Having the right tools on the road can mean the difference between a 15-minute fix and a $200 tow truck bill. Over the years of driving and camping in my Honda Odyssey, I have learned which tools are actually worth carrying and which ones just take up space. Here are the ten tools I never leave home without.
1. Ratchet Set with Sockets
A good ratchet set with metric sockets from 8mm to 19mm will handle most bolts on a Honda. Add extensions and a universal joint for tight spots. I use a 3/8 inch drive set that came in a plastic case. It cost about $40 and has saved me more times than I can count.
2. Screwdriver Set
Get a set with flathead and Phillips heads in multiple sizes. A multi-bit screwdriver with a ratcheting handle is even better. You will use these for everything from removing interior panels to tightening hose clamps.
3. Pliers
Needle-nose pliers for reaching into tight spaces, and regular pliers for gripping. Add a pair of locking pliers (Vise-Grips) for when you need to clamp something or hold a bolt in place. Locking pliers are also great for temporarily holding a broken bracket together.
4. Multimeter
A cheap digital multimeter is essential for diagnosing electrical problems. You can check battery voltage, test fuses, find parasitic drains, and verify that your camper electrical system is working correctly. A basic model costs $15 and fits in any toolbox.
5. Jumper Cables or Jump Pack
A dead battery will happen eventually. I carry a portable jump pack that also charges my phone and runs small devices. It is smaller than a set of jumper cables and does not require another car. A good jump pack costs around $60 and is worth every penny.
6. Tire Repair Kit
A plug kit and a 12V air compressor can fix most flat tires without needing a spare. I have plugged three tires on my Odyssey over the years and never had a problem. The kit costs $10 and the compressor costs $25. Together they take up less space than a spare tire.
7. Duct Tape and Zip Ties
These two items can temporarily fix almost anything. Duct tape can patch a hose, secure a loose bumper, or seal a window. Zip ties can hold wiring harnesses, secure a license plate, or even repair a broken bracket. I carry a roll of each in my toolbox.
8. Flashlight or Headlamp
A good LED flashlight or headlamp is essential for working on your car at night. I prefer a headlamp because it leaves both hands free. Get one with a magnetic base so you can stick it to the hood or a metal surface while working.
9. Basic Hand Tools
Add a hammer, a pry bar, and an adjustable wrench to your kit. These handle the jobs that sockets and screwdrivers cannot. A small pry bar is especially useful for removing interior panels without breaking the clips.
10. First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain reliever, and medical tape is essential for any road trip. Add a tourniquet and a space blanket for emergencies. You can buy a pre-made kit or build your own.
For more on keeping your car running, read about common Odyssey problems or set up a DIY 12V system for camping.