Why You Should Keep a Spare Gas Can (Safely Stored) in Your Trunk

Published on Dec 23, 2025

Why You Should Keep a Spare Gas Can (Safely Stored) in Your Trunk

1. The Benefits of Keeping a Spare Gas Can for Emergencies

When you're on the road, anything can happen. From traffic jams to sudden fuel shortages, having a spare gas can in your trunk can save you in moments of unexpected trouble. It’s a practical safety measure for all drivers, especially in remote areas or places with unreliable gas stations.

Having a spare gas can ensures that you won’t be stranded without fuel, allowing you to reach the nearest gas station safely. It also prevents you from getting caught off-guard during long road trips or when traveling in areas that might not have a gas station for miles.

Pick Your Part - Help Yourself
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Pick Your Part - Help Yourself

1232 Blinn Ave, Wilmington, CA 90744, USA

2. How to Safely Store a Gas Can in Your Trunk

Proper storage of a gas can is crucial to avoid potential dangers. First, ensure that the gas can is made of high-quality material designed to withstand pressure and temperature changes. Look for cans that are certified and designed for automotive use, as they will have safety features such as pressure-relief valves and secure caps.

When storing the gas can in your trunk, it’s important to place it upright to prevent leaks. Ensure the trunk is ventilated, as fumes from the gas can be hazardous in confined spaces. Additionally, avoid storing the gas can near hot objects, such as the car exhaust or engine, to minimize the risk of fire or explosion.

Pick Your Part - Greer
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Pick Your Part - Greer

13054 E Wade Hampton Blvd, Greer, SC 29651, USA

3. Real-Life Cases: How a Spare Gas Can Saved the Day

Consider the case of a driver stranded on a highway during a late-night trip. With a gas gauge showing “empty,” they managed to get to a nearby town only to find the gas station closed. Fortunately, their spare gas can was safely stored in the trunk, and it allowed them to get enough fuel to reach the next open gas station. This saved them hours of waiting and potential safety risks.

Another instance involved a family on a road trip in a remote area, where they encountered a fuel shortage. Without their spare gas can, they would have had to wait for help or take a risky detour. Their preparedness ensured their trip continued smoothly without interruption.

4. Safety Tips for Storing Gas in Your Vehicle

Although keeping a gas can in your trunk is beneficial, it’s important to follow safety precautions to reduce risks:

  • Always ensure the gas can is tightly sealed to avoid any spillage or fumes.
  • Store the gas can in a secure and stable place in your trunk, ideally in an upright position.
  • Check the gas can regularly for signs of wear or leaks.
  • Do not store the gas can near heat sources, such as the engine or exhaust pipe.

5. Recommended Gas Cans and Where to Buy Them

When shopping for a gas can, it’s important to choose one that’s durable, easy to handle, and meets safety standards. Popular brands offer reliable options that are designed for automotive use, such as plastic and metal cans with safety spouts and venting mechanisms.

For the best options, you can visit Rescue & Towing, where you’ll find high-quality products designed for road safety. Whether you're looking for a fuel container that can withstand extreme temperatures or one that’s compact and easy to store, you’ll find a variety of choices to suit your needs.

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