My idea of travel preparedness doesn’t always take into account the many mishaps that could potentially occur when venturing away from home. Because of this, I often find myself scrambling to find items locally, all while cursing myself in the process. If this sounds like you, listen up, because we took a peek into the suitcases of doctors to see just what lifesaving items they keep on hand whenever they go on vacation.
This might go without saying, but according to Dr. Sterling N. Ransone Jr., president of the American Academy of Family Physicians and a full-time family physician in Deltaville, Virginia, having a really good grasp on your specific medical conditions or allergies and the medications needed to treat them is absolutely essential to vacationing safely. (The American Academy of Family Physicians does not endorse any products or services.)
“It’s important to include a one- to two-day day supply of medications taken for chronic conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure. Things happen. You never know when your luggage may be lost or stolen. A small supply in your first aid kit will relieve worry until your doctor’s office can arrange for a refill near you,” Ransone told HuffPost.
He said that this list can include things like epipens, inhalers, glucose kits or aids used to treat coronary issues.
Outside of the realm of medicine, Ransone also said that he packs copies of identifications, passports and health insurance cards for each person traveling. “You never know when you may need to seek care due to accident or illness. It’s also good to have extra copies on hand in case you fall victim to theft,” he said.
You can keep unpacking Ransone’s luggage in the list below, in addition to seeing the travel recommendations of a couple other physicians, too. (The AAFP
doesn’t endorse specific products or services, so we’ve chosen products that align with Ransone’s advice.) This thorough yet travel-friendly lineup of products and gadgets takes into account every fall, scrape, sprain and cough that you might encounter whether you’re on the beaches of Tahiti or scaling the Rocky Mountains.
A five-pack of NIOSH-certified N95 masks
An economy pack of hand sanitizers and wipes made just for travel
For the same reason listed above, Ransone will also always travel with a germ-busting rotation of sanitizing wipes and liquid. Both of these options are extremely high-rated and trusted options for germ protection in addition to being perfectly packaged for travel. The mini alcohol-based sanitizer bottles come in a pack of eight and there are 10 packs of wipes, with 20 wipes in each pack.
A two-pack of pocket-sized strips of duct tape
Ransone also recommends what he calls “buddy tape,” which are cushioned bandages that can be useful for stabilizing jammed or sprained toes and fingers.
Target
An instant-dry mineral sunscreen stick with an ultra-sheer finish
A radiation detection key chain
For a more affordable alternative, Orient also said that she uses the RADTriage FIT card, which can fit in your pocket or wallet.
A miniature eyeglass repair kit
Whether you’re an eyeglasses or sunglasses wearer or both, Ransone told HuffPost that having a mini eyeglass repair kit on hand when you travel can be very helpful. This universal set helps repair glasses, even if they are missing small screws, and comes with a helpful magnifying component to help make things a bit easier.
A 50-pack of DEET-infused towelettes for protection on the go
These towelettes each contain 30% DEET, one of the most reliable ingredients used to repel Lyme-carrying ticks, and can be rubbed onto exposed patches of skin to provide up to seven hours of protection. The water-based formula is low-odor, non-greasy and non-staining.
“Talk with your family physician if there are vaccines you should get before traveling to parts of the world where these infections are common,” Ransone added.
An 8-pack of self-adhering bandages infused with antibiotic ointment
These popular bandages are already conveniently infused with the infection-fighting power of Neosporin and offer a four-sided seal to offer even greater protection against dirt and germs.
A 100-pack of antibacterial soap sheets
“Sheets of camping soap are small, lightweight, and very useful. I use them to wash my hands or to clean wounds,” Ransone said. These portable sheets of soap are antibacterial and formulated with nourishing plant extracts. All you need is a little bit of water to turn one of these sheets in a rich foaming lather!
A leak-proof collapsible water bottle
This particular option comes highly rated on Amazon, is made with BPA-free plastic and features a leak-proof drink spout.
A compact kit with multiple safety uses
This portable set features seven stainless steel tools and has nearly 10,300 five-star-ratings on Amazon. Some reviewers on Amazon have been able to fly with this this in their carry-on, however, you should check with your specific airline to see if you would need to pop this into your checked luggage instead.
A popular anti-itch hydrocortisone cream
Thirty packets of a popular immunity booster that has 69,000 five-star Amazon ratings
Another essential that always finds its way in Orient’s luggage is vitamin C. These individual powder sachets by Emergen-C contain 1,000mg of vitamin C and are chock full of antioxidants and electrolytes to give your immune system extra support –– which can be important when you’re out traveling and possibly exposing yourself to more germs or viruses than usual. As is the case with any supplement, always take with caution and consult with your doctor first before consuming.
A 16-pack of anti-nausea tablets that are great for motion sickness
As always, first speak with your medical provider before taking these chewable tablets and closely follow the dosage instructions provided by the company.
A trusted antihistamine for allergic reactions
This 100-count bottle contains 25mg capsules and has an impressively high rating on Amazon. If you decide to add this to your shopping cart, be sure to consult with your doctor first before taking any antihistamine and closely follow the recommended dosage instructions.