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10 Items to Have in Your BMW Emergency Kit

Every vehicle should have an emergency kit for a number of reasons. The first reason most people think of is a breakdown or some other mechanical issue, but a human emergency could happen as well. Someone in the car might have a sudden medical incident or an accident may occur that requires immediate attention.

Although these situations are unlikely, BMW owners must make the necessary preparations to protect their luxury vehicles and the passengers inside them. Here are ten items you should have in your BMW emergency kit.

1. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit can make the difference between life and death, making it the most important part of your supply list. As the most immediate source of medical care, it should include a variety of devices for all possible medical emergencies:

  • Gloves and eye protection
  • Gauze bandages and pads
  • Antiseptic wound cleaning solution
  • Medical tape
  • Scissors
  • Burn cream
  • Tourniquette 
  • Splint
  • Eye wash
  • CPR Mask

Familiarize yourself with each tool and put the kit in an easily accessible part of the vehicle, like the glove compartment or one of the pockets behind the front seats. We hope you never have to use it.

2. Spare Tire Kit

A flat tire is one of the most probable roadside issues you might experience, so a spare tire kit is a must-have. The kit doesn’t have to be flashy. All it needs is fresh tire, jack and a lug wrench. If a flat tire occurs, don’t try to drive on it. Pull over as quickly as you can and keep a safe distance from oncoming traffic.

3. Jumper Cables

A dead battery is another common problem that all car owners should be prepared for. Keep a set of jumper cables in your trunk so you can jumpstart your BMW and get back on the road. You can always call a friend or flag down a passing driver to provide the other vehicle, but you can’t guarantee that they have jumper cables. That’s why it’s a good idea to have your own cables.

4. Rechargeable Flashlight

A flashlight can be an extremely useful emergency tool, but only if it works. A USB rechargeable flashlight provides a reliable light source and shines farther and longer than standard LED devices. Make sure you charge your flashlight before any night drive or long-distance trip and bring a USB charger everywhere you go.

5. Antifreeze

Antifreeze is the third essential item for roadside fixes. If your BMW stops running properly due to extreme temperatures, this fluid will save the day and keep you moving. You should also know the telltale signs that your car needs antifreeze, like a high temperature gauge, orange or green fluid leaks and a sweet syrupy smell that often accompanies the leaks.

6. Fire Extinguisher

Cars are known to catch on fire on the rare occasion, so you need something to put out the flames quickly. A fire extinguisher with Class B and Class C ratings will do the trick. SInce the fire will probably start under the hood, store the extinguisher towards the back of the vehicle to keep it away from the flames.

7. Extra Food and Water

You should always bring a small supply of food and water if you plan on driving through a remote area. If the car breaks down, you can sustain yourself until emergency services arrive. Keep enough water bottles and dry food items (protein bars, trail mix, etc.) to last you and your passengers at least 24 hours.

8. Protection From The Elements

You might run into extreme weather conditions depending on your location and the time of year. A durable rain jacket is useful year-round, but these items might also prove useful:

  • Umbrella
  • Thick coat
  • Hat and gloves
  • Blankets
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray

You also don’t want your vehicle to be your only shelter, so a small tent, sleeping bag and some toiletries should go in your trunk as well.

9. Portable Cell Phone Chargers

Fast communication is vital in any emergency situation and a dead phone won’t do. Your emergency kit should include a portable cell phone charger for iPhones and Androids to ensure that you or a passenger has a reliable power source if something goes wrong and you can’t reach a wall outlet.

10. Bright or Reflective Devices

If you need to pull over due to an emergency, set up some reflective warning triangles or road flares behind your vehicle about 50 feet apart to warn other drivers of your presence. The lights will also ensure that emergency services see your exact location, which could make the difference in a life and death situation.

Protect Your BMW and Everyone Inside

BMWs are some of the safest luxury sports cars available, but they’re not immune to common mechanical issues. None of us are immune to car accidents or medical emergencies, either. Protect your BMW and everyone inside by adding these essential items to your emergency kit so you’re prepared for every situation.