%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftl-amazon-im-a-paranoid-traveler-despite-having-been-to-tk-countries-tout-9014dd145dcf437f8653b4f76527bf82.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
I'm a Paranoid Traveler Despite Having Been to 30+ Countries—but These 13 Safety Devices Give Me Peace of Mind
I have lived in New York City my entire life, so you'd think I feel safe traveling just about anywhere. But despite spending over four decades in one of the world's most famous metropolitan cities, I still get pretty paranoid in my work as a food and travel writer. I love traveling. But as much as I enjoy these experiences, I'm also acutely aware of what can go wrong on the road, especially as a solo traveler.
Maybe it's my NYC street smarts disguised as travel anxiety, but I've learned to be vigilant about personal safety, identity theft, and protecting my devices from data breaches. If you're gearing up for your next big adventure, it's smart to plan for all the fun—delicious food, great sights, and unforgettable memories. But it's just as smart to prep for the not-so-fun stuff. That's why I always travel with a few tried-and-true travel safety essentials.
On long travel days, I'm constantly scanning for power outlets before my phone dies. But public charging stations can come with hidden risks. 'Juice jacking' is when hackers exploit USB ports to install malware or steal data, and it's a real threat. This simple tool allows you to safely charge your devices without exposing your data. It works with iPhones, Androids, tablets, and most USB gadgets. One reviewer said, 'I use these at hotels, on airplanes, and when I don't want my phone transferring data to a rental car. Easy and effective.'
This sleek laptop backpack checks all the boxes. It's spacious, lightweight, and built with anti-theft features like combination-lock zippers and an external USB port—so you won't have to unzip the bag to stay connected. One reviewer called it 'the best backpack ever,' adding that 'it's secure, durable, and the slim fit makes it easy to carry without feeling bulky.'
These slim sleeves might look like simple card covers, but they're an essential line of defense against digital theft. RFID-blocking technology shields your credit cards, IDs, and passports. 'I had to replace multiple cards due to unauthorized charges,' wrote one reviewer. 'These sleeves give me peace of mind.'
As a digital nomad, I rely heavily on public Wi-Fi, and that comes with risks. This compact travel router boosts cybersecurity by creating a secure, private connection. 'This will make business travel a lot easier,' said one reviewer. 'Now I can safely connect my laptop using the hotel's Wi-Fi without worry.'
These multi-sized Faraday bags go beyond waterproofing. They also block Bluetooth, GPS, and RFID signals to keep everything from your phone to your passport secure. 'I tested Wi-Fi, cellular, and Bluetooth—these bags blocked all signals,' said one shopper, who promptly bought another set.
Hidden cameras are, unfortunately, a real concern in hotel rooms and Airbnbs. This compact detector scans for hidden bugs, GPS trackers, or listening devices. 'I couldn't be happier,' said one reviewer. 'It's easy to use, very sensitive, and makes me feel much safer when traveling solo.'
Money belts may feel old-school, but this RFID-blocking pouch is a smart, modern upgrade. Slim enough to wear discreetly, it has mesh pockets for cards, passports, and cash. One reviewer shared, 'It's comfortable even on hot, long travel days, and the organization is ideal.'
Whether I'm writing in-flight or catching up on emails at a cafe, I don't want my screen exposed. This easy-to-attach privacy screen limits viewing angles, helping to keep my personal and financial info safe. One reviewer called it 'subtle yet sturdy,' and they love how easily it attaches via magnets.
Power = safety. This fast-charging portable battery can get your phone to 50 percent in under 30 minutes—perfect for calling an Uber or accessing maps when you're far from a power outlet. With a built-in USB-C cable, it's compact and hassle-free. 'I bought two for overseas travel—sleek, powerful, and so convenient,' said one reviewer.
Sometimes I find myself walking alone at night while traveling, and this compact safety alarm gives me peace of mind. Just pull the top pin to activate a siren and flashing light. 'It's a small step that makes a big difference,' said one traveler. 'I keep it on my keychain and bring it everywhere—gas stations, airports, even grocery stores.'
Not every hotel room has a safe, and this portable lock box is a solid backup. It's great for securing passports, cash, and even small electronics. With a combination lock and sturdy design, it's a travel must-have—especially if you're hopping between accommodations or hostels.
It's a travel conundrum: You want your luggage secure when it's out of sight—but it still needs to be accessible for TSA inspections. This lock does both. It's TSA-compliant, easy to set up, and built to last. The best part? It features an indicator that pops up if TSA has opened your bag, so you're never left wondering. Amazon shoppers rave about the thoughtful design and solid construction. 'Wow, just got a four-pack of these TSA locks and love the design,' wrote one reviewer. 'Easy to read, easy to set combination, easy to operate. Solid design, good looking, and even a pop-up indicator if a TSA agent opens one with their special tool.'
From minor scrapes to unexpected mishaps, it pays to be prepared. This compact, well-stocked kit is perfect for travel—whether you're tossing it in your suitcase or slipping it into a tote. It includes everything from bandages to burn relief, all packed in a cute, durable pouch. 'Exactly what I was looking for,' one Amazon reviewer noted. 'Perfect size, fits in my large purse, and has everything I might need. Plus, the bag is super cute. So worth it.'
Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
WebMD
23 minutes ago
- WebMD
The Next-Gen Sweetener You May Be Eating
June 6, 2025 – It's time to add the word "neotame" to your ingredient label watch list, especially if you vape. It's a relatively new artificial sweetener found in every disposable e-cigarette that researchers tested – and the ultra-sweet substance is increasingly being used in food and drink. You probably have heard of aspartame. But neotame is its lesser-known sibling, with just one molecular difference. It showed up in laboratory tests of 11 top disposable e-cigarette brands when researchers from Duke and Yale Universities were trying to figure out what makes the vapes, like Elf and Geek Bars, so, so sweet. Neotame is between 7,000 and 13,000 times sweeter than table sugar and up to 65 times sweeter than aspartame. The sweetened e-cig study results were published this week in The Journal of the American Medical Association, or JAMA. Neotame wasn't found in JUUL or other cartridge-based devices, which have their own checkered ingredient history, including the 2019 finding that the sucralose used in them was linked to the production of toxic aerosols. Even if you don't vape, you may already be consuming neotame, since it's found in baked goods, candy (Mentos, for example), and gum – plus salad dressing, fruit spreads, dairy desserts, and yogurt. It's also used in some flavored sparkling waters and drinks like Tampico Mango Punch. Some researchers have soured on neotame because its use makes e-cigs appealing to young people, and because lab tests show it may harm our intestines when ingested. Why You've Never Heard of Neotame Maybe you saw it on an ingredient label and passed over it sometime in the past two decades. It has zero calories, no nutritional value, and was FDA-approved as a food additive in 2002. It's not listed on disposable e-cigarette packaging. Researchers track these sweeteners. Havovi Chichger, PhD, a professor at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, England, says that for more than four decades, we have been consuming "traditional" artificial sweeteners like acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), sucralose, saccharin, and aspartame. But newer substances like neotame "herald the next generation of sweet additives," she said. The substance was developed in the 1990s in a quest for a more stable sweetener for processed products, and its use has steadily grown, she said. It's even used now in some lip cosmetics that have a sweet flavor and aroma. Neotame has also become the 21st-century spoonful of sugar Mary Poppins sang about: It's used to make some pharmaceuticals more palatable. According to a website about neotame set up by Georgia-based maker NutraSweet Co., neotame has an "ability to mask the taste of supplements, vitamins, bitter food ingredients and active pharmaceuticals. Moreover, its high sweetness intensity allows formulation at very small quantities, leaving ample room for your pharmaceutical ingredients." Neotame is not, however, approved for use in products that are inhaled. Why Neotame Is Used in E-Cigarettes – and in Baked Goods The liquid vaporized by e-cigarettes is heated sometimes as hot as 800 degrees Fahrenheit, said Sven Jordt, PhD, senior author of the JAMA study and a Duke University professor who is an expert in chemical sensory biology. Heating vape liquid can chemically change its ingredients, and neotame's strong sweetness and heat stability seem to have led to its new use in vapes, he said. If a lot of a sweetener is burned up or chemically changed when heated, the desired taste profile can still be achieved if just a bit of the ultra-sweetness remains. "The FDA also has determined that neotame can be used for baking, for example, because it's more heat stable than many of the other sweeteners," Jordt said. "Sweeteners like aspartame or Ace K, they are basically burned at normal baking temperatures. However, with neotame, a large proportion survives baking and likely also survives being vaporized by e-cigarettes." His team is concerned that the sweetness makes the products particularly attractive to kids. It's not used in the few e-cigarettes that are legal to sell in the U.S. and was just found in the disposable ones that are illegal but widely available amid lack of enforcement. "We did this study specifically because this category of disposable e-cigarettes is seeing an explosive growth in sales and use," Jordt said, noting that their nicotine concentration is higher than in older products, and at a fraction of the price. "You buy this once and then you can use it a whole week. And kids are puffing on these all the time," he said. "Some have like 15,000 or 20,000 puffs [compared to a few hundred puffs in the older JUUL devices]. So if you use this continuously, you become really heavily addicted to nicotine … and now we are asking: Is it just the design or is there something else in it that makes them much more attractive to kids to use and make them taste better? And then we found this neotame." The Damage Neotame Can Cause Approval of neotame for use in food products was based on studies on mice and other animals that didn't show any adverse physical effects. But what about the effects on humans? Findings published last year suggest that neotame can damage the human intestine. "Neotame can cause previously healthy gut bacteria to become diseased and invade the gut wall – potentially leading to health issues including irritable bowel syndrome and sepsis – and also cause a breakdown of the epithelial barrier, which forms part of the gut wall," said Chichger, who is a cell and molecular biologist and senior author of the study, which was published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition. The study showed that neotame can damage the "intestinal epithelium," or lining, by causing the death of epithelial cells. It also damages bacteria commonly found in the gut, she added. "Despite the smaller quantities used, the impact of neotame on the epithelium-microbiota relationship has the potential to cause poor gut health, which in turn could lead to metabolic and inflammatory diseases." The findings were the latest in a line of studies showing the effects of artificial sweeteners on gut health. Another recent study led by Los Angeles-based endocrinologist Ruchi Mathur, MD, linked artificial sweeteners to changes in the microbial composition and diversity in stool and the small intestine. That research, which was published in the journal Cell, didn't include neotame. Changes observed in the gut microbiome's biochemical activity "raise concerns regarding the potential impacts of non-sugar sweeteners on metabolic and gastrointestinal health," said Mathur, who is director of the Diabetes Outpatient Teaching Education Center and a professor of medicine at Cedars-Sinai in California. All the experts interviewed for this article said that while there's not enough data to say for sure that inhaling neotame is bad for you, the existing research suggests reasons to be cautious. When you vape, some of the "smoke" can mix with saliva and get swallowed – so neotame could reach your gut, Chichger said. "In fact, there are other studies which show that e-cigarette fluid can cause the same level of damage that we noted from neotame." Unanswered Questions About Neotame Big questions about neotame: How does it affect the lungs? How can we keep track of how much we've consumed (eating, drinking, or inhaling)? And how much is too much? "These sweeteners are only approved for use in food, but not for inhalation," Jordt said. "We don't know how safe they are if you inhale them every day." Mathur noted that the lungs have their own microbiome, and past studies have shown that vaping alters saliva as well as the nasal cavity microbiome. A large study published in March showed a significant link between exclusive e-cigarette use and development of COPD. The FDA has set daily intake limits for neotame, which is sometimes referred to by the brand name Newtame, and other sweeteners. But experts say there is no labeling requirement that shows consumers how much is included in a product, whether it's food, drink, or vape liquid. Jordt said it's unlikely someone would reach that limit by vaping alone. But if you also eat products with the sweetener, then exceeding that limit becomes more likely. "I do think it is reasonable to assume that there should be consumer awareness and caution, as there is little if any data on what happens when this substance is inhaled," Mathur said. You should also be aware of artificial sweeteners in food and drink, Mathur said. Make a plan with your doctor, especially if eating artificially sweetened foods is part of how you manage your body weight or diabetes. "There is enough data to suggest it is safe to use these non-sugar sweeteners in moderation," Mathur said. "If someone uses artificial sweeteners in non-traditional ways, such as inhaling it through an e-cigarette, they are doing so without the benefit of any good information on the potential long-term consequences of taking in the substance through their airways and down into their lungs or what byproducts may be created in the process."
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Dr. Arthur Zacco Celebrates Three Decades of Excellence in Hair Restoration
Dr. Zacco's AZ Hair Restoration clinic utilizes advanced techniques like FUT, FUE, and MFU grafting to deliver seamless, natural-looking hair restoration. His patient-focused approach combines precision, artistry, and compassionate care, transforming lives through confidence-boosting hair solutions refined over 30 years. North Carolina, United States, June 6, 2025 -- Dr. Arthur Zacco, the driving force behind AZ Hair Restoration in Raleigh, North Carolina, marks 30 years at the forefront of hair transplantation. His three-decade career has been defined by precision, dedication, and a deep understanding of the transformative power of hair restoration. Dr. Zacco's work has touched thousands of lives, providing solutions for hair loss that restore not just hair, but also the confidence and self-assurance that come with it. Graduated with a solid foundation in biology and chemistry from the University of Central Florida and received his medical degree from A.T. Still University, Dr. Zacco has combined his scientific background with an artistic eye. Over the years, he has honed his techniques to produce natural-looking and long-lasting results, free from the tell-tale signs of surgery that once plagued the field of hair restoration. 'My goal is to ensure that patients achieve natural and long-lasting results that restore their hair and self-esteem,' says Dr. Zacco. Hair loss has far-reaching implications, affecting not only appearance but also personal and social interactions. Dr. Zacco's methods have provided relief to patients experiencing the distress of thinning hair, baldness, or receding hairlines. His approach, centered on a deep understanding of each patient's unique needs, employs a combination of Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), and Multiple Follicular Unit (MFU) grafting to create seamless, natural results. FUT involves harvesting a thin strip of hair-bearing skin from the back of the scalp, which is meticulously dissected into follicular units. This method enables the placement of a high density of grafts for a fuller look. FUE, on the other hand, removes individual follicular units with minimal scarring and downtime, a technique favored by patients wishing to maintain shorter hairstyles. Dr. Zacco's mastery lies in his ability to adapt these techniques to suit each patient's specific hair restoration goals. He often combines FUT with MFU grafting to deliver a natural hairline and denser hair behind it, a strategy that offers a feathered, undetectable result. For patients with minimal hair loss or those keen to retain a cropped style, FUE is used to carefully extract follicles without overharvesting the donor area. One patient described the impact of Dr. Zacco's work: 'Dr. Zacco and his staff are beyond amazing! The procedure was painless, and the results changed my life. I feel great about myself, and the results were great and natural. No one even noticed I had this procedure done.' Such testimonials underscore the personal transformations that Dr. Zacco's expertise has facilitated. His work not only restores hair but also enhances patients' quality of life, enabling them to move forward with renewed confidence. For three decades, Dr. Zacco has remained dedicated to refining his craft and staying attuned to advancements in hair restoration techniques. His reputation for excellence is built on a legacy of precision, artistry, and compassionate care. Through AZ Hair Restoration, he has established a trusted center where patients find solutions that restore their hair and transform their lives. Dr. Zacco's 30-year journey is a testament to his commitment to his patients and his field. His work continues to stand as a beacon of expertise in hair restoration, providing thousands with the chance to reclaim their appearance and their confidence. About AZ Hair Restoration AZ Hair Restoration, founded by Dr. Arthur Zacco, is a premier hair restoration clinic based in Raleigh, North Carolina. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Dr. Zacco has earned a reputation for providing personalized care and natural-looking results through a range of advanced techniques, including Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT), Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE), and Multiple Follicular Unit (MFU) grafting. The clinic offers comprehensive consultations and tailored treatment plans designed to meet each patient's unique hair restoration goals. AZ Hair Restoration is committed to helping patients regain their confidence and improve their quality of life through expert hair transplantation. Contact Info: Name: Dr. Arthur Zacco, Founder Email: Send Email Organization: AZ Hair Restoration Address: Raleigh, North Carolina, USA 27613 Website: Release ID: 89161824 In case of identifying any errors, concerns, or inconsistencies within the content shared in this press release that necessitate action or if you require assistance with a press release takedown, we strongly urge you to notify us promptly by contacting [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our expert team is committed to addressing your concerns within 8 hours by taking necessary actions diligently to rectify any identified issues or supporting you with the removal process. Delivering accurate and reliable information remains our top priority.
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Oncoscope Officially Launches, Ushering in a New Era of Real Time Oncology Intelligence
06/06/2025, Miami, Florida // PRODIGY: Feature Story // Anna Forsythe, founder of Oncoscope-AI (source: Oncoscope-AI) Oncoscope-AI, a revolutionary oncology intelligence platform, has officially launched following a successful beta phase and over a year of strategic development that involved extensive conversations with practicing oncologists. The platform, which delivers real-time, human-curated cancer insights enhanced by artificial intelligence, is now live and available free of charge to verified healthcare professionals worldwide. Founded by Anna Forsythe, a pharmacist, health economist, and seasoned pharmaceutical executive, Oncoscope addresses a critical gap in oncology care. It gives clinicians instant access to the most current treatment data, FDA approvals, and guideline-aligned information, consolidated into one user-friendly platform. 'Doctors do not need more data. They need the right information, at the right time, in a format they can use to make better decisions for their patients,' said Forsythe. 'Oncoscope provides that clarity. It is a living library of oncology, curated by experts and built to save lives.' Unlike generic AI tools or static databases, Oncoscope uses trained AI to scan thousands of oncology publications and filters them through a rigorous, evidence-based framework. Each entry is cross-referenced with clinical guidelines and regulatory approvals to ensure usability and relevance. All of the results are carefully scrutinized by a team of experienced researchers. Currently, the platform supports breast and lung cancer, with prostate, bladder, colon, and rectal modules rolling out in the coming months. The process is intuitive. Physicians answer three clinical questions—cancer stage, genetic markers, and prior treatments—and receive a personalized, actionable summary. Each recommended article includes survival data, progression insights, treatment efficacy, and toxicity, extracted across 32 key clinical parameters. 'The result is something physicians can actually use in the moment,' said Forsythe. 'It takes three clicks to go from a patient in the room to the most up-to-date evidence in the field.' Access to Oncoscope is free for verified healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, genetic counselors, and physician assistants. Non-verified users, such as those in finance or consulting, can purchase limited access at a monthly rate, restricted to a single cancer type. This structure reflects the company's commitment to empowering front-line clinicians with better tools—without barriers. Forsythe, who previously founded and sold a successful health economics company serving global pharmaceutical clients, brings a rare combination of clinical, technical, and business expertise to this venture. She sees Oncoscope not only as a tool, but as a mission. 'This platform was born from both professional insight and personal urgency,' she said. 'Too many patients are still receiving outdated treatments, simply because their doctors do not have time to stay current. I realized I had the knowledge, the team, and the experience to fix that.' With a lean team, strategic vision, and a rapidly growing user base, Oncoscope is poised to become a trusted global resource in cancer treatment. 'We are not just a tech company,' said Forsythe. 'We are part of the oncology ecosystem. And we are here to help doctors deliver the best care possible.' For more information, visit Media Contact: Name - Anna Forsythe Email - [email protected] Source published by Submit Press Release >> Oncoscope Officially Launches, Ushering in a New Era of Real Time Oncology Intelligence
