What’s in My Adventure-Ready Vehicle: Essentials for Every Season
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Warmer weather is on the horizon (finally!), and that means it’s time to make sure your car is adventure-ready! Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a solo road trip to your favorite forest road, having your vehicle stocked and prepped can make all the difference.
Since I usually travel solo, I’ve learned the hard way (and the smart way) that being extra-prepared helps me feel more relaxed and safe on the road. Here’s everything I like to keep in my car—especially in the winter months—to make sure I’m ready for whatever the weather (or the road) throws my way.
Vehicle Safety Essentials
Before I hit the road, I always double-check that I have the basics covered for staying safe in my vehicle. Here are my go-tos:
1. Chains
If you're traveling over mountain passes, tire chains are a must. Weather can change in the blink of an eye, and Washington State often requires chains—even issuing tickets if you don’t have them when needed. Your local Les Schwab or tire shop can help you pick the right ones. Bonus: Many places will refund unused chains at the end of the season! Pro tip: practice putting them on before you're in a blizzard.
2. First Aid Kit
Grab a basic one from Target or Amazon—something compact but stocked with the essentials. - Here’s one from Amazon
3. Emergency Flares or Safety Lights
I carry battery-powered flashing road flares that are magnetic, waterproof, and have a hook and stand. I haven’t needed them (thankfully), but knowing they’re there gives me peace of mind. - These one’s are my favorite and can easily be thrown in a backpack to take on the trail.
4. Ice Scraper + Snow Brush
I upgraded to one with a long handle and a brush—and wow, what a game-changer. Highly recommend it if you're tired of freezing your hands off. - I have one similar to this.
5. Insulated Work Gloves
Keep a pair in your car for installing chains or digging out your tires. Save your cute snow gloves for the slopes. - I wish I had an insulated pair like these!
6. Compact Shovel
If you’ve ever gotten stuck in snow, you know. A foldable shovel or a snow-scraper combo tool can be a total lifesaver. - You can get one in a kit like this or a stand-alone.
7. Portable Jump Starter
Cold weather can be brutal on car batteries. Having a portable jumper in the trunk has saved me and a few friends more than once. - It’s a bit of an investment but it’s worth it and has saved me several times!
Personal Essentials
Even if you're just heading out for the day, I like to keep these items in my car in case plans shift or the weather gets wild:
1. Rain Gear
I always keep a raincoat and rain pants in the trunk. Trust me, they’re worth the investment—especially in the Pacific Northwest, where even August can be soggy. - An rain poncho is inexpensive and staying dry in cold weather is worth it! Since I live in the Pacific Northwest I have a pair of rain pants and a raincoat that live in my car year-round.
2. Umbrella
Seattleites might side-eye this, but an umbrella comes in handy when it’s really pouring or when you forgot your jacket. Plus, it’s a great backup for unprepared friends. - I have a small one like this.
3. Ballcap
Sun or rain, this little guy pulls double duty and lives permanently in my car.
4. Extra Layers
A hoodie or fleece can be the difference between freezing and cozy.
5. Dry Socks
Always. Wet socks are the actual worst, and warm feet = a happy you.
6. Summer-Ready Extras
When the season switches, I like to keep a quick-dry towel, a swimsuit, sunscreen, floaties, and even my paddleboard in the car. If it’s there, I’m way more likely to use it. Pro Tip: I recommend investing in a paddleboard pump that plugs into your car. It’s a literal game-changer! I have this one and it’s worked great for several seasons.
7. Meds & Supplements
Whether you’re managing a health condition or just like having a backup, keep at least a day’s worth of medications in your glove box or day bag. It will give you peace of mind if you get stuck somewhere unexpectedly.
Gear I Don’t Leave Home Without
Some of these are seasonal, some are year-round staples, but they’re all tried-and-true additions that make road life easier:
1. Cozy Blanket
A backup blanket is always a good idea in case you need to warm up or wait out a delay. I use a Rumpl and it lives in my car all winter long. I’m big fan of the Rumpl blanket!
2. Restroom Kit
This might not be glamorous, but it’s so necessary—especially if you have IBS or other digestive conditions like I do. Mine lives in a dry bag and includes:
TP
Dog poop bags
Ziploc (for trash)
Tampons
Small shovel (for digging a cathole if needed)
Flashlight or headlamp - even during the day the pit toilets at trailheads can be dark!
Trailhead restrooms are not always open or serviced, and this kit has saved me more times than I can count.
3. Flashlight or Headlamp
Don’t rely on your phone’s flashlight—batteries die, especially in the cold. A rechargeable or battery-powered light is a smart backup.
4. Portable Battery Pack
For charging your phone or flashlight when your car can’t do the job. I always have one in my center console just in case.
Whether you’re exploring forest roads, chasing waterfalls, or just heading out for the day, a little extra prep goes a long way. You’ll be more comfortable, more confident—and way less likely to end up stuck in wet socks wishing you’d packed a backup.
Did I miss one of your favorite road trip must-haves? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking to upgrade my setup!
Happy trails and safe travels! 🚙🌲
