8 Handy Tools & Accessories You Should Keep In Your Car

Driving involves the excitement and skill of navigating unpredictable conditions. However, unforeseen issues can arise, so it's essential to be prepared. A responsible driver always keeps a kit ready for various situations. Are you one of those prepared drivers?

You’re not alone if you’re not. Surprisingly, only a small percentage of cars today have an emergency kit or even basic tools and supplies. We’re here to help. Here are some essential tools and gadgets you should keep in your car.

Tow Strap

A tow strap is essential. Whether you find yourself stuck in mud or sliding off a wet road, or if someone else needs a helping hand, a tow strap makes all the difference. Store a heavy-duty tow strap in your trunk, ideally one with hooks on both ends. Flat straps fold up compactly, perfect for easy storage.

LED Flashlight

Car troubles often strike when you least expect them, especially in the dark. Having a flashlight on hand is highly recommended, along with spare batteries, to light up your work area. An LED flashlight is your best option due to its low battery consumption and bright illumination.

Multi-tool

Keeping a compact multi-tool in your glove box is wise for various emergencies. Think of it as a Swiss Army knife, but more versatile and durable. Leatherman offers excellent tools featuring a knife, pliers, foldable screwdriver bits, files, and more.

Screwdriver Set

Screwdrivers serve a multitude of purposes. They can align bolt holes, pry apart stuck items, or puncture a pop can when the tab is broken. Having a set with flat, Phillips, and Robertson tips in common sizes is wise. Of course, they're also perfect for their primary function: loosening and tightening screws. Remember, "righty tighty, lefty loosey."

Common Wrenches

Manufacturing a car involves countless bolts and nuts, and you may occasionally need to tighten or remove one. It's wise to keep a set of metric and SAE wrenches in your trunk as part of your toolkit. Alternatively, to save space, consider a basic ratchet and socket set.

Jumper Cables

Dead batteries always seem to strike at the most inconvenient moments, and finding someone with booster cables is increasingly rare. Be a hero by keeping your own set neatly stored in the trunk.

Duct Tape

Unpredictable mishaps can happen at any time—a window may jam, or a seat cushion might tear. Duct tape offers a quick fix, at least temporarily. For a few dollars, a roll of classNameic silvery-grey duct tape can spare you a lot of frustration.

Tyre Inflator

Got a flat tyre? While fitting a spare is an option, many modern cars lack one due to attempts at reducing weight. In such cases, a tyre inflator pump or compressor can temporarily inflate the tyre until you reach a garage for proper repairs. Compact compressors are affordable and make excellent accessories for both personal use and gifting.