Car winter kit checklist
DRAFT: This checklist is waiting for review. Figures and wording may change before launch.
A few simple things in the boot can make a winter journey much more comfortable if you are delayed or break down. Most of them you probably already own. Tick off each item, and check the kit at the start of each winter.
Tips
- Keep everything together in a bag or box so it does not roll around.
- Swap the water and snacks every few months.
Keep in the car
- Blanket
- Warm clothes, hat and gloves
- Boots
- Phone charging cable One that fits your car's socket
- Torch and spare batteries
- Ice scraper
- De-icer
- Bottled water
- Snacks that keep
- First aid kit
- High-visibility (high-vis) vest
- Shovel A small folding one fits in most boots
- Screen wash
Before you set off
- Check fuel before long journeys
- Check the weather forecast and any warnings The Met Office publishes weather warnings
- Clear all snow and ice from windows, lights and roof
- Top up screen wash
- Charge your phone
- Tell someone your route and when you expect to arrive
- Take any medication you need for the journey
If you get stuck
- Call 999 in an emergency
- Wear your high-visibility vest if you get out of the car
- Keep warm with your blanket and extra layers
- If you run the engine for heat, keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow
From emergencyprepared.co.uk/checklists/car-winter-kit/. Not an official government checklist.
Email me a copy
We will send this checklist to your email address once. We do not keep your address unless you also choose to get kit reminders.
Want the reasons behind each item? Read the guide: Car winter emergency kit checklist.