outdoor adventure gear experts
The gear you keep in your car is important. From daily essentials to emergency must-haves, it’s about having the right tools at the ready when you need them most. It reflects your commitment to staying prepared, adaptable, and responsible.
This list provides a comprehensive selection of gear you will likely use over a lifetime backpacking. The specific items for each trip will vary based on the location, climate, weather, route, and personal preference.
Roadside Emergency
▢ Survival Emergency Car Kit
▢ Air Compressor
▢ Jumper Cables
Light
▢ Flashlight
First Aid
▢ First-Aid Kit
Jacket
▢ Softshell Jacket
▢ Puffer Jacket
▢ Rain Jacket
▢ Beanie
▢ Socks
Gloves
▢ Work Gloves
▢ Warm Gloves
▢ Insulated Work Gloves
Knife
▢ Folding Knife
▢ Multi-Tool
Blanket
▢ Truck Blanket
Emergency car gear might rarely see use—and in a well-maintained vehicle, maybe never. But if your battery dies, you get a flat, or an accident occurs, you'll be grateful you were prepared.
Care & Maintenance
• Benjamin Franklin's saying, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," applies to car maintenance.
• Regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake pad replacements, and filter changes help prevent costly repairs.
Road Rage
• Respond to road rage with humility.
• There’s dignity in refraining from engaging with aggressive drivers.
Situational Awareness
• The driver should be fully attuned to their car.Pay attention to unusual smells, bumps, sounds, and leaks.
• Stay aware of the car’s condition at all times.
Roadside Emergency
• Be cautious about where you pull over during an emergency.
• Stopping along a freeway or expressway can be extremely dangerous.
Unless you only drive in Times Square, a flashlight is a must-have in your car. Whether for trick-or-treating with the kids or handling roadside issues, you'll be glad you were prepared.
Batteries
• Flashlights with removable external batteries are ideal.
• Stick to common battery sizes (D, AA, AAA) for easy replacements.
• Always have extra batteries on hand.
• Replace batteries annually to prevent corrosion.
Style
• Compact flashlights are more practical for everyday carry.
• Headlamps are ideal for hands-free tasks, like car repairs, ensuring better visibility while working.
Unless you've somehow achieved invincibility, a first-aid kit is essential. Even then, carry one to protect your loved ones. Everything's fine—until it isn't. Be ready.
Start with a Stock Kit
• A basic first-aid kit ensures you have essential items you might not think to buy individually.
• Build upon the stock kit over time to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Personalize Your Kit
• Feel free to remove or add items to suit your needs.
• You likely don’t need an excess of Band-Aids—focus on what’s necessary.
• Include essentials based on your health conditions, such as allergy medication, EpiPens, or inhalers.
Even in hot, dry climates like Phoenix or Miami, packing a jacket is a smart move. A jacket in your car or truck is a must-have—for cold, rain, or snow. You never know when you’ll need it.
Winter EDC (for Cold Climates)
• Replace lighter jackets with heavier coats to stay warm.
• Add essential winter accessories: gloves, a scarf, and a hat to protect against the cold.
Why Softshell?
• Softshell jackets are the best all-around option for outdoor wear.
• They offer moderate protection against rain, wind, cold, and snow, making them versatile in various weather conditions.
Gloves are a practical essential, useful in countless situations—whether it’s chopping wood, working on your car, or tackling construction tasks. A symbol of rugged strength.
Leather vs. Rubber
• Leather: More durable and strong, handles friction and heat well.
• Rubber: Better for precision tasks and generally more comfortable.
Thick vs. Thin Gloves
• Thick Gloves: Offer better durability and protection, but tend to be bulkier.
• Thin Gloves: More comfortable and flexible, but generally don’t last as long.
What is more manly than tools? As men, we love them. Multi-tools offer a compact way to carry an arrangement of the most basic tools wherever you go. To use in small, everyday ways.
Multi-Tool vs. Knife
• Knife: Typically unnecessary for most everyday carry (EDC) needs.
• Multi-Tool: Preferred for its range of built-in tools, which usually includes a knife.
• If you only use a knife for opening Amazon packages then you don't need it.
Leatherman vs. Swiss Army
• Leatherman: Heavier and bulkier, featuring pliers and a rugged, American-made design. We recommend it for its versatility and durability.
• Swiss Army: Lighter with a classic, time-tested design, ideal for lighter carry and essential tools.
A vehicle blanket is a versatile essential for warmth, weather protection, and comfort. It doubles as a ground cover, pet space, or cushion, making it a must-have for any adventure.
Material
• Prioritize function over style—avoid overly soft, fluffy blankets that might not stand up to rugged use.
• Wool, a time-tested material, is ideal for durability and warmth, especially in military-style blankets.
Utility
• Ground covering
• Warmth blanket
• Pet space
• Cushion for roadside emergencies
• Protection against snow and wind
