Concluding the travel hardware we carry is the emergency kit. It’s contained in a green plastic tub in the trunk. At a minimum, I recommend “flares,” jumper cables, and compressor.
First needs. Reflective vest, work gloves, head lamp, goggles, LED “flares.”
Tools. Hammer, pliers, garbage bags, duct tape (Gorilla), small camp shovel, scissors.
Jump Starter. Yes, we have AAA. And jumper cables. But this is the backup. Actually wondered if it was powerful enough to start the minivan’s 6-cylinder engine. A week ago I confirmed that it was powerful enough as battery died in Home Depot parking lot. It also can charge phones and more through two USB ports. We used that feature during the Hurricane Beryl black out (6 days of no power). It can be charged from AC outlet. The one we picked is no longer available, but there are many to choose from.
Weather Radio. A new addition is a weather radio. It scans the government weather frequencies and alarms if an alert is found. It has a big battery and can be charged via AC outlet or with hand crank. Has a built-in flashlight. Also has USB ports for charging phones. It stays home until we travel.
Compressor. I’ve used this to top off low tire pressure. It’s powered from the cigarette lighter.
Survival gear. Collapsible backpack, solar charger (large with no battery), LifeStraw, insect repellant, Steripen, survival matches, rope (50ft), lantern, camelback.
Other. Windshield Wonder for cleaning inside of windshield, walkie talkies (rechargeable or battery powered), tent pegs, extra AA and AAA batteries. We’ve used the walkie talkies when we were out of cell phone range and using two cars.
I know most people don’t need all this stuff, but it’s stuff we’ve seen a need for and accumulated over the years of traveling.