As caravanners, embarking on adventures into the great outdoors means we should be prepared for any situation that might pop up along the way.

Accidents or injuries can happen at any time and having a first-aid kit can help provide immediate treatment and prevent the situation from worsening. Having one in a caravan can also help reduce the stress and anxiety of travelling, especially for those prone to motion sickness or other medical conditions.

A first-aid kit can also be useful in a natural disaster or another emergency where access to medical care might be restricted or unavailable.

Remember to periodically check and replenish your first aid kit to ensure that all supplies are up to date and in good condition. Store the kit in a readily accessible location inside your caravan, preferably in a waterproof container to protect it from moisture and damage.

NOTE: Make sure to check with your family doctor or pharmacist before you leave if you have health needs or are going somewhere remote.

WHAT IS A FIRST-AID KIT

A first aid kit is a collection of medical supplies and equipment used to provide basic medical care in the event of an injury or medical emergency.

It typically contains items such as bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, scissors, tweezers, gloves, pain relievers, and other essential items for treating minor injuries.

First aid kits are designed to be portable and easily accessible, making them suitable for use at home, in the workplace, during outdoor activities, and while travelling.

Having a well-stocked first aid kit on hand can help you respond effectively to common injuries and emergencies, providing immediate care until professional medical help arrives.

MEDICATIONS:

·         Pain relief medication

·         Cold and flu tablets

·         Antihistamines for allergic reactions

·         Burn cream

·         Itch cream

·         Antibiotic cream

·         Antacids for indigestion or heartburn

·         Anti-nausea medication

·         EpiPens (if applicable for severe allergies)

·         Prescription medications (if needed)

·         Hydrolyte

·         Gastro-Stop

THE BASICS:

·         Bandages/dressings

·         Cutting scissors

·         Pointed tweezers

·         Gloves

·         Gauze

·         Antiseptic wipes

·         Surgical tape

·         Safety pins

·         Thermometer

·         Band-aids

·         Thermal blanket

·         Notebook and marker

·         Saline solutions

·         Sterile eye pad

·         Cotton balls and swabs

·         Butterfly closures or adhesive wound closure strips

·         Sterile wound dressings

·         Hydrogen peroxide or saline solutions for wound irrigation

·         Sunscreen (SPF X or higher)

·         Insect repellent

·         Sewing needle and thread

·         Emergency whistle

·         Tourniquet (for severe bleeding)

·         Splinting materials (splint, elastic bandages)

·         Instant cold packs

ADDITIONAL SAFETY EXTRAS

·         Fire kit (should include a flame-retardant blanket and shelter, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers and anything else necessary to keep you safe in case of a fire

·         Offline map

·         High-viz vest

·         Torch

·         Compass

·         Duct tape

·         Knife/multi-tool

·         Insect repellent

·         Long life food

·         Emergency contact information and medical history forms

·         Copies of important documents (eg insurance cards, identification)