When it comes to travel, my dad — a doctor of 25 years — has always preached one rule, which is to be prepared for the unexpected. Whether it’s a change in weather, a delayed flight, or the occasional upset stomach, he insists that having the right items on hand can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve learned to follow his advice. That’s why I always pack a small “just in case” bag in my carry-on suitcase.

A “just in case” bag isn’t about being overly cautious; it’s about being prepared for the unexpected, ensuring you’re comfortable and safe while traveling. This compact bag contains essential items to help manage minor issues, so you can stay focused on enjoying your trip rather than dealing with inconveniences. Here’s what my dad recommends — and why each of these 10 items should always have a place on your packing list.

Amazon Basics Baby Wipes Three-pack

“Baby wipes” might sound like they’re just for infants, but they have a multitude of uses that go far beyond clean-ups. I always keep a pack in my travel bag. These biodegradable wipes are made with plant-based fibers and can be flushed, which means they’re not only gentle on your skin but also the environment. Use them to freshen up during a layover, or deal with a minor spill.

Touchland Hand Sanitizer Three-pack

Hand hygiene is important, especially when you’re traveling and in a lot of public spaces. Growing up in a science and medicine-focused family, hand sanitizing was a top priority long before it became more prioritized in 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Touchland’s hand sanitizers offer a chic, aloe vera-infused option with a fresh, pleasant scent. These compact, high-quality sprays not only keep my hands clean but leave them feeling moisturized and refreshed.

Curad Assorted Bandages Variety Pack

Bandages are essential for life’s little mishaps, whether it’s a paper cut on your flight or a scraped knee while sightseeing. This assorted pack comes with a wide variety of sizes and materials, including fabric bandages (the longest-lasting) and waterproof options. It ensures you’re ready for everything from minor injuries to dealing with blisters caused by new shoes. Having these on hand means you can treat any small injury immediately, avoiding further discomfort while you’re on the go.

BleedStop Powder

For cuts that are larger or are in areas that just won’t stop bleeding, this over-the-counter coagulation powder is a game-changer. Easy to carry and simple to use, BleedStop is a lightweight solution that helps to quickly halt bleeding by promoting clotting. I learned about this after my dad used it to stop bleeding from a minor kitchen injury, and it’s now part of my go-to emergency kit.

CareTouch Alcohol Wipes

Individually wrapped, these alcohol wipes are easy to carry and pull out quickly. They make it easy to disinfect your phone or wipe down other high-touch surfaces like your in-seat entertainment system. They’re also great for ensuring any cuts or scrapes are properly sanitized before bandaging them.

Amazon Basics Hydrocortisone Cream

My dad’s go-to remedy for anything that itches or causes skin irritation, hydrocortisone helps deal with bug bites, eczema flare-ups, or a reaction to something you touched while exploring. This over-the-counter cream helps to offer fast relief for itchy skin, helping to calm irritation and allowing you to get back to your travels with minimal discomfort.

Travel-size Vaseline Four-pack

This may sound like an odd addition, but my dad swears by Vaseline. It works wonders on chapped lips, dry skin, and minor wounds. While some doctors prefer it for healing, it also serves as an effective barrier against the elements, like windburn on your face or cracked elbows from long flights.

Swatom Mini Screwdriver Set

One of the things I cherish about my dad is his willingness — and ability — to fix just about everything. He doesn’t just consult on medical concerns I have, but he is always there to roll up his sleeves with a practical solution to mechanical problems. Chances are that you’re not going to be putting a full toolbox in your carry-on, so this mini screwdriver set is perfect for fixing small issues that could arise during travel.

It includes both flat and Phillips heads, making it versatile for a range of small mechanical fixes — whether it’s a loose screw on your sunglasses or tightening up a loose button on your luggage. It’s a small tool, but it can save the day when you least expect it.

Cartman 39-piece Tool Set

For road trips, a more comprehensive toolkit is worth packing. My dad recommends having screwdrivers, pliers, a hammer, and vice grips for those “just in case” moments when you need to make a quick fix. This compact, 39-piece tool set is perfect for tackling a range of problems, from fixing a broken handle to securing loose furniture. You may not need it all the time, but when you do, you’ll be glad it’s in the trunk.

Owala Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is one of my dad’s top pieces of travel advice. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and a host of other issues, especially when flying. This leak-proof, double-walled water bottle from Owala helps keep your drinks cold for hours while preventing spills in your bag. It’s airline-approved, easy to carry, and a must-have for anyone looking to stay hydrated while traveling.

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