On snow days and winter roads, expecting the unexpected is the norm. But why let seasonal uncertainties weigh you down? There are many ways to prepare for a safe and comfortable journey, such as installing a dash cam before winter arrives or storing an extra blanket in your car. That way, you’ll thank yourself later for being prepared for an emergency or unforeseen event. While there are plenty of items you can stock in your car to make it winter-ready, we whittle it down to the most essential supplies. Here’s a list of what to keep in your car for winter.

Shovel, Ice Scrapers & Snow Brush

Ice scrapers and snow brushes are essential items that can help you and others stay safe, so have them in your car at all times. Even if it didn’t snow the night before, the weather can swiftly turn bad during the day, leaving you scrambling to scrape ice off your car sans the essential tools. Accumulated snow on cars not only obstructs the view but can also potentially fly off and injure other drivers. With these helpful tools in your car kit, you can easily scrape and clear snow when necessary and get back on the road without much worry.

A shovel is yet another must-have tool. Invest in a compact, collapsible shovel that doesn’t take up too much space, and use it to pave your way through a snow pile.

LED Flashers or Emergency Flares

This underrated item comes in handy on bad weather days with reduced visibility, or if you’re involved in a minor road mishap. LED flashers or hazard triangles inform other drivers of your vehicle’s troubles, advising them to move cautiously and avoid bumping into your vehicle. They also help you signal for help and assist paramedics or emergency responders in knowing your exact location.

Also, keep a couple of emergency flares in your car. These can be useful on long and lonely winter road trips, especially if you’re traveling at night. If your car slides off the road and you become stranded, emergency flares can notify nearby traffic patrollers and potentially save your life.

Portable Charger

Being stranded in your car on an empty road in the dead of winter, with a fast-dying phone sounds like a nightmare, right? With just a little planning, you can keep it from coming true. Always keep a portable charger in your vehicle. Bear in mind that if your car breaks down, you won’t be able to charge your phone with the car charger, so it’s ideal to have a portable backup that charges your phone on the go.

First-aid Kit

This one’s a no-brainer and recommended regardless of the season. Winter can bring about all sorts of road mishaps. You may need to act quickly and administer basic first aid to yourself or a loved one before emergency responders arrive. A first aid kit in your car can practically save your life, so keep one in your car right now!

Even if you have emergency supplies on hand, things might still go wrong on the road. If you’re involved in a road accident, call for medical help and seek the assistance of an accident attorney.