Your basic roadside emergency kit is a good start, but winter weather demands extra gear. Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can turn a minor breakdown into a dangerous situation. This article covers what to add to your kit so you are prepared for freezing conditions, based on guidance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Ready.gov. You will find a checklist of winter-specific items, tips for staying warm, and advice on what to do if you get stranded.
Start with a Basic Kit
Before adding winter-specific supplies, make sure you have a solid foundation. A standard roadside emergency kit should include items for common breakdowns and minor emergencies. If you do not already have one, you can build it yourself or buy a pre-assembled set. Key basics include:
- Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
- Reflective triangles or flares
- First-aid kit
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Basic tool kit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
- Tire repair kit and portable air compressor
- Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
- Multi-tool or pocket knife
For a detailed breakdown of what goes into a complete roadside kit, see our Roadside Emergency Kit Checklist. Once you have those items, you can layer on the winter gear described below.
Snow and Ice Tools
Snow and ice can trap your vehicle or block your view. The right tools help you clear a path and keep your windows clean.
Ice Scraper and Snow Brush
An ice scraper with a stiff blade and a snow brush with a long handle are essential. Look for a scraper that fits comfortably in your hand and has a shape that lets you reach across the windshield. A brush with a foam grip or a telescoping handle can make clearing snow from the roof and hood easier. If you do not have one, pick up an ice scraper and snow brush before the first snowfall.
Small Shovel
A compact shovel, such as a folding military-style entrenching tool or a dedicated car shovel, lets you dig out your tires if you get stuck in snow. Choose one with a sturdy blade and a handle long enough to give you leverage. Keep it in the trunk or cargo area where it is easy to reach.
Windshield De-Icer
A spray bottle of windshield de-icer can quickly melt frost on glass. You can also make your own with rubbing alcohol and water, but a commercial product is convenient. Keep it in the cabin, not the trunk, so you can reach it even if the trunk lid is frozen shut.
Traction
When your tires spin on ice or packed snow, you need something to give them grip. Traction aids are lightweight and easy to store.
Traction Mats
Plastic or rubber traction mats are designed to be placed under your drive wheels. They have ridges and cleats that bite into snow and provide a surface for the tire to grab. Traction mats are reusable and take up little space. They work better than loose materials like sand or kitty litter because they stay in place.
Sand, Salt, or Kitty Litter
If you do not have traction mats, a bag of sand, rock salt, or non-clumping clay kitty litter can be sprinkled behind the tires for extra grip. These materials also add weight to the trunk, which can improve traction in a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. Keep the bag sealed to prevent moisture from freezing it into a solid block.
Comparison of Traction Aids
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Traction mats | Reusable, compact, reliable on ice | Higher upfront cost |
| Sand or kitty litter | Inexpensive, adds weight | Messy, can freeze, less effective on glare ice |
| Rock salt | Melts ice, adds weight | Can damage concrete or car paint, corrosive |
Staying Warm
If you are stuck in cold weather for hours, staying warm is your top priority. Hypothermia can set in quickly, even at temperatures above freezing if you are wet or windy.
Blankets and Warm Layers
Pack at least one thick blanket or sleeping bag per person in the car. Emergency blankets made of reflective Mylar are lightweight and take up almost no space, but they are not as warm as a wool or fleece blanket. A better approach is to keep a set of old winter clothes in the car: a heavy coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and extra socks. Layering is key.
Hand Warmers and Body Warmers
Disposable hand warmers, foot warmers, and larger body warmers use a chemical reaction to produce heat for several hours. They are inexpensive and safe to use inside a car. Keep a pack in the glove compartment or center console so they are easy to access without leaving the vehicle.
Fluids and Visibility
Winter driving demands extra attention to your vehicle’s fluids and your ability to see the road.
Extra Windshield Washer Fluid
Standard washer fluid can freeze in temperatures below 32°F. Use a fluid rated for at least -20°F. Carry an extra gallon in the trunk so you can refill the reservoir when it runs low. Slush and road salt spray will quickly coat your windshield, and you need plenty of fluid to keep it clear.
Antifreeze and Coolant
Check your engine coolant level before winter, and keep a premixed bottle of antifreeze in the car in case of a leak. Only open the radiator cap when the engine is cool. Follow the instructions in your vehicle owner’s manual for the correct type of coolant.
Ice Scraper and De-Icer
Already mentioned in the snow and ice tools section, but worth repeating: a good scraper and a can of de-icer spray are essential for clearing ice from windows and mirrors before you drive. Never pour hot water on a frozen windshield; it can crack the glass.
Power and Communication
When you are stranded, your phone is your lifeline. But cold drains batteries fast, and you may not have access to a charger.
Charged Phone and Power Bank
Keep your phone fully charged before any winter trip. A high-capacity power bank (10,000 mAh or more) can recharge a phone multiple times. Cold reduces battery capacity, so if you are stranded, keep the power bank and phone in an inside pocket where your body heat keeps them warmer. Also, keep a USB cable that fits your phone. For more on portable power, read our guide to Portable Jump Starters Explained.
Emergency Radio
A battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio lets you receive weather alerts and emergency broadcasts without relying on a cell signal. Some models also include a USB port for charging small devices.
Road Flares or LED Warning Lights
Winter days are short, and visibility can be poor in snow. LED road flares or reflective triangles help other drivers see your disabled vehicle from a distance. Place them a safe distance behind your car according to local laws.
If You Get Stranded
Being stuck in a snowstorm or on a remote road requires a specific set of actions. Follow these safety guidelines from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Ready.gov.
Stay with Your Vehicle
Your car provides shelter and makes you easier to find. Do not leave it unless you can see a building or help within easy walking distance. Walking in deep snow or extreme cold can lead to disorientation and hypothermia. NHTSA winter driving tips emphasize staying with the vehicle.
Keep the Exhaust Pipe Clear
Snow can block the exhaust pipe, causing carbon monoxide to back up into the cabin. After a snowfall, clear the pipe area by hand or with your shovel. Run the engine only occasionally — for about 10 minutes every hour — and keep a window cracked open on the side away from the wind to allow fresh air in. Ready.gov car safety also warns against running the engine in an enclosed space.
Make Yourself Visible
Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna or door handle. Turn on your hazard lights. If you have flares or reflective triangles, set them up behind the car. At night, the dome light uses very little battery and can help rescuers spot you.
Conserve Energy and Stay Warm
Use the blankets and warm layers you packed. Move your arms and legs periodically to keep blood flowing. Do not overexert yourself digging the car out if it is stuck deep; you can sweat, which will make you colder later. Eat high-calorie snacks like nuts or granola bars to keep your body producing heat. Drink water to stay hydrated, but avoid alcohol — it can lower your core body temperature.
For a full list of winter-specific supplies, see our overview of winter car emergency supplies.
FAQ
What is the most important item in a winter car emergency kit?
Warmth is the top priority. A heavy blanket or sleeping bag, plus extra winter clothing, can prevent hypothermia if you are stranded for hours. A power bank to keep your phone charged for calling for help is a close second.
Should I keep the kit in the trunk or the cabin?
Keep frequently used items like the ice scraper, phone charger, and hand warmers in the cabin. Bulkier items like blankets, shovel, and traction mats can go in the trunk, but make sure you can reach them without exiting the vehicle if needed.
How often should I check my winter kit?
At the start of each winter season, check that all items are present and in good condition. Replace expired hand warmers, test the power bank charge, and make sure the windshield washer fluid is rated for low temperatures. Also verify that your spare tire is inflated and your portable jump starter is charged.
Can I use cat litter as traction aid?
Yes, non-clumping clay cat litter can provide some grip on snow, but it is less effective on ice than sand or traction mats. It can also freeze into a clump if it gets wet. Traction mats are a more reliable option.
Building a winter car emergency kit does not have to be complicated. Start with the basics, then add the cold-weather items described here. A few simple supplies can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a dangerous situation. Check your kit at the beginning of each winter, and keep it stocked throughout the season. Safe travels.
