While enjoying their journeys, people may inevitably encounter unexpected situations due to environmental factors or travel fatigue. That’s why it’s important to carry some first aid supplies. But what should you bring that’s both effective and convenient? Let Brian Amsterdam, a director at National Geographic magazine in the United States, give you the answers.

       Brian Amsterdam has traveled to many remote and dangerous corners of the world. He has a unique taste in alcohol and often shares newly discovered varieties with colleagues at foreign wine clubs.

       In an interview, when asked about what medications he thinks are essential to carry while working for National Geographic over the years, he replied: “The first aid kit from National Geographic is pretty bad. It’s not only small in quantity and made of plastic, but also includes some useless items that just add weight. A friend once told me you only need two things to handle everything: Betadine (an antiseptic) and a wire brush. With those two, any situation can be quickly resolved.”

       Additionally, Brian Amsterdam also shared some essential first aid items for expeditions, some of which can even be life-saving. They include:

       1. Iodine tablets (one tablet can purify water, and using more in a small amount of water serves as a disinfectant)

       2. Real metal tweezers (can be used for cutting things)

       3. Foldable scissors (useful for cutting off leeches if they attach to your eyeball or other sensitive areas)

       4. A sharp pocket knife

       5. Advil (a pain reliever)

       6. Band-Aid adhesive bandages

       7. Fever-reducing medicine such as Vancet

       8. Antibiotics

       9. Sunscreen

       10. Insect repellent

       11. Anti-itch patches

       12. Burn ointment

       13. Anti-chafing ointment

       14. Flannel cotton cloth (for blisters — can be life-saving)

       15. Sewing needle (for popping blisters)

       16. A roll of duct tape

       17. Some elastic bandages (for sprains or snake bites)

       18. Parachute cord

       19. A very thin blanket (a bit large, but very practical)

       20. Lighter

       21. A flammable fire starter sheet (works even when it's raining)

       22. Olive oil (very important — pour it in if bugs bite your ears)

       23. Earplugs (to block out snoring)

       24. Nail clippers (not a first aid item, but always useful)

       He also mentioned that on some trips, he brings a pack of wet wipes or a small hand towel, along with a bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon. These items may seem like a lot, but they don’t take up much space, so it’s best to bring them.