If You're Traveling, Don't Leave Home Without These Healthy Essentials

Updated on 6/30/2022 at 1:25 PM

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Now that many of us are traveling again, it's important to be prepared. Masks are required on all public transportation in America, and honestly, people are getting colds and flus left and right at the moment, so anything you can do to stop yourself from getting sick is a good thing (especially with the new Omicron variant). Senior Director of the System-Wide Special Pathogens Program in NYC told POPSUGAR "I think people should be more cautious as they travel for their holiday gatherings. Regardless of the circulating variant, it's always better to be safe than to be sorry. No one wants to be the one who gets infected or experiences a breakthrough infection. Illness is never desirable, nor it is ever convenient".

Hand sanitizer and wipes are an absolute must. When you get to your seat, wipe down everything, then sanitize your hands. Plus, it's always good to have a great hoodie to keep your skin from touching the seat. There's also value in taking a big scarf and wrapping it around you, but only if that scarf is clean. You're going to want to stock up.

— Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes

A Go-to Sanitizer: Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Refreshing Gel

Grab this Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Refreshing Gel ($5 for 3). You'll be so glad you have all three. It's potent, powerful, and it works.

Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Refreshing Gel

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A Protective Mask: Hedley & Bennett The Wake Up & Fight Mask

This The Wake Up & Fight Mask ($45 for three) is a no-nonsense mask that doesn't take up much space (easy to put in your pocket on a walk, for instance). It has a slot to put in a filter, and it's washable (I've washed mine several times and it still holds up). Plus, Hedley & Bennett donates one for every mask purchased. Have multiples on hand when you travel.

The Wake Up & Fight Mask

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$45

A Warm Layering Piece: Nordstrom Tissue Weight Wool & Cashmere Scarf

This Nordstrom Tissue Weight Wool & Cashmere Scarf ($99) will not only keep you warm on chilly airplanes but can also act as a barrier between you and the seat. It's a win-win. It comes in lots of different colors, so you can pick your favorite.

Nordstrom Tissue Weight Wool & Cashmere Scarf

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$99

Hand Care: L'Occitane Hand Cream

If you're washing your hands as often as you should be, they're bound to get dry. That's why we like this L'Occitane Hand Cream ($12). It smells dreamy and is supremely nourishing.

L'Occitane Hand Cream

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$12

Multipurpose Wipes: Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes

These Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes ($19 for 10) are essential for wiping down your seat. We don't leave home without them. These ones have a nice fresh scent that's not obtrusive.

Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes

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$19

An Essential Hoodie: Nike Sportswear Fleece Hoodie

Keep your hood up and your head down. Stay protected in this Nike Sportswear Fleece Hoodie ($60), and make sure you throw it in the wash ASAP. It's a great layering piece to have while traveling.

Nike Sportswear Fleece Hoodie

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$60

An Extra Layer of Protection: Safeguard Nitrile Disposable Gloves

If you feel like being extra secure, use these Safeguard Nitrile Disposable Gloves ($13, originally $25). We keep a stash on us at all times. Who knows what those bins at security have seen?!

Safeguard Nitrile Disposable Gloves

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$13

$25 Now 48% off

A Great Snack: Sunchips Garden Salsa

When traveling, it's great to have a healthy snack on hand. Airport selections are usually not what you're craving, and plus, they're pricey. We like our trusted Sunchips Garden Salsa ($4) for long travel days.

Sunchips Garden Salsa

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