What’s stashed away in your car’s glove box? Though not all vehicles are equipped with them, most feature glove boxes that are conveniently located in front of the front passenger seat. Are you curious about what essentials you should keep on hand? Don’t worry because we’ve done the hard work. Here are 19 must-have items you should ensure are stocked in your glove box. If any are missing, it’s time to prioritize getting them ASAP for convenience and being roadside ready.
Seat Belt Cutter
Investing in a seat belt cutter, which is both affordable and compact, is a wise decision. This simple tool can be invaluable in emergencies, allowing you to quickly and safely cut through seat belts to free yourself or passengers in the event of an accident where traditional unbuckling may not be feasible. With its small size and minimal cost, adding a seat belt cutter to your glove box or emergency kit ensures you’re prepared for unforeseen accidents on the road.
Pepper Spray
While it might appear unconventional, keeping pepper spray in your glove compartment can offer security and protection. In unforeseen circumstances, such as being stranded in unfamiliar or unsafe areas, readily available pepper spray could deter or fend off threats, providing a layer of defense incase of potential robberies or worse. Recent data from The Hill indicates a concerning rise in reported carjackings of 8.1% in the U.S. between 2021 and 2022, with a significant portion involving assailants armed with weapons and resulting in injuries.
Gorilla Tape
Having Gorilla Tape on hand can make a significant difference in unforeseen roadside situations. It’s a must-have item that you should have to leave home with. Whether you notice something on your car is on the verge of falling off while you’re out and about, Gorilla Tape can rescue you. While it may not provide a permanent fix, it’s reliable enough to address the issue temporarily until you can adequately resolve it. Gorilla Tape is a versatile tool that offers peace of mind during unexpected automotive mishaps.
Tire Gauge
A tire gauge remains essential even with a tire pressure monitoring system in your vehicle. Improper tire pressure can lead to various problems, including premature tire wear, compromised handling, decreased fuel efficiency, and potentially catastrophic tire failure. It’s crucial to check your tire pressure regularly, ideally at least once a month or before embarking on long journeys. Avrek says tire-related accidents average around 33,000 annually, with approximately 2,000 attributed to tire blowouts.
Glass Breaker
Having a glass breaker in your glove compartment is essential for emergencies. In an accident that leaves you trapped in your vehicle with no means of opening the door, a glass breaker can be a lifesaver, allowing you to escape through the window. It’s advisable to store it alongside a seat belt cutter for quick accessibility during emergencies. As noted by Gambill Law Office and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, while vehicle submersions leading to fatalities are relatively rare, they can occur, particularly in states with abundant water bodies like North Carolina, Florida, and California. If you live near water, being prepared for such eventualities is prudent.
WD-40
Having a can of WD-40 in your glove compartment is a smart move. This versatile spray can come in handy for various tasks, such as silencing squeaky hinges, loosening stubborn lug nuts, clearing away pesky dead bugs, and rejuvenating dull headlights, among other uses. With its numerous applications, WD-40 is a valuable addition to your car’s emergency kit, ensuring you’re equipped to tackle various maintenance and repair needs while on the go.
Tire Repair Kit
Having a car tire repair kit can be a lifesaver in emergencies. Instead of being stranded on the side of the highway, relying on emergency blinkers, and calling for roadside assistance, you can quickly and easily repair a tire yourself. These kits are designed to be user-friendly, making it simple for anyone to use. Ensuring one is stashed in your glove compartment provides added peace of mind. It prepares you to handle unexpected tire issues with confidence.
Road Map and Compass
For many drivers, relying on either the in-dash GPS or the GPS on their smartphone is the norm for navigation. However, what if technology fails unexpectedly? It’s smart to have a backup plan, such as keeping a map and compass tucked away in your glove box. These traditional navigation tools can prove invaluable when digital devices are unavailable or malfunction. Being prepared with analog navigation options ensures you can find your way even in challenging circumstances.
Energy Bars
Having energy bars on hand can be a lifesaver in various roadside situations. Energy bars can come to the rescue if you find yourself stranded somewhere without access to food or need a quick and convenient snack during a long trip. Their compact size and long shelf life make them ideal for stashing in your glove box or keeping in your bag for emergencies or on-the-go munching. A supply of energy bars ensures you’re prepared for unexpected hunger pangs whenever they strike.
Car Jump Starter
While jumper cables may be too bulky for your glove box, a compact portable car jump starter, about the size of a smartphone, fits perfectly. With this handy device, you can quickly jump-start your vehicle without relying on assistance from other drivers. It’s a convenient solution for unexpected battery issues on the road, offering complete peace of mind and independence in handling common automotive challenges.
Vehicle Diagnostic Scanner
Regardless of your car maintenance and repair expertise, having a reliable car diagnostic scanner is a wise investment for your glove box. When your dashboard lights up with warning indicators signaling a potential issue, simply plug in the car diagnostic scanner to gain insights into the problem. This tool enables you to take proactive measures and make informed decisions, fostering responsible car ownership and ensuring your vehicle’s optimal performance on the road.
Emergency Contact Numbers
While it’s essential to have emergency contact numbers programmed into your cell phone, it’s wise to have them written down as well. Consider keeping an extra copy in your wallet for added convenience and accessibility. This ensures that even if your phone is inaccessible or out of battery, you can quickly access vital contact information in an emergency. It’s a simple precaution that can make a significant difference during unexpected situations.
Multi-Purpose Utility Tool
Having a multi-purpose utility tool on hand is a wise decision. You never know when you might require a tool that serves multiple functions, such as cutting with scissors, slicing with a knife, opening bottles with a bottle opener, or tightening screws with a screwdriver. Its versatility ensures you’re prepared for various situations that may arise while on the road or in other daily tasks. It’s a compact and practical solution to address multiple potential needs. Not just when your vehicle breaks down.
Medical Information
It’s crucial to have medical information readily available in case of emergencies. Take the time to jot down any medical conditions, medications, and allergies for each family member. This information can prove invaluable if you’re injured in an accident and unable to communicate these details yourself. Consider keeping this written documentation in your glove box or wallet, ensuring that first responders have access to vital medical information to provide you with the appropriate care in emergencies.
Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer has become a staple for many after the global pandemic. However, its usefulness has remained relatively high with time. It’s a brilliant idea to keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your glove box for quick and convenient use. Whether you’re stopping for lunch or need a hand cleaning solution while on the go, readily available hand sanitizer ensures you can maintain good hygiene wherever you are.
Flashlight
A flashlight can significantly ease the situation when traveling and needing to stop due to a flat tire or any other issue. Opt for a reliable, water-resistant flashlight and ensure spare batteries are readily available to keep the device operational when required. With proper illumination, you’ll be able to see what you’re doing, facilitating a smoother resolution to any roadside challenges that may arise during your journey.
Rain Poncho
Getting caught in a downpour without an umbrella can be a real hassle. A reusable rain poncho tucked away in your glove box can be a lifesaver. It provides reliable protection from heavy rain, ensuring you stay dry even when it’s pouring on cats, dogs, and all their little ones. Plus, keeping a rain poncho handy ensures you’re prepared for unexpected weather changes allowing you to change a tire or check your oil without getting too wet.
Pen and Paper
It’s crucial to have medical information readily available in case of emergencies. Take the time to jot down any medical conditions, medications, and allergies for each family member. This information can prove invaluable if you’re injured in an accident and unable to communicate these details yourself. Consider keeping this written documentation in your glove box or wallet, ensuring that first responders have access to vital medical information to provide you with the appropriate care in emergencies. Plus, if there is an accident and you need to record important details having a pen and paper is especially handy.
Emergency Flares
In case of a nighttime roadside emergency, it’s crucial to have emergency flares readily available in your glove box. Especially if you’re out in the country. These flares are vital to ensure visibility to other drivers, enhancing safety during precarious situations. Additionally, they prove invaluable when contacting a tow truck, aiding the driver in locating your vehicle swiftly and efficiently. Keeping emergency flares on hand provides peace of mind and enhances your preparedness for unexpected roadside incidents.
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