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Tire sealant -

A shot of tire sealant can patch a leaky tire on the go. You can find it cheap at any shop where they sell stuff for cars, or online.

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Jumper cable -

A dead battery can take you by surprise, so make sure you got a jumper cable in the car. You could also pack an emergency battery booster, just in case.

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Owner's manual -

Make sure you always keep the owner's manual in your glove compartment. You never know when it might come in handy.

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A car-adapted phone charger -

Keeping a charger in your car is a must. This way you can always have it plugged while you drive, making sure your battery is fully charged.

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Blanket -

You'll not regret keeping a blanket in your car. It warms you up on a cool night, and it's a great picnic blanket for those summer outings.

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Gas can -

Sure, you can walk to the nearest gas station when you run out of gas, but then imagine getting the gas back to your car. What a hassle! If you have room, get a gas can for your car.

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Flashlight or mini-lantern -

Ever tried to change a tire in the dark? Or lost a small item under the seat? Your flashlight will save the day, so keep one at all times in your glove compartment.

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Snow shovel -

If you live somewhere where it snows, a shovel can come in handy on many occasions. You never know when you have to dig yourself out of your parking spot.

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Reflective triangles -

You're already having a bad day, so make sure that drivers can see you when you're pulled off to the side. You don't want to get hit while parked, especially if it happens to be dark.

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Duct tape -

From temporary auto repair to roadside first aid, duct tape is great for many things. It's a no-brainer to keep a roll in your car.

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Multi-tool -

A multi-tool is one of the most practical items you can have. It covers your bases on the most common stuff, and it's more space-efficient than any bulky toolbox.

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Tire pressure gauge -

A tire pressure gauge is great, as it will show you when you've added enough air to your tires. And while there are digital models on the market, a non-digital one is better, as it won't run out of battery.

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Tire changing supplies -

A spare tire, in good condition, along with a tire jack and tire iron, are probably the most important items in your car. If you've got these essentials, then you've got everything you need to change a tire should one go flat.

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First aid kit -

You never know when you're going to need a first aid kit, and when that time comes you'll be happy to have one at hand.

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Emergency food -

If you accidentally travel off the beaten path, it's a good idea to keep a few non-perishable, melt-proof, calorie-dense food items in the car. Energy bars, granola bars, and dried fruit are great options.

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Notebook and pen -

A classic notebook and pen can come in real handy to jot down directions when you're lost, or leave your contact and insurance info after a minor fender bender.

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Paper towels -

Paper towels can come in real handy when you need quick cleanup options. Imagine an emergency toilet break, or needing to wipe bugs off your windshield.

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Reusable tote bags -

Keeping reusable tote bags in your car is super convenient. Especially for those impromptu grocery store trips. Plus, you'll be doing the environment a favor.

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Comfortable walking shoes -

For anyone who wears heels, throw a pair of sneakers into your car trunk, just in case you have to hike somewhere for help.

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Printed maps -

Thick clouds, tall buildings, and mountains can all block a GPS signal, and your battery isn't going to last forever. Get some printed maps in the back seat in case technology fails you.

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A pair of work gloves -

Save your hands while you're wrestling with tire irons and hot engine parts. You're better off not touching these parts with bare hands.

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Windshield wiper fluid -

There's nothing worse than driving and getting your windows splashed with road slush, only to discover that you're out of wiper fluid. Get some backup ready!

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Umbrella -

There's nothing worse than getting caught in the rain unexpectedly. For your own comfort and convenience, keep an umbrella at all times in your car.

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Bucket -

Buckets can be used for several situations, such as to collect rain water or to be used as a temporary garbage can. It's an indispensable car item.

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Water bottles -

A couple of bottles of water can literally save your life when you're stranded and facing dehydration. Make sure the bottles can withstand both extreme heat and freezing conditions.

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Weather radio -

Imagine your phone is out of service, and your car radio is static, plus there's an incoming storm. At this moment, you need to pull out your weather radio. You'll be guaranteed to get the latest weather information and national security updates.

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Space blanket -

A space blanket can be of aid for several emergency situations. It can be used to keep warm in cold weather, to create sun shade when hot, and to catch rain for water supply.

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A solar phone charger -

If you're often on camping trips, dying batteries is a constant reality. But a solar phone charger can be a lifesaver in any emergency.

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Fire extinguisher -

Heaven forbid your engine ever catches fire. But for safety reasons, get a small, portable fire extinguisher. You can find plenty of cheap options on the market. 

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Ice scraper and snow brush -

Other items for people who suffer through snowy winters are an ice scraper and a snow brush. You can't go anywhere with frost covering your windows!

Sources: (Lifehacker) (CarBuzz)

See also: The pros and cons of buying an electric car

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