If you've lived in Michigan for an extended period of time, you will come to know how sketchy she can be. It's Spring one minute and Winter the next. There are certain things you learn that you need in your car when treachery (in the form of a snowpocalypse) happens.
1. Cat Litter
This may seem weird to those of you who are not native to our Mitten, but Cat Litter will help you get out of the snow. It allows your tires to get some traction, which then allows you to move your vehicle.
2. Blanket
If you get stuck somewhere, you are going to want a blanket to make sure you're kept warm. Keep it in your trunk or in your backseat. (I recommend a fuzzy one)
3. Extra Gloves/Hat/Scarf
Listen - it's cold out, you will need an extra set of all of these because again, IT'S COLD. Not to mention, you can offer some help if you see someone on the street without a hat or some gloves. Michigan can get pretty dicey, and we definitely have to stick together.
4. Snacks
If your car is stuck or for some reason breaks down, you're going to want something to snack on. You don't know how long you will end up being in the car or wherever you find yourself. Non-perishables are a must.
5. Jumper Cables
I feel like this one is assumed, but they are still important. I ended up asking for jumper cables for Christmas one year to ensure I was prepared. Make sure you can take control of your problems and offer as many solutions as possible to resolve it.
6. Flashlight
I know that almost everyone has a flashlight on their phone, but this one is still important. Keep a flashlight or two in your glove-box, trunk, or middle counsel so you're never fully in the dark.
7. Ice Scraper
Snow. Will. Build. Up. You are going to need to scrape off the snow and ice off of your car. Plus, it's the law to scrape everything off of your car before driving on the main road. No one wants to be bombarded because someone didn't bother to think about other people on the road.
8. Portable Charger (optional)
I only put this as optional because sometimes you have those in your backpack or purse. I do recommend having a portable charger in general because you do not want to break down, get stuck or heaven forbid get into an accident (of any kind) and not be able to contact the police or your family (whomever that may be).
Take my advice, be prepared for this winter season, and don't find yourself in a situation where you can't find a solution. You can do this - take it from a Native Michigander, we all have a hell of a time in the winter, so let's try to make it easier.