How to Build a Travel Footcare Kit That Works
Visiting a new corner of the world you’ve never explored before can feel almost spiritual. At least until your feet start protesting. Maybe they’re sore from walking all day, or your big toe is staging a full rebellion thanks to a brand-new blister.
The truth is, if you spend a lot of time moving through airports and hotels, your feet take the hit first. Changes in humidity, temperature, and exposure to not-so-clean places (walked barefoot through airport security lately?) can leave some unwelcome souvenirs behind.
You can’t avoid everything while traveling, but a solid foot care kit can make a huge difference. The real question is: what should you pack to keep things light and still get through airport security without a problem? Let’s take a look.
1. Moisture-Wicking Socks
There’s basically a tiny ecosystem forming inside your shoes the moment you put them on. It’s dark, warm, and a little humid; exactly the kind of environment where fungi (like athlete’s foot) and odor-causing bacteria feel right at home.
That’s why moisture-wicking socks are such a smart move when you travel. Unlike cotton, they don’t just soak up sweat and hold onto it. Instead, these fabrics pull moisture away from your feet and move it to the outer layer of the sock, where it can evaporate. Translation: drier feet and far less drama by the end of the day.
2. Antifungal Treatments
Even if you’re not predisposed to toenail fungus or athlete’s foot, it’s still good to be prepared. High-traffic airport hubs and humid places, like pools or hotel showers, often harbor these intrusive little guys, even when hygiene standards are followed.
Look for over-the-counter anti-fungal treatments or pay your doctor a visit and ask them to prescribe you a topical treatment like Jublia (efinaconazole). This is one of the most effective treatments of toenail fungus, and is recommended to patients of all ages (even children).
If you’re in the US, you can save 90% on the cost of Jublia by ordering from an online Canadian pharmacy. For an even better price, you can order a 3-month supply, which will come in handy if you have several trips lined up.
3. Safe Nail Tools
Trying to keep your feet safe and looking pretty and going through airport security seems like an impossible task. Luckily, there are a few multi-use tools you can include without being stopped by every TSA agent you see.
Here’s a short list of the most efficient ones:
- Standard lever-style clippers
- Glass or crystal nail file
- Small, blunt-tipped grooming scissors
- Stainless steel cuticle pushers
- Alcohol prep pads
4. Shower Sandals
They’re light, thin, and easy to stash in any luggage. Shower sandals are your first line of defense against fungi that thrive in humid areas like showers and pools, because they break the chain of transmission and allow your feet to dry in a safe manner.
It may not seem like much, but when your feet are happy, you can fully appreciate the beauty of traveling. So buy yourself a nice pair of shower sandals and enjoy the extra protection!
Safe Travels!
Travel safety is not just about keeping your papers and money out of sight. It’s also about taking preventive measures against known health problems. When your body is safe and happy, your soul can wander and enjoy!
