Don’t set out on a road trip without stocking up on these useful accessories.
Sometimes it’s best to hope for the best but prepare for the worst, and setting off on a road trip is one of those times. Everything will be fine 99% of the time, but for that 1% it’s best to have what you need to get back on the road. Builders stocks a wide range of vehicle accessories that are so useful on a long journey.
Two essential items in the event of a breakdown are a high-visibility jacket and an emergency warning triangle. Both of these items help to keep you safe – make sure you put the triangle up at least 45 metres from your broken-down car for a timeous warning for other drivers.
If you have a little car DIY knowledge, you can make some car fixes quickly with just a few tools. Even if you aren’t that handy, having a toolbox in the car can be useful if a good Samaritan stops to give you some assistance. Don’t go overboard – a simple toolkit consisting of a set of pliers, side cutters, needle-nose pliers, screwdrivers and spanners will get most jobs done, while a torque wrench and a set of sockets are also extremely useful.
Most emergencies, even when it’s just changing a flat tyre, are dirty jobs, so it makes so much sense to keep a pair of work gloves in the spare-wheel compartment. This means you don’t have to dig around in the car for a wet wipe or use any water you have on you to clean your hands. Speaking of wet wipes and water – it’s a good idea to keep both in your car for those just-in-case moments, especially if you travel with pets, who will need a water break on the road.
Another essential item that should be left in the car permanently is a torch or headlight – make sure the batteries are charged or keep a spare set in the car. There are also some great options that charge from the car’s power outlet.
Perhaps the most common roadside emergency is dealing with a flat tyre. One option for getting going again is to simply replace the flat wheel with the spare. For this you need the jack and wheel spanner, both of which come with your vehicle. If you have a trailer or caravan, however, just check that you have the correct tools for those wheels too.
If your car’s tyre has a small puncture, it’s possible to fix the tyre and reinflate it quicker than changing the wheel. For this you need to carry a tyre repair kit and a small tyre inflator/mini compressor. Simply remove whatever caused the puncture, usually a nail, with pliers and then widen the puncture hole with the T-shaped reamer from the kit. Push a plug into the hole on the insertion tool and apply the supplied adhesive, then push the plug into the puncture, give it a twist and remove it, leaving the plug in the hole.
Use the mini compressor to reinflate the tyre and you can be on your way. A can of Tyre Weld can also be used for a temporary fix, but don’t forget to get the puncture properly repaired as soon as you can.
Other items that are a good idea to have in your vehicle permanently, to help yourself or another stranded motorist.
Jumper leads
A basic first-aid kit.
A tow rope, too, should be stashed in your car – they don’t take up much space and can save the day. They are available in different strengths and configurations, with loops or hooks – make sure the one you carry is strong enough to tow your vehicle. Only tow a car if you are comfortable to do so and be extremely careful.
Our final suggestion for your list of road trip essentials is a good set of rubber mats for your footwells, and perhaps even the boot. Some of them can be easily cut to size to fit your vehicle. These will keep your car in good condition and make it easier to clean after a trip.
A road trip begins way before you pull out of the driveway, so get organised in advance. You never know which of these items will come in handy and save your holiday! Builders stocks all of the above items as well as many other vehicle accessories, both in store and online.
Browse 1000’s of products available to you. Select your country to Shop Online.
