First Aid Kit Essentials to Keep on Hand

A first aid kit is a must-have for every household. As you might expect, it can help you take care of minor injuries and illnesses that occur unexpectedly and quickly provide treatment. The contents of the kit may vary depending on the size of your family and your individual healthcare needs, but there are some first aid kit essentials everyone should have.

If you're not sure how to get started, focus on compiling a basic kit for a family of four. Think of absorbent compress dressings, bandages of various sizes, cloth tape and antibiotic ointment. Then, you can go from there. Keep in mind, it's also important to check the expiration dates of the items in the kit regularly and replace them as needed.

First Aid Kit Essentials

Stocking a first aid kit at home can help you be prepared to handle minor emergencies — and there are a few specific essentials to help you get there.

Bandages and Dressings

Bandages and dressings are some of the most important items in a first aid kit, as they can treat cuts, scrapes and other wounds. Some of the most commonly used bandages and dressings include:

• Adhesive bandages in assorted sizes

• Sterile gauze pads

• Rolled gauze bandages

• Adhesive tape

• Elastic bandages

   

It's critical to have a variety of sizes and types of bandages and dressings on hand, as different wounds may require different treatments. What's more, elastic bandages can even support sprains and strains.

Topical Products

Disinfectants and ointments can help prevent infections, soothe itching, treat sunburns and promote healing of wounds. Some of the most commonly used disinfectants and ointments include:

• Hand sanitizer

• Antiseptic wipes

• Hydrogen peroxide

• Antibiotic ointment

• Hydrocortisone cream

• Calamine lotion

• Aloe vera gel

• Eye wash

It's important to read the labels of these products carefully and use them as directed to avoid any adverse effects.

Tools and Instruments

Besides bandages and topical products, a first aid kit should also contain some basic tools and instruments to assist in treating an injury. Some of the most commonly used tools and instruments include:

• Scissors

• Tweezers

• Digital thermometer

• Cold packs

• Disposable gloves

• Flashlight with extra batteries

   

It's vital to keep these tools clean and sterile to avoid any contamination of wounds.

You can also include a basic first aid manual to help you find quick instructions for care if you're unable to use a computer or phone to look up treatment recommendations.

Over-the-Counter Medications

A solid first aid kit should also include a handful of over-the-counter medications, taken by mouth. These might include:

• Anti-diarrhea medications
• Laxatives
• Antacids
• Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine
• Cough and cold medications
• Pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)

By including the essential items listed above, you can be better prepared to handle any situation that may arise.

Additional Items for a Comprehensive First Aid Kit

As noted, a well-stocked first aid kit should contain basic items for treating minor injuries and illnesses. However, adding a few extra items can make a significant difference in an emergency. Below are some additional items that can be included in a more comprehensive first aid kit.

Prescription Medications

Including prescription medications in a first aid kit can be helpful — and sometimes, even necessary. These include:

• Epinephrine auto-injector: used for severe allergic reactions

• Nitroglycerin: used for chest pain associated with heart conditions

• Glucagon: used for severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in people with diabetes

   

It is important to note that prescription medications should only be included in a first aid kit if they've been prescribed for the individual.

Specialized First Aid Supplies

Depending on the activities and environments in which the first aid kit will be used, the addition of some specialized first aid supplies can be beneficial. These include:

• Sam splints: lightweight and versatile splints that can be used for a variety of injuries

• Tourniquet: used to stop severe bleeding in an emergency

• Snake bite kit: includes suction devices and other supplies for treating snake bites

   

Comfort Items

Besides medical supplies, including a few comfort items in a first aid kit can help reduce stress and anxiety in an emergency. These items include:

• Emergency blanket: provides warmth and comfort in cold or wet conditions

• Reusable heating pad: provides warmth and pain relief for muscle aches and cramps

• Stress ball: helps reduce anxiety and stress in a high-pressure situation

   

It is important to note that while these items can be useful, they should not take the place of essential medical supplies in a first aid kit.

When you know what should be in the kit, and then make it fit your needs, you're ready for unexpected situations. Keeping a first aid kit nearby is a smart way to take care of your family and make your home safer.

First Aid Kit Maintenance

Maintaining a first aid kit is essential to ensure it's always ready to use in case of an emergency. A well-maintained kit can save lives and reduce the severity of injuries. Here are some tips for maintaining a first aid kit at home.

Regular Checkups

It is important to check the first aid kit regularly to ensure that all items are in good condition and are not expired. Experts recommend a six-month checkup to ensure it's always ready for use. During the checkup, inspect the following items:

• Review the expiration dates of all medications and ointments, and replace any expired items.

• Check that all bandages and dressings are in good condition and have not been contaminated or damaged.

• Test the batteries of any electronic devices, such as flashlights or radios, and replace them if necessary.

• Inspect the contents, and make sure all items are still in place and have not been used or misplaced.

   

Personalize Your Home First Aid Kits

Be sure to personalize your first aid kits according to your family's specific needs and medical conditions. Making your first aid kit unique to your family is a great idea. You can — and should — include additional items that are specific to your family members. For instance, if someone has allergies, have their allergy medication in the kit. If a family member is prone to getting cuts or scrapes, adding extra bandages and antiseptic wipes would be helpful.

Personalizing the kit means thinking about what your family needs the most and making sure those items are accounted for. This way, you're ready to handle any situations that might arise.

Remember: It is important to keep the kit in a location that is easily accessible and known to all family members. Not only will a good first aid kit include basic supplies such as adhesive tape, elastic wrap bandages, and bandage strips, but it will be personalized to your needs — and always at the ready to protect your loved ones.

Clinically reviewed on September 20, 2023.