(NAPSI)-Before loading up the car for your next road trip, get rid of the junk, but make sure you don't dump the items that every driver should have on the road-from the basic essentials to the ultimate car accessories.

When it comes to preparing for the unexpected and preventing roadside trouble, your car trunk should include these items:

• First-Aid Kit-Better to be safe than sorry. A first-aid kit is a must for every car.

• Flashlight-In case problems arise after dark, make sure to have a flashlight with fresh batteries.

• Jumper Cables-Whether it's your battery or a fellow driv-er's, when it needs a jolt of energy, it pays to have jumper cables in the trunk.

Husky offers a Portable AC/DC Power System available for less than $90 at The Home Depot. It can jump-start your car or truck, run any 120v or 12v product (think TVs, cell phones and car vacs) and it can inflate tires.

• Tire Pressure Gauge-Properly inflated tires help increase rider comfort and save fuel. Keep a tire pressure gauge on hand for a quick check at any time.

• Spare Tire and Jack-Tires go flat in the worst of times, so before you go anywhere make sure you've got a working jack and the spare tire is fully inflated.

• 1-Gallon Gas Can and Siphon Hose-Forgot to fill up the tank? A gas can and siphon hose ensure that you can load up enough gas to get to the nearest gas station.

• Hand Tools-Whether you're a mechanic or not, keeping some hand tools in your trunk can help out in a pinch. Try Husky's 30-piece Ratchet and Socket Set for $24.99.

• Blanket or Towel-In case you get stuck waiting for help, keep a blanket in your car to keep warm.

You can also throw a towel on the ground when changing a flat, avoiding damage to your pants and shoes.

For more information on products to stock your car with, visit www.homedepot.com.