As you plan your first camping trips of the summer in your new or used RV, it’s essential that you pack mindfully for your trip. This includes a well-stocked first aid kit. Here are our RV tips for packing a first aid kit that helps you stay prepared for anything!
The Basics
First, buy or assemble a first aid kit with the basics. This should include the following:
- Bandages in several sizes (including latex-free)
- Waterproof bandages in several sizes
- Gauze pads
- Antiseptic towelettes and/or solution
- Adhesive tape
- Scissors
- Non-latex gloves
- Thermometer
- Instant cold pack(s)
Ointments and Medications
Putting a bandage on a cut or scrape may be baseline first aid, but it’s important to have other medications and ointments on hand to cleanse and help prevent infection. Stock your camping first aid kit with the following:
- Antihistamine ointment for topical allergic reactions and minor insect bites
- Antibiotic ointment, like Neosporin, for minor cuts and scrapes
- Antiseptic wash to cleanse scrapes and cuts on the go
- Pain relief medication: Tylenol and Motrin, as well as children’s versions of the same if you’re traveling with kids
- Antihistamine for allergic reactions, as well as children’s versions
- Aloe vera gel for sun burns (or even mild, self-treatable burns around camp)
- Calamine lotion in case of contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Hand sanitizer
- Single use soap sheets for hand washing in a pinch
Handy tip: shop for single-use packets of first aid kit ointments. My family keeps these in our vehicle’s first aid kit and a small selection of them in my everyday bag for easy and quick access.
Extra Supplies
Whether you’re in a luxury Class A motor home, a rugged truck camper, or anything in between, you’ll want to take extra supplies in your first aid kit that help in a variety of circumstances. Make sure to include the following:
- Knife and/or multitool
- Duct tape
- Ponchos
- Flashlights in a variety of sizes with extra batteries
- Matches
- Reflective emergency blankets
How to Store It All
Take a look at your first aid kit supplies. Divide it into two piles. One should be a smaller, easily accessible first aid kit on the go – think items that you could fit in a sandwich- or quart-size food storage bag. A few antiseptic towelettes, bandages, travel-size pain relievers, and single-use ointment packets should be sufficient for most afternoon outings, and this can easily fit in your backpack.
The rest of the items, including full size ointment tubes, can stay with the rest of the first aid kit. I like to keep ours in a 17-32 qt. plastic storage tub with a well-sealing lid. We use the 17 qt. tub for shorter outings and the 32 qt. tub for lengthier trips.
With these tips for packing a first aid kit, you can travel with more peace of mind in your new or used RV. We can also help you pick out an RV that has ample and convenient storage space so you have room to stash the essentials. Stop in or contact us today!
