Roadside Emergency Kit

It’s always a good idea to stay prepared for the worst case scenario on the road. If you keep an few key tools on board at all times, you can get yourself out of the most common roadside trouble. Here are a few products we recommend keeping in your vehicle:

  • NOCO Portable jump box - even the best of us forget a light on from time to time, a portable jumper box can save you in a remote scenario and removes the need for flagging down a stranger to jump your vehicle (plus these things are way easier to store than jumper cables). If you want extra piece of mind, NOCO also makes this version with an air compressor to inflate your tires.

  • First aid kit - pretty self explanatory here. Better to have it and not need it.

  • Tire repair kit - hopefully when you get a flat you will be in a convenient area, but for $20 you can have the peace of mind that you will be able to temporarily fix a flat and get yourself to the nearest tire center.

  • Auto Repair tool kit - for those who want to be extra prepared. This is probably more than most vehicle owners need to have on board, but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.

  • For other products we like on the road, check out our Essentials List.

🧭 Pre-Trip Van Safety Checklist

Over the years, we’ve found the value in having a pre-trip routine checklist. It becomes muscle memory and helps alleviate that “oh no what did we forget” feeling as we pull out of the driveway. Peace of mind is earned through proper planning

Essentials:

✅ Full tank of fuel

✅ Charged power system / battery check

✅ First aid kit (check expiration dates)

✅ Extra water (at least 1 gal per person/day)

✅ Non-perishable snacks / emergency food

✅ Paper map or offline navigation app

✅ Phone charger + backup power bank

Weather Prep:

✅ Jug of wiper fluid (cold-weather rated if winter)

✅ Snow brush / ice scraper (winter)

✅ Tire chains (check local laws & passes)

✅ Shade cover / extra ventilation (summer)

Tools & Equipment:

✅ Tire pressure gauge + check spare

✅ Basic tool kit (wrenches, tape, zip ties)

✅ Leveling blocks (for sleeping + parking)

✅ Flashlight / headlamp with fresh batteries

✅ Duct tape (never underestimate it)

Interior & Gear:

✅ Test carbon monoxide detector

✅ Fire extinguisher (charged & accessible)

✅ Propane off (if driving)

✅ Lock all drawers + secure loose items

✅ Window covers / privacy curtains packed

Personal & Paperwork:

✅ Driver’s license + registration

✅ Proof of insurance

✅ Emergency contact info saved + printed

✅ Tell someone your route + ETA

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