With school, after school activities, doctor appointments, grocery shopping and more, it sometimes feels as though I spend more time in the car than I do in my own home! And while having that time to spend with my child can be great, I have also learned that it pays to be prepared for (almost) anything that can happen! Below is a list of items every parent should keep in their car at all times. No matter how far you drive or where you live, it pays to keep this gear with you when you’re on the road!
1. Trash bin
If you have kids in your car, you have trash. Whether its notebook paper, paper napkins, an empty juice box or a piece of already-been-chewed bubble gum, it needs somewhere to go besides in between the seats and in the floor. Therefore it really pays to keep a small trashcan in your car. You can find trash cans made specifically for cars, or just find a small one and stick it in there. Keep in mind, small is the key word here. You want it to be useful, but small enough so you are forced to empty it regularly. After all, no one wants a half-eaten burger roasting in the hot car all day long.
2. Automobile Emergency/Maintenance Kit
Every car should have an emergency kit in it, even if you don’t have kids. While you can buy these kits pre-made, it is much cheaper to make one of your own. Some essentials include: a first aid kit, a blanket, flares/reflectors, a spare tire and tools to change it, an extra or emergency cell phone, a flashlight, a multi-tool such as a Swiss Army knife, water and non-perishable snacks. You can also look around online for all sorts of ideas of what one should include.
3. Spare clothes (especially undies)
Accidents happen, and kids get into all sorts of things. Be prepared for weather, spills, potty accidents and more by keeping a change of clothes for you and your children in a fun tote bag inside your trunk.
4. Blankets
Little kids get tired easily, especially when spending a lot of time riding around in the car. Car seats and booster seats often wind up doubling as a bed. A spare blanket can always come in handy, and it can be part of the emergency kit as well.
5. Snacks
For some reason, it always seems that the minute I pull out of the driveway my kids are complaining about being hungry. Whether on a long road trip or running errands, I always make sure to keep some non-perishable snacks handy. This helps save time, money and possibly even a headache!
Keep reading 14 Items Every Parent Should Keep in Their Car here.
Image courtesy Ben Francis via Flickr