What You Will Need for Your Car's First Aid Kit

It is a good idea to have a car warranty that covers unexpected damage to your vehicle. But what about basic protection for your health in case of an accident?

Even in the event of a not-so-serious injury on the road, like a bruise or cut, what do you do if the nearest hospital is 100 miles away? At home, you would just walk to the medicine cabinet or first aid shelf and take care of business. In the car, we need medical protection as well. That is why every traveler should have a well-stocked first aid kit somewhere in the vehicle.


 At the top of everyone's list is a large box containing:

• Various sizes of bandages

• Antiseptic wipes

• Antibiotic ointment

• Insect ointment

• Tweezers

• Gauze pads

• Scissors

• Burn relief packs

• Eye wash

• First aid tape

• Ibuprofen tablets

• Cold compresses

• Flashlights

• Water

• $20 in cash

There are some car specific items you'll also want to be sure to include:

• Pencil and notepad

• Backup cell phone

• Camera

• Blankets

• Flares

• Waterproof carry bag

• Small tool kit

• Baby supplies, if necessary

• One-day supply of any prescription medicines needed

• Food for emergencies

• Pocket knife

• Hand crank radio

There are a couple of ways to address the challenge. You could buy one of the hundreds of automobile emergency kits, or you might want to save a few dollars and assemble one yourself piece by piece. Either way, it is wise to carry the basic equipment for minor medical emergencies.

Whether you assemble your own kit or buy one at the store, think of medical first-aid supplies as another type of car warranty. You'll want it when you need it!