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The 6 Best First Aid Kits for Travel 2024

Stay prepared with compact, pre-made first aid kits fit for any adventure.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

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Travel + Leisure / Kristin Kempa

First aid kits are often one of the most overlooked travel accessories, even though they can make or break your vacation experience. In best-case scenarios, you won’t ever need it, but on the off-chance you do, it’ll quickly prove to be one of the most savvy additions to your packing list. First aid kits come in handy for help with everything from headaches and dehydration to cuts, scrapes, and bites, or even sprained appendages. 

For expert insight on what to look for in a travel first aid kit and why they are one of the most essential travel accessories, we spoke with Raelene Brooks, PhD, RN, Dean of the College of Nursing at the University of Phoenix. Based on our research and experience and Brooks’ expert advice, we compared various top-selling travel first aid kits on the market, making sure to consider the overall size, number of items, variation of ailments covered, and variety of items included. The waterproofed Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight Watertight .5 first aid kit is our favorite thanks to its wide array of wellness gear despite its compact size — but if you’re looking for something a little different, we’ve got plenty of great first aid kit picks below.

Best Overall

Adventure medical kit ultralight watertight .5.

It treats a wide variety of issues and comes in a lightweight, double-waterproof pouch.

The bag lacks any interior organization.

The Adventure Medical Kit Ultralight Watertight .5 is our go-to first aid kit for travel. We’ve traveled around the globe, staying in posh safari lodges and in backpacker hostels with this kit and it has never let us down. It comes with over 40 pieces of first aid to help tackle everything from splinters and blisters to minor cuts or scrapes to bug bites. We like that it also comes with two doses of various over-the-counter pain relievers, plus antihistamine, antibiotic ointment, and tools to remove ticks and fasten bandages. You’ll also get a good variety and number of bandages and wound dressings. We’ve found that it’s also easy to replace these items as needed while on the go. Fully stocked, the contents are enough to cover one person for about two days (with the same affliction).

Standout features are the durable double-waterproof bagging (which comes in clutch on rainy days, winter road trips , and water adventures and also in case of spills or heavy humidity), the minimal 3.6-ounce weight, and two exterior corner loops that make it easy to clip the kit onto your backpack for easy access. The bright yellow color makes it easy to find in a pinch, though we will say that the lack of interior organization may cause some people to fumble through the contents of the bag trying to find what they need (not ideal in an emergency situation). 

The Details: 5.5 x 11 x 1 inches | 43 pieces

Johnson & Johnson First Aid To Go Kit

It covers bandage basics and leaves room for you to customize your kit.

The included items will likely help minor cuts or scrapes only.

If you’re just looking for the bare minimum of what you might need while out on a trip, the Johnson & Johnson First Aid To Go kit is your best bet. This smaller-than-your-hand-sized kit contains 12 first aid items, mostly centered around minor scrapes and cuts. You’ll get sterilizing wipes, two sizes of bandages, and a couple of gauze pads — all tucked and stored nicely in a sturdy plastic case with a snap-tight closure. There’s no medicine or tools in the case, but there’s plenty of room left in the case to add your own custom extras to beef up the kit (which is what we’ve done in the past) such as over-the-counter pain pills, prescription medication, allergy pills, cotton swabs, tweezers, or other travel-sized first aid items. It’s still a great and convenient kit to just toss into your day bag or day tripper waist bag.

The Details: 3.8 x 4.3 x 1.1 inches | 12 pieces

Best Comprehensive

First aid only all-purpose essentials first aid kit.

It includes items that many other kits leave out, like a thermometer and gloves.

You may want to upgrade with your own OTC medicines.

This nearly 300-piece kit contains everything you’d need to use in an accident situation involving burns, cuts, or scrapes — down to the disposable gloves, scissors, and a thermometer. Like most kits, it’s heavily focused on bandages, and includes a variety of adhesive, fabric, and gauze bandages, as well as butterfly wound closure bandages, knuckle bandages, and fingertip bandages. You’ll also get key ointments and wipes to treat burns and stings, and fight germs. Additional tools include a tongue depressor (which also doubles as a finger splint), thermal blanket, cold pack, and tweezers. Impressively, all this and more fits inside a double-sided zippered case no larger than the usual toiletry bag. Although it’s packed with first aid accessories, we would like to see more medicine included.

The Details: 9.25 x 2.87 x 7 inches | 298 pieces

Best for International Travel

My medic ready mini first aid kit.

It comes with individually-packaged, ailment-specific mods that cover a wide range of first aid needs.

It’s a little bigger than we’d like.

When traveling to a foreign country, acquiring some first aid items may be more difficult due to a language barrier, overall access, or how the healthcare system works. The My Medic Ready Mini First Aid Kit is packed full of first aid accessories to cover everything from allergies to cuts to suspect water quality. The exterior is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean, while reinforced zippers also help keep water out. Inside, two mesh stash pockets are loaded with My Medic color-coded mods — individually packaged kits containing items to treat specific issues — so you can easily find what you need. Standout features include pieces for wound irrigation, a digital first aid and survival tips guide, a flashlight, hydration packets, water purification tablets, and a whistle. We’re also big fans of thoughtful items like hydrocortisone cream, friction frosting, and petroleum jelly. We appreciate that the kit is small enough to hold in one hand, but it can still feel like it’s taking up a fair amount of packing space.

The Details: 7.5 x 4 x 7.5 inches | 100 pieces

Best for Kids

Keepgoing first aid gokit.

It’s a TSA-approved first aid kit designed with kids’ needs in mind.

It doesn’t include any medicines.

Looking for a cheery take on a first aid kit? KeepGoing First Aid GoKit comes in multiple, cute kid-friendly patterns to help make the first aid experience a bit brighter. The kit comes with 130 pieces of first aid items ranging from bandages to moleskins and disposable thermometers — all with kid-friendly patterned packaging. Some of the standout features include tick removers, cotton-tipped applicators, trauma scissors, and 20 stickers to award brave kids. While this kit does come with a good assortment of creams (hydrocortisone, burn relief, lip balm, and antibiotic), it doesn’t have any medicine included, so you may want to add your own.

The Details: 6.75 x 5 x 2 inches | 130 pieces

Best for Dogs

Adventure medical kits me & my dog.

It’s a kit that can be used for both you and your dog!

For dogs, it mainly centers around the treatment of paw injuries.

You do everything with your dog, so why not share a first aid kit? We love this kit because you don’t have to pack two different kits; you and your dog can both be helped with the contents in this one kit. The Adventure Medical Kits Me and My Dog Kit has bandages, gauze dressings, antiseptic wipes, wound irrigation, and sterile gloves for cuts and other wounds. It also has two doses of aspirin and antihistamine each, a cold compress and wrap for sprains, and key first aid tools like trauma scissors, tick removal tweezers, a thermal emergency blanket, and a leash. One of the bandages doubles as a muzzle for scared pups, and if you’re unsure how to apply any of the items to your furry best friend, there’s also a pet first aid manual to help guide you. Since this is a simple zippered case, it could be worth adding some medications as advised by your vet as this kit mainly covers injuries from walking and not other hazards like foreign object ingestion or non-paw maladies.

The Details: 7.5 x 3.5 x 5.3 inches | 48 pieces

Tips for Buying a Travel First Aid Kit

Prioritize size and durability.

In a best-case scenario, you won’t ever have to use your travel first aid kit, so it will be traveling with you often. Give extra points to kits that are durable enough to survive multiple trips and that come in a size that can be packed in all different travel situations (think lightweight and compact).

Check how many people can be treated with the kit

Consider your travel group size when buying a travel first aid kit. Does one kit cover the entire family or just one or two people? Be sure to pack enough first aid to treat each person you’re responsible for.

Consider the conditions and risk of your trip

Different trips will dictate the exact items you’ll need in your first aid kit. Look for kits that can address specific dangers or injuries you may face on your trip, from sunburns to sprains and insect bites to serious cuts.

Carrying a first aid kit on your travels stocks you with essential life-saving items that can help provide temporary care during an emergency situation until help can arrive, Brooks says. She also adds that locating these items in a foreign country or when traveling can be difficult, making it best for travelers to have their own kits on hand.

According to Brooks, some of the most essential items a kit should include are medical tape, compression wound dressing, gauze, irrigation wound wash, antiseptic/antibiotic ointment, alcohol pads, cleaning/prep pads, and assorted sizes of blister strips and bandages. She also says it’s useful to have pills to treat motion sickness, allergies, and mild pain, plus cold packs, wound closure materials, a thermal blanket, hydration packets, and even a multi-purpose plastic bag that can be used as a splint, as gloves, or as a CPR shield.

Buy products that cover the essential must-have first aid kit items, and then add any specialty custom items for your specific travel situation, activities, or health concerns. For example, Brooks advises that anyone with asthma include an albuterol inhaler, while travelers with diabetes should include some candies or glucose for low blood sugar. Those with cardiac issues should pack nitroglycerin tablets or spray, along with aspirin.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure? 

For this list, Katherine Alex Beaven talked to a medical professional about essential items that should be in a travel first aid kit. Alex also considered kits based on her own 15 years of personal experience as a frequent, accident-prone traveler. While researching first aid kits for travel, we spoke with Raelene Brooks , PhD, RN, Dean of the College of Nursing at the University of Phoenix .

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Home » Gear » How to Choose the Best Backpacking and Travel First Aid Kits

How to Choose the Best Backpacking and Travel First Aid Kits

If there’s one piece of advice we’d give to all travelers, it’s plan for the best, prepare for the worst.

Travel – whether backpacking through rugged backcountry or lounging at a beach resort – is unpredictable. Accidents can happen anywhere, any time, and preparedness is the best way to prevent a mishap from becoming something much more serious or downright dangerous.

Whatever you do, don’t consider a travel first aid kit as a  nice-to-have  packing list item. Especially if you’re an adventurous traveler that partakes in high-risk activities, or you’re traveling to a remote, third-world, or under-served area – a travel medical kit stocked with essentials is a  must-have.

Having a first aid kit on hand doesn’t need to mean hauling a lot of extra weight, but you need to carefully consider where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, and how large your travel party is when making your final decision.

To help you choose the right travel medicine kit to keep you and your travel buddy safe during any type of venture, we’ve compiled this list of best travel first aid kits…

Let’s get to it…

Quick Answer: These are the Best Travel First Aid Kits of 2024

#1 – overall best travel first aid kit, #2 – best travel first aid kit for long-term travel, #3 – best travel first aid kit for active weekends, #4 – best travel first aid kit for absolute minimalists, #5 – best backpacking first aid kit, #6 – best first aid kit for day hiking, #7 – best first aid kit for day hiking #2, #8 – best dog first aid kit for travel, honorable mention for the pros:, how to choose the best backpacking and travel first aid kit, faq about the best travel first aid kit, final thoughts.

• Overall Best Travel First Aid Kit – Adventure Medical Kits Smart Travel First Aid Kit
• Best Travel First Aid Lit for Long-term Travel – Adventure Medical Kits World Travel First Aid Medical Supply Kit
• Best Travel First Aid Kit for Active Weekends – HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit
• Best Travel First Aid Kit for Absolute Minimalists – Mini First Aid Kit
• Best Backpacking First Aid Kit – My Medic The Solo First Aid Kit
• Best First Aid Kit for Day Hiking – Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Day Tripper Lite Medical Kit
• Best First Aid Kit for Day Hiking #2 – HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit
• Best Dog First Aid Kit for Travel – Adventure Medical Kits ADS Me And My Dog First Aid Kit

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Adventure Medical Kits Smart Travel First Aid Kit

AMK Smart Travel First Aid Kit is our pick for overall best travel first aid kit

• Best Use: Travel/Backpacking
• Number of days (kit is good for): multiple days
• Weight: 1 lb. 1 oz.
• People: 1 – 2

A decent first aid kit should form part of your adventure packing list so here’s a rundown of the different options available.

When it comes to a travel first aid kit that has it all, this Adventure Medical kit doesn’t disappoint. The contents are neatly organized into clearly labeled compartments that help you quickly identify what you need by treatment type – medical information, medications, and wound care.

It makes for the best backpacking first aid kit because it has everything you need to treat blisters, plus pain or fever medication, all types of bandages, antibiotic ointments, and antiseptic.

A useful item that’s included is a rehydration mix that can be a real lifesaver on an intense, hot day outdoors. The travel emergency kit also includes a disposable thermometer and forceps to remove splinters or ticks.

Another huge plus is its packability and portability. The three compartments fold into a carrying case with a hook that lets you easily hang it anywhere. It’s not the lightest option, but it’s compact and well-equipped for trips lasting over multiple days. For a travel medical kit fit for solo or couple travel, the Smart Travel First Aid Kit is the best.

• Ultra organized and clearly labeled for quick access to needed supplies
• Includes a variety of treatments for sickness, pain, and injuries/wounds
• With book included, will feel heavy for ultralight travel needs

Adventure Medical Kits World Travel First Aid Medical Supply Kit

Meet the best travel first aid kit for long term travel: AMK World Travel First Aid Kit

• Best Use: Travel
• Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz.
• People: 1 – 4

For travelers with plans for a lengthy trip overseas – especially to third-world or remote areas with limited access to medical aid – this world travel first aid is the best back-up you could have. There’s even a visual communication tool you can use when language is a barrier to getting the medical care you need.

It’s not uncommon while traveling for an extended period to encounter bad roads that are sometimes impossible to drive, to have bad cell phone reception, or simply be unable to communicate.

So it’s important to feel safe knowing you have access to a variety of first aid items should an emergency occur. You’ll enjoy peace of mind with all the emergency supplies this travel medical kit contains for injuries, wounds, bleeding, and other issues that need immediate care.

 If you get adventurous with foreign food and your stomach doesn’t agree with your bravery, there are several OTC medication options to help you out. There’s also extra space to add custom items to complete your stockpile. The amount and array of options in this travel emergency kit for extended trips can’t be beaten.

• Wide array of contents is helpful for adventure and remote travel
• Has a Comprehensive Guide to Wilderness & Travel book with medical tips and advanced patient care info
• Must be packed into luggage due to its size and weight

HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit

Our top pick for the best travel first aid kit for active weekends is HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit

• Best Use: Hiking
• Number of days (kit is good for): 2-3
• Weight: 9.5 oz.
• People: 1-2

If a compact, well-rounded travel medical kit that fits easily into your backpack is what you need, then this little guy is perfect. It packs a surprisingly large amount of your essentials to cover you for common outdoor afflictions and other small emergencies. The large pockets have some room to spare to add custom items that suit your needs.

The transparent pockets are clearly labeled, and there’s even a supply list printed on the back that makes it easy to keep track of its contents and what needs restocking.

Including adhesive bandages, OTC medications for common ailments, gauze, and wound-care products, the Hart Outdoor travel first aid kit is the ideal addition to your weekend packing list and worth every inch of space.

• Clam-shell design for packability and easy access to contents
• Includes a small manual with basic first-aid how-to’s
• Doesn’t include tweezers for splinter removal, so must be added

Mini First Aid Kit

The best travel first aid kit for absolute minimalists on our list is this Mini First Aid Kit

• Number of days (kit is good for): 1-2
• Weight: 3.5 oz.

This is your travel medicine kit solution if space is really, really tight, and you’re just looking to have the most necessary first aid supplies readily available. You can keep this tiny case onhand everywhere you go – whether it’s your backpack or your everyday tote bag. If you get a minor cut or wound, the included bandages and antiseptic wipes will do in a pinch.

If you’re in search of the best backpacking first aid kit for a destination that isn’t terribly high-risk, you can rest assured that this Mini First Aid Kit won’t be an issue to pack away easily.

But, if you happen to encounter an emergency, the kit includes a mini rescue howler whistle to signal for help. Again, this is a very minimalistic kit, so it’s a convenient choice if you’re sure you won’t need more advanced treatment and are safely within reach of medical care in case of an emergency.

• Includes essential items for minor wound care
• Small enough to fit anywhere
• Doesn’t have space to add other items
• Doesn’t include OTC medications or medical tools except for 1 splinter picker and 3 safety pins

My Medic The Solo First Aid Kit

This My Medic The Solo is one of the best backpacking first aid kits around.

• Best Use: Backpacking
• Number of days (kit is good for): 1-4
• Weight: 8 oz.
• People: 1.5

Adventurous backpacking trips come with a handful of potential hazards – from minor blisters and stomach bugs to fractures and sprains. You’ll find the first aid essentials needed to treat common injuries, as well as trauma-care items for more serious events, like fractures or bleeding.

The contents of this travel first aid kit complete the gamut of immediate care while on the go, making the Ultralight Medical Kit the best backpacking first aid kit out there. 

Whether your backpacking ventures involve hiking and zip lining or white water rafting and snorkeling, your first aid essentials will stay safe and dry in the kit’s double-layer waterproof casing.

If you’re unsure about the conditions and elements you’ll face while on your travels, rest assured that this travel medical kit can withstand it all. And it won’t slow you down – weighing less than 8 oz, you’ll be prepared for anything while traveling light.

• Designed for multi-sport travelers
• Has 2-stage waterproofing features to endure all the elements
• Doesn’t include separate compartments for organization by need

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Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Day Tripper Lite Medical Kit

Our top pick for the best travel first aid kit for day hiking is AMK Day Tripper Lite Medical Kit

• Number of days (kit is good for): 1
• Weight: 3.2 oz.

This travel first aid kit is perfect for day-trippers who love to spend a lot of time outdoors. It has everything a hiker would need to treat minor cuts or wounds while hitting the trail. It contains all your basic first-aid essentials while being small and lightweight enough to pack away easily in your daypack. 

This travel-size first aid kit is organized into injury-specific pockets for quick access to what you need. It includes hiking-friendly items like gauze, moleskin for blisters, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and some OTC medications for common ailments.

It’s conveniently designed to fold in half and zip up to keep everything from falling out. Despite its compact size, it still has space inside to add your own items.

• Organized by injury type, with zippered pockets for easy portability
• Includes items for wound/blister care and OTC medications for common ailments

Our pick for best first aid kit for day hiking #2 is HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit

• Number of days (kit is good for): 2

If your hiking first aid needs require a level up from the basic essentials to cover a day trip, you’ll want to take a look at the HART Outdoor Weekend kit. This more robust yet compact travel first aid kit comes fully equipped with dirt and sweat-resistant bandages, gauze, wound cleansers, topical relief creams, OTC medications, and more.

The clear, labeled pockets make the contents easy to find, and the kit’s roomy pockets have space to add your own custom items. You’ll have everything you need at your fingertips when you include this handy travel first aid kit in your hiking arsenal.

• Contents are organized into labeled pockets
• Supply list printed on the back for easy identification of contents

Adventure Medical Kits ADS Me And My Dog First Aid Kit

The best dog first aid kit for travel is Adventure Medical Kits ADS Me And My Dog First Aid Kit

• Number of days (kit is good for): 1-3
• Weight: 1 lb 8 oz.
• People: 1 + dog

When it comes to first aid preparedness, it’s important to consider all your loved ones – including your four-legged travel buddy. This handy travel first aid kit has everything you need to treat and provide immediate medical care to both your human and canine companions.

Useful canine-specific items include a triangular bandage to muzzle your dog for safe first aid administration, self-adhering bandages that don’t stick to fur, a splinter/tick remover that can be used on both humans and pets, a 5-inch nylon leash, and more. Venture off with more peace of mind knowing that all outdoor adventurers are covered.

• Includes dog-friendly medications and wound treatment items
• Manual includes information for pet first aid
• A bit heavy for lightweight travel

Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Guide Medical Kit

• Best Use: Mountaineering
• Number of days (kit is good for): 14
• Weight: 2 lbs. 2.4 oz.

For those who need a more robust, all-inclusive travel first aid kit, we’ve included this larger-sized medical kit on the list. This is good for trip leaders going to say, K2 Base Camp, or for any type of group adventure travel.

This travel medical kit includes enough to administer first aid care to several people over the course of multiple days. It includes more advanced tools like hospital-quality EMT shears, a digital thermometer, and a CPR face shield.

A kit map organized into injury-specific pockets is printed on the back of the case that identifies where to find the contents you need at any given time. For large-group first aid care, the Mountain Series Guide medical kit is the best all-inclusive compact travel emergency kit for guides.

• Includes everything a professional guide needs for any type of emergency out in the wilderness
• The organized layout makes what you need easy to find by treatment type
• Has extra space to add items, but not very much without the bag getting too tight

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

• > Includes a disposable thermometer and forceps
• > Packability and portability

• > Visual communication tool
• > Extra space to add custom items

• > Large pockets
• > Supply list printed on the back

• > Tiny tin case
• > Includes a mini rescue howler whistle

• > Complete the gamut of immediate care
• > Double-layer waterproof casing

• > Small and lightweight
• > Designed to fold in half and zip up
• > More robust yet compact travel first aid kit
• > Clear, labeled pockets

• > Both for human and canine companions
• > Include a triangular bandage

Trip Length 

Most travel first aid kits have a rating about how many days worth of supplies they can contain. Make sure you’re choosing a medical kit in line with the actual length of your trip. You need to stay safe and prepared the entire time, but don’t want to slow yourself down with medical-supply overkill.

If you’re going on a rugged ten-day hiking trip, opting for a small kit made for one or two days – while lightweight and compact – leaves you at risk for lack of supplies in cases of emergency. Whereas packing a large travel medical kit in your backpack for a day hike means hauling around unnecessary extra weight.

Number of People in Your Group 

This is also an important factor to consider. Do you travel alone, with your partner, or with a bigger group? You want to make sure your kit contains enough of the essentials to cover everyone. If you’re in a big group and everyone gets a stomach bug simultaneously, having enough medication to treat every traveler is key.

If you’re a solo traveler, a compact and lightweight kit will likely suffice. If you travel alone to remote, rugged terrain areas, you may want to consider a travel first aid kit with room to add extra items that may not be included in the smaller kits. Always think about how you can be prepared to stay safe as a solo traveler if medical aid isn’t in proximity.

Adding Stuff to Your First Aid Kit 

Adding more items to your travel first aid kit may be necessary for solo and non-solo travelers alike. Depending on where you’re hiking or traveling, making custom additions to the kit’s supply is highly recommended. In times of Covid, masks and hand sanitizer are the obvious choice. 

If you’re traveling to third-world countries or for long periods of time in a foreign country, it’s a good idea to have a general stomach bug antibiotic, like Ciprioflaxin, included in your kit. For intense hiking or activity in hot, humid areas, consider having electrolytes on hand. There are other medications you can customize, such as motion sickness pills.

Weight 

It’s also important to honestly ask yourself how much weight you’re willing to carry. Medical pills and small items may seem low-weight enough, but every ounce can add up quickly. This is especially true for backpackers, as every bit of weight means a heavier load to haul around on your back.

Either way, carefully consider your needs vs. weight limits. Definitely don’t sacrifice an important item that is essential in keeping you safe in cases of emergency just to save a few ounces, but do your best to determine how much you can handle.

Waterproof or Not 

If you are traveling to a rainy place – for example, Thailand during monsoon season – having a waterproof first aid kit is not a bad idea. Bandages and medications are enclosed in paper wrapping, and getting them wet can ruin them for use.

If you have a waterproof backpack that your travel first aid kit will be stored in, then having a waterproof case may not be necessary. If you’re unsure, consider getting a waterproof kit, just in case.

If any part of your travel involves water activities – rafting, boating, etc. – then a watertight first aid kit is advised. Especially if you’re using a water-based vessel to explore remote areas, you’ll want to have a dry supply of first aid items readily onhand.

Medical Safety 

Ensure you understand exactly what is inside your kit when you buy it, and know how to use it. If there are many things you don’t need or know how to use, then maybe the contents are too advanced for your own personal needs. Reading the manual if you’re unfamiliar with some of the contents is a good start.

Whatever you do, do not use a medication without knowing exactly what it is and its intended use. Do your research or basic first aid training beforehand, or opt for a basic kit with items you are familiar with and knowledgeable about.

While some medications can be used to treat similar symptoms, be sure you know the names, and be knowledgeable about every item you’ll be taking with you for medical purposes.

Travel Insurance

Ok, you can’t pack travel insurance in your backpack, but you can take out a cheap policy to insure yourself against theft, flight cancellations, accidents, etc. In the end, having insurance is just as important as packing a good travel first aid kit.

I admit I traveled for many years without having travel insurance. Because of it, I paid the price a few times in foreign hospitals and was handed a hefty bill to go with my injuries!

We use either World Nomads or SafetyWing . You’ll be happy you did if the time comes to use it.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What should I have in my travel first aid kit?

The following essentials are in a travel first-aid kit: 1. Bandages and Antiseptic Wipes 2. Gauze pads and Medical Tape 3. Your own medication, pain killers and antibiotic ointments

Can you bring first aid kits on a plane?

Yes, you can, but you’ll have to leave scissors, sharp objects and liquids at home or put them in your suitcase instead.

What is the best travel first aid kit for long adventures?

If you know you’ll be travelling for a long time, opt for the Adventure Medical Kits World Travel First Aid Medical Supply Kit . It’s got everything you might need during your trip.

How do you choose the right travel first aid kit?

Think about these things: 1. How long is your trip and how many people are coming with you? 2. Can you stock up your kit during your travels? 3. What kind of injuries could occur during your travels?

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There you have it, our prudent, adventure-loving travelers! This is all you need to know about the best travel first aid kits and best backpacking first aid kits available to suit your needs – and what you need to know to find the right travel medical kit for you.

There are several factors to consider when making a choice, but you’ll be happy you took the time to do your research should the moment arise when you need to use your first aid supplies. 

For a go-to, well-rounded travel first aid kit that serves most basic needs, we again recommend the Adventure Medical Kits Smart Travel First Aid Kit as your best option. Unless your needs are extremely specialized, you can count on this kit to have what you need and to have the extra space to add a few items of your own.

We hope you found this travel first aid kit shopping guide useful. Remember, not everyone has the travel style – but accidents can happen any time and anywhere, so it’s crucial to be prepared.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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The 7 Best Travel First Aid Kits for Unexpected Emergencies [2023]

Amar Hussain

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Things To Consider in a First Aid Kit

1. full travel first aid set with 300 pieces, 2. complete medical and survival kit for traveling, 3. small package first aid kit for short journeys, 4. mini kit with 27 medical essentials, 5. mini first aid pack with crush-resistant bag, 6. bandage and pain relief balm pack, 7. great for minor first aid interventions, final thoughts.

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Injuries happen without respect for time or location, and traveling without a first aid kit is asking for trouble.

That’s why it’s important to have a handy and compact first aid kit that includes a wound disinfection component, gauze pads, and adhesive tape to keep the gauze fixed. These elements can help you prevent wound infection if you end up getting a cut while on the move.

To be fully prepared, you need to ensure that your first aid kit is well-equipped, so let’s take a look at what you should look for.

Before buying a first aid travel kit, you should consider a few factors to help you make the right decision. Not every kit is suitable for all types of injuries, so you may have to prioritize.

You should also consider how well the first aid kit fits into your luggage or backpack and whether it has enough space for you to add personal medication .

Finally, the medical pieces included can vary greatly, as some kits mainly consist of gauze pads, while others are filled with items for more serious injuries. Here are some of the main features to consider before buying a first aid kit for traveling.

Compact Size

Every usable travel first aid kit comes with a carrying bag, so consider whether the size of the bag fits into your luggage . It largely depends on the number of items included, as some kits come with 100 medical pieces and others with up to 300.

Bottom Line: To help you decide on your size needs, consider the number of people going on the trip and how long you will be away.

Medical Pieces

There are differences in the contents of each first aid kit, but some items are essential. When buying a first aid kit for traveling, make sure it comes with gauze pads, medical tape, bandages, antiseptics, gloves, trauma dressing, and scissors .

These are just some of the items you can use to disinfect and dress a wound to make sure it’s clean until you get back to your hotel or reach a hospital in the case of more serious wounds.

Number of Pieces

If you are going on a trip for a day or 2, the chances are that basic first aid kits will suffice. However, if you are going on a longer trip, especially with your family or friends, you need to bring a well-equipped kit.

These often include up to 300 pieces in a set and will almost certainly be sufficient for any injury you might suffer. It’s always a good idea to bring a well-equipped kit on trips to faraway destinations — just in case.

If you plan on bringing personal medication in combination with all the medical pieces in a first aid kit, you should put labels on every medication . By doing so, you will prevent confusion if you need to use a certain item in case of an emergency.

Bottom Line: Wherever you’re headed, a first aid kit is part of any list of essentials for camping , hiking , or the beach .

The 7 Best Travel First Aid Kits

Covering a range of sizes for different lengths of trips, this list includes some of the best medical sets you can use for first aid.

First Aid Only All-Purpose Essentials Soft-Sided First Aid Kit

This set is a complete yet compact travel solution with dimensions suitable for travel at a 9.2-inch length and 7-inch height. The First Aid Only complete first aid kit comes with 300 pieces and only weighs a pound while catering to all sorts of emergencies and smaller injuries .

Because of its size, it’s even a great solution for short trips. It comes with a hygienic medical preservation bag where all the items are stored. The bag also keeps the items inside organized and labeled, so you can easily find whatever you might need.

It fits into a backpack or a travel bag, and some of the most important pieces include adhesive bandages of all sizes, antibiotic ointment, butterfly wound closures, applicators, and gauze pads.

What We Like:

• A compact and complete medical set

What We Don’t Like:

• Doesn’t leave much room for personal medication

EVERLIT 250 Pieces Survival First Aid Kit

If you are looking for a complete survival set for tackling nature, rather than just a medical first aid kit, the Everlit survival kit is a perfect option. It comes with 250 pieces of medical supplies, including some useful survival kit additions.

It has all the medical essentials like alcohol prep pads, adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, safety pins, cotton tips , and cotton balls . You can also find a CPR mask, metal tweezers, scissors, PVC gloves, and other equipment.

As for the survival supplies, there’s a tactical EMT molle bag, disposable poncho, fire starter , tactical flashlight, and a glow stick, in case you plan on spending some time in nature.

• The survival essentials
• The bag might be a bit bulky

Mini First Aid Kit 110 Pieces Small First Aid Kit

Those in pursuit of a small and compact first aid kit will be surprised at how many essentials can fit into this small package. The mini first aid kit from General Medi has 110 pieces, including some surprising additions like an emergency foil blanket, a CPR respirator, and scissors .

As for the run-of-the-mill medical supplies it contains, there are adhesive plasters, sterile gauze pads, cleaning swabs, a conforming bandage, and a triangular bandage. You can also find alcohol prep pads and antiseptic towelettes among the contents.

The small package made of waterproof nylon with a zip opening ensures that your medical supplies are safe and compact enough for carrying anywhere.

• Small and compact
• No room in the bag for personal medication

Coleman All Purpose Mini First Aid Kit

A unique option for those who want only the essentials is the Coleman All Purpose mini first aid kit. This solution comes in a small pack of 0.88 x 3.88 inches, so it can easily fit into any backpack pocket or travel bag storage space.

Despite its tiny size, it provides all the essentials. The kit comes with 27 items, including 2 butterfly bandages, large safety pins, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, and 1 razor blade.

This set provides all the basics you might need in case of a small injury, and the embedded cross logo makes it easier to find it in your baggage.

• Its small size
• Limited supplies

THRIAID Mini First Aid Kit 100 Pieces Water-Resistant Hard Shell

If you want a sturdy container for your medical supplies, you can benefit from using the Thriaid mini first aid pack. It comes with a hard-shell carrying bag that’s crush-resistant and water-resistant , so you can feel at ease knowing all your medical essentials are safe.

This pack comes with more than 100 medical necessities for first aid, all inside of a useful bag that can be repurposed. In case of injuries, you can rely on internationally-certified products for wound disinfection and tending.

The contents include disposal gloves, scissors, an antiseptic towelette, different sizes of bandages and gauze pads, and adhesive plasters.

• The crush-resistant shell
• Zipper bag should be sensitively handled

Hot Tip: You may need to check any luggage that contains scissors that are longer than 4 inches from the pivot point. See more details in our guide to the items you can and cannot bring through TSA security .

Welly First Aid Travel Kit Bravery Balm Kit

Welly’s Bravery Balm travel kit includes just enough items for 1 person to use to tend to cuts and abrasions while traveling. The set includes 1 small tin box that’s 4 inches long and 1.7 inches wide, and everything fits right into it.

The pack includes 13 essentials such as Bravery Balm triple antibiotic and pain relief ointment . The Welly set also includes 12 flexible fabric bandages of standard sizes.

• Perfect for solo travel
• Lacks some medical equipment like scissors and gloves

Johnson & Johnson First Aid Kit Travel Size Pack

If you’re looking for a small first aid kit that’s great for minor interventions, this Johnson & Johnson kit likely has just what you need. It’s small enough for traveling and comes in 3 identical small medical packs.

While this set might not be enough for treating major wounds, you can treat small injuries perfectly well. The set comes with 12 pieces in each pack and includes hand cleansing wipes, gauze pads, band-aids, and adhesive plasters . These sets fit into any travel bag for easy portability, even on short trips.

• A carrying bag isn’t included

Your choice of first aid kit all comes down to the type of travel you are planning in terms of the length of your trip and the number of people that will use the kit.

All of the listed options are great for minor interventions, while sets like the First Aid Only 300-piece pack serve as a more comprehensive solution. The size of a kit is also a factor to consider, as you will need one that fits easily into your luggage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you look for in a first aid kit.

The most important medical supplies you should have at your disposal while traveling includes gauze pads, bandages, antiseptics, and antibiotic ointment. You might also need medical tape and tweezers. Keep in mind that a first aid kit is only meant to treat minor injuries.

How many items should be in a first aid box?

It depends on your needs, including the length of your trip and the number of people in your group, but they range from 12 pieces to over 300 pieces. You should always opt for a compact kit that still has as many supplies as you need.

Do first aid sets include CPR essentials?

Some better-equipped first aid kits include CPR masks along with regular medical essentials but most mini travel first aid kits do not.

What’s the best first aid travel kit size?

If you are like most travelers, chances are you don’t have much room to spare in your luggage. So look for a compact solution, some of which can fit more than 100 pieces in a bag or case no longer than 10 inches.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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How To Pack A Professional Travel First Aid Kit

I get a lot of questions about health care on the road. Since I’m not a doctor, I don’t like giving medical advice beyond a few general tips so I’ve asked Mike Huxley, a registered nurse, to share his expert tips and advice when it comes to packing a first aid kit for your travels.

I have been traveling the world for over fifteen years now, and in that time I have patched up more travelers’ scrapes and sprains than I can remember.

Thankfully, pretty much all of the incidents I have dealt with so far have been minor. Even during my time spent volunteering as an expedition medic in the Sahara, the jungles of Kalimantan and Borneo, and many other amazing places, I have been able to deal with most accidents and injuries that have crossed my path.

I have only been able to do all of this, however, because I have always packed my trusty first aid kit. It has evolved and been refined over the years, but I have always carried one.

As any experienced traveler or health professional will tell you, things can and occasionally do go wrong on any trip , and taking a well-stocked kit with you is always advised.

When I first started traveling, I did what most sensible people do and carried a commercially available emergency first aid kit .

However, over the years, and with a lot of experience and my nursing qualification behind me, I have refined my own kit to reflect what I will use out on the road and what I know will make for a much better first aid kit for the average traveler too.

The best first aid kits are simple but varied and have a variety of dressings and equipment to deal with the basics. More importantly, they can be used with little or no training. So, what items should you include? Here are my picks for the essentials:

1. Band-Aids/Plasters It goes without saying that these are absolutely essential in any first aid kit. The most common form of minor injury is a cut or a graze, so it is always a good idea to carry a handful of Band-Aids in a variety of sizes .

If you think you will be doing a lot of trekking on your travels and you aren’t used to that form of exercise, then some blister plasters are a good idea.

It isn’t necessary to go overboard and carry so many you could start your own tiny field hospital; just a few of each type will do, as you can always restock when you pass a pharmacy.

2. Gauze Gauze is the medical jack-of-all-trades. I never carry a first aid kit without a supply of gauze in it, and I can’t tell you how many times it has come in useful over the years. It can be used to apply pressure to a wound, clean an injury, soak up blood, help stop bleeding, and even form part of a basic dressing for small-to-medium wounds.

A clean wound and a layer of gauze kept down with either tape or an adhesive bandage is often enough to allow time for you to go and get it looked at by a professional.

The best type of gauze to carry in a first aid kit is individually wrapped sterile squares. This eliminates the need to cut them to size when you need them quickly and obviously makes it easier to keep the wound clean and sterile.

3. Crepe bandages (ACE or elastic bandages) For when you have something a bit bigger than a cut, basic crepe bandages are useful for keeping small dressings clean and in place until you can get some medical attention.

Remember, you’re only going to use them in an emergency, until you can get some professional medical care (ideally covered through the travel insurance that you got in advance of your trip). You don’t need too many of these, just one or two at most.

4. Surgical tape Surgical tape is one of those essential emergency items for when you need to apply and secure gauze or a bandage to a wound, although Band-Aids can do the same job if need be.

5. Small scissors These come standard in any commercially available first aid kit (although you can buy them separately too) and are obviously useful for trimming gauze or bandages to size. Just be careful if you do carry scissors to ensure that your first aid kit goes in your checked bag when you are in transit or else airline security will take them off you.

If you’re flying carry-on only, small scissors (max 4 inches/10 centimeters) are permitted according to the TSA. If you want to be on the safe side, get ones with rounded tips. Also, remember that you don’t need to bring them from home — most grocery stores or stationery shops have them as well.

6. Tweezers Tweezers are another item that often comes standard in most first aid kits and can be useful for pulling out splinters, getting out little bits of stone or dirt when cleaning a wound, or any number of other practical uses.

7. Antiseptic wipes For some reason this tends to be the one thing most people overlook when thinking of first aid, but antiseptic wipes are an absolute essential in any good pack. No one wants a cut or wound to get infected, and antiseptic wipes are perfect for cleaning it before applying a dressing.

Just a small handful will suffice for most packs. Like most basic items, they are easy to replace at any pharmacy when you run low.

8. Condoms Apart from the obvious benefits (staying sexually safe), these handy little items can be used as emergency water carriers or even filled with ice as an emergency ice pack. I’ve personally never had any call to use them in that manner, but it is a handy bit of information to keep in mind.

9. Pain relief medication A small pack of basic acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) or any of the associated brand names ( like Tylenol ) is usually sufficient, but ibuprofen or other similar medications are fine too. It doesn’t have to be fancy — basically whatever you normally take for pain relief when you have a headache or minor pain.

10. Loperamide tablets Also known under a variety of brand names such as Imodium , this is useful for stopping diarrhea for short periods when you need to catch a bus or train. Remember, these are for those emergency moments only when you are actually in transit, as they do not cure diarrhea and shouldn’t be used when you can rest up for a couple of days. (Normally the best way to treat diarrhea is to let everything pass through your system normally and drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids.)

If you use them sparingly, properly, and as directed on the pack, loperamide tablets can be useful additions to any travel first aid kit.

11. Antihistamine cream It happens to all of us on our travels: we get bitten by some form of insect and end up with a painfully itchy bump or rash. Don’t worry, the absolute majority of the time the bumps and stings aren’t anything to worry about at all, but they are damned annoying! This is why a good antihistamine cream is a useful addition to help control itching and swelling.

12. Antibacterial creams It’s also a good idea to carry antibacterial creams like Neosporin for any cuts and scrapes you get. This will help heal them faster as well as prevent any possible infections.

Obviously, this list can be tailored or added to depending on your trip needs (a tropical jungle trek will require different planning than a city break in Europe ). Any good first aid kit should also include any specific, individually prescribed medication or antimalarial prophylaxis.

For the majority of travelers, however, the items and kit listed above will cover the majority of basic incidents and accidents. You’ll also want to make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance as well to protect you against unexpected costs that you might incur should an emergency happen.

For any injury, illness, bang, or scrape that requires more than the basics and cannot be covered by the kit above, you should seek professional medical attention. Unless you are extremely far off the beaten track, you should be able to seek out professional assistance to deal with medical emergencies pretty easily if something happens you can’t handle yourself.

So go pack up your own little first aid kit and keep it stashed in your pack for emergencies. Odds are you will probably never use it — and I hope you never need to — but if you have one, at least you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind and be safe in the knowledge that you are prepared.

Important Note: When carrying any generic medication, it is essential that it is kept in its original packaging when you are traveling in case customs officials need to check it. The information provided here is for general travel health advice and information only. It is provided by a qualified nurse, but it is not a replacement for a personal consultation with a travel nurse specialist, your GP, or a doctor specializing in travel medicine who can tailor advice to your individual medical history and needs.  

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Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

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Travel Size First-Aid Kit: What to Pack & Downloadable Checklist

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When you pack for a trip, especially a trip overseas, it’s easy to forget about medications and first-aid. That’s why you should always bring a basic first-aid kit with you on your travels.

I always keep a pre-packed first-aid kit ready to go so I don’t have to think twice about it when I’m packing. Of course, you may need additional items depending on where you’re going and what activities you have planned. But this first-aid kit packing list covers the basics.

15 Tiny Travel Products to Help You Stay Healthy on Vacation

What Do I Need in My Travel First-Aid Kit?

These everyday medications will take care of most common aches and pains that come with a long day of travel.

• Antihistamine
• Antacid tablets
• Hydration pills or electrolyte replenishers
• Cold relief medicine
• Motion sickness relief
• Muscle relaxer

For minor bumps and bruises, make sure you have these emergency first aid supplies in your medical kit.

• Various sized bandages
• Alcohol swabs or antiseptic wipes
• First aid balm or sting relief, anti-itch cream , & antibiotic cream

From treating splinters to sunburns, these miscellaneous items are must-haves in your travel first aid kit.

• Thermometer
• Hand sanitizer

First-Aid Kit Tips

• Look in the school supply section of your local drugstore for a small container, or order a small tackle box from Amazon .
• Only separate medication from its labeled bottle if you know you’ll be able to differentiate pills.
• Keep prescription medications separate from your first-aid kit.
• Include over-the-counter (OTC) medication based on your needs; i.e., if you’re traveling on a cruise and need motion sickness pills, make sure to include those.
• Pack a natural balm like GREEN GOO First Aid , which can relieve symptoms for dry skin, insect bites, scrapes, rashes, chafing, cuts, sunburns, blisters, and poison ivy.
• Include various-sized bandages ; they double for blister protection if you plan on doing a lot of walking.
• Hand sanitizer , a small tissue pack , lip balm , and sunscreen are also must-haves.
• Be sure to fill out the Medical ID on your iPhone and list any allergies, emergency contacts, and your doctor’s information.
• Keep a laminated copy of your COVID-19 vaccination card accessible during your travels as well as a photo of your card available on your phone.
• Remember to pack extra face masks if you plan on visiting a destination or attending an event where masking is required

Download and print this checklist to make your own travel first-aid kit.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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The 8 Best First Aid Kits, Tested and Reviewed

Keep yourself and your loved ones protected and safe with these expert-approved first aid kits.

Verywell Health / Amelia Manley

From scraped knees to car crashes, having a quality first aid kit allows you to treat minor injuries, prevent infections, and even increase the chances of keeping an accident victim alive until proper medical help arrives. Eddie Boyle , director of operations at Cetronia Ambulance Corps, says that a first aid kit is a small stockpile of basic necessities that can treat burns to traumatic injuries . He adds that the supplies can provide life-saving interventions .

We tested 15 top-rated first aid kits and narrowed down the best eight. We evaluated each kit for included products, ease of use, organization, quality, and overall value . An emergency physician from our Medical Expert Board reviewed the contents of this article for medical accuracy.

• What to Look for in a First Aid Kit
• Bandages: Specifically, elastic and adhesive bandages. Christoper E. San Miguel , MD, FAAEM, clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, says that elastic bandages can be wrapped around small and large wounds and injured body parts (like sprains) to reduce swelling. Adhesives stick to the skin and should be applied after wounds are clean.
• Cleaning supplies: Antiseptic wipes or alcohol pads decrease the risk of germs and bacteria getting into cuts, scrapes, and burns. After using antiseptic or alcohol to clean the wound, an antibacterial ointment should be applied to prevent infection, Dr. San Miguel explains. 
• Medications: Choosing a kit that includes OTC meds like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to treat pain and relieve fevers is a good idea. You may also want loperamide for acute diarrhea or diphenhydramine for minor allergic reactions. However, Dr. San Miguel says it's best to call 911 and potentially administer an EpiPen if there's difficulty breathing or throat swelling.
• Gloves: Dr. San Miguel recommends wearing gloves whenever handling blood or bodily fluids to lower the risk of transmission of certain diseases. 
• Extra accessories: A first aid kit should include not only the physical materials and medications used to treat ailments but also the tools that can assist with the process. Tweezers, small scissors, a thermometer , a scale, and instant ice packs are all items that could be beneficial. Consider your health conditions and look for tools to help with your specific needs.
• How We Tested

Our Experts

Why trust verywell health, best overall, protect life first aid kit.

• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Organization 4 /5
• Quality 4 /5

Durable case

Includes tools like a carabiner, scissors, and safety pins

Comes with a cold compress

Does not include ointment

Items can shift around in the open plastic pockets

Ideal For: Travel and personal use | Case Size: 7.8 x 5.9 x 2.6 inches

Why We Recommend It

We named the Protect Life First Aid Kit our best overall because it has everything you need to treat minor wounds. The durable first aid case contains gauze pads, bandages, first aid tape, a cold pack, gloves, scissors, tweezers, and even an emergency whistle . The contents—all manufactured at an FDA-registered facility—are stored inside a durable hard case, making it ideal for road trips, camping, and hiking . It also proved easy to use, grab, and go during testing.

Keep in Mind

We didn't like the small carrying case, and the containments weren't secure. They were easy to fall out or shift, and it was hard to get things back inside.

Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson

Best Budget

Be smart get prepared first aid kit.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Organization 5 /5

Durable, lightweight, and portable

Supplies meet FDA standards

Does not include scissors, tweezers, or OTC medications

Ideal For: At home, travel, offices | Case Size: 7.75 x 10.75 x 7.25 inches

The Be Smart Get Prepared Kit is affordable and has everything you need to treat minor injuries. We loved its ease of use, organization, and overall value. We also liked the sturdy and durable quality of the supplies and storage case. In addition to the basic bandages and alcohol wipes , the kit includes antibiotic ointment , finger splints, a cold compress, and exam gloves . It also carries most of the basic items to treat lacerations and contusions.

The kit lost marks for lacking scissors and tweezers.

Best for Families

Adventure first aid family kit.

• Ease of Use 3.5 /5
• Organization 4.5 /5
• Value 3.5 /5

Enough supplies to a family of four

Includes OTC medications

Is well organized

Flimsy, soft case

Ideal For: Outdoor activities, travel, families | Case Size: 6 x 8.5 x 3 inches

Adventure First Aid Family Kit has enough supplies for small groups or families of up to four people, including topicals like antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointments, bandages and sterile gauze dressings , and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medications .

Out of all the kits we tested, this one felt the most organized . We loved that the products were clearly and securely sorted into categories: medications, gauze/bandages, and various trauma care accessories.

The goods come in a zippered soft case which was flimsy and a little difficult to open.

Best for the Office

First aid only first aid kit.

• Quality 5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

Wall-mountable and well organized

Includes a face shield, gloves, and trauma pads

Contains topical and OTC medications

It’s not portable

Ideal For: Offices | Case Size: 4.5 x 13.25 x 14.25 inches

The First Aid Only Kit is the priciest pick on our list, but it's worth the price if you're looking for a kit that contains everything from bandages to OTC pain relief medications, scissors and tweezers, gloves , and a CPR face shield . There are enough supplies to treat up to 50 people , and the plastic case is wall-mountable, making it a smart choice for offices and other places where groups gather.

During testing, we liked that each product had its own designated space. This keeps everything secure and visible, making it easy to use quickly during an emergency. While it's pricier, we feel the value is there.

It's not designed to be portable, so if you're traveling often or plan to move it around frequently, we suggest another option.

Best for Injuries

Homestock+ professional first aid kit.

• Value 4.6 /5

Well organized

High-quality materials

Zipper is difficult to open with one hand

Ideal For: Traumatic injuries | Case Size: 7.9 x 5.9 x 3.6 inches

The Professional First Aid Trauma Kit contains items designed to treat traumatic injuries like bleeding, burns, and shock . A pocket-size guide explains each item and how to use it. We like that it contains a trauma pad, elastic bandages, burn care gel , eye pads , and more, all neatly organized and clearly labeled. The design made us feel prepared for anything.

It folds open, so everything is technically accessible. Still, during the timed trial, opening the zippered kit with one hand proved challenging, which could waste precious seconds in an emergency.

Best Compact

Protect life small first aid kit.

• Organization 3 /5
• Value 4.3 /5

Compact and portable

Includes an emergency blanket and tourniquet

Items are not well organized

Ideal For: Travel, car | Case Size: 7.5 x 5.2 x 1.5 inches

Looking for a basic first aid kit that you can tuck into your backpack or glove compartment? We recommend the Small First Aid Kit , which is compact but durable. In addition to bandages, tape, and topical ointments , the affordable pouch contains many foldable items, like an emergency blanket, a tourniquet, and a CPR mask . It also has a saline solution for rinsing the eyes and irrigating wounds.

The kit felt very disorganized, which isn't great in an emergency. Everything was just jammed in there. We'd suggest finding a way to organize the kit at home or picking another option if that organization is crucial to you.

Best for Camping

Everlit survival first aid kit.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5
• Value 4.7 /5

Durable, quick-release case

Has items for traumatic emergency

Doesn’t include OTC medications

Ideal For: Traumatic injuries, outdoor survival | Case Size: 8 x 6.5 x 5 inches

From a tactical flashlight to a paracord, compass, and even an 11-in-1 tactical pocket tool—all stored in a military-grade EMT backpack—the Everlit is the perfect first aid kit for campers, hikers, and survivalists. During testing, we felt that it carries a lot of value at a very accessible price point. It has all the basics for managing a traumatic emergency (especially when you're in the middle of nowhere).

There are also various bandages and topical sting relief wipes, safety pins, an emergency blanket, glow sticks, a pocket knife, a fire starter , a poncho, and a thermal blanket . We felt it was intuitive and neatly organized, too. It took us mere minutes to find and identify everything important during a crisis.

It has all the basics, except for OTC medication.

Best for First Responders

Mfasco first aid kit.

Easy-to-open case

Contains items to treat traumatic injuries

Might be tricky to keep main compartment organized

Ideal For: Traumatic injuries, natural disasters | Case Size: 13 x 6 x 9 inches

After testing the First Aid Emergency Response Trauma Kit , we found it easy to use, organized, and filled with quality items, which is great for emergency medical professionals . It includes an assortment of bandages, a stethoscope, a blood pressure cuff, and just about everything a first responder would need, making it a full-service kit. It's a great one-stop shop for emergency care needs.

It has convenient front and side pockets, but keeping the main compartment organized might take some effort.

How We Tested the First Aid Kits

We tested 15 first aid kits in the Verywell Testing Lab. Following our detailed methodology, each test was designed to evaluate and compare the kits for ease of use, organization, quality of the products and carrying case, and overall value.

• Ease of use: We opened our assigned first aid kit to determine whether we could do it quickly and without struggle and noted any issues that arose.
• Organization: We checked to see how clearly everything was displayed and how securely it was held in place. During the timed trial, we counted how long it took us to find specific items and put them back away to see how quickly we could do so in an emergency.
• Product quality: We inspected each item for quality and placed it back inside the kit to see how easy it would be to keep it neatly arranged and easily accessible.
• Carrying case: We assessed the carrying case to see how sturdy, durable, and portable it was.
• Value: After concluding the test, we compared the performance to the price point to determine whether it was worth the financial cost.
• Eddie Boyle, PHRN, director of operations at Cetronia Ambulance Corps in Pennsylvania
• Christoper E. San Miguel, MD, FAAEM, clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
• Mattan Schuchman , MD, medical director of Johns Hopkins Home-based Medicine
• David Cutler , MD, family medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California

Frequently Asked Questions

Store your first aid kit where it is easily accessible in your home, car, RV, or backpack. If your kit contains medication, Dr. San Miguel recommends keeping it out of reach of children and avoiding places that get extreme heat or cold, as that can spoil a drug.

According to Boyle, anyone can apply first aid. Uncontrolled bleeding is one of the most serious emergencies that a splint from a first aid kit could make the difference between life or death, says Boyle. To perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), one must be trained.

Receiving her master’s degree in public health in 2020, Kayla Hui is a seasoned public health practitioner and health journalist. She has interviewed dozens of experts, reviewed numerous research studies, and tested many products to deliver well-researched product reviews and roundups. She aims to help readers make more informed decisions about their health and well-being.

16 Tips on how to assemble a perfect travel first-aid kit

by Anne Betts | Dec 31, 2022 | Health, Safety and Comfort | 5 comments

Updated December 31, 2022

How do you assemble a perfect travel first-aid kit , yet still manage to pack light? I don’t claim to have a universal solution, but the following works for me.

Table of Contents

1. Identify your needs in travel first-aid kit

2. never packing ‘what-if’ items doesn’t apply to a first-aid kit, 3. build your kit from scratch, 4. get sound advice, 5. help out other travellers if possible, 6. adopt packing light strategies, 7. get prescriptions filled before departure, 8. verify the legality of your medication in your destination country , 9. label everything, 10. have access to medicinal information and first-aid advice, 11. review your kit before each trip, 12. list kit contents, 13. identify factors affecting kit contents, 14. individualize your kit, 15. and to complement my first-aid kit…, 16. back home, reach into the travel first-aid kit, in summary…, how to assemble a perfect travel first-aid kit.

Use these 15 tips to assemble a perfect travel first-aid kit considering your destination, activities, and health needs while still packing light.  

Each kit is different. A first step is figuring out what you expect of yours. Here are some ideas:

• It has what’s needed to respond to illness and injuries given the destination, season, activities, and health needs of those who depend on the kit.
• It contains enough supplies to deal with minor injuries and illnesses until it’s possible to get to the nearest clinic or pharmacy. Besides, no one wants to spend valuable travel time navigating a new destination, especially when feeling unwell. 
• It takes existing health issues into consideration, and travel related injuries and illnesses given past experience.
• It contains trusted supplies written in a familiar language and acquired at a cost that may be cheaper at home than at your destination.
• It’s small enough, and light enough, to carry at all times (or have key items always accessible).

Packing light travellers advocate never packing ‘what-if’ items.

A first-aid kit is an exception. It’s like that emergency medical insurance you hope to never have to use. Returning home with a kit that was never opened, or tossing expired medication that was never used, are indications of healthy, injury-free travels.

Assemble your own first-aid kit. It gives you more control over the contents and the container. By all means, look for clues from pre-assembled kits, but there’s a good chance an off-the-shelf kit won’t meet your needs. Cobble together your own, considering your destination, activities, and health needs. Chances are it will be cheaper, lighter, smaller, and more useful than a generic version.

Bloggers, especially those with a healthcare background, are helpful sources of ideas. For specific advice, consult a professional health care provider. Your family doctor and pharmacist are aware of your health issues, and can suggest compatible OTC (Over-The-Counter) medication. Your pharmacist can also provide suggestions on generic (and cheaper) alternatives to brand-name products. A travellers’ clinic specializes in preparing people for worldwide travel.

Unhealthy or injured travelling companions impact on all members of a group. My first-aid kit has responded to the occasional health issues of others, and I’ve been the grateful beneficiary of supplies from another person’s kit.

The right supplies in the right quantities add very little weight, and are invaluable if they allow everyone to get on with their travels.

• While cycling beside the canals of the Netherlands , a blister pack containing two Tylenol tablets treated a companion’s splitting headache.
• A couple of Loperamide tablets enabled us to continue exploring Singapore when my nephew was suddenly struck with an attack of Travellers’ Diarrhea .
• When hiking the trails of Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, a piece of anti-blister tape protected a friend’s heel from further chafing.
• When hiking the Banks Track in New Zealand, another hiker gave me some hiking wool to help prevent chafing of sensitive areas. 

If your kit is large and heavy, you’ll be tempted to leave it at home, or back at your accommodation. A first-aid kit should be small enough, light enough, and functional enough to have a permanent place in your day bag.

• Look for travel-friendly sizes. Check out truck stops, drug stores, dollar stores, and hiking and outdoor stores for products packaged in small sizes. Google “OTC medication travel sizes” and you may discover online suppliers in your country of residence. This is how I stumbled across minimus.biz  with their range of single-dose blister packs of OTC medication and first-aid supplies.

• Dollar-store purchases tend to be much cheaper than those available elsewhere. I find it hurts less to discard expired medication or have folding scissors confiscated by an overzealous security agent if I paid dollar-store prices for the item. 
• Where feasible, choose blister packs of tablets over bottles and liquids, and single-dose blister packs over tubes and bottles.

• Where feasible, transfer or decant to smaller containers.
• Use see-through zip-top pill pouch bags to separate various products.

• Choose a container for your kit that slips easily into a day bag. It will need to be waterproof if you’re involved in activities around water. Otherwise, carry a spare zip-top bag, dry bag , or a rain cover for your daypack.
• Pack a pocket pill container  for storing medication and supplements for use while in transit or on the move.

Your prescriptions are valid only in your home country. Get them filled before leaving home. Pack quantities needed for the duration of the trip, and extra to cover possible travel delays. Ask your pharmacist for the smallest possible labelled container, and ask for the expiry date to be listed.

Scan the information sheets received with the medication, and take the electronic copies with you. For this purpose, I use the app Scanner Pro  and cloud-based app, Dropbox .

Medication that may be legal at home might be illegal in another country. Many countries have their own rules regarding travelling with medication.

Start with an online search for ‘travelling with mediation to ___’ and review the information on authority sites such as the pharmaceutical agency of the country in question. If in doubt, contact the embassy or diplomatic mission for additional information.

If you need to administer any medication with a syringe, it would be wise to obtain a letter from your doctor indicating it’s for personal use.

Don’t separate medication from the manufacturer’s packaging. Keep medication in its sealed package or blister pack to protect its integrity, stability, and effectiveness.

The manufacturer’s packaging helps promote safe use by providing information on medicinal ingredients, dosage instructions, and expiry dates. It’s also useful information to help respond to possible inquiries of border services agents.

Having the medicinal ingredients at your fingertips is handy when trying to purchase additional supplies across a language barrier. If you separate medication from its box, cut up the box and slip the pieces containing relevant information into a small zip-top bag with the blister tabs.

For supplements and probiotics, I find the containers take up too much space. Zip-top bags and reusable prescription containers offer downsizing options.

Before packing or taking any medication, consult an authority site for information and advice.

• How should it be safely stored?
• What temperatures affect its effectiveness?
• Will it cause drowsiness?
• What can or can’t be taken with it?
• Can it be taken on an empty stomach?
• What’s the suggested maximum dosage within a 24-hour period?

Drugs.com is an excellent resource, as is the Traveler Advice Page of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Canadian Red Cross First-Aid app is a useful resource for emergency first-aid advice.

Remaining committed to carry-on travel requires packing with time to spare. I tend to start at least a week before departure, and definitely earlier if I know my first-aid kit needs refreshing. It helps to break packing into manageable chunks, usually by category such as ‘toiletries,’ ‘first-aid kit,’ or ‘clothing.’ For the first-aid kit, this means time to: 

• discard expired medication
• replenish low supplies or missing items
• remove or include destination- or season-specific items
• communicate with others, if not travelling solo, to lighten the load by sharing supplies across first-aid kits.

A detailed list of the contents of your first-aid kit, and those items that complement what’s in the kit, can be helpful. Brand names (and their generic equivalents) aren’t available in all countries, so it’s important to include the medicinal ingredients of each. Store it in a cloud storage app, or where it’s readily accessible on your device.

• keeps you organized when it comes to replenishing or removing supplies;
• is helpful when seeking advice from health care professionals;
• is useful when consulting with travelling companions on sharing first-aid supplies;
• is a reference to avoid overdosing when taking combinations of different medications (e.g., “Tylenol Poisoning” is a real problem; some cold-and-flu medication also contains Acetaminophen/Paracetamol);
• enables you to purchase depleted items with the same or similar medicinal ingredients at your destination; and
• can be easily updated for future travels.

Take into account your own health needs and previous experience in managing them. For example, here are some of the things I considered for recent trips.

Blister prevention and treatment. It’s not uncommon to walk 20 km / 12.5 mi each day, more than at home. Also, feet change. Shoes that fit perfectly when they were purchased might not remain so.

Allergic reactions to insect bites.  Biting insects are my nemesis. The New Zealand sandflies sent me scurrying for antihistamine, and bites from some unknown insect in Australia landed me in the emergency department of a hospital (at a considerable cost) to get a prescription for an antibiotic (that cost $5 to fill). I now ask my doctor for a prescription for both an antibiotic ointment and tablets that can be filled before leaving home.

Digestive ailments. I take medication for acid reflux. This means that Acetaminophen/Paracetamol (e.g., Tylenol) is a safer pain reliever than Ibuprofen (e.g., Advil). Also, with reduced acid in my stomach, I always expect Travellers’ Diarrhea. I also need to plan to deal with occasional and very uncomfortable heartburn.

Minor scrapes.  Most trips involve time on a bike or scooter, increasing the chance of minor scrapes and abrasions.

Respiratory issues. I have a propensity for a bad case of the ‘flu to morph into pneumonia. After remaining insanely healthy during the pandemic, I expected to fall prey to Covid or influenza on my first post-pandemic international trip. This pointed to the need to pack Covid test kits, and my doctor gave me prescriptions for an antibiotic and a puffer, both filled before leaving home.

Staying healthy on long-haul flights. Planes harbour harmful bacteria, and long flights increase the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis. The dry environment contributes to dehydration, dry skin, and sore nasal passages.

In the event it’s helpful, here’s a list of the contents of my kit, based on the considerations described above, and the advice of my family doctor and pharmacist. I favour generic alternatives to brand-name products as they can be considerably cheaper.  

• Anti-diarrhea (e.g., Imodium): Loperamide hydrochloride 2 mg when a blocker is required (e.g., on transit days)
• Antihistamine allergy relief (e.g., Claritin): Loratadine 10mg
• Topical antibiotic for skin infections: Sodium Fusidate 2% (prescription)
• Oral antibiotic for skin infections: Amoxycillin/clavulanic 875/125 mg (prescription)
• Antibiotic for respiratory/bronchial bacterial infections and severe Travellers Diarrhea: Azithromycin dehydrate 250 mg (prescription)
• Anti-nauseant (e.g., Gravol): Dimenhydrinate 50 mg
• Blister prevention and treatment: Dr. Scholl’s Moleskin Plus ; Moleskin pre-cut and shaped by Adventure Medical Kits ; Polysporin Blister Treatment Cushions; Spenco 2nd Skin Adhesive Knit ; blister prevention wool ; BAND-AID ® Blister Cushion
• Cough, cold and ‘flu relief: Sambucol Black Elderberry Pastilles
• Heartburn relief: Tums Extra Strength  (Calcium carbonate 750 mg)
• Antiseptic: tea tree oil
• Miscellaneous aids: cotton wool buds ( Organyc ); cotton balls; tweezers (remove splinters, thorns, ticks, debris); safety pins (remove splinters, thorns, fashion a sling, miscellaneous uses); folding scissors ( Fiskars )
• Pain relief, fever reducer: Extra Strength Tylenol (Acetaminophen 500 mg)
• Wound care: MooreBrand Gauze Pads (2” x 2”); Webcol Alcohol Prep Pads (Isopropyl Alcohol 70%); 3M Steri-Strips ; waterproof bandages ; variety of sizes and shapes of plasters

All these supplies fit in a soft-sided zippered packing organizer measuring 17 x 10 cm / 7 x 4 in and weighing 218 g / 7.7 oz.

• compression socks
• clear duct tape (to keep a bandage in place)
• emergency ID bracelet
• flashlight: FourSevens MiNi X
• immune support: Ener-C drink mix ; NOW Oregano Veg Capsules 450 mg
• insect repellent: Mosquito Shield Piactive (Icaridin 20%)
• electrolyte hydration supplement (exercise, flights, hot climates): NUUN Sport
• Nature’s Aid all-natural skin gel with healing and soothing properties for allergic reactions, minor scrapes, sunburn, and inflamed muscles
• laminated Emergency Contact Card

• nasal soreness: Boroleum (Petrolatum 97.92%; Camphor 1%; Menthol 0.54%)
• pashmina (doubles as a makeshift sling)
• probiotics: Saccharomyces Boulardii
• activated charcoal
• sanitizing wipes: EO Lavender plastic-free bamboo wipes
• Soap Leaves: Sea to Summit
• sunscreen: All good sunscreen butter
• tablet towels
• reusable dry bag to make an ice pack

Rather than keeping separate supplies in a home medicine cabinet and a travel first-aid kit, anything with an expiry date should be utilized when it’s needed. Purging a a travel first-aid kit of expired medication can be costlier than it needs to be, especially if you’ve enjoyed healthy and injury-free travels. 

• Avoid pre-assembled kits. Build your own.
• Be strategic. Base kit contents on your destination, season, activities, and health needs.
• Get advice from health care professionals.
• Look for medication and supplies in travel sizes.
• Don’t separate medication from its packaging.
• Keep a record of the exact medicinal ingredients of what’s in your kit.
• NEVER, NEVER, NEVER travel without emergency medical insurance. When your kit comes up short, an early visit to a healthcare centre could be the best financial decision you’ll make. 

With thanks to Adrian Comeau, Pharmacist, Saulnierville Pharmacy, for his helpful suggestions and advice.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are for general travel health information only. It’s not a replacement for a personal consultation with your doctor, pharmacist or travel medicine specialist.

Might you be interested in these related posts?

• Useful tips on how to prevent and treat travellers’ diarrhea
• 10 Essentials of packing for a travel medical emergency
• Create a travel comfort pack for easy access to self-care essentials
• 25 Ideas on how to prepare an emergency preparedness toolkit for travellers
• It could save your life. Get an emergency ID bracelet for travellers
• How to make a traveller’s emergency contact card in 5 easy steps
• A MacGyver kit for travel: 20 simple ideas
• Travel with tablet towels: a multipurpose essential every traveller should pack
• No soap? No problem travelling with soap leaves
• Travelling with duct tape: 30 practical uses
• 10 Useful reasons to travel with dry bags

If you found this post helpful, please share it by selecting one or more social media buttons. What’s in your travel first-aid kit? What additional tips can you offer? Please add your thoughts in the comments. Thank you.

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Your thinking is so thorough! I will definitely reread this when the time comes to prepare for my next trip. The one I have with me now is twice the size of yours…

Thank you for this! The steps are so on-point! I’ve been thinking of assembling me and family’s first-aid kit, not because we’re travelling soon but because of the natural calamities happening. We do not know when a storm’s gonna hit or when will there be an earthquake that’s why i’m searching on what to put in a first-aid kit. I’m so thankful I came across this post. This is so helpful! Thank you so much!

Great piece of advice on how to carry your first aid kit while travelling.

Great tips! I love making sure my first aid box is full of everything we might need. I’d suggest every parent take a first aid course so they are prepared.

Very informative read! I agree one must be equipped with a proper first aid kit before venturing out to a new place for vacation or a visit. I usually keep medicines for allergy, gold cough, stomach ache, muscle ache and most importantly for any injury.

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Appointments at Mayo Clinic

• First-aid kits: Stock supplies that can save lives

A well-stocked first-aid kit can help you respond effectively to common injuries and emergencies. Keep at least one first-aid kit in your home and one in your car. Store your kits someplace easy to get to and out of the reach of young children. Make sure children old enough to understand the purpose of the kits know where they're stored.

You can buy first-aid kits at many drugstores or assemble your own. You may want to tailor your kit based on your activities and needs. A first-aid kit might include:

Basic supplies

• Adhesive tape
• Elastic wrap bandages
• Bandage strips and "butterfly" bandages in assorted sizes
• Rubber tourniquet or 16 French catheter
• Nonstick sterile bandages and roller gauze in assorted sizes
• Eye shield or pad
• Large triangular bandage (may be used as a sling)
• Aluminum finger splint
• Instant cold packs
• Cotton balls and cotton-tipped swabs
• Disposable nonlatex examination gloves, several pairs
• Petroleum jelly or other lubricant
• Plastic bags, assorted sizes
• Safety pins in assorted sizes
• Scissors and tweezers
• Hand sanitizer
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic solution and towelettes
• Eyewash solution
• Thermometer
• Turkey baster or other bulb suction device for flushing wounds
• Sterile saline for irrigation, flushing
• Breathing barrier (surgical mask)
• Syringe, medicine cup or spoon
• First-aid manual
• Hydrogen peroxide to disinfect

Medications

• Aloe vera gel
• Calamine lotion
• Anti-diarrhea medication
• Antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Cough and cold medications
• Personal medications that don't need refrigeration
• Auto-injector of epinephrine, if prescribed by your doctor
• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)

Consider keeping aspirin in your first-aid kit, as well. Aspirin may be life-saving in an adult with chest pain. If you or someone else has new or unexplained chest pain or may be having a heart attack, call for emergency medical help immediately. Then chew a regular-strength aspirin. However, don't take aspirin if you are allergic to aspirin, have bleeding problems or take another blood-thinning medication, or if your doctor previously told you not to do so.

Never give aspirin to children.

Emergency items

• Emergency phone numbers, including contact information for your family health care provider and pediatrician, local emergency services, emergency road service providers, and the poison help line. There are two ways to get help from Poison Control in the U.S: online at www.poison.org or by calling 1-800-222-1222 . Both options are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day.
• Medical consent forms for each family member
• Medical history forms for each family member
• Small, waterproof flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries
• Waterproof matches
• Small notepad and waterproof writing instrument
• Emergency space blanket
• Cell phone with solar charger
• Insect repellant

Give your kit a checkup

Check your first-aid kits regularly to be sure the flashlight batteries work and to replace supplies that have expired or been used up.

Consider taking a first-aid course through the American Red Cross. Contact your local chapter for information on classes.

Prepare children for medical emergencies in age-appropriate ways. The American Red Cross offers a number of helpful resources, including classes designed to help children understand and use first-aid techniques.

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• Stocking a home first aid kit. American College of Emergency Physicians. https://www.emergencyphysicians.org/article/health--safety-tips/home-first-aid-kit. Accessed June 8, 2022.
• Make a first aid kit. American Red Cross. https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/anatomy-of-a-first-aid-kit.html. Accessed June 8, 2022.
• PS, et al., eds. Wilderness preparation, equipment, and medical supplies. In: Auerbach's Wilderness Medicine. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2017. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed June 8, 2022.
• Rohren CH (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 22, 2018.
• Automated external defibrillators: Do you need an AED?
• Emergency essentials: Putting together a survival kit

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Must-Have Items to Pack in Your Carry-On First Aid Kit

This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. For an explanation of our Advertising Disclosure, visit this page .

I recently wrote about my experience getting sick upon returning home from our incredible Caribbean cruise. It's no fun to be sick but it's especially bad when you're on the road. While Covid, flu and RSV cases spike in the winter months, it's smart to be prepared no matter what time of year you're traveling. RELATED: Why You Should Add These 8 Health Items To Your Toiletry Bag When You Travel

I keep mine in my carry-on bag so that when it's time to pack, I don't have to pack everything over and over again, item by item. But, it's smart to check your kit regularly and make sure that you replace anything you may have used up and to make sure that nothing is expired.

I thought you might be interested in what I always have packed in my travel first-aid kit. I've listed everything below but you can also check out a more exhaustive list prepared by the CDC here .

-Tylenol (this is key if you develop a fever)

- A pocket thermometer

-Nasal spray

-Anti-diarrhea pills

-Decongestants

-Antacid tablets

- LiquidIV to fend off dehydration (here's more info)

-Allergy pills

-Antibiotics (ask your doctor for a prescription)

-An inhaler (I used to have asthma)

-These Italian cough drops you can get on Amazon

- Pulse oximeter (I added this to my travel bag at the start of the pandemic and it's great to have and know when your oxygen levels drop. My doctor says it's the new thermometer and I've had to use mine multiple times on my travels.)

- BugBite Thing

-Polysporin or other antibiotic cream

-Sterile gauze pads

-Bandage roll

- Covid antigen test

I carry all of this in a dopp kit like this one from Bagsmart . You can get most of these items on the road, but why wait? And trust me: When you get sick you’re going to wish you had packed all of this stuff before you left home. Here’s a variety of pre-packed first aid kits you can buy on Amazon but they might not have everything you need.

This post was updated on January 25, 2024. It was originally published on June 25, 2022.

KEEP READING:

• Create an Emergency Kit for Your Car
• 11 Tips For Traveling During Cold and Flu Season
• Why You Should Add These 8 Health Items To Your Toiletry Bag When You Travel
• An Easy Way to Get Healthy Right Now
• Warning: These Common Over-the-Counter Drugs Are Illegal in Some Countries

Want more travel news, tips and deals? Sign up to  Johnny Jet’s free newsletter  and check out these popular posts:  The Travel Gadget Flight Attendants Never Leave Home Without and  12 Ways to Save Money on Baggage Fees . Follow Johnny Jet on MSN ,  Facebook, Instagram ,  Pinterest , and  YouTube  for all of my travel posts.

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The Best First-Aid Kits of 2024

First-aid kits are your initial line of defense in the backcountry — or around town. The ability to quickly administer first aid to yourself or someone in need could be the difference between life or death. Read on for the absolute best first-aid kits for different scenarios of 2024.

All forms of outdoor recreation involve certain risks, unknowns, and the potential for injury. If all goes well, you won’t need a first aid kit while pursuing your activity of choice. Ultimately, first aid kits are like fire extinguishers — you don’t want to have to use them, but it’s nice to know they’re there .

Effective careful risk management begins long before you leave the trailhead. As the first line of defense — especially when recreating outdoors — be prepared for anything with a well-stocked first-aid kit.

For decades, the average outdoor first-aid kit consisted of a personally assembled plastic bag filled with odds and ends from the supermarket’s pharmacy aisle. Now, many purpose-built first-aid kits come pre-stocked with a well-considered assortment of essentials. Portable activity-specific medical kits are available for all kinds of outdoor pursuits, from days out at the crag to overnight river trips.

While you can still find a waterproof bag and fill it with supplies to create a custom kit, the time and money required can add up quickly. For those who want to skip this step and invest in a high-end, fully assembled kit, we’ve put together this list of our favorite options on the market.

The GearJunkie team includes rock climbers, mountain bikers, hunters, anglers, and lovers of just about every other outdoor pursuit. Naturally, we’ve had to perform quite a bit of in-the-field first aid over the years. The lead author of this guide is Austin Beck-Doss, a former climbing guide and certified wilderness first responder who regularly hauls a first aid kit to crags all over the country. Austin has carefully combed the market to identify high-quality kits and, in due course, field-test them.

Scroll through our top picks below, and be sure to hop down to our comprehensive buyer’s guide , FAQ , and comparison chart for help in snagging the best first-aid kit for your needs.

Editor’s Note: We refreshed this article on November 16, 2023, expanding our buyer’s guide section with additional information regarding first aid kit contents an d our testing process. We also added two new recommended kits.

• Best Overall First-Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7
• Best Budget First-Aid Kit: HART Outdoor Weekend First-Aid Kit
• Best First-Aid Kit for Hiking: Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit
• Best First-Aid Kit for Dogs: Adventure Medical Trail Dog First-Aid Kit
• Best First-Aid Kit to Keep in Your Car: Homestock+ Professional First-Aid Kit

Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7

• Weight 8 oz.
• Dimensions 8.5 x 6.5 x 2"
• Waterproof Yes
• Contents 3 butterfly-closure strips, 2 triple antibiotic ointments, 3 antiseptic wipes, 1 pair of nitrile gloves, 8 sterile dressings, 2 nonadherent sterile dressings, 2 conforming gauze bandages, 5 adhesive bandages and 3 knuckle bandages, 10 yards adhesive tape, 1 elastic bandage, 11 precut and shaped moleskin pieces, 3 alcohol swabs, 6 ibuprofen, 2 aspirin, 2 antihistamine, 2 After Bite sting-relief wipes, 1 splinter picker forceps, 3 safety pins, 1 26" x 2" roll of duct tape

• Lightweight
• Quality contents
• Sewn-in loops for easy attachment
• Low quantities of certain items
• Not sufficient for large groups

For a kit that’s so lightweight and compact, the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 ($33) is immensely versatile and practical — making it our pick for the best overall first-aid kit. At just 8 ounces, the entire kit is likely to go unnoticed in your pack. But when the time comes to provide medical care, it’s worth its weight in gold.

As the name suggests, this first-aid kit comes in a fully waterproof case-within-a-case. The bright yellow outer material is durable too, meaning it won’t easily rip open inside your pack.

Because this kit is built to be lightweight, it’s stocked with only a simple array of medkit essentials. That said, the kit’s contents are well-considered and include many important items included in larger kits, such as a full sheet of moleskin and common medications like aspirin and Tylenol.

Other items include medical tape, three sizes of Band-Aids, sterile gauze, nitrile gloves, sterilizing wipes, and much more. This kit unfortunately doesn’t come with a CPR face shield, but there’s room to add one if you choose. Ultimately, this kit is adequate for individual use or for small groups of two or three. For larger groups, we recommend a fuller kit.

Sewn-in loops allow you to easily clip this kit to a climbing harness during multi-pitch routes, and it fits easily in a kayak or a canoe. The Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 is smaller than a 1L water bottle, and until you need it, you’ll probably forget it’s there.

HART Outdoor Weekend First-Aid Kit

• Weight 9.5 oz.
• Dimensions 6.5 x 5.5 x 2"
• Waterproof No
• Contents 4 butterfly closures, 3 3" x 3/4" strips, 4 3" x 1" strips, 2 fingertip bandages, 2 knuckle bandages, 1 4" x 3" sheet of moleskin, 1 4.1 yard x 2" gauze roll, 2 2" x 2" gauze pads, 2 3" x 3" gauze pads, 4" x 4" gauze sponge, 4" x 3" nonadherent pad, 9" x 5" ABD Combine pad, 4 antiseptic towelettes, 3 triple antibiotic ointments, 2 sting relief wipes, 1 first-aid/burn cream, 1 hydrocortisone cream, 1 packet aspirin (2/packet), 2 antacids, 2 each of ibuprofen and acetaminophen, 1 allergy relief medication, 2.5 yard x 1" tape, 1 scissors, 1 forceps, 1 5 yard x 2" elastic bandage, 1 Wilderness First-Aid Guide book

• Good packable size
• Fairly lightweight
• Great organization and labeling
• Low contents of certain items
• We wish that more tape was included

Over the years as outdoor recreators and professionals, we’ve really honed in on exactly what needs to be in our packs. But what’s never changed, no matter the trip, is the need for a first-aid kit. For quick overnights (up to 2 days of camping with one or two people), we loved the HART Health Weekend Kit ($27). (It comes in a similar multiday option if you take longer camping trips.)

For less than 30 bucks, you get a super-solid kit that can flex for all-day adventures or for shorter weekend or overnight trips. And, there’s room to add in a few more items (whether that’s extra band-aids, more tape, or personal medications). Here’s what we liked most about the kit: its price, contents, organization, and packability. At 9.5 ounces, it competes with leading ultralight kits too.

HART’s Health Weekend Kit and other kits are all assembled in the USA. (Pro tip: You can order first-aid kit items from HART in bulk too, like when you need to restock things like ibuprofen or antibiotic wipes.)

Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit

• Weight 7.2 oz.
• Dimensions 6.5 x 5.5 x 3"
• Contents 1 splinter picker/tick remover forceps, 5 1" x 3" fabric Easy Access Bandages, 5 knuckle fabric Easy Access Bandages, 3 butterfly closure fabric adhesive bandage, 3 antiseptic wipes, 1 triple antibiotic ointment, 2 alcohol swabs, 1 safety pin, 1 “register your kit” card, 3 After Bite sting and bite relief wipe, 4 aspirin (325 mg), 2 antihistamine (diphenhydramine 25 mg), 4 ibuprofen (200 mg), 4 acetaminophen (500 mg), 1 5" x 9" trauma pad, 2 nitrile glove, 1 wilderness first-aid manual, 1 EMT shears, 4 4" x 4" sterile gauze dressing, 2 2" x 2" sterile gauze dressing, 1 2" x 3" sterile non-adherent dressing, 1 elastic bandage with hook-and-loop closure, 1 conforming gauze bandage, 1 1" x 2.5 yard tape, 14 pre-cut and shaped moleskin pieces

• Good-quality supplies
• Included Wilderness First Aid guidebook
• Well-organized
• Could use more pairs of nitrile gloves
• No included CPR mask

As a longstanding maker of first-aid kits, Adventure Medical Kits dominates our list of recommendations for a reason. The well-regarded brand makes a wide variety of kits for various activities. For hiking, backpacking, or other trail-based activities, the Mountain Series Hiker ($30) is our pick for the best hiking first-aid kit.

From its case to its contents, the quality of this kit is exceptional. The rugged nylon material resists abrasion and is clearly built for outdoor use. On the inside, handy labeled pouches keep the supplies well-organized. Each internal pouch zips shut, which prevents the contents from sliding around and mixing together. Everything is always where you need it when you need it.

Adventure Medical Kits sources the contents of its kits from reputable suppliers. From the medical-grade trauma shears to the thick and supportive medical tape, every item in this kit is effective and high-quality.

At just 10 ounces, the Mountain Series Hiker is a small and lightweight first-aid kit. It’s not sufficient for high-level trauma care and can’t support groups with more than two people. Still, for small-group hiking trips up to a few days in length, this kit offers top-quality supplies and good value.

Adventure Medical Trail Dog First Aid Kit

• Weight 12 oz.
• Contents 2 3" x 3" sterile gauze dressing, 2 2" x 3" sterile non-adherent dressing, 1 2" conforming gauze bandage, 1 irrigation syringe (10 cc with 18-gauge tip), 1 saline wound and eye wash, 1 2" self-adhering elastic bandage, 3 triple antibiotic ointment, 6 antiseptic wipes, 2 alcohol swabs, 1 triangular bandage, 1 pet first-aid manual, 1 splinter picker/tick remover forceps, 1 oz. of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 2 antihistamine (diphenhydramine 25 mg)

• Well-stocked with dog-specific supplies
• Includes waterproof ziplock bag
• Inexpensive

If your pup is going to be joining your outdoor adventures, it’s wise to be prepared with dog-specific medical supplies. Dogs and humans have very different anatomies, and many human first-aid items don’t work well for our four-legged friends. In the Adventure Medical Trail Dog First Aid Kit ($29), all of the contents are specifically designed to treat common injuries and ailments a dog is likely to sustain outdoors.

Other than the numerous helpful medical items that can be used to treat your dog, this first-aid kit includes a well-written and organized handbook. When your dog is in obvious pain or discomfort, the guidebook can be an invaluable resource for figuring out the issue and responding properly.

Inside its fabric outer case, this kit comes with a waterproof ziplock bag that keeps the contents reliably dry. This is especially helpful if your dog carries its own gear — the kit won’t be ruined when it’s time to splash around in the water.

For dog owners who bring their pup along everywhere, this kit provides peace of mind that comes with medical readiness. From paw care items to leg wraps and an effective tick remover, the Adventure Medical Trail Dog First-A i d Kit has you and your best buddy covered. Plus, it’s fairly inexpensive at $29.

Homestock+ Professional First Aid Kit

• Weight 1 lb., 3 oz.
• Dimensions 7.9 x 5.9' x 3.6"
• Contents 70+ adhesive bandages, 8 sterile gauze pads, 4 non-adherent pads, 1 trauma pad, 2 gauze rolls, 1 medical tape roll, 1 elastic bandage roll, 1 triangular bandage, 2 burn care kits, 3 eye pads, 1 ice pack, 1 CPR face shield, 1 pair of gloves, 1 nylon pouch, 6 antiseptic wipes, 10 alcohol prep pads, 1 scissors, 1 tweezers, 50 cotton swabs, 10 safety pins, emergency blanket, 1 whistle, 1 first aid guide

• Well stocked with pads and bandages
• High quality shears
• Face shield included
• Lacks medications

The generously stocked Homestock+ Professional First-Aid Kit ($37) has become our go-to kit for weekend warrior-style car camping. This kit lives in the car at home base and is always ready when called upon. For certain bike rides or climbing days, we’ll even throw it into our pack and haul it — even though it’s more cumbersome than plenty of other kits.

We appreciate that the brand did not cheap out on a flimsy rip-prone outer material. This kit’s case is thick and robust — which adds durability in the plus column and extra weight in the minus. Over a pound all told, this kit never pretends to be ultralight. Instead, it’s a workhorse containing plentiful bandages, gauze, and reliable tools.

With over 70 bandaids and 50 cotton swabs, you’ll rarely have to restock the basics in this kit. Unfortunately, it lacks ointments and medications, so you’ll probably want to make a few key additions yourself. Like most store-bought first aid kits, consider this a platform upon which you can build the ultimate portable boo-boo treatment center.

Other handy items in the Homestock+ Professional First Aid Kit include a CPR face shield, an emergency blanket, and a whistle.

Surviveware Comprehensive Small First Aid Kit

• Weight 1 lb.
• Dimensions 7.5 x 6 x 3.5"
• Contents 1 6” shears, 1 600D polyester bag, adhesive bandages: 5 butterfly closures, 5 butterfly, 5 H-shape, 2 large, 20 standard, 5 mini, 5 square shape, 3 cotton gauze swabs, 10 cotton swabs, 1 crepe bandage, 1 emergency blanket, 2 eye pads, 1 hypoallergenic tape, 1 nitrile gloves, 1 personal medicine laminate bag, 5 personal medicine mini bags, 1 PBT conforming bandage, 4 safety pins, 2 splinter probes, 3 strip wound closures, 1 first aid guide, 1 triangular bandage, 1 tweezer, 1 whistle

• Included removable CPR kit
• Generous quantities
• A little heavy for solo backpacking
• Doesn't include any medications

The well-stocked and impressive Surviveware Comprehensive Small First Aid Kit ($60) offers lots of value and utility. On the outside, a rugged, high-denier nylon opens up with a large, robust zipper. Once opened, this kit is noticeably well-organized and uses pouches and resealable packaging to protect the supplies. Surviveware is known to make quality kits, and this is no exception.

Weighing one pound, this kit is a different beast than ultralight kits like the Adventure Medical Kits .7 . Still, it feels compact and is certainly not too bulky to bring along — especially if you’re car camping.

For solo trips, this kit may be slightly heavier than you want. But the extra weight might be worth it if traveling far away from definitive medical care. For a small group of up to three people on low-mileage overnight trips, this kit is perfectly capable.

The contents of this kit are extremely well-considered. We appreciate the inclusion of a nice pair of trauma shears and a functional tourniquet. A wide elastic pressure bandage also stands out as a valuable addition.

There are so many supplies in this kit it can be difficult to fit everything back inside once it’s been disassembled. The supplies are in generous quantities. For example, there are over 40 wound-closure strips in this kit, and they come in various sizes.

For $35, the Surviveware Comprehensive Small First-Aid Kit is a bit pricier than other kits of similar size. However, its rugged construction and well-stocked interior fully justify the price tag. For rafting or other water-based activities, we recommend placing this kit inside of a dry bag , as it’s not fully waterproof. A much larger version is also available for $130.

Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight Watertight First Aid Kit .9

• Dimensions 10 x 7.5 x 3"
• Contents 8 adhesive bandages, conforming gauze, 10+ sterile gauze, 1 pair gloves, 1 hand wipe, 1 trauma pad, 11 pre-cut Moleskin pieces, 1 duct tape, 1 2" x 50" bandage, 3 safety pins, 1 splinter picker/tick remover forceps, 2 After Bite wipe, 2 antihistamine (Diphenhydramine 25 mg), 2 aspirin (325 mg), Pkg./2, 2 diamode (Loperamide HCI 2 mg), (2) Ibuprofen (200 mg), 2 Acetaminophen (500 mg), 6 antiseptic wipe (Benzalkonium Chloride), 2 alcohol swab, 1 cotton tip applicator, 1 syringe, irrigation, 10 cc, 18 gauge tip, 1 tape, 1" x 10 yards, 1 skin tac topical adhesive wipe (isopropyl alcohol), 3 triple antibiotic ointment, single sse (Bacitracin Zinc, Neomycin Sulfate, Polymyxin B Sulfate), 1 wound closure strips

• High quality medications
• Durable, waterproof casing
• Small quantities of key items

Adventure Medical Kits are the king of the hill when it comes to outdoor first aid kits — and the Ultralight Watertight First-Aid Kit .9 further solidifies the brand’s status. Much like the .7 version, this kit is light, packable, easy to use, and packed in a waterproof bag.

Like most ultralight kits, the .9 has limited quantities of almost every included item. That’s the trade-off with lightweight kits — they require frequent restocking. In our experience though, this kit is extremely well-considered. Depending on your preferences and the outdoor context, you likely won’t need to add much of anything.

While testing this kit, we made use of the precut Moleskin pieces, duct tape, adhesive bandages, splinter remover, antibiotic ointment, antihistamine, and sterile gauze — all in just a few outings. It weighs less than half a pound, so we didn’t mind tossing it into the climbing pack ahead of long arduous approaches. The included medical tape and bandaids came in clutch when we ripped open a flapper climbing sharp limestone.

If you’re seeking a compact kit for backpacking, the .9 is a winner. It may be more than is required for a solo trip, but it’s the perfect candidate for a mid-length trip with a group of four or less people. The included array of medications is particularly impressive. No other similar kit on the market has such a well-curated selection.

The Ultralight Watertight First Aid Kit .9 doesn’t come cheap at $46 — but it’s a worthy investment that should serve you for years to come (with regular restocking).

First-Aid Kits Comparison Chart

How we tested first-aid kits.

The only way to identify the best first-aid kits on the market is to carry them constantly and use them over time. Our staff put months into testing these different kits, carrying them on day hikes, overnight weekend road trips, solo backpacking trips, group camping trips, bikepacking trips, pack-paddleboarding and kayak trips, and more. We also spent time testing different models and variations of kits to see how they vary by brand and where each first-aid kit really excels.

The lead author of this article, Austin Beck-Doss, used to work as an outdoor guide and instructor and always carried — and sometimes had to use — a group first-aid kit in the field. He’s taped dozens of ankles, applied Moleskin on countless hot spots, and bandaged a variety of cuts and scrapes. He continues to carry a first aid kit for personal use, and he’s a sharp critic about what exactly makes an effective first aid kit.

While working on this list of recommendations, Austin considered the most common injuries that outdoor enthusiasts encounter. There are all sorts of medical supplies available, but the kits in this list are stocked with items that you’re actually likely to use.

Our testing process stopped short of intentionally injuring ourselves to truly assess the quality of each kit’s contents. Still, we looked over each kit with care. Not all bandaids and trauma shears are made equal, and poor quality stands out like a sore thumb.

Additionally, we considered size and weight, overall value, and the quality and durability of each kit’s outer case. As new first aid kits hit the market, we’ll be sure to check them out in consideration for this list. At any given time, this article will include the best premade kits that money can buy.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a First-Aid Kit

The first-aid kit you choose should be able to handle the situations or injuries likely to accompany your personal pursuits. If you need a first-aid kit for solo lightweight backpacking, you probably shouldn’t purchase a large, heavy kit that’s better suited to car campers.

Similarly, if primarily bringing your first-aid kit on multipitch climbing routes, you don’t need a kit full of first-aid supplies for dogs. Simply put, there are lots of first-aid kits available, and you’ll need to be discerning to identify the best one for you.

Many current first-aid kits will include the number of days and number of people the contents serve. For example, a kit designed for two people for 4-5 days could work in a variety of scenarios.

Many key factors differentiate one first-aid kit from the next, which we’ll dive into below. Of these, kit size, weight, supplies included, durability, price, group size, and type of activity are the most important.

First-aid kits come in all shapes and sizes. If you want to carry your kit on long trail-based adventures like thru-hiking or trail running, go with something small that will fit easily in a backpack or fanny pack. The Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 weighs less than half a pound and clips easily to the outside of a pack or harness, or it can stash into a hydration vest .

Generally, small and ultralight first-aid kits are good for just a few people over single-day trips or brief overnight outings. But most small or ultralight packs don’t include the ideal supplies for larger groups or for trips that venture way out from the front country. Larger kits, like the Homestock+ Professional First-Aid Kit, are better for supporting a group of more than two people over longer trips. The downside to a larger kit is increased weight and volume.

For car camping, canoeing, or river rafting, weight is probably less of a concern, so a large kit may be the way to go.

The kits on this list range in weight from less than half a pound to almost 2 pounds. If your activity of choice requires you to consider every ounce, go for something small and light like the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 . Remember, less weight usually means fewer supplies and reduced quantities.

You should also consider that every first-aid kit can be customized at home. If certain supplies are deemed unnecessary, you can leave them behind to shave weight or replace them with supplies that better suit your needs.

For activities like car camping and whitewater rafting, weight may be of less concern, and you could get away with bringing a heavier kit along. A heavier kit usually means more supplies, which is a good thing for large groups and long trips.

Supplies Included

Before purchasing a first-aid kit, read through the list of supplies and consider whether or not the kit comes with the kinds of items you’re likely to need.

Almost all kits come standard with a certain quantity of adhesive bandages, various forms of gauze, antibiotic ointment, medical tape, and more. Other items that are less often standard but potentially highly important include trauma shears, basic medications, finger splints, and emergency blankets.

Be sure to check the quantity of each included item. Some kits, like the Surviveware Small First Aid Kit , come with an impressive 100-plus items. However, a closer inspection reveals that many of these are small adhesive bandages.

Another important item to look out for is a first-aid reference. A small reference book is especially important for those without medical training who may not know how to use the items in their kit. If you don’t know how to use your kit and it also doesn’t come with an instructional guide, the kit won’t be very useful to you in the field.

Some kits are small but still include some high-quality, high-value items. The Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit is quite compact but still includes potentially crucial items like a pair of medical-grade trauma shears and a variety of medications.

A durable kit will hold up to the conditions it’s designed to be exposed to. First, a kit should have a durable outer case. We like that the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 comes in a watertight bag.

Other kits on this list like the Surviveware Small Kit have a high-denier nylon carrying case that resists abrasion and holds up in the long term. You don’t want to have to break out your sewing supplies to do surgery on your first-aid kit.

Because many common medical supplies are fragile and vulnerable to water, it’s wise to seek out a waterproof kit. This is especially important for those who plan to bring their kit along on water-based activities like kayaking or rafting. Kits that aren’t already waterproof can be customized with a durable ziplock bag or a dry bag .

If possible, check the expiration dates of supplies inside of a kit before you purchase. Many kits come with medications, which is great unless they’re all due to expire soon. I have gotten into the habit of checking the dates of all my kits’ meds every 2-3 months or so and replace them as needed.

On this list, we included inexpensive kits like the HART Outdoor Weekend First-Aid Kit and pricier kits like the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight Watertight First Aid Kit .9 . Because prices for first-aid kits vary a lot, it should be possible to find something within your budget. That said, remember that cheaper kits often include cheaper supplies that won’t function quite as well when you need them most in the field.

Most first-aid kits are designed to support a certain number of people for a certain number of days. Ultralight kits are usually made to accommodate one or two people on shorter trips of 1-2 days. Larger kits can support larger groups on longer trips.

Often, the difference between a single-day kit and a kit for long trips is supply quantity. For example, a kit with a single triangular gauze would be fine for a single day out when multiple injuries are unlikely. However, on multiday trips, you might need to use certain items multiple times over the course of the trip, so the supply quantity should reflect this.

Type of Activity

Some first-aid kits, like the Adventure Medical Kits Series Hiker , are made for specific activities. These can be super helpful because they’ve been put together with special consideration for the kinds of injuries that are likely to occur during that activity. For example, a good hiking first-aid kit is likely to include plenty of supplies to deal with a sprained ankle or skinned knee.

While activity-specific kits may be slightly less versatile than other options, they are ideal for those who will be sticking to one activity.

While we recommend all of the first-aid kits on this list for various reasons, we have selected the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 as our choice for the best overall first-aid kit — though, we’ve also used the Adventure Medical Kit .9 (that accommodates a slightly bigger group) and the Mountain Series kits as well, and liked those too.

Ultimately, the best first-aid kit to buy is the one that’s most likely to be useful when you need it.

While the supplies in first-aid kits vary depending on the purpose and design of the kit, some key items should be on every first-aid kit checklist. These essential first-aid items include:

• Adhesive bandages of various sizes
• Medical tape
• Sanitary gloves
• Scissors or trauma shears
• Antibiotic ointment
• Compression bandages

Other items that are less universal but still potentially valuable include:

• Irrigation syringes
• OTC medications
• Burn ointment or 2nd Skin burn pads
• Cloth slings or splints
• Tourniquets

Basic first-aid skills include the ability to treat and care for common injuries and ailments. Properly cleaning a small cut and applying an adhesive bandage is considered basic first aid.

Those who administer first aid can continue to work on their skills over time and increase the level of care they can provide. Before going out to recreate with your first-aid kit, it’s helpful to know how to deal with a range of injuries and emergencies that are most likely to occur — from wound care to blister prevention to lifesaving CPR.

First-aid courses are regularly available in most areas and regions. Some common providers of basic first-aid courses include the American Red Cross and the National Safety Council.

For medical training designed specifically for the outdoors, certifications like Wilderness First Aid and Wilderness First Responder are worthwhile pursuits. Common course providers of wilderness medicine include NOLS and Wilderness Medical Associates.

That depends. Usually, medications are the first items in a first-aid kit to expire. However, many other first-aid kit supplies have expiration dates too.

The adhesive on a roll of tape can also expire — if your tape is old and disintegrating, it’s useless! A new first-aid kit should last for a year or more before anything inside expires, but it all depends on the specific contents of the kit.

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Austin Beck-Doss is a Staff Writer at GearJunkie. Austin has been writing about climbing, hiking, and snowsports for 6+ years. Prior to that, Austin worked as a rock climbing and wilderness guide.

Mary Murphy is the Managing Editor of GearJunkie. She has been writing about hiking, running, climbing, camping, skiing, and more for seven years, and has been on staff at GearJunkie since 2019. Prior to that, Mary wrote for 5280 Magazine in Denver while working as an outdoor instructor teaching climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and mountain biking. Based in Denver, Colorado, Murphy is an avid hiker, runner, backpacker, skier, yogi, and pack-paddleboarder. Mary also serves as the leader of AllGear Digital’s DEI Committee.

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