How to Stock Your 18-Wheeler’s Roadside Emergency Kit | West Coast Enterprises

Regardless of where you are driving or the weather conditions you may face, stocking your 18-wheeler with a roadside emergency kit is a smart choice. From getting stranded due to weather or getting stuck in hours-long traffic jams, there are a lot of situations where an emergency kit could come in handy if it is stocked with the right items.

Your emergency kit should live in your truck all the time, so you have it whenever you need it, but if you have items that could expire, such as food or medication, it is important to rotate these things out regularly. Below, we will take a look at some things you will definitely want to keep in your roadside emergency kit at all times!

What 18-Wheeler Drivers Should Stock in Their Roadside Emergency Kits

While roadside emergency kits can (and should) be personalized based on your needs, there are some things any driver will be wise to keep on hand in their cab.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong out there, so having a few key items can bring about great peace of mind and keep you safer in adverse conditions. These items include:

  • Sealed containers of water
  • Non-perishable foods and a can opener
  • Extra toilet paper and paper towels
  • A well-stocked first-aid kit
  • An emergency blanket
  • Hand and feet warmers
  • A reflective safety vest
  • Roadside flares and warning flags or cones
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • A map or atlas
  • Snow shovel and ice scraper
  • Tire pressure gauge
  • Jumper cables
  • An extra tarp

Additionally, if you have any four-legged driving companions, be sure to bring supplies for them, too! This can include extra kibble, any medication and items to keep them warm as well, in addition to their general items you pack for a typical journey.

While this is a great general guideline, it is important to consider your individual needs and the nature of your trip, as well. For example, if you know you will be driving in cold weather climates, it is a good idea to pack extra warm-weather clothes and even a portable heater just in case.

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