Are you in the midst of planning a fabulous outdoor adventure for your next holiday? Maybe you’re heading out on a great camping, kayaking, or hiking journey with your family or friends. When it comes time to gather up all the necessary equipment and items you’ll be bringing with you, it’s important you also pack a travel first aid kit. This is something people often leave behind when in fact it should be one of the first things you pack.
When Should You Pack a Travel First Aid Kit?
The answer to this question is really simple, a travel first aid kit should be packed no matter how short or how long of a trip you’re going on. That includes just a half-day or day long adventure. The fact is that you never know when the unexpected may happen, so it’s always best to be prepared.
When you are visiting remote areas, such as campsites, hiking trails, and water trails, finding help may not be easy. You need to have the necessary items to help you in case of emergency while you either wait for help to arrive, or you go seek assistance. Of course, not every event is going to require professional medical attention, but again, it’s good to be prepared with the items you need to address the situation.
Key Items to Include in Your Travel First Aid Kit
Now that you’re convinced a travel first aid kit is important, the next question should be “what should I pack in the first aid kit”. There are a number of key items you’ll want to add to the kit, meant to help not just with medical issues that may pop up, but also with navigational issues.
A basic kit should always contain:
- Pain and fever medication
- Something to care for blisters
- Bandages of various sizes
- Allergy medications (if you suffer from allergies)
- Sunscreen
- Antibiotic cream/ointment
- Gauze, tape, and scissors
- An energy drink and energy bar
Obviously, you will want to tweak the items depending on where you are going and for how long you will be there.
At the same time, your first aid kit should also feature other key items that aren’t used for medical purposes, but are just as important. This can include things like a flashlight, spare batteries, a warm blanket, a flare gun, and a lantern.
As well you will need something to help with navigation. The days of carrying around paper maps and a compass are long gone. Instead, opt for a GPS navigational device, or look into apps that may be available for the region. Take, for example, the Delaware Water Gap Map app. This app provides you with maps, information on where the campsites are, and local supplies stores, and it even works offline.
Carrying a travel first aid kit with you means you’ll always be prepared for those unexpected events should they occur. It’s not something you should neglect, no matter where you’re going.