Winter Car Kit
£40–£120 9 items
Every winter, drivers get stranded for hours on UK roads. A small kit in the boot makes a long wait safe and bearable. Unlike some EU countries, the UK doesn't legally require any of this — but it's worth it.
| Item | How much | Typical price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ice scraper and de-icer It's illegal to drive without a clear windscreen. |
1 | £5–£10 | Check price → |
| Blanket and warm layers Don't rely on running the engine for heat. |
1 per seat | £10–£25 | Check price → |
| Torch | 1 | £8–£15 | Check price → |
| Phone charger / power bank | 1 | £10–£25 | Check price → |
| Jump starter Cold kills batteries. No need for a second car. |
1 | £40–£90 | Check price → |
| Snow shovel (folding) | 1 | £12–£25 | Check price → |
| Water and snacks | For everyone | £5 | |
| Hi-vis vest and warning triangle Be seen if you break down (don't use a triangle on a motorway). |
1 | £8–£15 | Check price → |
| Grip mats Get moving on snow or ice. |
1 pair | £10–£20 | Check price → |
Prices are typical UK ranges and change often. Links go to Amazon UK search results; we may earn a commission.
Tips
- Keep at least a quarter of a tank of fuel (or charge for an EV) in winter.
- If you're stuck and run the engine for heat, make sure snow isn't blocking the exhaust.
- Check Met Office warnings and National Highways / Traffic Scotland before setting off.
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