Winter emergency kit for your car

Before someone can drive on their own, they go through driving school, examinations, drivers license fees, high insurance costs and then they finally get behind the wheel. It can cost upwards of two to three times more to finally drive on your own in Germany as opposed to what it costs in America. It is no wonder, everything related to driving is taken very seriously.

As you drive around Germany, start to notice the little things that make driving a pleasure. Take the painted curbs around some curves for example. That is usually something reserved for professional racecar drivers, but it is commonplace in most dorfs (towns or villages). Notice on country roads that there are perfect markers with reflectors every 25 meters to guide you along the way at night. Although everyone likes to complain about all the construction (and there is lots of it!), the roads are extremely well maintained, especially the beloved Autobahn.

As the days get shorter and darker, the cold and wintry weather creeps closer and closer. It is easy to think that you would
never get stranded, but seeing someone standing behind the guard rails (as required by law!) on the side of the road is a fairly normal occurence. Having a winter emergency kit is standard practice in Germany and could save you from a cold and miserable extended period outside if your car breaks down or slides off the road due to snow and ice. We have listed a number of items below that can help you stay safe.

Once you’ve gathered all your items, pack them in an easy to grab container like a backpack, plastic container or crate and store it in your trunk. Make sure you organize your emergency kit so you know where each item is when you need it. Remember to replace expired or used items so your kit is ready to go with every trip.

Emergency Kit Necessities

• First aid kit: These are required in Germany, so make sure you have yours all year round. You can purchase a prepackaged first aid kit at gas stations, ADAC, supermarkets and car supply stores.
• Reflective vests: The law says you must have one vest for every passenger in the car. You need to have these in the car all year anyway, so pick some up next time you are at the gas station.
• Safety triangle: We are including this in the list even though you are supposed to have it all year. Double check to make sure you have this in your trunk (and avoid a ticket next time you get pulled over).
• Fire extinguisher: Although you may think this is overkill, keep in mind this is an emergency kit. You should hope to never use any of these supplies, yet everyday, people find themselves in situations they thought they wouldn’t. Make sure you purchase a small one that can be kept in your emergency kit.
• Flares: Some spare tire tools come with these so check before your purchase any.
• Jumper cables: Either in-clude traditional jumper cables that require another car, or a battery operated jumper cable pack handy for remote areas. It would be  terrible to be stuck with a dead battery.
• Ponchos and/or a tarp: In case you’re stuck in the rain or need to walk to the nearest shelter, ponchos or a tarp can protect you from precipitation.
• Flashlight and extra batteries: Large or small flashlight, make sure you stash extra batteries in your emergency kit.
• Water and non-perishable snacks: Keep bottles of water and non-perishable snacks like granola bars, crackers, dried fruit or energy bars for emergency snacks.
• Duct tape: It’s known for being
  the solution to everything. Keep a roll of it in your emergency kit.
• Utility tool: This could be as simple as a pocket knife.
• Tow rope: If you get stuck, being prepared with a two rope means any vehicle with enough towing power can get you out.
• Blanket: Keep a spare in your car for cold weather emergencies.

Emergency Kit Extras

• Cat litter: Keep this one in your trunk during the winter months. It’s great for creating traction between your tire and slick snow or ice.
• Cell phone charger: It’s best to try and charge your phone before leaving for a trip, but keep a spare phone charger in your car for times when your phone dies. A car battery should be able to get you enough to place a call  for help.