Winter Emergency Kit Checklist
Prepare for severe weather with this comprehensive winter emergency kit checklist. Ensure your vehicle is stocked with life-saving essentials for cold-weather travel and breakdowns.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
Winter driving presents unique challenges that require more than just a well-maintained engine. An emergency kit is a proactive measure to handle mechanical failures, accidents, or being trapped by sudden blizzards. This guide helps you assemble a kit that addresses both vehicle recovery and human survival.
Assembling this kit typically takes 30–60 minutes if you have the supplies on hand, or a few hours if you need to shop for specific safety gear. While most items are DIY-friendly, ensure you know how to use tools like jumper cables or traction mats before an emergency occurs.
Printable Checklist
A clean, scannable checklist view. (You can export/print from the sidebar.)
| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ice Scraper & Snow Brush | Required | DIY | 1 min | Sturdy handle; no cracks in blade | Replace with heavy-duty model |
| Jumper Cables (10+ ft) | Required | DIY | 5 min | No frayed wires; clamps are tight | Purchase 4-gauge or thicker cables |
| Flashlight & Extra Batteries | Required | DIY | 2 min | Bright beam; batteries are fresh | Replace batteries; upgrade to LED |
| First Aid Kit | Required | DIY | 5 min | Seals intact; no expired meds | Restock bandages and antiseptic |
| Blankets or Sleeping Bag | Required | DIY | 1 min | Clean; dry; rated for low temps | Wash or replace with Mylar blankets |
| Portable Phone Power Bank | Required | DIY | 1 min | Holds 100% charge; cables included | Recharge or replace battery pack |
| Collapsible Snow Shovel | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Locks securely; no rust on blade | Lubricate joints or replace |
| Traction Mats or Sand | Recommended | DIY | 1 min | Bag is sealed; mats are not brittle | Reseal bag; check for UV damage |
| Reflective Triangles/Flares | Required | DIY | 3 min | Flares are dry; triangles stand upright | Replace expired flares |
| Bottled Water (Plastic) | Required | DIY | 1 min | Unopened; leave room for expansion | Replace every 6 months |
| Non-perishable Snacks | Required | DIY | 1 min | High calorie; within expiration date | Rotate stock with fresh items |
| Heavy Work Gloves | Recommended | DIY | 1 min | No holes; insulated for cold | Replace with leather or thermal |
| Multi-tool or Basic Toolkit | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Blades sharp; hinges move freely | Clean and oil moving parts |
| Extra Warm Clothing | Required | DIY | 2 min | Hat, socks, and gloves included | Pack a dedicated 'emergency' set |
| Windshield Washer Fluid | Required | DIY | 2 min | Rated for -20°F or lower | Drain summer fluid; refill winter |
| Tow Strap (Rated 5000lb+) | Optional | DIY | 2 min | No fraying or cuts in webbing | Replace if damaged or worn |
| Whistle (Emergency) | Recommended | DIY | 1 min | Audible from 50+ yards | Keep in glove box or kit |
| Fire Extinguisher (Small) | Optional | DIY | 2 min | Pressure gauge in the green | Professional recharge or replace |
Use this table to audit your vehicle at the start of every winter season. Check off each item as you place it in your storage container. We recommend reviewing the contents again mid-season to ensure batteries are still charged and food hasn't been eaten.
Keep the most critical items, like the flashlight and phone charger, in the glove box or center console for immediate access. Larger items like the shovel and traction mats should be secured in the trunk to prevent them from becoming projectiles in the event of a sudden stop.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Maintaining your emergency kit is just as important as having one. Follow these tips to ensure your gear is ready when you need it most.
- Keep a log of when you last checked battery levels and food expiration dates.
- Dispose of old flares at a local fire department or hazardous waste facility.
- Reset your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) after adjusting for cold weather.
- Common finding: Flashlight batteries often leak if left in the device for years; store them separately.
- Check that your spare tire jack and lug wrench are present and functional.
- Include a small roll of duct tape and zip ties for temporary repairs.
- Keep a physical copy of your insurance and roadside assistance numbers in the kit.
- If you have an EV, consider a portable Level 1 charger if you'll be near outlets.
- Browse similar checklists like our Maintenance or Winter guides for more tips.
- Always tell someone your route and expected arrival time before heading into a storm.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.