TSR Wiki > Life > Motoring
So you've bought your first car and you're maybe wondering what things you want to take/keep in the car whether it's for emergencies, things you need on a daily basis or for those roads trips with your mates. Please remember that this list is just suggestions of items you might want to consider keeping in the car. Feel free to add anything.
Useful Items/Miscellaneous
- Maps (A-Z of local roads, general maps etc) or functional GPS handset
- Satnav (can't afford/hate the idea of satnavs? Go on Google Maps or The AA Route Planner then print the directions you need)
- Shoes for driving (ideally flat shoes that are not thick heeled, flimsy or sandals)
- Sunglasses (to prevent being blinded by the sun whilst driving)
- Gloves (for when its cold)
- Microfiber cloth (for wiping windows)
- Screenwash (+ water if concentrated)
- Ice scraper
- Can of de-icer
- Mobile Phone (useful for emergencies, you can buy a cheap phone for under £20)
- In car mobile phone/laptop/iPod charger (this will be a life saver for those whose phones always end up dead when they need it most)
- Bluetooth/hands free kit (for those who still hold their phones and talk whilst driving, shame on you)
- Security items (steering wheel lock etc)
- Spare change for parking
- Games (if you have kids)
- CDs/cassettes/iPod adapter (remember playing music or changing music/radio stations can be a distraction)
- Car freshener
- Pen/paper
- Car vacuum
- Disposable Camera (this means you can take photos of accidents/cars which can be vital evidence for insurance company, many will not accept digital cameras due to manipulatability)
Useful Items for Emergencies (Accidents/Breakdown)
- Roadside assistance card
- Documents (car manual, licence, registration docs, proof of insurance, MOT certificate, etc., but if you don't want to keep these in the car for security reasons and the police request these documents then bring the documents to the police station within 7 days after you've reported the accident)
- Food
- Drink
- Medication
- Warm clothes/hat/coat
- Blanket
- Torch with spare batteries
- Hazard triangle/flares
- Tow rope
- Jump leads
- Spark plugs
- Spare fuses
- Spare bulbs
- Zip ties
- Oil
- Fire extinguisher
- Spare tyre
- Foot pump with gauge
- Tyre foam (fixes small punctures)
- Wrenches (jack, lug torque etc)
- Handtools, e.g. screwdrivers, pliers, spanners, etc.
- Coolant hose repair kit
- High visibility jacket
- Shovel (to get rid of snow, etc.)
- Snow chains (winter)
- Disposable gloves
- First aid kit
- Disposable camera (if you are involved in an accident, you might need proof to give to your insurance company)
- A Jerry can of spare fuel
Documentation
It is recommended by various insurance companies that both DVLA registration documents, license counterpart and insurance conformation documents (and the like), are NOT kept in your vehicle. In case of theft, some documentation available to a car thief can be manipulated to transfer ownership away from you.
- Keep important vehicle documentation in a safe place in your home.
- If stopped by police, you legally have seven days in which to present requested documents at your local police station. Don't panic if you don't have this at the time!
- It is advised, however, to keep your driving license with you when out as it can be very useful if buying alcoholic beverages!
Remember
- Carrying lots of items will add to the weight of the car.
- Don't leave valuable items in the car, take them with you or keep them well hidden in the trunk (rather than the glove compartment) to prevent theft. Even going to extreme lengths as hiding satnav/mobile/ipod holders and wiping off marks left by the holders. Also hide chargers, cds, spare change (because there are losers in life who are that desperate for a quid or that JLS CD) etc.
- If you can, park your car on the driveway instead of on the street, if parking on the street, park in a well lit area. Invest in security locks or alarms to deter thieves.
- If you are a girl, don't leave any signs that the car is owned by a female. Stash heels or handbags in the boot or otherwise out of sight - it is a fact that doing this reduces the risk of being attacked in or near your car, especially at night.
