First Aid Kit

A First Aid Kit is something everyone should have in their vehicle; from basic bandages to more advanced treatment equipment.

I believe the variety of equipment you have in your kit depends on personal preferences.  That's why I recommend building your own First Aid Kit to carry in your vehicle.  Of course, you can purchase a "ready to go" First Aid Kit with 101 things, but when it comes time to use that kit, it may not have what you were expecting or exactly what you need to treat an injury.  Which is why you should consider building your own First Aid Kit.  Besides knowing what's in your kit, you will know exactly where to look to quickly access the supplies you need in an emergency.

My First Aid Kit is a custom solution, compartmentalized into two containers.  The durable containers keep all contents together and can be easily carried a short distance to meet up with someone in need of help.  I also have a backpack that serves as a carrying device should the distance be longer or more treacherous.  There is also a zip lock bag of wet wipes (non-scented and no cleaning agent).

Contents of my First Aid Kit includes:

• Bandages - Regular Size
• Bandages - Large Adhesive Pads
• Gauze Pads
• First Aid Cleaning Spray (Bactine)
• Neosporin
• Afterbite - To Sooth Stings and Itches
• Chapstick
• Gloves - Non Latex
• Ace Bandage - For Wrapping and Immobilizing
• Moleskin
• Bite and Sting Kit
• Sunscreen
• Gauze wrap
• Syringe - For Flushing out Wounds
• Medical Tape - Thin Width
• Medical Tape - Wide Width
• Splint (Shapeable) - For Immobilizing (bone fractures)
• Finger Splint - For Immobilizing Broken/Fractured fingers
• Advil - Adult (Replace Once per Year Depending Upon Your Climate)
• Advil - Children (Replace Once per Year Depending Upon Your Climate)
• Cold Packs - Instant Type
• Tweezers
• Fingernail Clippers
• Scissors - Short Arms
• Scissors - Long Arms
• Whistle
• Zip Ties
• Signal Mirror
• Lighter
• Wet Wipes - Carried Separately
• Backpack - Carried Separately

My First Aid Kit containers fit nicely under the back seat of my Jeep Wrangler.  Also, the bag of wet wipes and green backpack fit easily in this space as well.  And there is additional space remaining under the seats for other items including my tow strap.

For either helping yourself or helping another person, I strongly believe it is a good idea to carry a basic First Aid Kit in your vehicle.  There are probably some additional items I should be carrying in my First Aid Kit and I expect it will continue to evolve.  What's in your First Aid Kit and what might I be missing?