Print
Cooler autumn temperatures are a reminder that it's time to prepare your vehicle for the months ahead.
A well-stocked kit can make a significant difference if a breakdown leaves you stranded or facing a roadside nighttime emergency. What supplies should every driver carry to stay safe and comfortable while waiting for roadside assistance?
“No one plans for a roadside breakdown, but every driver should be prepared for one,” said Bruce Hoecker of Grand Collision Center.
“A properly stocked emergency kit contains the essentials you may need to stay warm, remain visible and safely manage the situation while waiting for roadside assistance.”
Hoecker has 30 years of experience as a roadside assistance specialist, responding to 100s of calls involving dead batteries, flat tires, engine failures and minor collisions.
Throughout his career, Hoeker has assisted drivers stranded on wet autumn roads and during everyday commutes when changing weather conditions make roadside emergencies even more challenging.
Hoecker recommends the following accessories for drivers to stay prepared this fall.
1. LED Emergency Flares or triangle
LED road flares with a weather-resistant design, multiple flashing modes and magnetic base provide the best visibility around a stranded vehicle.
If you frequently travel on highways or rural roads, consider carrying at least three LED emergency flares. Using multiple flares creates a larger warning zone which gives drivers more time to slow down or change lanes safely.
According to Hoecker, "For maximum visibility, place the LED flares10 to 60 feet behind your vehicle whenever it's safe to do so."
2. Reflective Safety Vest
Shorter daylight hours can make it harder for approaching drivers to see someone standing near a disabled vehicle.
"If you have to step outside your vehicle, being seen by other motorists is one of the most important safety precautions you can take," Hoecker said.
Choose a vest with fluorescent colors like yellow, orange or lime with reflective strips visible from multiple angles. Keep it within easy reach inside your vehicle so you can put it on before exiting your vehicle.
3. Waterproof LED Flashlight
A waterproof LED flashlight illuminates your surroundings if your vehicle stalls after dark.
Choose a flashlight with at least 300 lumens and a built-in stand that brightens the area around your vehicle without requiring you to hold it. A model with a side button also makes it easier to operate with gloved hands on chilly autumn evenings.
"The right LED flashlight is brighter, lasts longer and leaves your phone battery available for emergency calls," Hoecker said.
4. Emergency Thermal Blanket
An emergency thermal blanket retains body heat if you’re stranded on a chilly autumn evening. Compact and lightweight, it provides warmth while you wait for roadside assistance.
"You don't need freezing temperatures to become uncomfortable. A reflective emergency blanket keeps occupants warm during long roadside delays," Hoecker said.
Keep one thermal blanket in your vehicle for every passenger. Store the blankets in their original sealed packaging until needed. This protects them from moisture, dirt and accidental damage.
5. Rechargeable Battery Pack
A backup battery pack keeps your cellphone and other devices powered while you wait for roadside assistance.
Hoecker recommends power banks with 20,000 mAh that can recharge smartphones multiple times and keep mobile devices operating when you need them most.
Or consider a portable power station that supports multiple devices as well as plug types. Power stations offer enough charge to last for hours.
Pro Reminder: Cold temperatures can reduce battery pack performance. Ensure your power bank is always fully charged before you hit the road.
6. Rain Poncho
A lightweight poncho keeps you dry if you need to change a tire or wait for assistance in the rain.
Hoecker suggests choosing a waterproof poncho that folds into a compact carrying pouch for easy storage in an emergency kit. "That way you can retrieve it quickly without exposing your other emergency supplies to rain.”
He also recommends choosing a poncho with a hood and adjustable drawstring to keep rain out of your face, making it easier to be aware of your surroundings.
7. Disposable Hand Warmers
"Cold fingers can make it difficult to dial a phone, grip a flashlight or even zip up a jacket. A pair of hand warmers helps you stay comfortable,” said Hoecker.
When opened, these warm air-activated generate heat within minutes and can provide 8 to 10 hours of continuous warmth.
Keep several individually wrapped hand warmers in your emergency kit and replace them before they reach their expiration date. Store them in a dry location to keep them in good condition.
8. Emergency Whistle
If you've been stranded for an extended period, repeatedly shouting for help can quickly become exhausting.
"A whistle produces a louder and more consistent signal with much less effort," said Hoecker.
Choose a pealess whistle rated between 115 and 120 decibels. These higher-output models can be heard over traffic noise and even in adverse weather conditions.
Test the whistle outdoors to make sure it's loud enough to be heard. Keep it attached to your vehicle keys so it’s always within easy reach.
"Roadside assistance addresses the mechanical problem. However, a well-stocked emergency kit helps drivers manage everything that happens before help arrives," Hoecker said.
"Even a short wait can become uncomfortable or unsafe if you're unprepared, especially when rain, cold temperatures or poor visibility are part of the situation."
Copyright © 2026 by Sensible Driver. All rights reserved.