Going on a road trip has always represented freedom. You get to place the world’s problems on pause and drive towards new adventures. But while hitting the open road on a whim sounds fun, you don’t want to forget about an important need: safety. From car-related emergencies to risky weather to health concerns, you’ll want to take a few essentials to keep yourself and others safe. Don’t worry, preparing for the unexpected doesn’t have to mean overwhelming your car or causing unnecessary anxiety. Most of our picks can fit into your glove compartment, purse, or messenger bag and give you much-needed peace of mind about your upcoming trip, so you can get back to worrying about what matters: the best car-friendly snacks and an expertly tailored playlist.