Cleveland or bust! Kenyon Noble’s Ohio native is preparing to make the drive home to see family for Christmas, and is preparing for the worst. After last year’s subzero snowstorm, she’s a firm believer in the phrase “better to have it and not need it!” Keep reading to see what she plans to take along for the ride this Christmas.
One tote to hold it all
This Rubbermaid ActionPacker Tote is the perfect container to house all your emergency supplies. Being virtually indestructible, not too big, and weather resistant, this 8-gallon tote is great for stowing in your trunk or even strapped to your roof rack on dry-ish trips.
1. Blanket
Especially during the winter months, having an emergency blanket is a must-have. This model is available for less than $10, is wind and waterproof, and doesn’t take up much real estate in your kit. The Klymit blanket pictured here is one that she uses for camping, has hand and feet pockets, and packs down into a small carrying case (2lbs weight total). It’s a camping staple for her little family, dog included!
2. Multitool
Multitools come in many shapes, sizes, and functions. This is one that she’s kept in her car for years, and has come in handy more than once. This Coast model has a little bit of everything for less than $30!
3. Gloves, hat, and handwarmers
We don’t need to go into detail on why these are important. Make sure to have an extra pair of gloves, a hat, and handwarmers for everyone in your travel party. Pictured here are both disposable and rechargeable handwarmers, the latter also doubling as a power bank for emergency cell phone charging!
4. First aid kit
Your car may come with one of these if you have a newer model, but it’s good practice to evaluate and restock any expired supplies regularly. If you don’t have one, you can get a basic starter kit for less than $15.
5. Flashlight(s)
You never know when you’ll need a flashlight — changing a tire, walking to a gas station, checking under the hood. Don’t get left in the dark and make sure to keep a fully charged flashlight in your car at all times (and extra batteries!)
6. Lighter or matches, fire starter
Worst case scenario: you’re stranded, out of gas, and have no way to stay warm. A lighter and matches will take up very minimal space but allow you to light foraged materials for a source of heat. Pictured here is a fire starting kit from Blackbeard Fire, but you can also use this Fatwood version along with your matches or lighter.
7. Tire pressure gauge
Don’t rely on gas station air pump gauges (if you can even find one) and keep a tire pressure gauge in your glovebox. PRO-TIP: Take things to the next level with a portable tire inflator — something that is worth every penny in this area (off-roading mishaps, bike tires, river floats, paddleboards, etc).
8. Tow straps
Sometimes we find ourselves stuck in a rut (quite literally). Keeping tow straps on hand, as well as knowing WHERE to attach them (check your owner’s manual pretty please), can be the key to getting out of a sticky situation. (not pictured)
9. Booster cables
You never know when you (or someone else) is going to need a jump start, so be prepared by keeping booster cables in your kit. Make sure to review the proper way to jump start a car before attempting, as improper technique can damage your car’s electrical and computer systems (not covered by most warranties). (not pictured)
10. Water & snacks
Store a couple of bottles of water for every person (and pet!) traveling with you along with some non-perishable snacks like nuts, jerky, and protein bars. These are things you want to check on monthly to make sure nothing has expired. (not pictured)
11. Windshield washer fluid
Have you ever gotten stuck driving and you suddenly run out of windshield washer fluid? Talk about zero visibility! Make sure to check the levels of all your vehicle’s fluids before you hit the road, and have a small bottle on hand as a backup. PRO-TIP: you can use windshield washer fluid as an emergency de-icer in a pinch (think frozen locks or to soften icy buildup around your doors). (not pictured)
12. Kitty Litter
Soak up additional water and add grip by spreading non-clumping kitty litter under your tires. This may not work in super deep snow, but could be the extra little “oomph” you need to escape a slippery situation. (not pictured)
13. Shovel
Nobody plans to slide off the road into a snowbank, but when it happens, it’s likely you have to dig yourself out. A collapsible shovel is a priceless item to keep in your car for this exact scenario, should you ever need it. Who knows — you may never need it, but you might be able to help someone out who’s taken a slippery little detour. (not pictured)
Additional must-haves for a cross-country winter trip:
Snow chains
Everyone's "Oh Crap" Kit is going to look a little different, and is likely to evolve over time depending on family needs and travel destinations. We hope that this list has been a good starting point, and encourage you to customize your own kit to fit your needs and travel plans. Wishing you all safe travels this holiday season, and a wonderful New Year!
While do-it-yourself projects can be fun and fulfilling, there is always a potential for personal injury or property damage. We strongly suggest that any project beyond your abilities be left to licensed professionals such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. Any action you take upon the information on this website is strictly at your own risk, and we assume no responsibility or liability for the contents of this article.