Like it or not, winter is finally here and that can be a problem when it comes to traveling across the state.

With thousands of miles of roads, highways, and interstates, Montana can be a difficult place to navigate, especially in winter conditions. At least once or twice a year, there is a weather event that leaves many Montanans stranded on our roads for a long period, and if that happens, you certainly want to make sure that you are prepared.

For those who are new to Montana, one of the best things you can do in winter is to make sure you have a winter emergency kit in your vehicle.

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While opinions may vary on what is needed in a winter emergency kit, our friends over at The Zebra have come out with a list of essential items that every Montanan should have in their vehicles during the winter months.

snowstorm
Credit: Irina Igumnova
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The list includes the following:

  • Flashlight
  • Bag of Cat Litter
  • Snow Shovel
  • First Aid Kit
  • Ice Scraper
  • Jumper Cables
  • Water
  • Blankets
  • Cell Phone Charger
  • Reflective Triangles
  • Non-Perishable Food Items
  • Matches
  • Toolkit

Of course, there are always additional items that you can add as well.  Things such as tire chains, winter boots, extra winter clothing, and an empty gas can certainly be helpful in a situation that leaves you stranded on the side of a Montana road in winter.

Adjusting the rear view mirror
Credit: milanws
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There are several different options when it comes to buying an emergency winter kit for your vehicle. Some kits are already prepared and come in a convenient backpack, or if you're looking to save some money you can always build your own.

Is there something that didn't make the list that should be added for a Montana winter weather emergency kit? Let us know by sending us a message on our radio station app.

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Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf

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