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Date Published: June 24, 2024
A first aid kit is an essential part of your camping gear that should not be overlooked. It's not just a collection of supplies, but a safety net that provides peace of mind. It's there to address minor injuries - like cuts, scrapes, burns, bruises, and sprains - and emergencies quickly. Being prepared with a stocked first aid kit minimizes the risk of infection or injury severity, allowing you to fully enjoy your outdoor adventure.
Are you curious about what should go into your first aid kit for camping? We’ve got you covered with a comprehensive camping first aid checklist.
Your first aid kit should be as unique as your camping trip depending on factors like the length of your adventure, number of campers in your group and the location of the campsite. For example, you'll want to bring along items for specific medical needs - like an EpiPen- if you have known allergic reactions.
The American Red Cross has several first aid kits to help you get started to streamline your packing preparation.
In addition to a stocked first aid kit, we’ve included applicable Red Cross products for camping to consider.
Make sure your first aid kit is properly stocked, so that it can serve as a resource for many different types of emergencies. Follow this camping first aid kit checklist to ensure you have the essentials:
Additionally, having general medications available are camping first aid essentials. Before leaving the house, check these items off your list:
As a final tip, first aid kits should be checked regularly for expiration dates, kept out of the reach of young children, and stored in an acceptable temperature range.
A properly stocked first aid kit is essential for emergency response, whether at work, home, recreation, or an athletic event, or when camping. Take an inventory of your first aid kit so you know what’s in it and how to use the contents. And consider taking a first aid class or wilderness first aid training. From a public health or occupational perspective, first aid kits that are accessible and adequately stocked serve as resources for emergencies.
Summer activities like hiking, camping, swimming, and outdoor sports offer opportunities for adventure and fun, but they also come with their share of potential risks for injury.
While exploring the great outdoors, common injuries include:
Environmental risks should also be considered, especially during prolonged exposure to the elements. These include:
Rarely, snake bites and animal bites may occur, but it’s still important to be well informed of action steps to take in the event of an emergency.
Prepare yourself to have a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience by packing a first aid kit, using adequate sun protection and insect repellent, staying hydrated, and knowing how to recognize and address signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration. With knowledge and preparation, you can confidently handle any situation that may arise.
The American Red Cross offers first aid training, so you can learn how to use all of the items that come in our first aid kits.
You can also download the Red Cross First Aid App to get access to important information and videos while you’re on your next camping trip.
Or text: "GETFIRST" to 90999
Training Services is a division of the American Red Cross with the mission to spread knowledge and educate as many members of the national community in lifesaving procedures. Our services include training courses for CPR and AED, First Aid, BLS (Basic Life Support), babysitting, Caregiving, Lifeguarding Water Safety, and more.