Heading outdoors for an exciting camping trip? Amidst the excitement of prepping your gear, it’s easy to overlook one of the most crucial elements: the campers first aid kit. Fortunately, you don’t need to run to the store. With items commonly found in most homes, you can create a DIY campers first aid kit.
A Suitable Container
Begin by selecting a sturdy, waterproof container to store your supplies. A plastic food container, like those made by Rubbermaid or Tupperware, will work perfectly.
Essential First Aid Supplies
Here are the basic first aid supplies, likely already in your home, that should be in every campers first aid kit:
- Adhesive Bandages: For minor cuts and scrapes. You probably have a box of Band-Aids in your bathroom cabinet.
- Antiseptic Wipes or Hydrogen Peroxide: Great for cleaning wounds before dressing. Clorox or other disinfecting wipes can be used, or a bottle of Hydrogen Peroxide.
- Cotton Balls and Medical Tape: Use these to cover larger wounds or hold dressings in place. The medical tape can also be used for minor sprains.
- Tweezers: Ideal for removing splinters or ticks. You might have a pair in your grooming kit or toolbox.
- Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers: Pills like Tylenol or Advil are essential for managing pain.
- Antihistamine: This could be crucial for anyone who may experience allergic reactions. You might have Benadryl or another antihistamine in your medicine cabinet.
Extra Items for Outdoor Adventures
Certain items, while not part of a traditional first aid kit, are extremely useful for camping scenarios:
- Duct Tape: Incredibly versatile, duct tape can be used to secure bandages, repair equipment, or even remove ticks.
- Safety Pins: These can be used to remove splinters, secure bandages, or repair clothing. Look in your sewing kit for these.
- Old Credit Cards: These can be used to scrape away bee stingers.
- Hand Sanitizer: Ideal for sanitizing hands before treating wounds if clean water isn’t readily available. You probably have a bottle of Purell or another brand on hand.
- Soap: For cleaning wounds when water is available. Miniature bars from hotel stays are perfect.
- Aloe Vera Gel: For treating sunburns. Check your skincare products for aloe vera gel.
A campers first aid kit is an essential part of any camping trip. For further advice on first aid and emergency preparedness, consider taking a Red Cross first aid course.