Wondering what type of first aid kit you need, or what it should have in it?
First Aid kits are obviously essential to make sure you can cope with any medical emergencies that might occur, but which one do you get and how do you use them? First Aid kits can be confusing with the complicated instruction manual, as well as chemicals and instruments you have never seen before. Make sure you familiarize yourself with how to use the manual, the kit, and basic medical procedures. Remember, a first aid kit can only do as much as you can.
What should I look for in a First Aid kit?
Typically, the easiest and cheapest way to get a good first aid kit is to buy it as a kit, equipped with an instruction manual, chemicals, and instruments in a waterproof case. What you want in the kit depends on how many people are in your group, how far you are from a hospital, and what type of potential dangers you face. Some basic first aid items to consider include:
first aid instruction booklet
sterile gauze bandages
adhesive bandaids
antiseptic wipes
bee sting kit, tick remover, snake bite venom remover (depends on where you will be)
painkiller pills
gloves
knife/scissors
flashlight
duct tape (in a small roll)
any prescription medication required by people in your group
allergy relief
hemostatic gauze (to stop bleeding – this is particularly useful if anyone is on a blood thinner medication)
blister treatment/prevention
As well as any personal care items you want, such as lip balm, sunscreen, insect repellent, or soap.
