7 Best First Aid Kits Everyone Should Take On the Road

In the world today, first aid kits are essential items found in homes, schools, cars and other vital places. For van life travelers as well as campers, having a first aid kit is as important as your sleeping bags. Since you spend more time on the road than any other place, there are periods when the roads are in unfavorable conditions and accidents occur when you least expect them. Likewise, there are times in which van life travelers or campers encounter earthquakes, tornados, and other dangerous occurrences while on the road. The first aid kit keeps you prepared for unseen circumstances or happenings.

One of the major benefits of having a first aid kit in your van while you explore the world is that it delivers fast assistance in emergency moments. With the kits, you don’t have to wait for emergency medical services before you keep yourself and other van life travelers safe from harm. Also, the first aid kit allows you to drive around the city of Oklahoma without the fear of any danger. The kit also helps to reduce casualties whenever an accident or tornado occurs. With a plethora of first aid kits on the market today, it is a bit difficult for van life travelers to get the best kit for their vans. This post helps you choose the model that best suits your taste. It also contains

How to choose the right kit for your trip 

With a slew of online shops selling first aid kits, a convincing buying guide is vital to get the best model for your trip. Aside from the fact that these kits have similar features and designs, they also have the same color, size as well as shape. In order to purchase the right kit, here are factors to consider and feature to look for in the first aid kit.

Tough Waterproof Container

One of the most essential features to look for in the kit is the tough waterproof container. Van life travelers, as well as campers, need to be sure that the kit is in a sturdy waterproof container. The waterproof container makes it ideal for any outdoor activities. No matter how heavy the rain falls, the water will never get nearer to the items in the box. Likewise, the waterproof container enables you to use the kit for a lifetime van life trip. Having gotten a tough waterproof container, van life travelers need to be sure that the box is flexible and easy to move from one area of the camp to another. However, flexible containers are not as durable as dry containers but they are lightweight and easy to store. Even though dry boxes are also good for camping, campers should be sure that the bags are not punctured.

Adequate Supplies

While setting out on a van life trip, van life travelers need to be sure that they are moving out with a first aid kit that is well-stocked with supplies and extra supplies, especially for unforeseen circumstances. With enough supplies, van life travelers can always prepare for any occurrence. The extra supplies keep them safe for the long haul especially during a tornado or other significant weather events. Since the bag contains supplies as well as extra supplies, campers can keep hurricane situation in hand without the help of third parties. No matter what the situation is, having supplies, as well as extra supplies, keep you and other van life travelers safe.

Gauze pads

The size of the gauze pads is another vital factor to consider when buying first aid kits for van life trips. Unlike traditional bandage, gauze pads are effective in treating excessive bleeding. These units are also ideal for protecting burns, scrapes, as well as minor cuts. The pad is available in large sizes, as well as small sizes. While the large gauze pads are easy to mend to any shape or height, small gauze pads are only ideal for a small wound. But the small gauze pads are easy to buy compared to the large gauze pads.  Large gauze pads are perfect for van life trips or camping. Aside from the fact that the pad can sustain more than three injured van life travelers, it also gives maximum protection from burns and other harmful microorganisms while the injury is being treated. So, van life travelers should get a gauze pad with at least 4” x 4” size.

Budget

Another essential factor to consider before buying a first aid kit for your next van life trip is the price of the unit and the budget you have for it. Many campers, as well as travelers, see a first aid kit as an additional item which if not taken along has little or no impact on the trip. As a result of this, van life travelers prefer to go for cheap kits. Cheap kits might work effectively for some periods, but they are not as durable and sturdy as the luxury kits. For van life travelers who go on regular trips, it is safe and perfect to buy luxury units that will last you for a lifetime. Likewise, luxury first aid kits come with adequate supplies as well as extra supplies.

Portability

Most times, these significant weather events do not occur while you are riding in your van. Some happen while you hike, bike, visit wildlife area, boat, and enjoy other outdoor activities. So, it is safe to have your first aid kit at hand no matter where you are hiking or biking too. Therefore, van life travelers need to purchase a portable as well as a lightweight container that can be carried effortlessly from the van to the peak of the mountain. Also, the bag can be easily stored and kept in any part of the campground or lakeside.

Versatile

Van life travelers should make sure they don't purchase a first aid kit that is only meant for single use. You need to check for units that have adequate supplies as well as extra supplies capable of treating not only burns, punctures but also minor cuts and other common injuries known with van life traveling. Therefore, a versatile first aid kit keeps you and your van life group safe no matter the situation.

What should be in your first aid kit?

A first aid kit is a collection of items, supplies as well as pieces of equipment that are used in giving medical treatment. It is vital to have a well-stocked first-aid kit in your van so you can deal with any emergency, injuries and minor accidents. Unlike other items you are bringing on the trip, your first aid kit must be kept not only out of reach of children but also in a dry and cool place. Also, here are few important supplies that must be included in your first aid kit whenever you are going on a van life trip, hiking or camping.

Plasters

Plasters are also called medical plaster, sticking plaster or adhesive bandage. It is one of the most important supplies that all van life travelers must have in their kit. It is a small medical dressing used for injuries not too serious enough, to require 911 assistance or medical team. These plasters keep your wound safe from dirt, damage, bacteria or other harmful elements. Some of the adhesive bandages are made with antiseptic properties for adequate protection. Plasters are available in different sizes as well as shapes. There are also varieties of adhesive bandages of which special bandages, transdermal patches, and butterfly closures also called butterfly stitches are the most common.

Sterile gauze dressings

Also known as sterile pads, sterile gauze dressings are items used for several medical purposes. These materials are perfect for open wounds. The pad is often used on a wound not only to enhance rapid healing but also to safeguard the wound from further harm. Unlike adhesive bandages, sterile pads are applied directly to the wound. Sterile gauze dressings are one of the most versatile items in a first aid kit. Many users refer to them as multipurpose pads. This material helps to seal the wound to expedite the clotting process. Likewise, the pad protects your wound and injuries from infection and mechanical damages. You must have a small, medium as well as large sterile gauze dressings in your kit.

Sterile eye dressings

Aside from the sterile gauze dressings, sterile eye dressings are essential items you need to include in your first aid kit. It is an ideal pad for van life travelers exploring cities in summers. Essentially, sterile eye dressings protect the eyes from grime as well as dust. Also, this dressings cushions the eye and at the same time safeguards it from possible infection. The unit also has a strong elastic bandage that secures pad firmly in place. Van life travelers can buy these eye dressings in singles or packs of 6.

Disposable sterile gloves 

Although disposable sterile gloves are usually used during medical examinations and procedures to help prevent cross-examination, they are also one of the essential items for safety on roads or in campgrounds. These units are used for hand as well as arm protection in medical device manufacturing, medical exam and surgical. Disposable sterile gloves are available in varieties of sizes such as XS, S, M, and L.

1 Swiss Safe 120-Piece + Bonus 32-Piece Mini First Aid Kit

On our list for the best first aid kit for van life travel and camp is Swiss Safe 120-Piece + Bonus 32-Piece Mini First Aid Kit. Aside from the fact that this model has enjoyed a slew of positive reviews on Amazon, it has also won the heart of hundreds of thousands of users. Unlike other first aid kits on the market today, this unit is mini and portable. Van life travelers, as well as campers, will have no difficulty carrying it to any part of the campground for safety. The kit is also easy to pack in a bag for plane travel. It also has a sleek and attractive design which makes it a user’s choice. The product also has a space-saving design. You don’t have to remove any item in your van in order to put it in place. It can sit easily near you while you ride from one place to another.

Besides being a great choice for van life travel and camping, this first aid kit also works perfectly for emergencies at the workplace, home, hiking, and survival. For van life travelers who have never used a first aid kit before, this unit is made for you! It comes with a comprehensive 18-page first aid guide. So, you would have no difficulty administering treatment for burn or minor injuries. With the first aid guide, van life travelers can effortlessly apply treatment using the kit in an emergency. This box has not only been intelligently organized but filled with every necessary first aid item to keep you safe in an emergency.

Swiss Safe 120-Piece + Bonus 32-Piece Mini First Aid Kit contains 120 essential first aid pieces. Also, it has extra 32-pieces in case you use up the main pieces. Unlike other companies with over 100 items in the first aid kit of which many are insignificant and cheap, Swiss Safe 120-Piece + Bonus 32-Piece Mini First Aid Kit contains reliable and effective items. The sheer amount of medical goods contained in the box makes you feel like you can go into any places without the feeling of having to contact 911 immediately. Even though the unit is a mini kit, it has everything you will need to make your van life trip safe and unforgettable. This kit delivers what you need with high-quality items.

Another attractive feature about this first aid kit is that it includes an additional room inside the container. The additional room enables you to add important first aid items to supplement the kit as wanted. So, you can easily add some travel size medicines to make your first aid kit complete. This first aid kit is a great value for money as you don’t have to break up your bank to purchase it. It is built to last you for a long time. It has a content list printed on the back of the container. Therefore, you can easily glance to see what is available in the bag before you buy it. The kit comes with a 100% money-back guarantee. So if you aren't 100% satisfied with the first aid kit, you can go get a refund.

2 My Medic MyFak First Aid Kit

When it comes to the production of effective and durable first aid kits, My Medic MyFak is one of the best brands in the industry. This company has been significant and popular on the market today with its high-quality first aid kits. It has also enjoyed a slew of recommendations as well as positive reviews from users. My Medic MyFak First Aid Kit is one of the best units on the shelves. It is a unique model perfect for traveling especially in winters. The kit has a water-resistant bag that prevents water from getting nearer to any item in the container. So, no matter the heavy rainfall, your bandages or sterile gloves will never go wet. My Medic MyFak Aid Kit is available in 5 different colors which include the black, coyote, green, orange as well as red color. Van life travelers are free to pick the model that best completes the look of their trip. The unit is also perfect for campers who are not lovers of the color red which is quite common with many first aid kits.

Aside from van life trip or camping, this kit can also be used off-road in your Jeep, multi-day backpacking adventure as well as the park with the kids. It is also an ideal unit to have at home, schools, and offices. The first aid kit includes a heavy-duty carry handle that enables you to carry the container from your van to the lakeside or any part of the campground. Unlike other models, this heavy-duty carry handle is built to last for a lifetime. It does not rust or fade no matter the rugged use it undergoes. Likewise, it comes with a fold-out detachable mesh pocket where you can keep your other valuable items you will love to have on the trip. The kit is FSA/HSA certified for its safety, efficiency as well as durability.

My Medic MyFak First Aid Kit is available in basic and advanced kits. Even though both kits come with all assortment of bandages and tools for any situation, the advanced kit contains more supplies than the basic kit. Also, the advanced kit is more expensive than the basic first aid kit. Since the first aid bag only weighs 1.9 pounds, van life travelers, as well as campers, can effortlessly move it from one place to another. The kit comes with a D-Rings to attach the shoulder strap. With the shoulder strap, you can have the bag sitting comfortably on your back or shoulder while you hike several areas of land. It is one of the most durable first aid kits on the shelves today. The product is constructed from 600 Denier Waterproof Nylon which preserves its design. The rip-away Velcro panel ensures that you take scissors or bandages without the need of bringing down the bag or fully opening it.

3 First Aid Only FAO-442 All-Purpose First Aid Kit

For van life travelers or campers who are in search of a first aid kit with a slew of supplies as well as extra supplies, this model is a great choice for you. As its names imply, First Aid only is a brand who has been producing high-quality kits over the years. This model is one of the great units from First Aid Only. Unlike other first aid kits on the shelves, First Aid Only FAO-443 All-Purpose First Aid Kit is only available in blue color. So, if you are a lover of red, it is high time to check for another unit. Apart from its sleek and attractive design, the unit is also affordable. It is easy to buy not only for van life trips and camping but also for home, school as well as family. The kit is built to get you prepared and ready for any unforeseen situations or emergencies. It contains about 298 supplies which are ideal for treating burns, scrapes, Cuts, swelling pain.

The kit is intelligently organized and you can access it without any difficulty. You would be able to find things quickly and easily in an emergency.  It has plastic adhesive bandages and fabrics perfect for treating puncture, wound, abrasion, and other minor cuts. The burn cream, as well as the cold pack, protects the damaged legs from sunburn, abrasion, scald and minor burns. Another unique feature of this model is that it is perfect for temporary relief of minor pains and aches. The kit helps you eliminate arthritis, backache, muscle aches, common cold, and minor aches. First Aid Only FAO-442 All-Purpose First Aid Kit has a space-saving design. It can be nicely stored in a desk drawer, vehicle compartment or into a backpack. Unlike other first aid kits produced today, this unit is latex-free. So, you can be sure that it would last for a long time.

The kit comes with a first aid instruction booklet which enables you to use the items in the container without fear. This booklet includes all you need to know about the items in the bag, how to apply them, when to apply them, on what to apply them and where to apply them. Therefore, if you are a camper or van life traveler using the first aid box for the first time, you would have no difficulty doing so. Even though the first aid kit has a portable bag, yet, it still has a little room left for a couple of extra supplies you will love to bring along on the trip. The kit is affordable and does not need you to break up your bank to purchase. First Aid Only FAO-442 All-Purpose First Aid Kit has all of the essentials and no limping on quality.

4 Be Smart Get Prepared 10HBC01082 100Piece First Aid Kit

This first aid kit is a great value for van life travelers and campers who are in search of a budget-friendly model to explore the cities in Canada. Be Smart Get Prepared 10HBC01082 100Piece First Aid Kit has a sleek and attractive design. It is a perfect model for users who want a beautifully-designed box to complete the look of their trip. Aside from its elegant design, this kit from Be Smart Get Prepared is lightweight and portable. The carry handle on the top of the container allows you to move the box from one place to another with ease. Likewise, it also has a space-saving design and you don’t need to remove anything in your van before you can store it. Be Smart Get Prepared 10HBC01082 100Piece First Aid Kit is ideal for home, office, vehicle, camping or sports. For home use, users will get about 100 pieces whereas there are about 154 pieces for sports first aid kit. Travel first aid kit includes about 200 pieces and the outdoor first aid kit has 303 pieces.

First aid kits for traveling are built with dual-layered quilted nylon which does not only make them strong but also durable. It has a high density, sturdy and rugged plastic case that is impact resistant. Also, the plastic case is compact, keeps the dust-out and fits under the seat. As a medical device, Be Smart Get Prepared 10HBC01082 100Piece First Aid Kit meets United States FDS Regulatory Standard. So, you can be sure that no harmful material was used to make the items in the box. Since the items in the container are fully organized, you would have little or no difficulty having access to them anytime you wish. The kit also includes easy slide latches that securely locks into place. This product includes every item you will love to have in a first aid box. It does not only treat injuries but also clean and protect cuts. Be Smart Get Prepared 10HBC01082 100Piece First Aid Kit is a multiple-purpose fist and kit that comes with every important item.

To clean your injuries, Be Smart Get Prepared 10HBC01082 100Piece First Aid Kit includes 6 antiseptic towelettes and 12 alcohol wipes. Likewise, it has 2 antibiotic ointment packets, 10 cotton tip applicators, 1 instant cold compress, and a first aid guide. For protection, the kit includes 20 adhesive bandages, 1 adhesive tape roll, 5 butterfly closures, 4 wooden finger splints, 4 gauze pads, 2 gauze pads, and 2 examination gloves. This first aid kit is so unique and effective that you would love to cut yourself. Unlike other first aid kits, Be Smart Get Prepared 10HBC01082 100Piece First Aid Kit includes a valuable instant cold compress. The kit is made with no latex materials. It is ideal for family and children. It is a simple and portable first aid kit for scrapes, small cuts and boo-boos. The kit is made to provide adequate safety in an emergency on your van life trip.

5 Surviveware Large First Aid Kit with Mini Kit

Are you in search of a large-high-quality first aid kit that would last you for a lifetime? Look no further than Surviveware Large First Aid Kit with Mini Kit. It is one of the most durable and sturdy first aid kits on the market today. The unit is constructed from 600D polyester which helps it endure rugged use. No matter the weather, this product will not fade, discolor or rip off easily. Unlike the flimsy plastic containers that break easily when used ruggedly, Surviveware Large First Aid Kit with Mini Kit is built with a soft shell first aid kit that is not only portable and robust but also rugged. On the market today, this kit is one of the multi-purpose first aid bags and also one of the best.

While the large kit is ideal for group van life trips or long-distance trips, the mini is perfect for camping and hiking. The kit has a space-saving design and can be easily stored in trucks or cars. Nevertheless, Surviveware Large First Aid Kit with Mini Kit is also lightweight and compact. You would have no difficulty carrying it from one place to another. It has a sleek and attractive design and a perfect unit for van life travelers who are lovers of red. Meanwhile, the first aid kit is also available in elegant black color. This container is water-resistant and ideal for traveling in winter or rainy periods. It has durable laminate pouches that prevent water from getting into the bag. Likewise, the first aid kit includes a unique Molle system that makes it easy to attach the kit to your roll bar, car headrest, and a tree. Surviveware Large First Aid Kit with Mini Kit works perfectly for camping, van life trip, hiking, and other outdoor preparedness.

The main first aid kit bag contains 200 essential items to keep you safe and free from injury. Some of the important materials in the bag include 10 alcohol wipes, 5 large adhesive bandages, 1 18" splint, 1 emergency blanket, 3 fever strips, 10 splinter probes, 2 wound dressings, 4 nitrile gloves, 1 pressure bandage, and many more life-saving items. Alongside the 200 pieces kit is a mini kit for trucks and cars. The mini kit is ideal for home, office as well as school use. About 50 extra items are included in the mini kit. So, you can be sure that there will always be adequate materials to protect and clean your injuries while on the road. Surviveware Large First Aid Kit with Mini Kit comes with a comprehensive first aid guide which serves as a great help for van life travelers who are using the first aid kit for the very first time. The guide contains how to apply each of the materials in the bag when to apply them as well as where to apply them. Aside from the fact that the first aid kit is intelligently organized, each inner sleeve is also labeled according to its function.

6 Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit 

Johnson & Johnson Band-Aid is not only one of the most popular brands on the market today, but also one of the most reliable. With over 10 years of production, this company has produced a slew of high-quality first aid kits which have all won the heart of hundreds of thousands of users. This model from Johnson & Johnson Band-Aid is one of the best first aid kits on the shelves today. The unit is compact and easy to store in the trunk or car. Also, it is portable and lightweight, thus, ensuring that van life travelers experience no difficulty carrying it from the van to enjoy their winter sports events. Even though the first aid kit is decorated with unique features and known for its durability, it comes at an affordable rate. It is built with the budget of users in mind. So, you don't have to break up your bank to purchase it.

Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact first Aid Kit includes 140 essential items for your safety while you explore the Rocky Mountains and renowned wildlife areas. It includes effective items that do not only help to clean your injuries but also treat and protect it from damage, germs as well as an infection. While you clean your injuries, these materials also help to clean and remove debris and dirt. The kit includes an antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection and germ. There are adhesive bandages in various sizes to help cover wounds and heal them faster. The sterile dressing pads help prevent scabs which often cause scarring. Unlike other first aid kits, Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit has all its items from leading, doctor-recommended brands which include Band-Aid Brand Adhesive Bandages, Neosporin Tylenol and Bengay.

Some essential items in the kit include the cleansing wipes, gauze pads, assorted bandages, rolled gauze, antibiotic cream, itch stopping cream, acetaminophen caplets, an instant cold pack, and other life-saving materials. Other extra supplies in the kit include two pairs of gloves, 1 a-split-finger, 1 triangular bandage-woven, 1 elastic bandage-velcro-2"x5'. Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit includes a first aid guide to help van life travelers who are using the items for the very first time. Also, the items in the bag are intelligently organized so you won't have to look for the adhesive bandages in emergencies. The kit is also built for campers to have easy access to the materials in the bag. Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit is a perfect kit to clean, treat and protect your minor cuts, scrapes, burns, itches, pain, skin rashes as well as insect bites. The first aid kit is also ideal for outdoors, camping, cooking in cars, at home, hiking or on-the-go. It has room if you want to add extra supplies to the first aid kit. With this first aid kit, you can easily replace items in the bag.

7 Ever Ready First Aid Adult and Infant CPR Mask Combo Kit

Our list for the best first aid kits for van life trips is incomplete without the Ever Ready First Aid Adult and Infant CPR Mask Combo Kit. This model is one of the most reliable first aid kits on the shelves today. Aside from the fact that it is safe and effective for infants, it is also a good choice for adults. It is a great choice for campers or van life travelers who are in search of a budget-friendly first aid kit. The product is affordable and easy to purchase. Unlike other first aid kits on the market today, Ever Ready First Aid Adult and Infant CPR Mask Combo Kit includes an adult-sized mask, as well as a child-sized mask. These masks offer you maximum protection from dust, mildew, mold and other harmful elements. The kit includes a one-way valve that protects you from communicable diseases while performing CPR. Alongside the one-way valve is the 3M filtrete fibers. These fibers are effective in preventing cross-contamination.

The bag is not only lightweight, elegant but also portable. It is built so that van life travelers will have no difficulty carrying it around. The kit is small enough to be stored in any car, boat, or van. Van life travelers will also have easy access to the items in the bag. The kit includes a handy clip for quick access and movement. With the handy clip, you can easily attach the bag onto belt loops, backpacks, or any other convenient place.  Since all the items in the bag are latex-free, this product is safe for use on pediatric patients as well as adults. With Ever Ready First Aid Adult and Infant CPR Mask Combo Kit, van life travelers can help people who sustain an injury during an accident while on the road. The kit includes alcohol prep pads that prevent infection and cross-contamination while treating an injured person.

It also comes with nitrile gloves which keeps van life travelers safe while rescuing victims of an accident. The nitrile gloves are safe to use as they are Andrew of latex-free materials. This kit is a nice and sturdy unit to keep with you in case of an emergency. It has a booklet to understand instructions that explain how each of the items in the bag can be applied to injuries and when to do that. Like many other first aid kits on the market today, Ever Ready First Aid Adult and Infant CPR Mask Combo Kit has a little extra room in the case you want to add a few more items.

Conclusion

Aside from the fun, unforgettable experience, pictures and knowledge you hope to enjoy on your van life trip, your safety is another major thing you must give much importance to.

Owning first aid kits is one of the best ways to keep you and your family safe in an accident, earthquake, hurricane or tornado. We have made a list of the best first aid kits on the shelves today and we are sure you have chosen your right product. No matter the unit you choose, you can be sure of enjoying adequate protection and safety.

Remaining happy and healthy on the road is definitely the most important part of vanlife and we hope this little piece on First-Aid kits has helped make that route to stability that much more sturdy. As always if you see something missing from our list be sure to send us a message about the product so we can add it to our list!

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