There’s no place like home for the holidays! According to estimates from AAA, more than 53.4 million people in the U.S. opted to travel this Thanksgiving season, which was a 13 percent increase from 2020 and the highest single year increase since 2005.
Along with winter travel comes colder temperatures and risks of inclement weather. For those hitting the road to visit friends and family, USA Today has compiled a list of items to keep in your car in case of emergency. A few select items to prepare include:
- First aid kit in case of an accident or emergency
- Car jump starter and/or power pack
- Thermal blankets to stay warm if you need to spend time in your car with the engine and heat off
- Winter gear, such as gloves, scarves and hats
- Combination ice scraper and snow brush to clear your windshield
- Compact snow shovel in case there is snow blocking your wheels
- Full reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Non-perishable snacks, for both you and your pets
- Car charger to keep your device batteries full
- A traction aide, such as cat litter, to help if you are stuck in ice, snow or mud
Wishing all of our travelers a safe and happy holiday this year.