If you spend a lot of time on the road, you know this already, breakdowns don’t wait for a good moment. Whether you’re on your way to a job, stuck in traffic, or miles from the nearest service station, being caught out without the basics makes a bad day worse.
That’s why having a simple, well-thought-out van emergency breakdown kit in the back can really save your skin. Nothing fancy, just the stuff that helps you stay safe, sort small problems, or wait things out in comfort.
Here’s a no-nonsense breakdown of what you should keep in your van, based on what actually helps out there on the road.
Why a Van Emergency Kit Is a No-Brainer
You don’t need to be a mechanic or survival expert. You just need to be ready for the stuff that happens to all of us at some point: flat batteries, punctures, long waits for a tow.
At REDS Recovery, we’ve picked up drivers who’ve broken down on the hard shoulder with nothing but a phone on 2% and a bottle of lukewarm water, a few bits of kit in the back can make a massive difference.
The Essentials: Tools and Gear You Shouldn’t Be Without
1. Jump Leads or Power Pack
A flat battery is one of the most common issues we see. A set of jump leads can get you back on the road in minutes — as long as someone’s willing to give you a boost. If you’re often out on your own, a portable battery jump starter is even better. Keep it charged and ready.
2. Spare Tyre and Jack
Sounds obvious, but plenty of vans are missing one or both. Make sure your spare’s inflated, the jack’s not rusted solid, and you’ve got the right wrench. If your van doesn’t carry a spare, a puncture repair kit is better than nothing.
3. Torch
When something goes wrong at night, which it often does, a proper torch beats your phone light every time. Throw in some spare batteries while you’re at it.
4. Hi-Vis Vest and Warning Triangle
If you’re pulled over on the roadside, being seen is half the battle. A hi-vis vest and warning triangle don’t take up any space but can keep you safer, especially on fast roads or in low light.
5. Basic First Aid Kit
You don’t need to be a medic, but having bandages, plasters, wipes, and gloves can be handy. Even if it’s just a scrape or a burn from a hot engine part, it’s better than nothing.
Make It More Comfortable: Stuff You’ll Be Glad You Packed
6. Blanket or Extra Layer
Break down in winter and you’ll find out quickly how cold it gets in a dead van. An old hoodie, sleeping bag, or foil blanket doesn’t take much room and could save you a rough wait.
7. Snacks and Water
A couple of cereal bars and a few bottles of water are worth keeping on hand. You never know how long you’ll be stuck — or how far the next service station is.
8. Phone Charger
A USB lead that lives in the van is fine. Even better: a power bank that doesn’t rely on the van’s battery. Because dead phone = no call for help.
9. Work Gloves
Useful for digging into the engine bay, changing tyres, or even just keeping your hands clean when messing with tools. Cheap and essential.
10. Multi-Tool or Basic Toolkit
Screwdriver, pliers, maybe some duct tape. Nothing major, just enough to tighten a clamp or hold something together until you get to a garage.
Keep Your Paperwork Close
It’s boring but important. Breakdown cover details, insurance info, and emergency contact numbers should all be somewhere you can find them in a pinch. A cheap document wallet in the glovebox works fine.
Check It Every Now and Then
This breakdown kit isn’t a “set it and forget it” job. Food goes out of date. Batteries run flat. Check everything once every few months, especially before a long trip.
You don’t need to carry a toolbox the size of a fridge. A small, sensible van emergency breakdown kit can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle. It means you’re not completely stuck if something goes wrong — and you’ll thank yourself the day it does.
And of course, if you ever find yourself in real trouble, REDS Recovery is just a call away on 01634 926 801. But until then, a few smart items in the back of your van can keep things simple, safe, and moving.