Prepare a winter car kit this season

If you’re driving in winter, chances are you’ll need a winter driving kit for your car.

With smartphones seemingly at our beck and call, we can often assume that we don’t need such preparations – but despite advancements in technology, don’t underestimate the benefits of having a well-equipped winter car kit on hand!

• So, what exactly should be included in this kit?

  A basic requirement is an ice scraper and de-icer.

  Whilst they may seem negligible, don’t underestimate these winter necessities. They can turn defrosting your car from a 45-minute task into as little as 15-minutes.

  And what good is a smartphone is its battery is dead?

  For this reason, make sure you always have an in-car phone charger waiting in the wings. Ensure you have the right lead, and the correct adaptor should your car not have a built-in USB port.

  When we’re hurtling along at 70mph with the hot air blowing or have a toasty heated seat to keep us warm, a thick winter jacket is probably the last thing on our minds. But it quickly becomes a vital tool in the event of a breakdown.

  Double down by keeping a blanket, gloves, spare jumper and hat in the boot so you can really cosy up should you find yourself stranded this winter.

  Whilst not the most fashionable accessory, high-vis clothing is essential – especially at this time of year when its dark and the glare from wet roads poses a danger to visibility. A high visibility vest could save your life, so make sure you keep one within easy reach should you need to exit the vehicle in the dark.

  Whether you’re driving in the winter or in the warmer months, this next one is a good year-rounder.

  Jump leads could be the key to getting you on your way sooner rather than later in case of a flat or dead battery – a problem especially common in the wintertime.

  Just like jump leads, you should always have a warning triangle available come rain or shine.

  These warn other motorists that your vehicle has broken down and alerts them to your presence. One should be placed 45 metres away from the vehicle at the front and back.

  Sunglasses are also a key component of your winter car kit.

  Just as the summer sun can be bright and dazzling, winter sun can be just as harsh - if not worse. So, keep those sunnies within arms distance so you can slide then on when needed.

  We’ve all felt that creeping panic as the needle or bar on our fuel gauge makes its way towards the dreaded ‘E’.

  Sometimes, a planned fuel stop just doesn’t go to plan. So, make sure you keep an empty jerry can in the boot so you can transport fuel to your vehicle easily.

• Handy Checklist

  To recap, here’s a handy list of all the items you need in your winter driving kit so you can tick them off as you pack them:

  • Ice scraper
  • De-icer
  • Phone charger and adaptor
  • Winter jacket
  • Blanket
  • Hat and gloves
  • High-vis clothing e.g. vest or jacket
  • Jump leads
  • Warning triangle (ideally 2)
  • Sunglasses
  • Empty fuel can

• And finally, make sure your car is winter-ready with a service.

  Why not trust SLM this winter: https://www.slm.co.uk/service-booking