What essential off-road accessories should I buy for a Honda Pilot TrailSport?

just picked up a new TrailSport and im planning a trip to the Ozarks in a few weeks so im trying to figure out what i actually need to buy. i read some threads saying the factory skids are enough but then others say the gas tank is way too exposed so my logic was to prioritize armor but then i thought maybe a good recovery kit and some traction boards are smarter since im on a $1500 budget for now.

i dont wanna overspend on stuff i wont use but i also dont wanna crack a pan. the stock tires seem okay but i saw one guy saying the sidewalls are weak... what would you guys grab first?