What’s in your glovebox?

Posted 18 March, 2026 Jeremy Rochow

We all have a glovebox that’s full of… well, let’s be honest, what’s even in there?

For me, it’s my car manual, a packet of dried-out wet wipes, some out-of-date sunscreen, and a lone golf ball that probably has a story I’ve forgotten.

While it can be a bit of a junk drawer, your glovebox is your car’s first line of defence in small emergencies. So, what should be in there?

Essentials for the car

• Car manual and logbook: these documents are a lifesaver when it comes to those unfortunate breakdowns or quick checks on maintenance. 
• Pen and notepad: you never know when you might need to jot down a numberplate or share contact details after an incident, so a pen and notepad can come in handy.

Safety and emergency items

• First-aid kit: carrying a first-aid kit is a great idea, but make sure it’s well stocked, and that the contents are haven’t expired.
• Small battery powered torch: a small torch is essential for any night-time emergencies.
• RAA Road Service information: keep your RAA Road Service info, including RAA contact details, in the glove box just in case you can’t access your phone when broken down on the road.

Convenience items

• Wet wipes and tissues: sticky child fingers, fast food spills… these always come in handy. Just make sure they haven’t dried out!
• Hand sanitiser: a necessary inclusion, because… well life.

Optional, nice to have items

• Microfibre cloth: a microfibre cloth is perfect for cleaning the inside windscreen or wiping down the dash.
• Snacks and water: it’s ideal for longer trips to have some non-perishable snacks and water on hand. They’ll keep the kids quiet… for at least 10 minutes!
• A small resealable bag: a few bags can come in handy for rubbish, sticky wrappers or anything messy you don’t want in your footwells.

If you have a random golf ball like me, it can stay if you really want it to, just maybe don’t rely on it in an emergency… unless you’ve run out of coins or tokens for the driving range ball machine.

Before your next drive, take five minutes to tidy up your glovebox. You’ll be surprised how a little organisation can turn that junk drawer into a mini lifesaver.