When I traveled I had a Boy Scout three blade knife (2" blade, awl, bottle/can opener) in my checked baggage that I carried in my pocket once baggage was retrieved, I carried my passport and $500 in Amex travelers checks in a plastic holder worn around my neck under my shirt. I always had a small amount of first aid stuff (bandaids, ointment) in my carry on computer case and antihistamine, face mask, pain killers, sewing kit, elastic bandage, etc.. in my checked bags.

Never had to use any of it. Now I keep a three day survival kit for two in the truck with blankets and a change of clothes.