One of the things you must add to your camping supply list is a first aid kit.
Being out in the wilds inevitably carries more risk of injuries from scratches and scrapes, plant and insect stings or bites, and more serious accidents and emergencies.
Here is how to make a camping first aid kit that will cover you for all injuries and ailments.
A first aid kit is an essential item to have wherever you are, but it is especially important to have a good first aid kit on hand whenever you are camping or enjoying your favorite outdoor activities.
Serious accidents can occur when you are miles away from civilization, or you may just get a blister from all that hiking.
Either way, your first aid kit should have everything you need to treat it.
A well-stocked first aid kit could mean comfort from a nasty thorn or it could even save your life.
The items kept in your camping first aid kit will vary depending on your location and your activities, but there are some basic items that should always be included.
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Keep the following items in a common container, like a small duffle bag, a cosmetic case, or a rubber container with a lid.
Fishing tackle boxes also make ideal containers for camping first aid kits.
You can buy a readymade first aid kit online or at most pharmacies, outdoor sports and camping supplies shops.
These are designed for most basic needs, but you will probably need to supplement the kit with some extra supplies.
For a typical family camping first aid kit, include the following as a minimum:
- Pain relief
- Hydrocortisone
- Antiseptic wipes
- Antibiotic ointment
- A selection of adhesive bandages
- At least 2 large compress bandages
- 5 small & 5 larger gauze pads
- 2 roller (ACE) bandages of different sizes
- 2 triangular bandages
- First aid tape
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- An oral thermometer that contains no mercury or glass
- 2 pairs of medical gloves, preferably latex free
- Instant cold compress
- A breathing barrier for CPR
- An emergency blanket or space blanket
To this you might add a number of additional first aid and emergency supplies.
Storing these in or with your camping first aid kit means you won’t forget them.
These additional supplies include:
- Water purifying tablets
- Insect repellent
- Calamine lotion
- Burn relief spray and aloe lotion
- Smelling salts
- An eye patch
- Eye drops or eye wash
- A variety of medications to battle common ailments like upset stomachs, headaches, and coughs and colds
Your camping or outdoor first aid kit may need to include other supplies as well, depending on your activities.
If you plan day hikes, boating or water sports, cycling, or other outdoor activities away from camp, you will want a smaller first aid kit with minimal supplies to carry in your daypack.
It is important to remember to maintain your camping first aid kit just like you care for your other camping gear.
After each trip, check your supplies and restock anything that has been used.
Inspect your camping first aid kit at the beginning of each season for out of date or expired medications and supplies and be sure to replace any items you throw out.
Before each camping trip, remember to adjust the number of items you carry based on the number of people going.
This way you will have everything you need and be able to cope with any first aid need as it arises.
A camping checklist can help you keep track of everything you need to take with you making packing a breeze! Grab ours here:
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