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Your car in winter: a kit that helps you get through a snowstorm on the road

Winter car kit: a practical guide

⏱ 2 min read

Blanket, shovel, power bank, fuel. A guide based on official advice. The same text is in the free SurvivalZone.app and works without internet.

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Several times each winter, drivers get stuck for hours on snowed-in roads or in queues after an accident. Without preparation that wait can become dangerous, especially for children and older people.

A winter kit fits into one bag in the boot.

A winter kit in the boot

  1. A blanket or sleeping bag for each passenger.
  2. A hat, gloves and warm socks.
  3. Water and snacks that do not freeze easily, such as bars and nuts.
  4. A power bank and a car charger.
  5. A torch, shovel, ice scraper and brush.
  6. A tow rope and jump leads.

Before you set off

  1. Check the forecast and traffic news. If a snowstorm is forecast, ask yourself whether the journey is necessary. Fill up before the tank is half empty and charge your phone fully. Tell someone your route and when you expect to arrive.

If you get stuck

  1. Stay in the car unless there is safe shelter close by. Run the engine for a few minutes now and then to warm up, and always check that the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow, because fumes can get inside.

A car ready for winter

  1. Winter or all-season tyres in good condition, a healthy battery and screenwash rated for frost. A weak battery usually fails in the coldest weather.

Checklist

  1. A blanket for every passenger
  2. Hat and gloves
  3. Water and snacks
  4. Power bank and charger
  5. Shovel, scraper, torch
  6. Tank at least half full
  7. Battery and tyres checked

See also

Frequently asked questions

What should I keep in my car in winter?

A blanket, warm clothes, water, snacks, a power bank, a torch, a shovel and an ice scraper. Keep the tank at least half full.

Is it safe to sit in a car with the engine running in a snowdrift?

Only briefly and when the exhaust pipe is clear of snow. Otherwise fumes with carbon monoxide can get into the car.

When should I leave the car in a snowstorm?

Usually it is safer to stay in the car. Leave only if there is safe shelter close by or another danger.

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Sources

Official sources are checked automatically every day. Last check: 2026-11-04.

General guidance only; it does not replace the emergency services. If a life is in danger, call 112.