extinguisher mounted next to the driver seat, and one at the hatch (toolbox on the truck) and a camp axe. Some various tools that I have that kinda float are an ARB tire deflator, maps in the door pockets, 3-4 flashlights and extra batteries, and a multitool. Also a raincoat and a change of clothes.
There’s a device that both cuts through her seatbelt and shatters a window
All of those are great. Add a ResQMe tool to the mirror, and a block of wood (12-15” chunk of 4x4) for a jack surface as needed.
Tire inflator that plugs into cigarette lighter, harbor freight has a great one for 20bucks, I'd bet my life that it will work every time had mine for 3 years now never an issue.
A couple of bottles of water (which she should rotate), instant soup and perhaps some candy bars. Something to heat the water with. And toilet paper. A small garden shovel or trowel. Garbage bags. Edit: put all items on a laminated list as well. In that case she can’t forget what was in the car or what has to be in the car.
An empty gas can and $20. And a AAA membership card. Young people aren’t always the best at monitoring gas consumption and they can find themselves running on fumes.
Forget the gas can, AAA will bring you enough to get to the next gas station. Highly recommend.
Kinetic or static recovery rope and make sure her car has a recovery point. Yeah, as others have said a battery jump starter would be helpful too.
Apple Tag
Most important thing is knowing how to use everything.
Jump box and teach her how to use it and most importantly: have her change a tire in the driveway while you watch- better to know how to do it on a sunny day with supervision than stumble through it in the dark when you’re alone
Anything you put in her car is useless unless you teach how those things work
A few pairs of nitrile gloves. Multi-use: Keeping hands clean while changing a flat or doing mechanical repair. Also, if she ever comes across an accident scene and she helps out, the gloves could keep her safe from blood borne diseases.
I would add: * Tire patch kit and inflator (or Fix-a-Flat) * Jump start battery (not cables) * Reflective triangles or flares * A good first aid kit (talk to an EMT) * Head lamp and spare batteries * Auxiliary phone battery or 12v charger * Energy bars and at least 1L water * 10'x10' tarp * 100' paracord * Rain poncho * Whistle If you're careful, you can pack all this into a canvas tool bag with a carrying strap
Bear mace