Tools You Should Always Carry
Before You Hit The Road
For Everyone
All images are for example purposes only. I do not recommend, nor receive money from, any specific brand or retailer.
Carrying tools is a must when you are out on the road, especially if you like remote places, where auto repair shops simply don't exist. Now, tools can get expensive, so here's my [growing] list of tools you should carry that won't break the bank or the suspension. Please feel free to suggest any I missed.
Even if you have no idea what you are doing and you aren't prepared to get dirty to fix a problem, you might find a willing passer-by who has the ability to help you but isn't carrying the tools, so head down to the tool shop and pick up as many of these as you can before you head out on your next epic journey. You'll never be sorry for being prepared.
* = Required by law in some places
Essential
Hi-Vis Vest *
You need to wear this if you leave your vehicle in an unsafe location, like an emergency stop.
Temporary image.
Jump Leads
In case you let your battery die.
How To Use Jump Leads
Socket Set
In case you need to adjust or replace anything.
Temporary image.
Pliers, Wire Cutters, Wrench
Just ridiculously useful.
Hammer
In case you need to belt something into compliance - you shouldn't, but you never know.
Screwdrivers
As if I need to tell you. There are millions of types and sizes. You probably just need a flat head and a cross head (Phillips) in "the standard size".
Flashlight
Come on.
Smaller models are available.
Foot Pump
In case your tires get a bit flat.
Find out more about tires with my article, All About Tires.
Hydraulic [Bottle] Jack
For lifting part of the vehicle in case you need to change a wheel.
There are a few different types of jack. The "bottle" type pictured here is compact and powerful, but not as stable as a larger "trolley" type jack. Most cars come with a cheap "scissor" jack. Those are pretty unsafe. Get a hydraulic one if you don't want to lose a finger.
Changing A Wheel
Axle Stands
Crucial when using a jack, if you are going to put any part of yourself beneath the vehicle (you probably will at some point).
How To Use Them
Wheel Brace / Tire Iron / Breaker Bar
For removing and refitting wheels, mainly.
Chock
For immobilizing the vehicle when the handbrake is off, or when you need extra support (parked on a steep hill, for example).
Recommended
Torque Wrench
If you don't know what this is for, you don't need it.
Mole Grips / Hose Clamp Pliers
If you are going to venture into the engine bay and do more than sigh and tut, you will probably need these.
Tire Pressure Gauge
For checking the pressure of your tires.
Tread Depth Gauge
For checking how much tread you have on your tires.
Ok, that's enough for now.
If you want to go one better and be prepared for almost anything, check out my list of extra things to carry for almost any occasion.