How to create a comprehensive car safety kit: Expert tips from automotive pros

Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip, unexpected situations can arise while driving.

A well-prepared car safety kit can make all the difference in handling emergencies.

Experts like CarGurus deputy editor Matt Smith and Chicco child passenger safety technician Joshua Dilts offered ABC News valuable advice on the essentials for staying safe on the road.

Meet our experts

• Matt Smith is CarGurus' deputy editor. In his role, he leads the development and management of the site's written and video content.

• Joshua Dilts is a child passenger safety technician and a dedicated advocate for child passenger safety, serving as a certified CPST and leading car safety product manager at Chicco.

Staying safe on the road

"The first item every vehicle should have on hand is a first aid kit," Smith said. This is just one of several essentials to include in your car safety kit to ensure you're prepared for anything.

Similarly, Dilts highlighted the importance of being prepared.

"Families should keep an emergency kit with first aid supplies, water, snacks, blankets, jumper cables and flares in the car at all times," he said.

Special considerations for families traveling with kids

Traveling with young children requires an extra level of preparedness. Dilts advised parents to double check car seat security using the "inch test" -- ensuring an installed car seat cannot move more than 1 inch side to side or front to back -- before hitting the road.

In addition to your car safety kit, Dilts recommended fully charging all devices, packing extra snacks and water, and always keeping an emergency kit in the car. These steps help keep kids safe, comfortable and entertained in case of a delay or roadside emergency.

With these expert insights in mind, let's dive into the must-have items for your car safety kit.

Must-haves for your car emergency kit