Should I pack a multi-tool?

Only if you are checking a bag. If you are carry-on only, skip it to avoid security confiscation at airports.

Where should I keep this kit?

Keep it in your personal item (the bag under your seat) rather than your checked luggage, so it is accessible during transit.

Building a Reliable Emergency Travel Kit

An effective emergency travel kit fits into a single, compact pouch that keeps you functional for 24 hours if your luggage is lost or a crisis occurs. Focus on redundancy for power, identification, medical basics, and cash, rather than comfort items.

Gather your 'Must-Haves'. Include a physical photocopy of your passport, a spare credit card, and $200 USD in clean, crisp denominations (10s and 20s). Keep these separate from your primary wallet.
Consolidate power and connectivity. Pack a 10,000mAh power bank, a 3-in-1 charging cable (USB-C/Lightning/Micro-USB), and a wall plug adapter. This ensures you can always charge your phone to access maps, translation apps, or emergency contacts.
Assemble a medical 'micro-kit'. Include 6 ibuprofen tablets, 4 Imodium (loperamide) pills, 5 adhesive bandages, a small tube of antiseptic ointment, and any prescription medications you take daily in their original packaging.
Add utility tools. Include a small LED flashlight, a 2-meter roll of duct tape (wrapped around a credit card), and a lightweight rain poncho. These weigh almost nothing but solve high-stress problems.

Should I pack a multi-tool?: Only if you are checking a bag. If you are carry-on only, skip it to avoid security confiscation at airports.
Where should I keep this kit?: Keep it in your personal item (the bag under your seat) rather than your checked luggage, so it is accessible during transit.