As winter approaches, parents of teen drivers face a unique set of challenges. The roads can turn treacherous, and it’s essential to equip our young drivers with the tools they need to navigate the cold safely.

One way to ensure your teen is prepared for winter driving is to create a “go bag” filled with emergency essentials. By discussing and building this winter go bag with your teen, you not only prepare them for winter travel but also give yourself some peace of mind.

Now, if your teen is anything like mine, you may wind up with a lot of shoulder shrugs and eye rolls. That doesn’t stop us from building them a winter go bag and throwing it in their car!

Here’s how to build a winter go bag without breaking the bank.

Why a Winter Go Bag?

Imagine your teen is driving back to college and suddenly, they encounter a snowstorm. A wrong turn or unexpected weather can lead to them being stranded. Having a go bag packed with winter essentials can make all the difference. This isn’t just about being overly cautious; it’s about ensuring they’re ready for any situation that may arise.

What to Include in the Go Bag

Here’s a comprehensive list of what to pack in your teen’s winter go bag:

  1. Duffle Bag
    Start with a sturdy duffle bag. Look for options at discount retailers or second-hand stores—these can often be found for under $20. This bag will hold all the winter essentials and is easy to store in the trunk.
  2. GoTreads
    These traction tools are crucial for helping your teen get unstuck in snow or mud. Make sure they know how to use them. GoTreads come in their own durable bag, making it easy to store and access.
  3. Warm Blanket
    A thick, large wool blanket is ideal for warmth. Look for one that measures at least 50 x 70 inches for full coverage. Wool is excellent for insulation, even when wet. You can find budget-friendly options at thrift stores or online retailers like Amazon. If you are into camping, store your sleeping bag in your vehicle for winter.
  4. Emergency Candle
    Opt for a sturdy emergency candle, around 4-6 inches tall. These candles typically burn for several hours, providing both warmth and light. You can find them in packs at discount stores or online. Remember to include a waterproof matchbox or a lighter for easy lighting. See our DIY options to build your own.
  5. Snacks and Water
    Pack enough food and water to last at least 24 hours in case they get stranded. Include:
    • Water: A good rule of thumb is to have at least 1 gallon of water per person per day. For your teen, a refillable stainless steel water bottle is ideal; fill it up before trips. Consider adding electrolyte packets for hydration support.
    • Snacks: Focus on high-energy, non-perishable options:
      • Granola bars (protein-rich, easy to eat
      • Trail mix (mix of nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate for energy)
      • Beef jerky (provides protein and is filling)
      • Peanut butter packets (great source of protein and fat)
  6. Flashlight
    A small flashlight is essential for signaling and illuminating dark surroundings. Look for a compact LED flashlight with batteries that can be stored in the bag. I like to store the batteries for our backup flashlights in a plastic bag so they don’t corrode inside the flashlight. Consider adding some glow sticks as a backup for visibility.
  7. First Aid Kit
    You can make your own basic first aid kit by purchasing individual supplies from a pharmacy. Look at our our DIY options for more details. You can also find affordable pre-packaged first aid kits online or at local retailers.
  8. Ice Scraper/Snow Brush
    These tools are vital for clearing snow and ice from windows. Look for a combo ice scraper and snow brush that can be found for around $10.
  9. Portable Shovel
    Include a small snow shovel or a portable trenching tool for digging out if needed. These can often be found for under $30. Amazon has several options. I like the military trenching tool since it can handle harder surfaces like frozen ground and ice. If your teen is more likely to face deep snow, a snow shovel will allow them to move material more quickly.
  10. Backup Battery or Emergency Phone Charger
    A portable phone charger can be a lifesaver. Look for a compact power bank with at least 10,000 mAh to charge a phone multiple times. Ensure it’s charged and kept in the go bag. Consider a solar-powered option for emergencies, which can be found online as well.
  11. Proper Clothing
    Encourage your teen to keep a spare heavy coat, gloves, and a winter hat in the trunk. These can be hand-me-downs or thrift store finds. Focus on functionality over appearance; a heavy coat that keeps them warm is what matters.
  12. Emergency Hand Warmers
    Consider including a few disposable hand warmers for extra warmth. They can easily be found at outdoor stores or online. Look for options like HotHands hand warmers, which can provide heat for up to 10 hours.
  13. Vehicle Distress / SOS flag
    Help your teen signal for help with a reflective or brightly colored flag they can attach to their car’s antenna or door. In heavy snow or low visibility, a vehicle can easily be overlooked. A distress flag makes it clear that the car is in trouble and needs assistance. You can buy pre-made options or create your own using reflective tape and bright fabric.
  14. Mini Winter Survival Guide
    Include a mini winter survival guide in the go bag for easy reference. One excellent resource is the “Winter Survival Guide” by the American Red Cross. This guide covers essential safety tips for staying warm and signaling for help, as well as recognizing signs of hypothermia.

DIY Options

DIY First Aid Kit:
Building your own first aid kit can be a budget-friendly way to stay prepared for emergencies. Gather essential supplies from around the house or purchase affordable items to include. Store them in a resealable plastic container or sturdy zip-top bag to keep everything together and dry.

Here are the basic items professionals recommend for a vehicle emergency first aid kit:

  • Adhesive bandages (variety of sizes): For covering small cuts and scrapes.
  • Antiseptic wipes: To clean wounds and prevent infection.
  • Gauze pads and adhesive tape: For larger wounds that need dressing.
  • Elastic bandage (Ace wrap): Useful for sprains or securing gauze.
  • Tweezers: For removing splinters or debris from wounds.
  • Safety pins: To secure bandages or wraps in place.
  • Pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen): For reducing pain, headaches, or fever.
  • Antibiotic ointment: To apply to cuts or scrapes to prevent infection.
  • Scissors: For cutting tape, gauze, or clothing in an emergency.
  • Disposable gloves: For protecting both yourself and the injured person from blood or bodily fluids.
  • Sterile cotton balls or swabs: To clean wounds or apply ointments.
  • Hydrocortisone cream: For itching or allergic reactions.
  • Burn ointment: In case of minor burns.
  • Alcohol wipes: To clean hands or instruments before treating a wound.
  • Emergency blanket (foil): For warmth in case of shock.
  • First Aid Reference guide: The American Red Cross has both a reference app and printed reference guide for expert advice in an emergency.

While a DIY first aid kit can be customized based on your needs, ensuring you have the basics covered can make a big difference in an emergency. Be sure to regularly check and restock items as they are used or expire

DIY Emergency Antenna Flag: You could easily create a low-cost version of this by cutting a section of reflective safety tape and laminating it (or using duct tape to reinforce it), then tying or clipping it to an antenna. It’s a simple and highly effective DIY alternative.

DIY Emergency Candle: To create a budget-friendly emergency candle, place a large, unscented candle inside a metal coffee can with a lid. The can provides a safe, heat-resistant container while the lid keeps everything secure and easy to store. Add a box of waterproof matches in a sealed Ziploc bag to ensure they stay dry. This setup is perfect for keeping your teen warm and providing light if they’re stranded in the cold.

Final Thoughts

While packing a winter go bag may seem like overkill, it’s better to be safe than sorry. A wrong turn in a winter storm can lead to major consequences, including a stranded teen. By equipping them with these essentials and having open conversations about winter safety, parents can ensure their kids are prepared for the unexpected. Remember, it’s about building confidence and knowledge in your teen, so they feel empowered and safe on the road.