Best First Aid Kits for RVs or Campers

Before getting into the necessary essentials needed in first aid kits, let’s first talk about knowing what to do. Regardless of where you are whether it’s in your RV or boat, the woods or the water, everyone should certify by taking the American Red Cross First Aid Course. You’ll learn how to treat minor sprains, wounds and injuries.  If they are more severe, proper triage can buy precious time until you can get to a medical facility. Additionally, you may want to get (re)certified in an American Red Cross CPR Course for both children and adults. You may very well be the only one available to save a life or render aid to the injured.

First Aid Kits Supply List

Having the right first aid supplies in your kit is job one. Its also necessary to know what supplies are used for each injury. Putting together your own first aid kit is easy. Get your family involved in shopping and packing your own first aid kits. Its a good idea to keep a detailed inventory list so you don’t forget anything.

We always recommend though, keeping first aid kits’ contents, especially sharp scissors and tools, OTC’s and prescriptions away from young children. Everyone, regardless of age should be properly trained on how to use the tools and supplies. I also recommend putting your physician’s contact information inside the kit.

Here, we’ve provided some of the basics. You may add other supplies as they are pertinent to the environment or activities you’ll doing.

FIRST AID MEDICAL SUPPLIES:

• • • Antiseptic Wound Cleanser and/or Wipes
    • Gauze Rolls (2″ and 3″ wide)
    • Sterile Non-stick Gauze Pads
    • Hypoallergenic Adhesive Tape
    • Alcohol Swabs
    • Antibiotic Cream/Ointment
    • Calamine Lotion
    • Hydrocortizone Cream
    • Liquid Bandage
    • Liquid Saline Solution
    • Ice Packs
    • Ace Bandage or Stretch Tape
    • Cotton Swabs
    • Medical/Surgical Gloves
    • Splint(s)
    • Anti-Inflammatory Pain Relief Medication (Ibuprofen, etc.)
    • Aloe Vera Topical Gel
    • Bottle(s) of Purified Water
    • Small First Aid Manual or Info Cards

FIRST AID KIT TOOLS:

• • • Tweezers
    • Sewing Needle with Heavy Duty Thread
    • Small Flashlight
    • Safety Pins
    • Sterile Sewing Needle with Thread
    • Pocket Knife or Multi-Tool
    • Oral Thermometer
    • Surgical Scissors
    • Irrigation Syringe
    • Small Mirror
    • Medical/Surgical Gloves (not latex)
    • Disposable Surgical Mask
    • CPR Mask (one-way valve)
    • Eye Wash Cup
    • Medical Waste Bag (plastic zipper bag)

Here’s a great pre-assembled first aid tool kit below:

Always keep your tools clean, sharp and dry.  Replace as needed.

So, those are just the basics for general first aid and emergency medical triage. If you happen to be in an environment that may require more extensive treatments or special needs, you may want to add the following recommendations:

• • EpiPen (prescription only for severe bee sting and food allergies)
  • Snake Bite Kit (should be familiar with to be able to administer)
  • Insect Sting Relief Treatment
  • Antihistamine
  • Benedryl
  • Prescription Medication (in proper bottles showing dosage)

You certainly can mitigate some injuries before they happen (i.e. sunburn, blisters, infections, bug bites, etc.) by including preventative care and health maintenance supplies separately but with your first aid kit.

PREVENTATIVE CARE & HEALTH MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES:

• • • Insect Repellent Wipes or Spray (with deet)
    • Mosquito Repellents Bands
    • Sunscreen (30+ SPF)
    • Lip Balm (with SPF)
    • Antibacterial Soap
    • Hand Sanitizer
    • Antibacterial Hand Wipes
    • Moleskin (to help prevent blisters or chafing)
    • Anti-Chaffing Stick or Cream
    • Sunglasses (polarized with UV protection)

Where can I get specialized first aid kits?

Depending on size, each first aid kit has pretty much the same contents. Don’t forget to buy accordingly; relating to the activity and location where you will be camping.

For example, if you’re a hiker in rattlesnake country, you’ll want to include a snake bite kit and blister care kit.

If you’re a day hiker or backcountry backpacker, perhaps adding in splint rolls or two with extra elastic bandage wraps.

And if you’re into water sports or activities (i.e. swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, etc.), stocking your first aid kit with topical antiseptic cleaners, waterproof bandages, wraps and tapes are a good idea. Or, you can purchase a first aid kit like below that is designed specific for water activities.

Purchasing Pre-Made First Aid Kits

You can buy pre-made first aid kits online, at most big box stores, pharmacies and even camping stores.  They range in prices from five dollars to one hundred dollars; depending on how large they are and contents. You can also purchase pre-stocked kits that are designed for specific activities, such as hiking, camping or boating like I mentioned above.

• • • Pocket Size – about $5 – Perfect for small daypacks or backpacks
    • Small – About $20-30 – Best for vehicles and small cabinets
    • Medium – less than $30 – Great for RVs and Campers
    • Large – over $50 – Best for large families, gatherings or trained EMTs

Or, you can make your own designed specifically to your family’s needs. Whether you buy one already pre-stocked or assemble your own, make certain it has all the contents you may need. Restock your first aid kits supplies when necessary. And make sure you keep track of expiration dates. A good rule of thumb is ‘if you open it or use it, replace it’.

In closing, the important thing is to be be prepared for what ‘could’ happen on the road or away from home.  Always stay calm and keep your injured calm. Having first aid kits necessary to mitigate further or more complex injuries will allow you to continue enjoying your camping or RV adventures!

Our other great RV safety articles to read

Family Camping Safety Tips and Tricks

10 Campfire Safety Tips

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