Imagine a situation like this:

You've just selected your tent campsite and have started to set-up your tent, when one of your kids comes running to you with a cut finger. I’m sure you can think of other scenarios when you might need to administer first aid. If you didn’t remember to pack a first aid kit you’ll need to improvise with what you have with you and if it’s something more serious, you may need to curtail your camping experience. Many campers and hikers often set-out without any sort of first aid equipment and don’t give it a second thought until it’s too late. Accidents, as you can see, can and do happen from time to time. However, with a little time and money you can be prepared for most emergencies.

First, you should make sure each vehicle you have has a first aid kit. You can always use these when you’re camping. These types of first aid kits may not have everything you’ll need, but it’s better than nothing.

You have a couple of options when it comes to putting together a camping first aid kit - buy a pre-made one or build your own. When you decide to design your own first aid kit, think of the probable injuries you may encounter: cuts, scrapes, sprains, strains, dislocations and breaks, burns, bites and stings, headaches and minor aches, nausea and diarrhea.

Here's a basic list of items for your camping first aid kit:

• Brightly colored fanny pack - to hold your first aid kit ingredients

• Flashlight w/batteries - a small one that fits in a pocket of your fanny pack

• Whistle and mirror - for signaling for help

• Tweezers and a magnifying glass - for removing slivers or ticks

• Scissors - to cut gauze and bandage tape

• Alcohol wipes - for cleaning needles, clippers, tweezers, and to clean off the affected area you're treating

• Aloe Vera Gel - for minor burns - including sunburn, and skin rashes

• Neosporin - for minor cuts

• Bandages - various sizes, 4x4 gauze, roll gauze, and adhesive tape

• Splint material - bandana and large safety pins

• Antiseptic - to wash out cuts and scrapes

• Handbook for first aid - provides instructions for most emergencies

• Tylenol or Motrin for adults and children

• Benadryl - for allergic reactions

• Pepto-Bismol (chewable tablets) - for anti-nausea, anti-diarrhea, and antacid

• Saline solution - eye wash and to irrigate other wounds

• Bug spray

• Non-latex medical gloves - for those performing first aid

• Bee sting and snake bite kit as appropriate

Also it’s a good idea to bring any medications specific to those at your campsite (prescriptions, inhalers, diabetic supplies, etc).

I’m sure you can think of other items or think some of these suggestions are not necessary. The most cost effective way to get what you’ll need is to buy a basic kit and add camping specific items to it.

As you can see, you don't want to leave home without a Camping First Aid Kit. You never know when you might need one. Be prepared.