Your car is more than just a way to get from A to B—it’s also a small mobile safety zone. Emergencies can happen anytime: breakdowns, bad weather, minor accidents, or unexpected delays. In Germany, where roads, weather, and traffic conditions vary widely, being prepared is not just smart—it’s essential. In this article, we’ll share the top 10 things every driver should keep in their car, with practical tips, real examples, and weather-related advice to make your journeys safer and smoother.
A first aid kit is the most essential item in your car. Accidents happen, and being prepared can save lives.
What to include: Bandages, plasters, and gauze, Antiseptic wipes, Pain relief medication, Safety gloves.
Example: During a summer road trip in Bavaria, a driver’s passenger cut their hand while loading luggage. A first aid kit made it easy to treat the wound until professional help arrived.
Tip for Germany: German law requires all cars to have a first aid kit on board, so make sure yours is complete and up to date.
A warning triangle is mandatory in Germany and is crucial if your car breaks down or you’re involved in an accident.
Why it’s important: Alerts other drivers, especially in low visibility conditions like fog, rain, or storms. Prevents secondary accidents.
Example: On the Autobahn near Hamburg, a driver used their warning triangle during a sudden hailstorm. It helped prevent a multi-car collision while waiting for the tow truck.
A reflective vest is legally required in Germany and should be easily accessible—not buried in the trunk.
Why it matters: Increases visibility if you step out of your car on the road. Especially important during night driving, fog, or heavy rain.
Tip: Keep one vest per passenger in the glove compartment.
A flat tire can ruin your day if you’re unprepared. Having a spare tire (or a tire repair kit) is essential.
What to include: Spare tire, Car jack, Lug wrench, Tire inflator or sealant.
Example: In Rhineland-Palatinate, a driver got a flat tire on a rainy morning. The spare tire and jack in their car allowed them to replace it safely and continue their journey.
Tip for weather: Cold temperatures can make tire changes harder—wear gloves and keep a small flashlight in your toolkit.
A flashlight is invaluable, especially if your car breaks down at night or during a storm.
Why it’s useful: Helps inspect tires, engine, or car damage. Makes you visible to other drivers.
Tip: Keep extra batteries and consider a rechargeable LED flashlight.
Example: During a foggy night in Munich, a driver used a flashlight to check their car engine and signal for help safely.
Unexpected delays are common, especially in Germany during storm warnings or heavy traffic on the Autobahn.
Why it matters: Keeps you hydrated and energized. Helps if you’re stuck for hours in traffic or waiting for a tow truck.
Tips: Store bottled water and non-perishable snacks. Check expiration dates regularly.
Example: During a sudden winter snowstorm in Saxony, stranded drivers were grateful for water and snacks in their cars while waiting for road services.
Car batteries can fail, especially in extreme weather—cold winters or hot summers. Jumper cables or a portable battery charger can save you from being stranded.
Tips: Learn how to use jumper cables safely. Portable chargers are compact and easy to store.
Example: In Frankfurt, a driver’s battery died during a morning frost. Using jumper cables from their car kit, they restarted the vehicle quickly and avoided a long delay.
A small tool kit or multi-tool can help with minor repairs or adjustments.
What to include: Screwdrivers, Pliers, Adjustable wrench, Duct tape.
Example: On a road trip in Lower Saxony, a driver’s loose side mirror was temporarily secured with duct tape from their tool kit until professional help was available.
Weather in Germany can be unpredictable, and staying prepared is crucial.
Essential items: Umbrella or raincoat, Gloves and warm clothing in winter, Sunglasses for bright summer days.
Example: During a sudden hailstorm in Bavaria, a driver’s raincoat and umbrella kept them safe and dry while moving from their car to shelter.
Tip: Keep a small foldable blanket in case of long delays in cold weather.
Having key documents and a charged phone ensures you’re ready for emergencies.
What to keep: Driver’s license and registration, Insurance papers, Emergency contacts list, Mobile phone charger or power bank.
Example: A driver in Cologne was involved in a minor accident during heavy rain. Having insurance papers and a fully charged phone allowed them to report the incident efficiently.
Your car is more than a vehicle—it’s a mobile lifeline. By keeping these 10 items on board, you protect yourself, your passengers, and other road users. In Germany, where weather, traffic, and road conditions can change quickly, preparedness is not optional—it’s smart driving. A few simple items can make the difference between a stressful emergency and a manageable situation. Stay safe, stay prepared, and enjoy the ride!