10 UST Items to keep in your vehicle

1. Lantern

It seems everytime something goes wrong it is in the middle of the night or it is storming. What is even more possible that it is a combination of the two. While on the side of the road having a lantern that can illuminate the areas the headlights cannot. Having a lantern such as the Brila Re-charge, that has a hook and a handle, is easy to set up when changing a tire or under the hood. It will also charge your phone.

2. Headlamp

Keep your mind bright with a headlamp. The Brila is great since it keeps your hands free while working but nothing beats the portability and the ease of a headlamp. The headlamp puts the light exactly where you need it and it is small and easy to transport in your vehicle and should be your first line of defense against the dark. When not on your head, easily tie it or hand it on different parts of the car for illumination.

3. Light / Fire Starter 

Who doesn't like fire? Especially if you are stranded in the wilderness and the heat not working in the car.  Having a fire starter or lighters are a pretty essential tools in any safety kit. At UST we both carry lighters and flint based starters, with each being suited for different purposes. Our lighters are great to start fires with ease and are reliable in most weather situations. Our standard fire starters are included in a variety of products, such as our Paraknife Pro and FS, and can be bought separately, to start a fire the old school way.

4. Basic Compass

Most of us have upgraded to a GPS for our everyday navigation but that doesn't mean we don't get lost or the GPS breaks. Having a map, with a compass for direction of course, will help you stay on track when exploring new places on the road, just make sure your maps are up to date. When traveling in the backcountry check with the Forest Service or other local organizations for the most updated information.

5. Towel

Towel is that soft multitool that comes in handy even in situations you never would place it. From putting pressure on an open wound to hitchhiking the possibilities of the towel are endless. 

6. Shovel 

Ever been stuck on a dirt road? Having a shovel in the vehicle especially, if you are going off the beaten path, will help you get out of sticky situations. Also, it is a great tool in those Leave No Trace moments. If you know you are going somewhere you are likely to have an misadventure, bring a buddy and the rest of your recovery kit.

7. Multi Tool

A bit of a catch all item but multi-tools will come in handy for small repairs. Having a whole tool set, especially between a multiple car household, can be hard to manage and can get expensive. They also take up a lot of space in your vehicle. Put one with your jumper cable and tire repair kit for easy storage. Having a tool that can do everything will make your life a lot easier. This is also a great stand it for a regular knife.

8. Survival Kit 

Our Survival Kits are meant for being carried in a backpack so you know it is easily stashed away. Even though it is a kit you never want to be in a situation where you have to use it, it comes with high quality items. Some of the products that come standard in our kits are a compass, survival blanket, fire starter, light and whistle. There are also more upgrades available with our larger kits. 

9. First Aid Kit

An First Aid Kit should be in your backpack, home and of course your car. Perfect for minor everyday emergencies, it's an essential item in any safety kit. Since, hopefully they are rarely used, check the expiration date on all the items regularly and make sure to replace it every couple years.

10. Gear Snake

The Gear Snake is another one of those items you would not expect on this list but once you have it you will see its uses everywhere. A thin wire wrapped in rubber coating that will keep it from sliding you can use it holt things together or hang them up high without worry. It is like the perfect combination of a zip tie and a paracord. Check back to our blog on 50 ways to use a Gear Snake.

Bonus! 

Be Ready Kit

If you want to be extra safe, and make sure you have all the essential emergency gear you can think of, invest in our Be Ready Kit. It has food, water and many of the other items that have been listed on this list.