The trunk of a car is meant to hold a lot more than groceries and other purchases. When it is well-stocked, handling breakdowns and other minor emergencies can be a whole lot easier. If it is not, you could find yourself in quite a pickle.

Making sure a trunk is properly stocked for crisis situations does take a little thought, but it can pay off by getting you back on the road faster. Having the right items handy for minor medical emergencies can also be very wise and will not take up too much room either.

So, what needs to be in a well-stocked trunk? These items can be essential in an emergency:

•A properly maintained spare tire;
•A jack and tire iron;
•A first-aid kit stocked with bandages, antibiotics, aspirin, burn cream, bug bite ointment and so on;
•A blanket;
•Flares or roadside emergency signs with reflectors;
•A flashlight;
•Basic automotive tools;
•Other emergency provisions, such as nonperishable food, water.

Many roadside emergencies can be handled quickly and safely if you are prepared to handle them. When a trunk is stocked with basic items to take care of minor crisis situations, you can get back on the road faster.