Going somewhere? Bring a first aid kit.

• Position: Your Life

This summer, millions of people will set out on vacation by car, airplane, train, boat, even bicycle. While the tires may be kicked, suitcases packed, gas tank topped off, and tickets in hand, travelers may forget an important item--the first aid kit.

"A lot of people feel that they can always buy first aid supplies, bandages, antiseptics, and the like, if the need arises," explains paramedic Ralph Shenefelt, general manager of the American Safety and Health Institute and an advisor to Curad, maker of bandage products. "Emergencies can arise anytime and frequently do during travel. Time, trouble, and pain can be reduced just by being prepared with the proper supplies.

"Purchasing several portable first aid kits, compact enough to fit easily into your glove compartment or backpack, is a great way to make sure you have first aid...