Engine oil is crucial for the lubrication of the moving parts inside your vehicle's engine. It works as a friction reducer, in turn preventing overheating and parts wearing off. It is always good idea to carry an extra litre of oil, especially if your vehicle consumes oil over long distances. Keep an eye out for your oil level throughout the trip and top it up as needed to avoid any engine damage.

Coolant is also known as antifreeze and it helps regulate your engine’s temperature, preventing it from overheating. Long hours on the road, especially in hot weather, can cause your car's engine to heat up coolant works as an effecient liquid which transports the heat from your engine into the radiator where it dispenses the heat into the air. You should carry a bottle of pre-mixed coolant to replenish your system if necessary and make sure to check the coolant levels before setting off. Anti-freeing coolant as the name suggests doesn't freeze up in colder temperatures ensuring proper functioning of the cooling system.

Visibility is vital. On longer journeys the windshield usually gets dirty due to dust, insects, bird droppings and rain. Windshield washer fluid allows you to instantly clean all of this ensuing good visibility while driving. It can never hurt to keep a bottle of windshield washer fluid handy to refill the reservoir when needed. This is especially important if you’re traveling in areas with varying weather conditions.

Brake fluid ensures your car’s braking system works efficiently. If your brake pedal feels spongy or you're hearing unusual sounds while braking, it could indicate low brake fluid. Having some on hand allows you to refill instantly and continue your journey safely. However, if the fluid drops too low, you may need to have your car inspected for leaks.

In addition to the main fluids, it’s wise to carry other emergency items like power steering fluid and a small container of gasoline. These can help you handle unexpected situations on long stretches of road without service stations. Water is also another important fluid to keep in case of fire emergencies, dehydration or even just for cleaning purposes.