First Aid Kits for Parents: Be Prep ared for What You Havenʼt Thought of Yet

Section 1 Do you have the Rite Stuff?

As a parent, you want to keep your kids safe, healthy, and happy, and that often means being prepared for every little thing that comes your way. From scraped knees to sore throats, you probably have a basic first aid kit on hand. But what if the unexpected happens? What if you’re faced with something much worse than a small cut? What if there’s an accident, or an illness that you weren’t prepared for? What if you could have prevented a bad outcome if you had only had that one "supply" in your kit?

I remember the moment I truly realized how unprepared I was. I was driving on a freeway and came upon a terrible car accident. An infant was trapped in his car seat, upside down, and in between two of the van seats. I desperately needed a pair of scissors and I didn't have any with me. To make matters worse, I was still by myself trying to do CPR on another child. Thankfully, a brave young man offered to help find some scissors. He brought me back a small pair of 'make-up' scissors. It wasn't ideal by any means, but we made it work. I still wonder if I had been better prepared, would this infant have had a better outcome?

Don't live with regret. Do all that you can to be prepared and enjoy the peace of mind that will follow!

There was another incident on a family camping trip when my nephew crashed on his 4-wheeler, badly scraping his entire leg. Of course, we had the usual band-aids and antiseptic cream—but as I dug through the kit, I realized I had no way of dealing with anything more serious. It was a kit I had purchased off of Amazon that claimed to be comprehensive and I had not yet taken the time to become familiar with its contents. We were hours away from any medical facilities. I didn't have any clean water or extra gauze to properly clean the wound (which was filled with all kinds of dirt and rocks). What if it had been a broken bone or worse, what if there was major bleeding? My heart sank. I truly thought my basic kit would be enough, after all it did have 218 pieces, but now I knew better.

These moments made me rethink everything I knew about first aid. I started researching and learning what truly needed to be in a first aid kit—not just for common injuries, but for all the things we rarely think of, and the emergencies that could happen at home or when we’re traveling. I draw experience from my 24 years of nursing, 7 of which were in the ER. I have participated in EMS and Trauma Combat courses to truly become more proficient with major trauma under high stress scenarios. I became a Stop-the-Bleed instructor. I love doing ride-alongs with our local fire departments; they are incredible teachers. I have completed multiple medical missions where basic supplies and even clean water were scarce to say the least. I want to share what I have learned with you, so you can be confident and prepared for whatever comes your way.

In this post, I’m going to walk you through the hidden first aid essentials that most parents don’t even know they need. These are the items and tools that can make all the difference when it matters most. By the end, you’ll have a clear, actionable plan for building a customized first aid kit that goes beyond the basics—one that gives you true peace of mind. Let's first tackle a few myths.

Myth 1

There are a lot of myths when it comes to first aid kits. One of the biggest misconceptions is that having a few band-aids and antiseptic wipes is enough. Society has trained us to think that a basic kit can handle everything—small cuts, blisters, maybe a mild burn. Parents frequently fall for the hook that promotes a certain number of “pieces” in their kits - they are leading you down a scary road of false security. Emergencies rarely come in neat, predictable packages.

For example, most people think that first aid kits are mainly for “minor” injuries. But what happens when you’re facing a more serious emergency? A bad burn, severe bleeding, severe hyper or hypothermia, or an allergic reaction to something you weren’t expecting—these things require more than just basic supplies. Without the right tools, you could be caught in a situation where you don’t know what to do and bad things happen.

Myth 2

Another common myth is the belief that a bigger kit is always better. You might think that just buying a pre-packed, super-sized kit will solve all your problems. But when a crisis strikes, you don’t want to sift through a cluttered, disorganized mess of supplies you have no idea how to use. You need a kit that’s well-stocked with the right tools, but also carefully organized so you can act quickly and confidently in any situation.

In this course, I’m going to show you exactly what needs to be in your kit—and what can stay out. You'll learn how to build a first aid kit that’s comprehensive without being overwhelmed, one that can handle everything from minor scrapes to life-threatening emergencies.

Section 2: Next Steps

Let’s get into the step-by-step process for creating a first aid kit that truly covers all bases. This is about being proactive—preparing for the “what ifs” that we often overlook. The goal is to have a kit that’s organized, well-stocked, and ready for anything, whether you’re at home or out on an adventure with your family.

Step 1: Start with the Basics

Every first aid kit should contain the fundamentals—bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, medical tape, and tweezers. But here is where you need to go beyond just the basics. These might be fine for minor scrapes, but you need to be ready for more serious issues as well. Make sure your kit includes a pressure dressing, scissors—not just little make-up scissors, but actual ones that will cut through clothing or seatbelts—and an emergency blanket. These are critical items that many kits overlook.

A personal example was when my brother went camping with his family. Their little 4-year old at the time came between the two family dogs in which she was severely bitten in the neck. They were miles and miles away from help. Not only did they need supplies to stop heavy bleeding, like a sterile pressure dressing or hemostatic gauze, they needed a calm and collected mind that could focus on the immediate task at hand and not allow panic to set in.

Step 2: Be Prepared for Major Injuries

What if there’s massive bleeding or a serious injury? Do you have the right tools to stop a severe wound from bleeding out? This can happen in an adult in as little as 2-5 minutes. You need a pressure dressing and/or hemostatic packing gauze to control massive bleeding, and you should also include a tourniquet (I will show you what type and how to use for these for adults and discuss options for kids in another post). These are essential for stopping bleeding until you can get medical help. I would go as far as to say, if you don't buy anything else right now, at least invest in a tourniquet (made in the USA), learn how to use it, and practice on a regular basis. Don't zip this up in your kit in its wrapper. It needs to be readily accessible at all times. Elastic wraps, splints, and ice packs are also key in case of a broken bone or injury that requires stabilization. If you have ever broken an ankle while hiking, you'll know what I am talking about!

Step 3: Consider Travel-Specific Risks

When you’re traveling, your first aid kit needs to go above and beyond. Whether you’re camping in the woods, visiting a tropical destination, or simply driving across state lines, you may be exposed to risks that don’t exist in your everyday life. A remote location can make basic injuries more dangerous, and you’ll want to have tools to deal with tick bites, snake bites, allergic reactions, and other travel-specific risks. How you handle a snake bite in the US is much different than in Australia. You'll also need to consider items to purify water in case you’re in a place with questionable drinking water.

Not only consider where you are going and the activities you will be doing, but the weather you'll be exposed to. Always be prepared to treat cold and heat emergencies. Have an emergency blanket to help prevent shock. These help to retain body temperature and prevent heat from radiating down into the cold ground beneath them, which could contribute to shock.

In addition to these emergencies, be prepared for dehydration. It may not come in the way you think. People can get severely dehydrated from illnesses such as diarrhea and vomiting, water-borne illnesses, high fevers—you name it. Be prepared with electrolytes. They come in a powder form that you'll mix with clean water. Small frequent sips.

Step 4: Think About Special Needs

Every family is unique, and your first aid kit should reflect that. Do you have a child with asthma, severe allergies, or any chronic health conditions? Make sure your kit includes an extra inhaler, allergy medications, or a spare EpiPen (that's not expired). Similarly, if you’re traveling with young children, you may need to pack baby-friendly items like infant pain relievers, suction supplies, rash ointment, etc. If you are pregnant and over 26 weeks, then an OB delivery kit wouldn't be a bad idea. People have babies every day without them, but if you want to be ready for anything, this is something to consider.

Have you thought about having a variety of emergency antibiotics on hand in addition to the usual over-the-counter medications and topicals? You can see if your personal physician will write prescriptions for you. Check to make sure your insurance will cover them. If not, I have personally used my FSA to obtain antibiotics through a company called JACE (I am in no way affiliated with them), but they are easy to work with and efficient! They will also provide you with a guidebook to walk you through the best antibiotic choice for your situation.

I have researched alternative or homeopathic remedies related to first aid. I do believe they have their place, it's just a matter of having a lot of know-how, resources, and experience. It is fascinating to learn and may come in handy one day! See what you think.

This may sound like overkill, but let's say you're out elk hunting in a valley miles away and you lose a filling and now you have an exposed tooth. You just paid $10,000 for a once-in-a-lifetime tag. Pack up and come home? No! What do you have to temporarily pack your tooth with until you can get to a dentist? This product is cheap, small, and lightweight. Your kit should address any unique health concerns your family may have.

Ladies, this may not seem like an emergency first aid supply, but I would personally adamantly disagree. Keeping things like tests for a UTI, antibiotics, Pyridium, Monistat, and Fluconazole are a must-have for urinary tract and yeast infections. If these are conditions that come up, I have horror stories from traveling to other countries where they do not have access to the same medications we are used to... just something to think about.

Step 5: Keep Your Kit Organized and Accessible

Having all the right supplies means nothing if you can’t find them when you need them. A first aid kit that’s poorly organized will slow you down in an emergency, so take the time to pack it properly. Use small containers or pouches to keep items separated, and label each section clearly. If your family goes on frequent trips, consider getting a portable version that’s lightweight and easy to carry, so you’re never left without a kit.

When you follow these steps, you’ll end up with a first aid kit that’s well-suited for any emergency, no matter how big or small. You’ll have everything you need to respond confidently in a crisis—and you’ll feel empowered knowing that you’re prepared for situations you never even considered before.

I have interviewed many individuals who have been involved in natural disasters. From earthquakes to unexpected flooding and everything in between. Some of these individuals recommended serious waterproof containers to keep your supplies in—and make sure it floats! Sunblock and lip balm were also mentioned due to sun overexposure without any shade for long periods of time.

I have even experienced firsthand the unfortunate outcomes of the lack of first aid when I went on a medical mission to Haiti after their major earthquake in 2010. Heartbreaking to say the least. These are situations when even the basic would have helped to prevent serious infections. You shouldn't have to learn the hard way, let's learn from each other and be proactive, not reactive!

Section 3: First-Aid Kit Maintenance

Your first aid kit doesn’t end once you’ve packed it. To keep it effective, it requires regular maintenance. Many parents think that once their kit is packed, it’s good to go for years. But the truth is, a first aid kit is a living tool—it needs to be checked, updated, and refreshed on a regular basis.

Start by checking the expiration dates of any medications or medical supplies in your kit. Things like antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and saline have shelf lives. As a parent, you’ll know that kids grow and develop quickly—what worked for them last year might not be appropriate this year. And don’t forget to inspect any gear, such as scissors, thermometers, and flashlights to make sure everything is still functional.

Have a system to track what you have used in order to get refills in a timely manner. Most kits only have room to handle 1-2 of the same type of injuries. One laceration can deplete your kits pretty quick.

If you’re traveling often, it’s also important to reassess the risks you might be exposed to. Are you heading to an area where you might need a different type of medication or more specific supplies? Your first aid kit should evolve with you and your family’s needs.

Finally, don’t let your kit sit on a shelf and collect dust. Make it a point to practice using the items in your kit on a regular basis. Learn how to properly apply a bandage, how to stop bleeding with a tourniquet, or how to give CPR. The more familiar you are with your kit, the better you’ll be able to respond in an emergency.

Finally, one of the most important things you can do is teach your children how to recognize emergencies and know how to call for help. Have them actually practice calling 911 (not for real) and help them to memorize your address, or at least have it written in an area they will know to look to. We have all heard those emergency 911 calls when a parent is injured or unconscious and it's a 3-year-old that calls emergency dispatch. They are smarter than what we give them credit for!

Section 4: Troubleshooting

What if I forget to pack something important? If you realize you're missing something, don’t panic. Keep a list of everything in your kit so you can quickly spot any gaps. Once you get home or when you’re back from your trip, replace any missing items. There is usually a workaround in the meantime. While it's not ideal, you can make do with what you have and get creative! Also, always be proactive by keeping a backup first aid kit in your car, just in case.

How do I know if I’m choosing the right items? The best way to ensure you’re on track is to ask a healthcare professional or first aid expert for recommendations. They can guide you in selecting items that suit your family’s needs and the environments you frequent. Scissors are a good example. You certainly don't want a pair of “make-up” scissors, but something that is robust enough to cut off heavy clothing/coats. Some scissors are not meant to be used over and over. So, if you know you'll be using it more frequently, then invest in a nice pair of trauma shears.

What should I do if there’s an emergency, but I’m too overwhelmed to think clearly? It’s completely natural to feel panicked during an emergency. That’s why it’s essential to prepare yourself mentally as well as physically. Review your kit regularly and practice first aid techniques. If you’re not sure what to do in a serious situation, don’t hesitate to call for professional help. Take a class together as a family and learn these things together.

Be aware that when something serious happens, you might think you’ll rush right in calm and collected. Some of the best healthcare workers I know struggled with tunnel-vision at some point. Some people freeze and/or retreat. It's difficult to wrap your mind around things when you come upon an accident, and it slows you down. This is not the time to hesitate. That's why practice and role-playing are essential to keep you sharp and focused.

As you build your first aid kit and begin implementing what you’ve learned, you might run into a few challenges. Here are some common questions that many parents have:

Section 5: To “Wrap Up”

Being a parent is full of surprises, and while you can’t predict when an emergency might happen, you can control how prepared you are. With the right first aid kit, you can feel confident knowing that you have the tools and knowledge to handle whatever comes your way. By taking the time to build a well-rounded kit, you’ll be ready to face injuries, illnesses, and emergencies with calmness and clarity.

The peace of mind that comes from knowing you're truly prepared is priceless. So don’t wait—take action today and make sure your family is ready for the unexpected.

I try to never use scare tactics, but having been in multiple hospital and state emergency drills, I have a lot of insight. If there was a major disaster such as an earthquake, it could literally be up to several days before a hospital could treat you (depending on how critical the injury was). Supply chain, infrastructure, staffing, volume of critical patients, overwhelming demands on emergency personnel, and so on all play a role in whether or not you'll be treated in a timely manner. Without going into much detail, this is a scenario where I highly advise you plan for the worst-case scenario and have enough supplies to care for multiple injuries for multiple family members.

A friend was in an earthquake in California in the middle of the night. All of her dishes fell and broke on the floor. She didn't have any shoes near her bed, so both feet ended up severely lacerated. Now, she always has a pair of shoes under her bed.

You've now learned the importance of thinking beyond the basics. Now it’s time to build your ultimate first aid kit. What you do or don't do next is up to you. The resources and people are readily available to help you. Take advantage of their knowledge and expertise! You have got this!