Ten Important Items to Keep in the Trunk of Your Car

What's in Your Trunk?

My father taught me early on to be prepared when on the road. He taught me basic car maintenance and repair, as well as a few things to keep in my car “in case of emergencies”. Over the years, I have added some things and removed some things, but there are a number of items that have a permanent residence in my car. By keeping these items in my car, I have saved time and money when an incident arises. It’s the “thinking ahead” of things I might need that has kept an unfortunate mishap from turning into a stressful disaster.

Below is a list of items I keep in the trunk (boot) of my car:

1. A blanket—my father placed an old wool army blanket in the trunk of my very first car. Every car I have owned since then has carried this blanket. It has been used to cover a picnic table, lay on the beach, line the trunk to transport plants and potting soil, kneel upon to change a tire, cushion an item secured outside the vehicle, and endless other uses. I eventually added a small quilt to wrap up in or let the children use to sleep with in the back seat as a cover or pillow. This is a must-have!

2. Several heavy duty garbage bags—these fold up very small but are very versatile. A plastic garbage bag can be a makeshift rain coat, keep your clothing off the wet ground when changing a tire, line the floor board to catch sand or mud, or to collect wet items. You may even need them for trash sometime!

3. Outside toys—I originally put this together as a back up for youth events. Sometimes the children would just need something to do or want something to play. I found this a convenient solution. I found a medium-size cotton bag I had at home. A small duffel or backpack would also work well. Inside the bag are a wiffle bat and balls, a couple of Frisbees, and a football. Other ideas might include a basketball or jump rope. This is one of the large items I keep in the trunk but for now, one I wouldn’t be without.