22/08/2026
If you're driving in the UK, always keep a small breakdown kit in the car at all times. You don't need to carry a huge amount of equipment just the essentials.
1. 🚗 Essential breakdown items:
High-visibility vest/jacket – ideally keep it inside the passenger compartment, not in the boot.
Warning triangle – useful on ordinary roads, but don't put one behind your vehicle on a motorway.
Torch – preferably a bright LED torch, with spare batteries.
Phone + charging cable/power bank – keep your phone well charged.
First-aid kit.
Warm clothing/blanket – particularly important in winter.
Drinking water.
Basic snacks – something that won't spoil easily.
Gloves – useful if you need to inspect a tyre or bonnet.
Reflective/LED emergency light – useful at night.
Tyre inflator – a 12V compressor can be very useful.
Tyre pressure gauge.
Puncture repair kit/sealant, if your car doesn't have a spare wheel.
Jump leads or a portable jump starter.
Screenwash – especially during winter.
Basic tools appropriate for your vehicle e.g. small screwdriver set, electrical tape, plyers.
2.📱 Also keep these details handy:
Make sure you know:
Your breakdown recovery provider's phone number/app.
Your vehicle registration number.
Your insurance details.
Where your vehicle handbook is.
How to find your vehicle's locking wheel-nut key, jack and wheel-changing equipment.
3. 🛣️ If you break down on a motorway:
The most important thing is getting yourself and your passengers to safety, rather than trying to repair the car.
If possible, get onto the left-hand verge or behind the safety barrier, leave the vehicle from the left-hand side if safe, and move away from the carriageway. If you're unable to get out safely, stay in the vehicle with your seat belt on and call for help.
If you have no mobile phone signal or your phone is unusable, use the orange emergency telephone provided on motorways. These connect directly to the appropriate road control centre and help identify your location.
