A portable jump starter is a compact power source that helps you start your car when you have a flat battery. Most are a lithium jump starter, which means they use lithium batteries for strong starting power in a small body.

Unlike jumper leads or jumper cables, a jump starter works on its own. Connect the clamps to the car battery terminals, follow the prompts, then start the engine.

Yes, a car battery jump starter can start a car with a completely flat battery in most cases. The battery jump starter feeds power straight to the starter motor.

If the battery is damaged or has failed internally, the car battery needs replacing. A jump starter pack solves flat batteries, not failed batteries.

Peak amps are a short burst number. Cranking amps are the sustained starting power that actually turns the engine over.

When you compare a car jump starter or any jump starter pack, choose real starting power and the right fit for your engine.

A high quality lithium unit can hold charge for months. I still recommend topping it up every 2 to 3 months.

Keep it fully charged before road trips, especially if you drive in a remote area.

Yes. A jump starter works on automatic and manual cars. It also works on diesel engines if the unit has enough real starting power.

Hybrids and many EVs use a 12V battery too. A jump starter can revive that 12V system. Many bikes, jet skis, and boats also run 12V.

Match the unit to your engine size and how you drive. Bigger engines and diesels need more starting power.

• Small petrol cars: 400 to 600A
• SUVs and utes: 800 to 1200A
• 4WDs and many diesels: 1200A+
• V8s and tough diesels: 1500A+ heavy duty starting support

If you tow, tour, or want extra peace of mind, go up a size.

Usually, no. A portable jump starter is faster and works without a second car.

Some drivers keep jumper cables or jumper leads as a backup, but most stop using them once they trust their jump starter.

Often, yes. Airlines usually allow lithium batteries under 100Wh in carry-on. Rules vary by airline, so check before you fly.

Pack the unit in carry-on, not checked baggage.

A good lithium jump starter should handle Australian heat, but storage still matters. Keep it out of direct sun where possible.

Choose models with proper safety features like thermal protection and reverse polarity protection.

A portable tyre inflator is a compact air compressor that inflates tyres using your car’s 12V socket or an internal battery.

A tyre inflator helps you maintain safe pressure, top up after slow leaks, and reinflate after beach driving. Many drivers prefer a digital tyre inflator because it’s easier to set the target PSI.

Yes. A spare tyre helps after a puncture, but it does not solve low pressure or slow leaks. A car tyre inflator helps with everyday tyre pressure. A tyre inflator with gauge is useful for accurate reinflation before highway driving.

For a flat tyre, I carry:

• A portable tyre inflator
• A tyre repair kit
• A spare tyre if the vehicle has one
• A torch for night use

This setup helps you avoid long waits for roadside assistance.

A plug-style tyre repair kit seals a tread puncture by inserting a repair plug into the hole.

Many tyre repairers treat tread puncture plug repairs as long-lasting when the damage is small and in the tread area. Sidewall damage still needs professional inspection.

A strong car emergency kit covers the most common problems: flat battery, flat tyre, and safety basics. A practical roadside emergency kit often includes:

• A portable jump starter
• A tyre inflator
• A tyre repair kit
• A phone charging option to keep your mobile phone ready
• A first aid kit

Having these in your emergency vehicle tool kit keep you prepared for unexpected emergencies that arise on the road.