Building an Emergency Car Kit

godspreparedwarrio

Aug 21, 20245 min read

When you’re out on the road, especially for long-distance trips, emergencies can happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s a flat tire, unexpected weather conditions, or a worst-case scenario where the poop hits the fan (PHTF) and you need to bug out quickly, having an emergency car kit can be the difference between preparedness and disaster.

For God’s Prepared Warriors, this kit isn't just about the practical items you’ll need; it’s also about maintaining the right mindset and trusting God in times of uncertainty. Let's look at what you should keep in your car both practically and spiritually, so that you are ready for any situation.

The Practical Side

What to Pack in Your Emergency Car Kit

Your emergency car kit should be built for both short-term inconveniences and long-term survival situations. Whether you're on a road trip or facing a PHTF scenario, here are the essential items you should have in your vehicle.

Basic Essentials:

First Aid Kit: Always have a well-stocked first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic, tweezers, pain relief, and any necessary medications.
Water: Carry at least one gallon of water per person, per day. If possible, have a portable water filter or purification tablets.
Non-Perishable Food: High-energy foods like protein bars, canned goods, nuts, and jerky can be lifesaving if you’re stuck for a prolonged period.
Portable Phone Charger/Power Bank: In today's world, communication is critical. A charged power bank ensures you can keep your phone going when needed.

For Bug-Out or Survival Situations

Multi-Tool: A good-quality multi-tool can help with basic repairs, cutting, or opening cans.
Map & Compass: GPS systems can fail or lose signal, so having a paper map and compass can help you navigate unfamiliar terrain. Make sure you make it waterproof just in case it rains.
Blankets & Warm Clothing: In case you're stranded overnight, extra layers, thermal blankets, and sleeping bags can help prevent hypothermia.
Flashlight & Extra Batteries: A reliable flashlight is crucial for navigating in the dark or signaling for help. If you have a rechargeable flashlight, make sure you carry the charger for it and a way to charge it in case the battery dies in your car.
Fire Starting Kit: Waterproof matches, lighters, and a small ferrocerium rod are essential for starting a fire for warmth, cooking, or signaling.
Alcohol stove for boiling water.
Small wood burning stove: for cooking meals.
Duct Tape: Incredibly versatile, duct tape can help with anything from patching up gear to making temporary repairs on your vehicle.
Tow Straps & Jumper Cables: Whether you need to jumpstart your car or help pull someone else out of a tough spot, these are indispensable.
Tire Repair Kit & Air Compressor: Flat tires are one of the most common road issues. A tire repair kit, spare tire, and portable air compressor can keep you moving.
Shelter Gear: A tarp, paracord, and tent stakes can quickly be used to make a temporary shelter if you need to spend an extended time outdoors. You can also pack a Tent.

For Long-Term Bug-Out Scenarios:

Weapons for Self-Defense: Depending on your comfort level and local laws, consider having a means of protection.
Emergency Radio: A crank-powered or battery-powered radio can keep you updated on news and weather reports in a grid-down scenario.
Gas Can & Extra Fuel: In case you're low on fuel and far from a gas station, an extra gas can might be a literal lifesaver.
GMRS or Ham Radio: this is for communication if communication goes down.

Spiritual & Mental Health:

Bible: Keep a small Bible or pocket-sized devotional in your car for spiritual guidance during trying times. Reflecting on God's Word can provide peace, hope, and clarity in emergencies.
Notepad & Pen: In addition to taking notes for survival purposes, journaling your thoughts and prayers can be a great way to maintain focus and stay connected to God’s plan during stressful moments.

The Spiritual Side

Trusting God on the Journey

No matter how prepared we are in a practical sense, we must remember that true peace and protection come from God. As God’s Prepared Warriors, our mindset is just as crucial as our physical readiness.

In times of crisis, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed or fearful, but Scripture reminds us to remain steadfast in faith.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) tells us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take."

Even when you’re facing the unknown, trust that God has already gone before you and will guide you through.

Being spiritually prepared means, you’ve equipped yourself with faith, prayer, and trust in God's provision, no matter what circumstances you face. This doesn't mean we sit idly by — we prepare practically as well — but we do this knowing that our ultimate security comes from Him.

While you might be ready with your emergency car kit, don’t forget the importance of being spiritually ready too. A moment in prayer before a long trip or when a crisis arises can calm your spirit and help you approach the situation with wisdom and strength that comes from the Lord.

Preparation is about more than just having the right tools and supplies in place — it’s about cultivating the right mindset and relying on God’s guidance through every twist and turn. Your emergency car kit is a reflection of your commitment to being ready for anything. But as God’s Prepared Warriors, we also prepare by nurturing our faith, trusting that God will lead and provide even in times of difficulty.

So, pack your essentials, both physical and spiritual, and remember the words of Psalm 121:7-8 (NLT): "The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever."

Fernando

God's Prepared Warrior

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