Winter Car Emergency Kits: What to Pack Before Snow
Pack traction aids, blankets, food, and warning markers now so a snowy breakdown stays safer.
A winter car emergency kit is a box or bag in your trunk that helps you wait safely if snow stops your car. Pack traction aids, warm clothes and blankets, water and snacks, plus a flashlight, jumper cables, and warning signals before the first snow. The goal is simple: stay warm, stay visible, and call for help if you get stuck.
Federal safety agencies list the same core items for every driver.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 05, 2026.
What tools help you move again or be seen?
Start with clearing and traction. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises a snow shovel, broom and ice scraper, plus sand or kitty litter for tire grip, jumper cables, a flashlight, and warning devices such as flares or emergency markers winter driving tips. AAA Colorado also lists non-clumping kitty litter, an ice scraper, snow brush and shovel, tire chains, winter-formula washer solvent, and extra fuses.
Ready.gov adds flares or a reflective triangle to its car-safety list.
- Keep a small shovel, brush, and scraper where you can reach them fast.
- Store sand or non-clumping kitty litter near the spare tire for traction.
- Add flares or a reflective triangle, a flashlight, and jumper cables.
What keeps you warm while you wait?
Pack layers for a long, cold wait. Ready.gov says drivers should keep warm clothes, blankets, and a full gas tank in winter. AAA Colorado also lists a blanket and extra clothes.
Keep the extra layers in a dry bag so they stay usable. A full tank lets you warm the car when help is delayed.
What food, water, and health items belong in the car?
Bring water and food you can eat cold. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises a car kit with water and snack food. It also recommends a first-aid kit with necessary medications and a pocket knife winter safety guidance.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also lists water, food, a first-aid kit including a tourniquet, necessary personal medicines, a cell phone and charger, and blankets. AAA Colorado lists a gallon jug of water and non-perishable food.
- Store bottled water and non-perishable snacks in a crush-proof container.
- Add a first-aid kit, personal medicines, and a pocket knife.
- Add a car cell-phone charger and keep the phone with you.
How do you maintain the kit and stay safe if stranded?
Check the kit twice a year. Ready.gov says every trunk kit should be checked every six months, with expired items replaced, because stored water and food can freeze, spoil, or burst in prolonged cold winter-ready checklist. If snow strands you, stay with the car.
The National Weather Service says remain in the vehicle where rescuers can find you rather than walking, since wind-driven snow quickly causes disorientation winter safety page. Replace expired food, check water, and refill washer solvent before the first freeze.