Stranded, cold and hungry along the highway is nowhere you’d want to be. A well-stocked emergency roadside kit could help you get back on the road quickly and safely. (And if you’re stuck, at least you’ll be stuck with a snack and a warm blanket.)

Pre-assembled kits are available to purchase, but you might want to assemble your own or customize a purchased kit. Consider including:

THE BASICS

• Cell phone and car charger, with a list of emergency numbers
• Fire extinguisher
• Two roadside flares
• Quart of oil
• Small first aid kit
• Flashlight
• Multipurpose tool or pocket knife
• Tire pressure gauge
• Tire inflator
• Duct tape
• Rags
• Your car’s manual
• Pen and paper
• Help sign