A winter survival kit provides life-saving tools if you get stranded during the winter months. Driving in snowy or icy conditions increases the risk of going into the ditch, getting lost or getting stuck. The tools in the survival kit increase your chances of getting help and sustain you while you wait for help to arrive.
Blankets and Clothing
Staying warm increases your chances of survival when you are stranded in your vehicle. Keep warm blankets in the vehicle, along with extra warm clothes to wear until help arrives. Extra hats, mittens, gloves and scarves also help keep your body warm without taking up a lot of space in your vehicle.
Food
A supply of nonperishable food provides nourishment if you are stranded for a long period of time. Granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, candies and canned meat provide nutritional value and won't spoil over the winter in your vehicle. Remember to add a can opener to your survival kit if you do pack canned items.
Because water will freeze in your vehicle, an easier option is to pack an empty can and a package of waterproof matches, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This allows you to melt the snow into water.
Tools
Keeping a first aid kit in the car allows you to take care of minor injuries while you wait for help. A flashlight, along with extra batteries, allows you to see your surroundings. Other tools recommended by the University of Illinois include a knife and tool kit. These tools come in handy in case you need to make any repairs.
Snow Tools
Other tools to include in your winter driving kit may help you get your car out of the snow if you are stuck. A shovel allows you to dig the snow out from around your tires. Sand or kitty litter sprinkled by the tires gives you traction that may allow you to get the vehicle out. Tire chains are another way to get extra traction when stuck in the snow. A windshield scraper with a brush keeps the windows clear while you wait. Booster cables should stay in the car year round. If your battery dies while you are stranded, the booster cables allow another vehicle to jump start it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends a compass and maps in your winter survival kit.
Communication Tools
Survival is one aspect of a winter car kit. Communication tools increase your chances of a quick rescue. Keep a cell phone and car charger with you any time you drive during the winter. Brightly-colored flags increase your chances of being seen by a passing vehicle. Emergency flares are another suggestion offered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A battery-powered radio allows you to listen to weather reports so you can tell when the storm will end.
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