Consider packing safety essentials on your next trip
Hand sanitizer
One way you can get sick is by touching surfaces coated with germs and then bringing your germ-ridden hand to your eyes, nose or mouth. To combat this, we recommend washing your hands often. The CDC recommends thoroughly washing your hands with soap and warm water. However, when this isn’t possible, using hand sanitizer that’s composed of at least 60% alcohol is a viable alternative. Travel-size bottles from Purell are perfect for packing in a bag and are 63% alcohol by volume. ($10, Amazon)
Disinfectant wipes
Another way to combat the spread of germs responsible for illness is by making sure surfaces are rid of germs. Using disinfectant wipes is a convenient way to make sure the surfaces will be clean. Wipe high-traffic surfaces (such as doorknobs and light switches) with wipes before touching them. If you don’t want to touch a surface until it’s disinfected, you can opt for a disinfectant spray.
K95 and N95 masks
When it comes to keeping yourself from airborne diseases, KN95 and N95 masks remain your best bet. Their effectiveness is in their name – the “95” refers to the fact that they are designed to filter up to 95% of the particles responsible for airborne illnesses such as COVID-19 and influenza. Many storefronts sell masks, so much so that spotting fake ones can be difficult. Bona Fide Masks and ProjectN95 offer legitimate ones. ($12, bonafidemasks.com; $20, projectn95.org.)
Sunscreen
The CDC recommends taking precautions to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays during your trip, as prolonged exposure can put you at risk of sunburn, sun damage, premature aging and skin cancer. One of the ways you can block UV rays is by applying a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher every two hours. Some opt for mineral sunscreens over chemical ones. We’ve tested several mineral sunscreens and found the best to be Hawaiian Tropic Mineral Skin Nourishing Milk SPF 50 Sunscreen. With an SPF of 50, it blocks 98% of UV rays. Beyond that, it has a subtle, pleasant smell and doesn’t leave a white cast, unlike many other sunscreens. ($14.49, Amazon)
A Lifestraw
You’ve likely heard horror stories about drinking local water. To give yourself peace of mind (and peace of stomach), we recommend using LifeStraw to filter your water. It’s a straw-shaped filter that protects against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, dirt and sand, meaning you’ll be able to sip with confidence wherever you go. ($17.47, Amazon)
Bug repellent
We don’t mean to alarm you, but those insects you may already be afraid of can carry nasty diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, Zika virus and Lyme disease. A quality insect repellent will give you much-needed peace of mind during your next trip. Repellents using DEET are widely popular and effective. Off is just one brand that uses this chemical compound. If you’re looking for something more natural, as some people have concerns over the environmental safety of DEET, eucalyptus oil is a good, EPAapproved insect repellent
($11 and $5, Amazon)
A first aid kit
A first-aid kit is a veritable magician’s hat, fitting everything you may need in a small space. The antiseptic and bandages that are standard in first aid kits are lifesavers when it comes to fighting infections. You can add your own antibiotics and medications to the kit. The best first aid kit on the market is the Protect Life 100-Piece First Aid Kit, which is lightweight and contains all the materials you could need. However, you may want to pack your own bandages, as the ones provided are just “OK.” ($15, Amazon)
A thermometer
While it’s well and good to try to prevent sickness, you shouldn’t be complacent, thinking that your precautions mean you’re immune to it. It’s as the saying goes: the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry. So, if you start feeling under the weather, it’s best to see where you stand by checking your temperature. Many sicknesses can cause a fever, which is defined by the CDC as having a temperature of 100.4 °F or higher. The best thermometer you can buy is the Femometer. It gives accurate results quickly, has a silent mode and conveniently warns of high temperatures. ($16, Amazon)
Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change.