>>561803111. Get at least a single Escape Rope. Late game Rivals can be run crippling, letting you bleed out before death.
2. An Amulet Coin should be the first item you buy in the Hub. Money is insanely important. You can stop using it after the 4th/5th gym, depending on how strong your team is
3. If you're really desperate, using X items to setup and sweep is a must, especially on decently bulky Pokemon.
4. Always play around the crit and learn more about how general Trainer AI works(I personally got a really good grasp from watching PChal)
5. Never let your guard down.