First there are the obvious, have as much gas in your tank as you can afford, so don't try to make a 1/8 tank trip on 1/8 tank. When you get stuck in traffic such as Monday's, you're going to run out of gas quickly. Also have a gas can just in case.
A warm hat, gloves, and scarf ... just in case (see above).
A bottle of water, some snacks (granola bars, and such that won't spoil/melt like a chocolate bar would).
An empty container (plastic juice bottle or similar) ...water in, ahem ... water out!
A cell phone (they are reasonably cheap these days). Keep said cell phone charged and topped up with call dollars if you are on a pay as you go. Invest in an auto phone charger too. A dead battery is no good even if you have $100 of time on the phone.
A blanket or even better one of those silver space blankets that fold into a pocket.
A candle and matches, a small flashlight.
As far as the actual driving goes, slow down in bad weather, keep your distance.
Avoid travelling with a large vehicle in front and behind you if you can.
Slow down a little if a large truck seems to be keeping pace beside you, a sudden gust of wind just may see him swerving into you.
When changing lanes it's OK to let your signal light blink more than once. Let it go until your lane change is complete.
Drive with ALL of your lights on, not just your marker lights.
Andrew Summers, Barrie
