What Should Stay in Your Car During Winter? 

Winter driving can be unpredictable. A normal commute can turn into a long wait because of snow, ice, traffic or a car that suddenly will not start. 

Keeping a few winter essentials in your car can make those situations easier to handle. The goal is not to pack your entire garage into the trunk. Instead, focus on practical items that can help with cold weather, minor car problems and unexpected delays. 

What Emergency Supplies Should You Keep in Your Car During Winter?

A basic roadside kit is a good starting point for winter driving. Keep commonly used emergency supplies together in a bag, bin or trunk organizer so you can find them quickly. 

Consider keeping: 

• Jumper cables or a portable jump starter 
• Flashlight with extra batteries 
• First-aid kit 
• Phone charging cable and portable power bank 
• Reflective warning triangles or roadside markers 
• Basic tool kit 
• Tire pressure gauge 
• Work gloves 

Check your kit at the beginning of winter and replace anything that is damaged, expired or no longer working. 

What Do You Need for Snow and Ice?

If you live somewhere that regularly gets snow, your winter car kit should include tools for clearing your vehicle and getting moving again. 

Keep an: 

• Ice scraper 
• Snow brush 
• Small or collapsible shovel 
• Bag of sand or non-clumping cat litter for added traction 
• Windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures 

Do not rely on your windshield wipers to remove heavy snow or thick ice. Clear your windows, mirrors, lights and roof before driving so you have better visibility and snow does not slide off your vehicle while you are on the road.

Should You Keep Warm Clothes in Your Car?

Keeping an extra layer in your car can be useful if you get stranded or have to spend longer outside than expected. 

Consider packing: 

• Warm gloves 
• Winter hat 
• Scarf 
• Extra socks 
• Sweatshirt or fleece 
• Blanket 

Choose older but still usable items rather than clothing you regularly need. Store everything together in a small bag or container so it stays organized in the trunk. 

Should You Keep Food and Water in Your Car During Winter?

A small amount of water and shelf-stable food can be useful for longer roadside delays, but extreme temperatures can affect both food and drink. 

Rather than leaving the same supplies in your trunk all season, check them regularly and replace them as needed. If severe winter weather is expected, you can also pack additional water and snacks before heading out. 

What Should You Check on Your Car Before Winter?

Your emergency kit is only part of preparing your car for colder weather. Basic maintenance can help reduce the chances of running into trouble in the first place. 

Before temperatures drop, check your: 

• Tires and tread depth 
• Tire pressure 
• Battery 
• Windshield wipers 
• Headlights and brake lights 
• Antifreeze and other fluids 
• Heater and defroster 

Cold weather can affect tire pressure and battery performance, so these are worth checking throughout the season rather than only once. 

What Should You Remove From Your Car During Winter?

Preparing your car for winter is also a good excuse to clean out the trunk. 

Remove anything you have been carrying around unnecessarily, including summer sports equipment, beach supplies, folding chairs or other seasonal gear you will not use for several months. Clearing that space makes room for the winter supplies you may actually need. 

If seasonal gear is taking up space at home once it comes out of your car, Public Storage offers storage unit options that can help you rotate belongings throughout the year. Storing off-season gear elsewhere can free up space in your garage, closets and trunk while keeping the things you currently use easier to reach. 

A little preparation can make winter driving less stressful. Keep the essentials in your car, remove the things you no longer need for the season and give your winter kit a quick check throughout the colder months.