As a frequent traveler—and the daughter of a physician—I’ve learned that smart packing It’s not just about having the right chargers or shoes. Being prepared is key, whether you’re dealing with a sudden illness on the road or a grazed ankle from a cobblestoned sidewalk. My father, a doctor for many years and a Mr. Fix-It in general, has always approached traveling (and life in general) with an a well-stocked, thoughtfully curated kit.
Over the years, his advice has shaped what I pack—and saved more than a few trips from being derailed by avoidable mishaps, from medical to mechanical. From a compact pulse oximeter You can also find out more about the following: bleeding-control powder I didn’t know that existed. go-to essentials These small but powerful items are sure to make a difference. Here are some items that my father, who is a doctor, recommends you bring along if you want to avoid having to go out and buy medicines in foreign countries. one bonus rec I got it from the nurse on board.
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Zacurate Pulse Oximeter
Amazon
When I returned to travel after the COVID-19 Pandemic, my dad’s doctor suggested that I include a portable pulse oximeter in my carry-on. This Zacurate model It is also much smaller and less expensive than a to-go meal at an airport. The device clips to your fingertip and measures blood oxygen levels and heart rate within seconds. No expertise is required. It’s an easy way to tell if symptoms like fatigue and congestion are mild or need a doctor. I keep this with me. first-aid suppliesJust in case you feel something is off on your trip.
Boncare Digital Thermometer
Amazon
I also learned from my father to always keep a thermometer with me so that I can monitor my health when someone in our family is sick while on the road. The fancy touch-free models are more expensive and less accurate than the traditional versions. this ultracompact under-the-tongue thermometer It takes up very little space in my toiletry bag and so I keep it there.
WaterWipes 5 Pack Water-based Wipes
Amazon
My father always suggests packing a small package of wipes, not only for convenience and comfort, but also for hygiene. These ultragentle wipes These wipes are made primarily of water with a small amount of fruit extract. They are safe to use for your face and hands, even if you don’t have a sink nearby. They’ve been great for cleaning up spills on the go, refreshing myself during long layovers or even using as an emergency face wipe. I keep one pack in my car, and another in my bag.
Purell Hand Sanitizer Travel-Sized 6-Pack
Amazon
In our household, hand hygiene was a must-have travel habit long before the pandemic. It’s for this reason that I always tuck away my clothes. a travel-size bottle of Purell I put them in my bag, my carry-on luggage, my personal item and my waistpack. The compact flip‑cap design of these budget-friendly staples fits neatly into a pocket or purse, so whenever you encounter a less-than-ideal public surface—door handles, tray tables, gas pumps—you’re covered.
BleedStop Powder
Amazon
I never knew about this stuff until my dad Used it on himself after a kitchen accident—and now it’s a staple in my bag (I’ve mostly had it hand on a precaution, but I did just have to actually use it for the first time when my husband cut his finger—and it saved us a trip to urgent care for stitches). BleedStop This powdered clotting substance can be used on bleeding wounds. It’s a medical-grade solution that comes in a travel-size packet and can be a total lifesaver when you’re far from a clinic or pharmacy, or when you’d rather avoid going there if possible.
Revlon Precision Tweezers
Amazon
I think of my dad like MacGyver—he always seems to know how to work around issues using whatever modest tool he may have on hand. A pair of tweezers is a must, not just for grooming, but also for things like removing splinters, stingers… or those cactus spines my son managed to encounter in Joshua Tree and then again in Mexico. This drugstore-brand version is my favorite. I keep it in my bathroom at home and in my travel toiletry bag.
Band-Aid Variety Pack
Amazon
Nothing is worse than getting a cut or a blister while on a tour. This variety pack of bandages covers every kind of small injury—a total of 280 sheer and clear flexible adhesive bandages in five different sizes and shapes, for small wounds, burns, or even shoe chafing. My dad always says early treatment prevents bigger problems—and when you’ve got the right bandage on hand, it’s one less thing to potentially derail your trip later.
Yeti Insulated tumbler
Amazon
My dad’s health rule is simple: Stay hydrated. This stainless steel Yeti bottle The cap has a handle that makes it easy to carry. It keeps the water cool for several hours and won’t leak into your bag. It is perfect for trips, flights, and city exploration. I’ve tried dozens (hundreds?) This is the one water bottle I have always used.
Amazon Basics Hydrocortisone Cream
Amazon
A great day can be ruined by bug bites, skin reactions, or rashes. My dad always has this solution on hand for me, as I am the only one in my family with large, swollen bug bites. Hydrocortisone cream This product is super-compact, fast-acting and easy to apply. You won’t need to scratch to get through your vacation. I always keep a small tube with me, especially when traveling to tropical locations where bugs are common.
Neosporin Antibiotic Ointment 3-pack
Amazon
Growing up Neosporin It was our family’s version of Chris Rock’s famous joke about Robitussin’s omnipresence in his family. We kept it in every bag, purse or drawer. It’s the same now that I am a mother. I always keep this antibiotic ointment with me in my bag for minor injuries, such as a scraped leg or a burn.
Vaseline Travel-size 4 Pack
Amazon
You might not think of petroleum jelly as a travel essential, but my dad swears by it for so many diverse reasons—so now I do, too. Vaseline It is perfect for protecting the skin from windburn and extreme dryness, as well as preventing chafing. Mini tubs are handy, portable and easy to clean. They’re especially useful on long flights, where the dry cabin air is brutal. It’s amazing how much you can use it. (You’re welcome.)
Kalim Precision Screwdriver Set
Amazon
This tiny tool set It’s something I wouldn’t have packed if it wasn’t for my dad. But because of him, now I know how valuable a precision tool is. This screwdriver kit in a pocket-sized size is ready to help you fix small electronics, sunglasses, luggage handle, and other items. It comes with flathead and Phillips screws. This lightweight fix-it kit is the type of essential that you’ll want to keep in your bag from the moment you use it.
Cartman 39-piece tool Set
Amazon
When you choose to drive instead of fly, this full tool set It’s a great item to keep in your trunk. Everything from pliers and a mini-hammer is neatly packaged in a compact, easy to stash case. My dad recommends it for road trips and longer stays at a vacation rental—anywhere you might encounter a small problem you could solve yourself. You might not use it very often, yet you’ll be happy to have it when you do.
CareTouch Alcohol Wipes
Amazon
These individually wrapped alcohol wipes They are great for disinfecting surfaces that have a lot of touch, such as airplane tray tables, remote controls in hotels, and even your cell phone. You can also use them to clean the tip of your tweezer before you try to remove a splinter.
North American Rescue Toruniquet
Amazon
My seatmate, who was also a passenger on the flight I took to get this recommendation, said that it was an excellent idea. nurse called into action He was there when the flight crew asked for a medical professional to assist them. We then began talking. He suggested I always travel with a medical professional. light, compact tourniquet. It could literally save your life if you know how to use it correctly.
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