A package of 16 tea light candles and some matches cost next to nothing at a dollar store. You can also buy a full-sized flashlight for $3 at Dollarama, along with brand name batteries for $2 a package. Remember to change the batteries every few weeks during the winter.

A hand-cranked flashlight is a handy tool to have in the car if you get stuck on a winter's night. Canadian Tire has one that costs $18.29. Amazon sells a compact model for $14.99 that also lets you charge your cell phone.