How to choose a first aid kit

We all hope we won’t have to face an emergency situation but having a well-stocked first aid kit on hand at home, in your car and at work gives you peace of mind in case you do. So how do you choose which first aid kit you need, and what you need to have in it? Here’s what you need to consider.

Different types of first aid kits

There are first aid kits of all kinds available – from general workplace kits, to those you might find in a tradie’s ute! Common types include:

Home first-aid kit

Family life can be unpredictable, especially if you’ve got little kids running around, and that’s where a good first aid kit comes in. Its contents should enable you to deal with minor medical issues such as burns, sprains, cuts or fevers. Also consider the case the kit comes in – a zippered soft pack case might be fine and easy to store but do you need a lockable metal first aid kit box to keep medicine safe from young children?

Car first aid kit

Whether you pop it into the glove compartment or stash it under a seat, every vehicle should have a first aid kit for emergency roadside situations. Look for one that has hospital-grade supplies, fold out compartments and colour-coded contents, making it easy to find exactly what you need, fast.

Workplace first aid kit

By law, every workplace needs a first aid kit. Choose a kit that is wall-mountable (this will make it easy to find and there’s less chance that it will be moved), complies with WHS regulations and is stocked with hospital-grade contents including band aids, gauze dressings, ice packs and more.

Outdoor sports first aid kit

If you’re taking the kids to weekend sports and anticipate treating sprains or minor scuffs, consider a kit that is easy to carry or light to pack. A lightweight kit may also serve you well if you’re hiking into the wilderness, but we’d recommend also packing a snake and spider first aid kit, that includes identification sheet, crepe bandages and triangular bandages for treating these specific kinds of bites.

What supplies does your first aid kit need?

This list will ensure you’re covered in various emergency situations:

• Wound care: Sticky plasters and bandages (various sizes), sterile gauze, antiseptic wipes, medical tape
• Pain relief: Paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin
• Burn and skin care: Burn gel, aloe vera, antihistamines for allergies
• Tools: Scissors, tweezers, thermometer, gloves, CPR face shield
• Emergency items: Instant cold pack, thermal blanket, whistle, flashlight
• Medications: If needed, include personal prescription meds or EpiPens (if you or family members have allergies).

First aid kit FAQ

Three key questions to ask yourself when investing in a first aid kit.

What size first aid kit do you need?

Comparing different types of kits can help you figure out what’s right for your circumstances but as a rule of thumb, a large well-stocked kit is ideal for home; small, compact kits are great for the car or handbag, and a waterproof, durable soft pack kit is best for outdoor pursuits.

Where should you store your kit?

For home, the kitchen or laundry makes sense but make sure it’s away from moisture or direct sunlight, which can reduce the effectiveness of medicines. In the car, the glove box or centre console makes for easy access, and at work, a clearly labelled, wall-mounted first aid box in a central location can make it easy for staff to quickly grab a band aid or aspirin.

How can I maintain an updated first aid kit?

It’s important to go through your first aid kit regularly and replace any supplies that may have degraded or have open or torn packages (meaning they’ll no longer be sterile). And don’t forget to check expiration dates on medications in your kit and replace any that are out of date.

Find the right first aid kit for you

Now you know about the different types of first aid kits that are available, it’s time to shop our wide range and find the right first aid kit for you.