Is Your Truck Ready for Winter? Essential Kit Must-Haves

Hey folks, Wranglestar here! Winter's knocking, and it's time to gear up your Ford F350 4x4 for the chilly adventures ahead. I've put together an ultimate winter survival equipment list, and I'm excited to share it with you. Let’s ensure you're prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way!
*First up, Recovery & Winching:* We're starting strong with essentials like tow straps and shackles, crucial for those sticky situations. Don't forget your snatch block and tree saver strap - these are lifesavers. And yes, a winch dampener and winching gloves for safety first!
*Tire Management is next:* Winter roads can be treacherous. I’ve got tire chains, a tire repair kit, and a reliable tire pressure gauge on the list. Trust me, these will make a world of difference.
*On to the First Aid Kit:* I've packed this with comprehensive medical supplies. We're talking about everything from pain meds to allergy relief. And don't overlook thermal blankets; they’re compact lifesavers.
*Survival Gear, folks:* This is where it gets exciting. Non-perishable food, water purification methods (never underestimate this), cozy sleeping bags, and a trusty fire-starting kit. You’ll thank me later.
*Communication & Navigation:* A charged phone and power bank are non-negotiable. Plus, GPS and physical maps because old-school can be cool (and reliable). And an emergency radio? Absolutely.
*Lighting & Visibility:* A good LED flashlight and headlamp with extra batteries are a must. Also, flares or LED beacons for those 'just in case' moments.
*Clothing & Personal Gear:* Insulated clothing and boots are key. Extra hats, gloves, and socks will keep you warm and toasty.
*Tools & Miscellaneous:* Here’s my favorite part. A multipurpose tool (because why not?), duct tape, zip ties, a compact shovel, an ice scraper, and an emergency whistle. Be prepared for anything!
*Vehicle Maintenance is crucial:* Spare fuses, bulbs, extra vehicle fluids, and jumper cables or a jump starter - because your truck is your lifeline out there.
*And lastly, Comfort Items:* A hot drink thermos (for that much-needed coffee) and an extra phone charger, because staying connected is essential.
So, there you have it, my fellow adventurers! With this Wranglestar-approved survival guide, your Ford F350 4x4 is more than just a truck - it’s your winter fortress on wheels. Stay safe, stay prepared, and most importantly, enjoy the ride!
C

[@LostInNorCal]

I love the return to old school wranglerstar videos !

[@PimSchouten]

Literally my first thought when i saw the video title :)

[@russellgregoire7418]

Def, channel's been taking a weird turn as of late.

[@rkhale02]

I love both honestly. new wranglestar is my favorite of the two, tho.

[@LostInNorCal]

@@russellgregoire7418 it kind of has

[@LostInNorCal]

@@PimSchoutenthe good ole days 🎉

[@jamesevans739]

"Runing Boards if your over 50." Man you just gotta love this guy.

[@shp22japan5c]

“Animals or protestors” 😂

[@acd2505]

Best part of the video 😂

[@svenshanah]

None of that is "excessive", it's just minimally practiced anymore. Growing up, every dads' truck had his version of all of that give or take, plus trade tools. Appreciate you brother, thanks.

[@primebuildbryce]

Something I'd consider adding is a small mechanics tool set. I can't count the amount of times a little tool kit has gotten me home. You never know when you'll lose a belt, or an alternator, or whatever, and it's often repairable on the side of the road.

[@jrogerss8616]

Hah, He's got 2 alternators

[@saucyscrambler8710]

@@jrogerss8616do you?

[@adamw.6488]

@@jrogerss8616 one failed belt and he has zero alternators, lol

[@PimSchouten]

The timing couldn’t possibly be better. We had our first big snow today, and I was thinking on extra preps to make, and then you uploaded. Thankyou Cody. Genuinely appreciate it :)

[@Grave_Digger606]

Yesterday would arguably have been better timing, but I see what you mean ;)

[@PimSchouten]

@@Grave_Digger606yeah haha, gladly it was hardly anything, and its all gone. That said however, this week we expect more. And now, im ready :)

[@skylerbenoit4910]

All the support from the Big Fizz!

[@MJPeddler]

Well equipped. Being a Boy Scout from the 1990's, I'm a "Be Prepared" kind of guy. I have a tool box in the bed of my truck with all the "what if" stuff you just outlined. I do a few things differently, but with similar purpose. Headlamps instead of hand held flashlights, portable air instead of onboard. I carry a sleeping bag most of the time as well.

[@MB12116]

Sleeping bag fs, I also keep some trash bags, and a small tool kit

[@robertstanley980]

Yeah, scouting has ruined my ability to “travel lite” in my truck. Ive got too many tools in the bed & on the floor board.

[@bookworm8415]

Sleeping bag is a must. I put a space blanket as a divider or tent and the bag in the back seat on a blanket. Works perfectly

[@sean.s7468]

I’m a tow truck operator in Wyoming and it amazes me how many people come through here in the winter and have absolutely nothing and aren’t prepared if something bad happens and I’ve assisted multiple guys who new absolutely nothing and I’ve joked a lot that I need to make cards that take away there man card 😂

[@pacificnorthwesttacoma4916]

“Why do I put my switch here, well because I’m not a fool!”🤣🤣🤣 god I love this guy!

[@lordgrimoz6085]

My wife has for a long time asked why I always have the bags in the truck of things I rarely use but are always in my truck. Thank you Cody lol I showed her today’s video. 😂😂

[@JohnDoe-ud2cc]

A bofang radio saved my life. My buddy, sun, and I got stuck in 7’ deep snow during a blizzard. Thank god we had that radio and were able to reach the sheriffs department

[@CincinnatiDan]

The Big - Factory is behind you Cody!!

[@dyl940]

The Big Fizz is with you Cody!!!

[@Mary_Margaret]

💯Regional paper maps! The tradcon ladies Fizz brigade is with you, Mr. Wranglerstar! And hello to the lovely Mrs W.

[@tommysuswick9751]

Really extensive list. 👍 In addition to the space blanket, I think a great item to put in a family members vehicle is a winter sleeping bag.

[@gakrazykajun]

Big Fizz don't stop for no protestors Great winter gear video...good to have you back.

[@banyontreeguy5619]

As a husband, and a father, i agree that we as men have a responsibility to our families to be prepared. Thanks for the video in showing some folks that didnt have that good strong male role model in their lives, how to be a man. Keep up the good Lords work!

[@JohnSmith-qj5bn]

Good video! Only suggestion.. in the winter I always have a full size snow shovel and a full size metal shovel in my truck. I’ve found it’s alway better to have full size tools when you really need them vice trying to make compact tools fit the bill. It’s up to us real men to take care of women and people in need. Man up fellas!!!

[@alvinrivera71]

I'm an East Coast man, and I agree with Cody on almost everything.

[@bryceoleski5680]

As a filthy East Coast man, I can attest to having cable chains. Perfect timing on this video as I pack my vehicle for my Elk hunt as a snow storm approaches!

[@keepthemgold1]

This is a great list. My wife made funny of me a little bit for building a kit like this for my truck till we broke down late one night last winter and I was able to use the kit to get home. She gets it now!

[@richardjames4632]

...and her respect for you is through the roof!

[@ctwaldman006]

Dry Sand in a large mouth detergent bottle has helped me and many more get moving up a hill from a stop sign, Out of a sloped parking spot, or out of a depression dug by others spinning their tires. Thanks for your list of preps. My crew cab no longer has room for a full crew :)

[@ColinFowler]

Nobody on earth has more bags than Wranglestar. He has a bag for everything and within that bag, more bags.

[@josephroberts7597]

As a husband and father of three boys, I agree 100% with Cody a man's job is to protect and provide for your wife and children.

[@jdoginc]

My grandpa was prepared for everything..or a hoarder lol. He wrecked his dodge dakota and i needed my landscape trailer to get everything to his place. Wool navy blankets, 50lbs or various hand tools, all the tape, 2 or 3 tarps, 4 ice scrapers from 1987, socks, navy Antarctic gloves, nylon rope, bunjee cords, ratchet straps, ever ready flashlights, etc....but i dont think he was specifically "prepared" for anything.

[@chrisg1043]

If you can’t afford a Milwaukee inflator, the Pittsburgh 100psi (aluminum) one or the bigger version of 150psi will work. They go on sale at least every couple of months. I’ve had my 100psi one for almost 5 years and other than swapping the fuse in the DC connector, it’s worked every time. My 100psi one has filled 1 ton truck tires (though it took a while and I needed to give it a break halfway through to cool off).

[@danielanderson1417]

For the folks with no tow points I carry a set of J hooks have been an awesome thing more than once

[@MickeyMishra]

20:07 Very true that part. At the same time, don't help people who are only there to use you as a tool for their own efforts.

[@Thebestlife77]

Nice speech to the younger unprepared population. I love your videos.

[@TheEvanRoach]

The Big Fizz is with you Cody!!! 💪💪🖍️🖍️

[@thejoshfargo]

Great conclusion. As a young man I try my best to be problem solver in a generation of problem causers

[@fruitydickens6291]

I live in northern Ontario and soend a lot of time in the bush all year long. I never go anywhere, no matter the season, without an axe and a round-point shovel, some kind of chain, snatchblock and rope. Get some candles and metal cans ( coffee cans with lids) and fire starters in the winter. Blankets are essential, but the candles burning in a can can save your life. So much is just common sense..

[@BattleChemist]

Excellent addition to the annual series, Cody. Though you may hate them, those cable chains have saved my butt more times than not... and I've never had an issue with them, since I actually secure them properly before driving. People don't read the instructions and don't apply the "locks" that prevent the cables from coming loose. That's not a fault of the gear, but of the user.

[@BattleChemist]

...and of course, The Big Fizz always has your back.

[@MichiganManCliff]

The BIG FIZZ is with you Mr dub!

[@jonnybo5890]

Here in rural ND things are a little different, first off it gets too cold for zip ties. They shatter on bending. An entrenching tool is handy, but when you're stuck in a wind swept concrete snow drift you could build your house on, nothing will replace a good old steel grain shovel. Exchange the rain jacket for a surplus parka.

[@BrantleySmithNC]

Wow, I remember when David Pruett came to visit with you 13-14 years ago. He planted the seed for ham radio. Finally got licensed about 3 years ago. Another tool for the toolbox.

[@na-et2gp]

I love the constant east coast comments, hilarious! As a kid/young adult surfing in Hawaii I recall always hearing west coasters are "soft" surfing over shallow reef. Not sure that's true but can't dismiss it either. living in New england before and since I know your winters are warmer and more comfortable, nice you guys are able to keep warm on softwood. I'll keep cutting and splitting oak while you are in the firs. Keep it up great vid!

[@clarkfamilyoutdoors7417]

Pretty much everything I have in the truck. Since living in Colorado, I learned a long time ago to always be prepared.

[@3oneThrid]

Pro tip if you ever need to join two straps place a towel wet or dry preferably wet between where you join them. Doing this will allow you to untie them after by simply smacking the knot off the ground. Further more be careful you need to know the difference between a snag strap and tow strap. Also if using a steel line winch put a weight bag in the center of the line and pop your hood.

[@Jmn973]

I'd carry a set of Kleins or some other heavy snips along with the fire extinguisher. Might have to cut through battery cables to kill an electrical fire. I learned that after emptying a pair of 10 lb extinguishers on a car. Then the FD showed up and snipped the cables. No more fire.

[@EastCoastMan603]

This is the best time of year. Wranglers winter survival vid is live ! Love from east coast. West coast man learned everything he knows from East coast man. Pepridge farms remembers…

[@Lord_Sully]

Something I grapple with a lot (pun intended)..... I took years of my life and spent thousands of dollars on jiu jitsu and boxing training. However, I am about to be 30 and am just now buying my first set of tools and trying to become more handy. Some circles, probably you, would say I'm not a man capable of protecting my family, etc. Other circles would say that I am a man capable of protecting my family and then some. I guess it depends on which lens you view it through. Didn't have a dad in the picture, mom didn't know how to teach me those skills, just put me in wrestling at a very young age. She did what she could. Grateful for your channel so I can learn more every day.

[@williampratt4791]

I am a retired homesteader of 69 years. My state was Alaska, i am now in the midwest, on 1/2 ac. My edc, truck kit, car kit are extensive and evolve. Well done Wrangler Star. Shalom.

[@MB12116]

I think a glass breaker is essential!! Should be within reach of passengers.

[@PhunkyChikin]

Those automatic center punches from Harbor Freight for $4 work great for breaking glass.

[@dougfowler6898]

Wranglestar I wore that same Streamlight on my turnout gear for years as a career firefighter. Talk about bringing back some memories when you showed that!!!

[@Therealabrahamjoseph]

Good to see you haven’t lost your salt, Cody.

[@Craig52-zq1bt]

I lived a LONG time in Wyoming. I take care of my truck because, the places I go, I must get to and from. Wire ties? CHAINS! No playing games in Wyoming in the winter or you DIE!

[@BenjaminSahlstrom]

Really appreciated this video.

[@TheWholesalingPodcast]

I laughed at the “20, let’s not get carried away” 😂. Love your stuff. Keep it up 🙏🏻

[@HiddenHeightsFarm]

Great tips!

[@The_trees_have_ears]

Pretty sure I’ve got 60% of those. Been carrying that stuff in my vehicle since 2018 when I decided to attend EOU over in eastern Oregon. Very useful driving across the state and mountains

[@mike-pl8sn]

I grew up with it. I have seen it and I live it, and I absolutely love your channel and keep preaching.

[@hawkknight4223]

May God bless you, and all you put your hands too in His name!

[@keiferrector]

As you said, a lot of us have not grown up around this stuff, so I appreciate the knowledge and informative tips. Very useful 🙏

[@Garland77]

Toupee is looking great today!

[@steved5871]

Excellent list. As an east coast manly man in south Florida I even have the battery charger. You never know when I'll end up in Oregon helping some west coast soy boy start his Subaru. I have to admit the headrest first aid kit is very cool. I'll be adding that to my supplies soon. Thanks Cody.

[@j.a.6866]

I’d LOVE to see a video for those of us living in warm climates. It rarely gets below 50degress where I live. Roads are virtually always clear, other than an occasional hurricane or flood. Greetings from Houston, Texas.

[@joannehart9624]

This should make sense to every outdoors person. You can help yourself, or help someone else. Most years we hear about someone freezing to death just because they slid off the road in a snow storm and weren't found until it's too late. Even if you are simply traveling on an interstate during the winter, having these types of supplies can save the lives of everyone in your vehicle. The best possible scenario is that you never need it. The second best scenario is that it saves someone's life.

[@Mikoyan28]

I know everyone has different trucks / vehicles but a video on how you stow it all would be sweet !

[@andrecharlebois705]

1. have some galvanized tie wire; handy for repairs exposed to heat (exhaust, etc); 2. use the auger-style tire plugs; the old style give you a hernia; trust me I know

[@AJ-nx5fl]

Guys a legend “animals or protesters “ haha ❄️

[@heatshield]

hahah yep

[@joshwhite5684]

I always carry a set of standard and metric tools, and carry an extra belt. It's a quick easy fix that can leave you stranded if you don't have it

[@tomtommy7900]

Emp blast....let's teach more about those....we are all kinda screwed if that ever happens

[@JohnnyDub16]

Not gonna lie, LOVE these annual winter gear videos! 🍿

[@donaldhofman5257]

Great video!!! I was born and raised in Minnesota in the 50s on a farm! I was driving tractors when I was 5! Dad taught me to be wise and careful, plan your steps of your course of action!! I've had to recover people from dangerous situations as well! I've been in some serious accidents myself and had to step back and access situations that could have become worse quickly!

[@Purple_Wayne]

Hell yes. I just got my new truck and this video was exactly what I was looking for.

[@benjaminanthony5201]

Bull bars and brush guards are awesome

[@richards144]

love your comment about paper maps. I'm a boomer and I've preached this to my kids. You should also include a handheld compass. Goes great with Green Trails maps if you're off-road or just on FS roads.

[@0bserver416]

Just recently had someone's truck catching fire. Used fire extinguisher. Successfully. Now I'm thinking of having 2 extinguisher in my car.

[@vivillager]

I love Wranglerstar's winter videos, I re-watch old ones at times, they're very informative.

[@gordonsmith33]

I watch the winter streams in the summer to cool down.

[@Kipperbob]

Good topic, I'm replacing heater plugs tomorrow, important if you're a real man who drives a diesel 😁

[@Enough_Tumbleweed]

Zip ties and duct tape are priceless. Light is also invaluable. Even if its just a simple flashlight. No one considers the value of light until they cant aee anything 🤷‍♂️

[@ecthelion1735]

Carbonated water has a lower freezing point, depending on the amount of carbonation. Club soda is about 14F. You can get some hydration. Better than with alcohol.

[@heatshield]

Is that right?? Great tip.

[@mrmicro22]

Carbonated sugar pop is even lower freezing point. Lemon lime is pretty mild. Adds some calories too.

[@jamisonturner9284]

The South Carolina sunshine protects me from dealing with all that winter gear

[@carlzirk]

I appreciate seeing this list each year.

[@JFord-bu5zb]

Perfect timing. Thanks bro

[@garydell9004]

Great Video sir. I am what you would consider a bleeding heart liberal from Aotearoa New Zealand and I don't drive a truck, but I do drive a Ford Mondeo station wagon because that's what suits our lifestyle better. The area around the full-size spare wheel (because space-saver tyres are a death trap) has a significant amount of storage space in which I have a very basic kit, Mainly a tow rope, jumper cables, basic first aid kit, torch with spare batteries, knife, small tool kit, Fire starters, rain poncho, Hi viz vest, gloves, Fluids for a radiator, sun block, warm hats, and a battery bank for cell phones etc. As I'm over 50 I also have spare medication plus painkillers as well as well as water bottles. There is still space and your video has given me good ideas about what to place in there

[@stephenswayze5953]

My favorite annual video of yours! I look forward to it every year. I. Rewatch them going several years back pretty often.

[@living-wellon-less5669]

I live in Alabama, I threw a winter coat and some comfortable walking boots in the back and made sure I have sun screen.

[@danrandall1110]

Nice, thanks for sharing. There are some great recommendations in the comments as well. The cat litter would have helped last winter. I keep a couple of hi-viz vest as well.

[@bobbailey4954]

Cody this video is one of the most comprehensive you’ve done. I have seen these individually from you but I think this is the first time I’ve seen the complete package like this. Good job thank you.

[@PropaneTreeFiddy]

The way I keep water in my truck during sub-zero Northern winters isn't pretty nor practical, but having annoying-to-get-to water is leagues better than having no water. I save a few "disposable" water bottles from recycling and only fill the about halfway up. I then crush the bottle until the water is almost at the mouth of the bottle, and seal it. I throw 4 of them into a large zip lock bag in case they still burst (though hasn't happened yet). The water will still freeze, but it's much easier to thaw a couple half-full plastic bottles. Let me tell ya, after a surprise recovery of a coworkers vehicle in damn near the middle of nowhere, having those bottles handy before a 3 hour drive home was heavenly.

[@jacoballen6218]

Can’t forget heavy duty jumper cables. And toilet paper 😂 thank you for sharing God bless

[@michaelanthony3964]

"If you're a short king".. classic lol

[@RJ-li2xd]

So sleep in your bed with a space blanket…. Got it ! Ha nice video keep em coming

[@MonkeyMikeOutdoors]

Very cool! Thank you Cody!

[@johndrake2147]

I can vouch for the Milwaukee M12 compressor, fantastic little item

[@markcook5962]

👍

[@justinstrand1832]

Common Sense is not that Common.... I love watching your stuff its like listening to my father or listening to myself attempting to teach my children.

[@bsanders9106]

Kit videos are back in the loop now? I'm down fer dat. Winter kit engaged. Best time to help people, when the snow comes.

[@RussWilsonII]

It would be awesome if you could show us a simulated tire patch situation and walk us through the steps! Thanks for the great educational content!

[@burkemccomb4039]

Remember: A plug kit is really only good in the tread area of a tire. If you poke through sidewall you need a new tire. Period. You might be able to patch a puncture in the sidewall long enough to get to a shop but don’t count on it

[@user-ts5dx7qm4z]

@@burkemccomb4039 I'd certainly try, hopefully they have a spare in that situation.

[@tweakingheavily]

im 90% sure hes already done it...

[@HankeyMountainGarage]

Yep, I feel like unless you have a perfect puncture hole in the sidewall you can stick a few plugs in, normally the sidewall damage is a tear or slashlike mark because of the rotating tire.@@burkemccomb4039

[@Anto-fg2py]

@@burkemccomb4039I agree with you. I had a hole in the sidewall 16 hours of gravel road away from home and I was able to make it home slowly with a tire repair kit (the spare in my brand new truck was not a lt tire and could have punctured easily). first thing I did arriving home is swapping my tire for a new one since those patches can't be trusted.

[@asaffarfar1529]

Great suggestions.✌🏼

[@nvadallcorb5667]

Wahou , I listen untill the end, and what you said in last was a really nice true speech. Our rule to be protector and to he able to solve problems. 👍🏼

[@thefishman5645]

As a young man Just started driving with winter right around the corner this was very helpful. thank you, Cody.

[@arose5225]

I would love a video from you on gifts to buy for the men in our lives that are actually useful 😊

[@_RadioMadeEasy]

Always look forward to the PR0h0 winter readiness reminders!

[@ToolsandTime]

Wow 8 categories. All essentials though, cool video and gives us some things to think about and hopefully upgrade or modify!

[@kylehilltop9442]

I never thought about backup glasses. I am going to do that now. Thanks

[@chrisholland2348]

My man wranglerstar is the most prepared man known to dad kind

[@BennyHubba]

The toupee is on point in this one

[@jpmhvac]

Thank you!