Camping First Aid Kits, Checklist and Resource Guide

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.

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.

• Wilderness and Remote First Aid Emergency Reference Guide and Pocket Guide
• Emergency First Aid Reference Guide
• Emergency Hand Crank Weather Alert Radio with LED Flashlight
• Hand Crank Flashlight and Smartphone Charger

Camping First Aid Kit Checklist

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:

• Adhesive bandages
• Antibacterial ointment
• Antiseptic wipes
• Burn gel
• CPR masks
• Disposable gloves
• Duct tape
• Elastic wrap bandage
• First aid manuals
• Gauze pads
• Hand sanitizer
• Heating pad
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Instant cold pack
• Medical tape
• Scissors
• Splint
• Sterile saline solution
• Thermometer
• Tourniquet
• Tweezers

Additionally, having general medications available are camping first aid essentials. Before leaving the house, check these items off your list:

• Aloe gel or other treatment for sunburn
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Antihistamines (children and adults)
• Eye drops
• Insect repellent
• Pain relievers (children and adults)
• Personal medications
• Oral glucose tablets

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.

Why You Need a First Aid Kit for Camping

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.

Common Camping Injuries

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:

• Bruises
• Fractures
• Muscle injuries like sprains and strains
• Burns

Environmental risks should also be considered, especially during prolonged exposure to the elements. These include:

• Insect bites
• Tick bites
• Dehydration
• Heat exhaustion
• Hypothermia

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.

First Aid Courses and Resources

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