But as autos have become more advanced, so have some of the items often included in these kits. You might want to include some items to help get your disabled car back on the road. There really isn't a set list of items you'll want to include in your emergency car kit. Instead, there are a range of possibilities we recommend you anticipate before creating your own.

But make sure your emergency car kit is more than a placebo. You never know when your day could be ruined by an unforeseen incident. So as much as possible, try to prepare for the unexpected when planning your kit. We'll go through some of the things we think all road trips should include. You can add to it as you see fit based on your own driving habits and needs.

It's one of the most common -- and frustrating -- things to go wrong with your car. Maybe you have a set of jumper cables in the trunk. But those won't be any good if you don't have another vehicle nearby. So we recommend keeping a jump starter as part of your emergency car kit.

A good example of this tool will obviously send juice to your battery to get you going in a pinch. But they also provide power for a range of other uses. Dead cellphone battery? You can use this car battery starter to send critical electricity to your device. Our recommendation also comes with an array of lighting options. There's not much worse than being stranded after dark. But if you're properly prepared, giving your own car a jump start is like child's play.

Whether directly related to your car or not, injuries have a way of happening during trips. And if you don't have something to take away the sting or stop the bleeding, things can go south quick. So make sure you have a first aid kit packed with the standard stuff. And add specific items as needed for your unique situation or itinerary. 

We think it makes sense for most motorists to start with a prearranged selection. Our recommendation contains a variety of useful products for an array of common ailments and injuries. If you or someone close to you has a medical background, feel free to get some additional recommendations. But if you face the typical risks on the road, a bag like this is a great addition to any emergency car kit.

That flapping sound on a highway can instill dread into even the most experienced drivers. Many of us have been stuck with a flat tire. And depending on where it happens, it can really throw your day into a tailspin. Of course, we recommend keeping a spare tire in your vehicle when possible. And you should certainly be comfortable enough with changing a tire that you can do it if necessary.

But we think an applicator for a tire repair product should also be part of your emergency car kit. A quality item like our recommendation is easy to use and can get you back on the road. It's not a permanent fix, of course. But that's not what you need in an emergency. All you want is to get somewhere safe so you can replace that flat tire. And that's the kind of peace of mind you can have with a product like this on hand.

You might not think a lot about your car's cleanliness as a safety issue. But in some ways, it could be the most important thing between you and disaster. Specifically, we recommend keeping products on hand to keep your windows and windshields spotless. Or at least as clean as possible while you're traveling.

Many of today's cars have safety devices that can help you avoid peril on the road. But even in the most advanced vehicles, you want to have a clear view at all times. We recommend keeping a spray bottle of cleaner and paper towels. It will come in handy for any necessary touch ups along the way. And be sure you have plenty of windshield washer fluid. While you're at it, your emergency car kit should also include a few other auto fluids. Keep some coolant and motor oil in a safe spot just in case you need it in a pinch.

Do you live in a cold climate? Your emergency car kit should reflect that. Make sure you have a quality ice scraper like our recommended product. And while all kits should have some sort of blanket, make sure it matches your climate.

On the other side of the spectrum, make sure you have the right stuff for warmer temperatures. Hot weather can take its toll on your battery. And either temperature extreme is tough on tires. So we also recommend keeping a tire gauge in your kit. Making sure your tires are properly inflated at all times will lower your risk of a flat.

Here's where you can have get creative and pack a few of your favorites. Always keep something like an energy bar to give you a boost if you're ever stranded. Don't forget some bottled water, too.

Beyond that, we recommend a fairly robust set of tools. At least keep a small knife, a wrench, screwdrivers and pliers in your emergency car kit. You'll probably want to keep a flashlight and extra batteries in your car. And a pen with paper could come in handy a few different ways. What else can you think of that you could use in an emergency? As long as you've got room in the car, include it in your kit. 

If you found this tutorial helpful, share this article with the motorists in your life. And leave us a comment below if you have any final thoughts or questions.

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