A car emergency kit is one of those things that you don't think much about until it's too late. Then you'll wish you didn't leave home without one.
Having an AA membership or driving a new car under warranty often lulls us into a false sense of security about our prospects regarding a roadside breakdown.
The ugly truth is that vehicle breakdowns do happen and they don't always strike in a busy, well-lighted, cloudless, warm spot with flawless cell phone reception and a tow truck close at hand. A roadside emergency kit can ease the pain and reduce the hassle of such breakdowns.

Statistics show that one in three motorists encounters a roadside breakdown or some other incident that prevents normal vehicle operation, such as a dead battery, mechanical problems or a flat tire.

Just because your car appears in good shape, there's no guarantee problems won't arise. You never know when something's going to happen to your car, no matter how well you maintain it.

Although some of these incidents occur in people's driveways, many take place away from home. The more remote the area and the more inclement the weather, the more likely the contents of a car emergency kit will come in handy -- even if you have a roadside assistance plan and can contact help. A car emergency kit is designed to help you survive until help arrives.

We have a simple car emergency kit that contains all the basics such as jumper cables and a torch. Alternatively you can save some money by assembling your own car emergency kit.

Here are the must-have items that should be part of every car emergency kit:

• Charged cell phone. Although this item will probably be on your person, it may make the difference between getting help fast and maybe not getting help at all. Make sure it is properly charged every time you get into your car or keep a charger in your cubby hole
• First-aid kit. As well as an assortment of Band-Aids, it should include adhesive tape, gauze pads, aspirin, antiseptic wipes, antiseptic cream or ointment, and anything particular to you or your family.
• Fire Extinguisher. Your car’s engine is powered by tiny explosions fuelled by a large container filled with flammable liquid. If control over this fire is lost, your whole vehicle may go up in smoke. Carrying a small automotive fire extinguisher just makes sense.
• Three reflective warning triangles. While many pre-packaged emergency kits contain one warning triangle, it is recommended to have three that are placed 15 meters apart to warn oncoming traffic.
• Toolkit. A basic toolkit that contains the equipment required to fix the things that you are capable of fixing. Such as a screwdriver, pliers etc.