A summer drive out of DC can start off easy and still come with surprises. Maybe traffic backs up near Union Station. Maybe your battery acts up before you leave Capitol Hill. Maybe a tire pressure light pops on while you are heading toward Route 50, I-295, or the Beltway.
That is why it is smart to keep a simple road trip emergency kit in your car. You do not need a trunk full of tools. A few basic items can help you stay safer, more comfortable, and less stressed if something goes wrong.
Start with jumper cables or a portable jump starter. Summer heat can be hard on batteries, especially if your battery is older or your car mostly handles short city trips. If your car will not start in a parking lot, driveway, or garage, jumper cables can help get you moving. A portable jump starter is even better because you do not have to wait for someone else to help.
Bottled water is another must-have. Keep a few bottles in the car for you and your passengers. If you are stuck in traffic or waiting for help on a hot day, water makes a big difference. It can also be useful in some car emergencies, but always be careful around a hot engine. Never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot.
A flashlight is easy to forget until you really need one. If your car has trouble after dark, a flashlight can help you check a tire, look under the hood, or find something in your trunk. It is much better than draining your phone battery. Keep extra batteries in the kit too.
A portable tire inflator can also save you time. Tire pressure can change during hot weather, and potholes or city driving can make tire issues worse. If your tire pressure light comes on, an inflator can help you add air until you can get the tire checked. A tire pressure gauge is also a good glove box item.
Every car should have a basic first aid kit. Bandages, wipes, gauze, gloves, and pain reliever can help with small cuts, scrapes, headaches, or minor injuries while you are away from home.
Do not forget phone chargers. Keep one that plugs into your car, and consider carrying a backup power bank too. If you need directions, roadside assistance, or a way to contact family, your phone needs to stay charged.
Other helpful items include snacks, paper towels, hand sanitizer, gloves, a small towel, a blanket, a rain poncho, and reflective warning triangles. Reflective triangles are especially helpful if you ever need to pull over at night or in bad weather.
Before you leave town for a longer summer trip, it is also worth having your vehicle checked. Tires, brakes, fluids, battery, belts, hoses, lights, and air conditioning should all be ready before you add extra miles.
Planning a summer trip from DC? Stop by Ben Nielsen’s 10th Street Automotive before you go. Our team can check your tires, battery, fluids, brakes, and A/C so your car is ready for the drive. Call us at (202) 544-1110 or book now online.