A family camping trip can be a much safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone if the right precautions are taken to avoid hazards. One of the best precautions that you can take is to bring along a first-aid kit that contains all the right supplies. Here are a few items that your family first-aid kit should include for camping.
Gauze and Bandages
Gauze and bandages can be used to dress skin wounds that members of your family sustain from hiking or biking accidents or other mishaps during your camping trip. Adhesive bandages will be especially good to have for covering minor cuts, scraps and skin punctures that could become infected from dirt getting into them. Most types of gauze that are unwoven and made of rayon or polyester are stronger and softer than woven pads.
Cold Compress
A cold compress is used to control swelling and pain around injured body parts. You can include a store-bought compress in your first-aid kit or try making your own using a wet towel and plastic bag of ice. Cold packs that provide instant cooling when squeezed can also work well. After keeping the cold compress on the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes, it should be removed to avoid frostbite or other skin damage.
Pain Spray
Pain from injuries can also be controlled better with pain spray. This type of spray can relieve pain from pulled muscles, tired feet and even sunburns. The best sprays on the market are made from natural herbal blends that emit a pleasant smell of mint or another appealing aroma. These pain sprays are also formulated to not cause side effects and won’t cause greasy skin or clothes stains.
Skin Ointments
Different types of skin ointment that can treat a variety of skin reactions will be good to have in your kit. Burn ointment can quickly ease the pain of burns that family members might sustain from getting too close to the campfire. Ointment can also be found to treat allergic reactions caused by poison ivy and poison oak exposure. You can even bring along some ointment to help prevent skin chafing that’s known to occur during long hikes.
Having a first-aid kit that’s stocked with the right supplies can keep your family healthier throughout your time in the wilderness. Taking a first-aid kit with you should be one of your top priorities when getting ready to embark on a family camping adventure.
