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The two most common roadside calls are the same everywhere: a dead battery and a low tire. Both are completely solvable in five minutes if you carry the right tools - and completely helpless if you do not.

Here are the two pieces of emergency gear worth keeping in every car, and what separates a good one from a paperweight.

The jump starter

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Portable Jump Starter

Best emergency

Best for: Starting a dead battery without another car

Pros
  • Works on gas and diesel
  • Built-in flashlight
  • Holds charge for months
Cons
  • Needs periodic recharging
  • Premium price
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A portable lithium jump starter replaces the old need for a second car and jumper cables. It starts a dead battery on its own, fits in the glovebox, and doubles as a flashlight. The key habit is recharging it every few months.

The tire inflator

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Portable Tire Inflator

Best for tires

Best for: Correct tire pressure at home or on the road

Pros
  • Accurate gauge
  • Clips to the battery for power
  • Fast fill
Cons
  • No built-in battery on most models
  • Loud when running
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A portable inflator with an accurate gauge fixes a slow leak well enough to reach a tire shop, and keeps pressure correct between services. A 12V model that clips to the battery delivers more power than the cigarette-lighter kind.

The routine that keeps them working

  1. Check the jump starter charge every two to three months
  2. Test the inflator gauge against a known-good reading
  3. Store both where you can reach them, not buried under cargo

What not to buy

Skip the tiny jump starters that overpromise engine sizes and the inflators with no gauge. A tool you cannot trust at the roadside is worse than no tool at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I recharge a jump starter?

Every two to three months is a safe habit. Most hold a charge for months, but cold weather and time reduce capacity.

Can a jump starter damage my car?

Quality units have reverse-polarity protection and will not deliver power unless connected correctly. Follow the instructions and you are safe.

What tire pressure should I run?

Check the sticker inside the driver’s door, not the number on the tire sidewall. The door sticker lists the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.