A flashlight is a necessary staple in any kind of situation: whether at home or on the road. Keep one handy in your glove compartment! This is particularly important for people who love to go cross-country and often travel at night. While it's easy to rely on our cell phone flashlights, it's also important to remember that our phones often have limited power, and using the flashlight feature is often draining on its battery. Save that for emergency calls! 

Instead, invest in a high-quality flashlight just for your car and keep some batteries to spare along with it. Some flashlights even have magnets on one side for easier, hands-free use. 

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Parents of young kids will agree: a family car is never complete without tissues or towels. But these necessities aren't limited to age; accidents or spills can happen to the best of us so it's always important to have something to help clean up while in motion. Towels can also be used as protection from the rain, giving you an added advantage when it comes to unforeseen circumstances. 

Many will attest to the handiness of a first-aid kit. Always remember to pack it with alcohol swab pads, extra masks, bandaids, sunscreen, and common OTC medicines such as paracetamol, antihistamines, or antacids. Consider what specific needs certain members of the family may need and build from there. 

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An extra tire is a smart thing to have around the car. But don't forget: it's not just the tire, you also need a tire jack and a lug wrench or lug nut key in order to really equip yourself in an emergency. Every time you have your tire pressure checked at the gas station, always make sure you or the attendant checks the air on your spare as well. These can easily deflate if unused for a prolonged period of time, and it's always better to be safe than sorry.