Most UK drivers carry absolutely nothing in their car to deal with an emergency. Then something happens, and the absence of a £15 torch or a pair of jump leads makes a bad situation significantly worse. Here’s a practical list of what you should have in your boot.
The Non-Negotiables
Warning triangle. Required by law in many European countries, sensible anywhere. Place it 45 metres behind your car on a standard road to warn approaching drivers. Do not use on a motorway hard shoulder.
Hi-vis vest. Dramatically increases your visibility to other drivers if you have to exit the vehicle at the roadside. Reflective tape makes a huge difference in headlights.
Torch. A flat battery or a breakdown at night without a torch is significantly more difficult. A decent LED torch lasts for years. The torch on your phone works too, but it drains the battery.
Jump leads or a portable jump starter. Jump leads require a second vehicle. A portable jump starter (lithium battery pack with clamps) is better — it works independently and fits in a glovebox. You can buy one for around £40 and it will work for years.
Spare tyre, jack and wheel brace. Or at minimum, a tyre inflation kit if your car doesn’t come with a spare. Know where these are and whether they’re in usable condition.
Highly Recommended
Phone charger cable and power bank. A dead phone when you’ve broken down is a nightmarish scenario. A power bank is cheap and could genuinely rescue you.
Water. Both for the radiator (always carry a 2-litre bottle — never add cold water to a hot engine though) and for yourself on longer journeys.
Blanket. If you break down in winter and have to wait, particularly at night, warmth matters. A compact emergency foil blanket takes up almost no space.
First aid kit. A basic one for cuts, burns and shock response. Many drivers carry these for legal travel through France and Spain, and they’re worth having on UK roads too.
Tow rope. For getting yourself or someone else out of a mild situation — a car stuck in mud, for example. Not for road towing (this requires proper equipment and expertise).
Seasonal Additions
In winter, add a scraper and de-icer, a small shovel (for getting out of snow), and some grit or old carpet offcuts for traction if stuck.
In summer on long journeys, extra water and sunscreen for children who may be outside the car if you stop.
Storing It All
Keep the kit in a bag or box in the boot. Check it every six months — torch batteries die, jump starters need occasional top-up charging, and tyre inflation kits have expiry dates.
The cost of putting this together is probably £60–£100 total. The peace of mind is worth considerably more.
*Even the best-prepared drivers sometimes need professional recovery. When that moment comes, call Jam’s on 07369 205 703. We cover Milton Keynes and surrounding areas 24/7.*
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