Many people hit the road in winter to visit family, visit holiday attractions or events, enjoy the mild winter weather, or go sightseeing. However, even in mild weather or if you are only going on a short trip, you should make sure you have certain emergency items in your vehicle so that you are prepared. This is even more important if you are traveling to a higher elevation, such as the mountains, or entering a region with radically different weather, such as driving from Southern to Northern Arizona. Here is your ultimate car packing checklist for preparing for a winter road trip in Arizona.
Vehicle Safety Kit
You should always have safety gear in your vehicle, but there are certain things you should add to your kit if you are taking a road trip, especially in the winter. Some of the most crucial items to pack include:
- Snow chains or cables
- Sand or kitty litter
- A small shovel
- Jumper cables
- A basic toolkit that includes a multi-tool, lug wrench, and tire pressure gauge
- Spare tire
- Jack
- Vehicle fire extinguisher
- Ice scraper
- Snow brush
- Flares or markers
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Blankets or emergency blankets
- Hi-vis vests
- Winter-grade washer fluid
- Extra antifreeze and oil
Electronic and Tech Devices
If you’ll be on the road for more than two hours, you should also bring certain electronic and tech devices with you. Plan to pack:
- Extra phone chargers, including car chargers
- A power bank or solar charger
- Portable radio, emergency radio, or weather radio
- Solar flashlight or emergency flashlight
- Smart watch or wearable fitness device
- A satellite phone and/or walkie talkie if you are going into the mountains for more than a day
Important Documentation
You should also make sure that you have important documentation and records in a waterproof and/or fireproof case or bag in your vehicle. This includes:
- Vehicle registration and insurance paperwork
- Vehicle maintenance and/or repair records
- Vehicle manual
- Driver’s license
- Phone number for a local towing company like Barnett’s Towing
Personal and Comfort Items
For your safety and comfort, you should pack certain items that might come in handy if you get stuck in traffic or your car breaks down. Pack a bag with:
- Extra food, water, and snacks
- Allergy medication like Benadryl
- Sunscreen
- Prescription medication
- Bandages
- Anti-bacterial ointment
- Sunglasses
- Blankets
- Warm clothing, including coats, hats, gloves, socks, and boots
- Baby wipes
- Tissues
Navigation Aids
Finally, don’t rely solely on your vehicle or phone GPS system for navigation. Bring a paper map or print out driving instructions. You should also write down contact information for a local towing company and family or friends to call in an emergency, as well as contact information and driving directions to local hospitals, veterinarians, and auto repair shops.
If you are Googling, “towing companies near me in Arizona” because you have been in an accident or your vehicle is disabled while on a road trip, Barnett’s Towing can help. We are a reliable, trusted, 24/7 local towing company serving Tucson, Phoenix, Sierra Vista, Willcox, Benson, Casa Grande, Eloy, and the surrounding areas. Our experienced, friendly drivers will help you get safely to a repair shop as quickly as possible. Call us today at (800) 722-2302 or contact us online to schedule a tow.