These suggestions are geared primarily towards those in an urban or suburban area when disaster strikes. If you are in the wilderness or in an isolated area and caught in a blizzard, your best bet is to stay where you are. Of course, that advice must be weighed against the type of emergency situation you are in and you own level of survival experience, preparation and skill.

Any surviving in the car survival kit should include a cellular phone and charger, preferably one of those crank-type, in case your car won’t start. You should also have a detailed map of the area, showing back roads and side streets, because the highways and interstates will turn into parking lots.

Some kind of defensive weapon such as pepper spray, a stun gun or even a big stick might come in handy. Use your own discretion as to whether you have a gun, but if you do, don’t forget the ammo! A lock-blade knife can prove invaluable if you are surviving in your car.

You car survival gear should also include several bottles of water or juice, both of which can freeze without springing leaks. Some kind of food items should be in the car, such as granola, protein or chocolate bars, packages of cheese or peanut butter crackers, nuts, jerky, and candy. Sanitary items such as towelettes, wet wipes, and toilet paper may also come in handy. If you have a baby, make sure your kit includes diapers, formula and other baby necessities.

Don’t forget to include a few tools, such as a jack, flares, jumper cables, a can of tire inflator, and a flashlight. Any car survival kit should include a pair of sturdy, broken-in walking shoes or boots, a survival blanket, matches and a basic first aid kit.

Most of your survival gear should be stowed in the trunk of your car in a backpack or lightweight duffle. Another option might be a travel suitcase with a handle and wheels or even one of those folding luggage carts to which you attach your survival kit duffle bag. To avoid the “having-all-your-eggs-in-one-basket” situation, the survival gear should be divided between a larger pack and a smaller survival fanny pack that can be worn around your waist leaving your hands free.

In the event that surviving in the car becomes impossible, it might be a good idea to include a pair of jeans, socks and work gloves, in your vehicle survival kit, as well as a jacket and hat. If you must set off on foot, try to travel in a group with other stranded motorists. The mobility of the backpack or wheeled survival kit will then be invaluable.