Having a bag of sand, salt, or litter in your vehicle can save you one day. If you ever get stuck when driving in the winter, you need traction to get out. Your mats will work somewhat, but they will normally end up slipping out from under your tires and prove to be quite useless. If you sprinkle sand, litter, or salt down, it will stay put and help you to get going.
It doesn't really matter which one you use, but sand is the best bet out of the three options since it will not corrode your car like salt or get messy like litter.
We here at Hendrick Honda Hickory want to remind you always to be prepared and to pack the items that you will need to help you in the event that you get stranded or stuck. Don't forget to always travel with an emergency kit as well.