25 Essentials You Want in Your Vehicle Go Bag

Emergency & Survival Gear

1. First Aid Kit – Include bandages, antiseptics, gauze, gloves, and trauma shears
2. Multi-tool – A compact, durable tool with pliers, blades, screwdrivers, etc.
3. Flashlight – Preferably LED with extra batteries or rechargeable
4. Headlamp – For hands-free nighttime repairs or trail navigation
5. Emergency Blanket (Mylar) – Lightweight and retains body heat
6. High-visibility vest – If you’re walking or flagging down help
7. Work gloves – Protect your hands when clearing debris or changing a tire
8. Glass breaker & seatbelt cutter – A lifesaver in car crashes or submersion
9. Pepper spray or personal safety device – For self-defense if needed
10. Whistle – To signal for help

Vehicle-Specific Tools & Supplies

11. Jumper cables or battery jump starter
12. Tire repair kit or fix-a-flat can
13. Tow strap or rope
14. Duct tape – Temporary fixes for hoses, seams, or gear
15. Zip ties – Fast, versatile emergency fasteners
16. Basic tool kit – Screwdrivers, wrench, adjustable pliers, etc.

 Food & Hydration

17. Emergency rations or high-calorie snacks – Energy bars, trail mix, MREs
18. Water bottles or hydration pouches – At least 1–2 liters
19. Water purification tablets or straw – In case you need to refill on the go
20. Collapsible cup or small pot – For boiling water or prepping food

 Comfort & Hygiene

21. Toilet paper or tissues
22. Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
23. Basic toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
24. Extra pair of socks & undergarments
25. Poncho or rain gear – Stay dry in a downpour

Bonus Tips: How to Pack Your Go Bag

• Use a durable, weather-resistant backpack or duffel
• Store it in your trunk or cargo area—but keep a few items (like pepper spray or flashlight) in the glove box for quick access
• Rotate perishables (snacks, batteries, water) every 6 months
• Tailor your kit based on your local climate (cold-weather gear vs. sun protection)

Final Thought

You can’t control when a storm hits, a tire blows, or the grid goes down—but you can be ready for it. A well-stocked vehicle go bag is peace of mind in a backpack.

Build yours now, or better yet—download our ready-to-pack checklist and be road-ready in 30 minutes or less.

Stay safe. Stay ready. Stay ahead.