Here we share with you the essential items that should be included in every caravan or camping First Aid Kit for travelling around Australia, plus lots of additional items, which could potentially come in handy.
Australia can be one vast and dangerous land to road trip if you don’t have a comprehensive First Aid Kit for your caravan and camping adventures. In fact, we travel with multiple Caravan First Aid Kits – spread out across the caravan, car and hiking pack.
A well-stocked First Aid Kit will be your first port of call for any personal injuries during a camping trip or road trip, whether it be minor or major. If medical help is not just around the corner, then having the right tools on hand may just save someone’s life or prevent a bad situation.
The good thing is that you don’t need to make your own kit, there are plenty of ready-made ones available these days.
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I am not a medical professional by any means. This list has been built as a guide only, drawing on my experience as a long-term traveller. Please seek professional advice for up-to-date guidelines.
This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see our disclosures here.
Caravan First Aid Kit ESSENTIALS
The First Aid Kit items that we’ve listed here are basic essentials for your caravan road trip around Australia. It’s important to keep these items all together in an ‘easy to access’ bag that you can quickly grab in an emergency.
Antiseptic Wipes
The easiest way to clean any wound straight up is with Antiseptic Wipes. You don’t want those cuts or wounds to get infected, so a good wipe will keep the area clean. Antiseptic Wipes are also handy for cleaning medical instruments for next time. Needless to say, these guys are definite essentials for your caravan First Aid Kit checklist.
Bandages
A variety of bandages are essential items to add to your caravan First Aid Kit checklist. Each injury and medical situation is different, so you really don’t know which bandages will work best for the situation until you’re in the thick of it.
Bandages can be used for many situations:
- Stabilising breaks & sprains
- Immobilising snake & spider bites
- Wrapping wounds
- Holding dressings in place
You should have at least two of a few different types of bandages – 5cm, 7.5cm, 10cm, 15cm. Plus, you’ll also need about three triangular bandages on your caravan First Aid Kit checklist.
Disposable Gloves
Wearing gloves are essential to help keep open wounds clean, as well as protecting yourself from potential infections and diseases. They are a ‘must have’ for your caravan First Aid Kit checklist.
Gauze
Gauze is one of the most versatile First Aid Kit items because it can be used in a number of different ways:
- Applying pressure to wounds
- Cleaning cuts, scrapes and wounds
- Soaking up blood & clotting bleeds
- Use as a wound cover (secure with tape)
- Keeps dirt out of a clean wound until you can get medical attention
Saline Solution
You will definitely need Saline Solution (sterile water) in your caravan First Aid Kit. It has many uses, including cleaning and flushing out wounds and flushing out eyes.
Saline Solution 20mL Pods (eBay) →
Scissors/ Trauma Shears
A little pair of sharp, stainless steel scissors are an essential item for your caravan First Aid Kit checklist. Stainless steel won’t harbour germs and can be easily sterilised after use, ready to go back in your kit for next time.
Ideally though, Trauma Shears are better to have than general scissors. With Trauma Shears, you can easily and quickly cut through clothing, tape and bandages etc. Because they’ve got a blunt end, there is no risk of accidentally cutting the patient.
Snake Bite Bandages
It’s pretty common knowledge that Australia has a pretty solid reputation for being ‘land of the snakes.’ In fact, out of our 170 snake species, 100 of them are venomous!
So, if you find yourself in a situation where you’re dealing with a snake bite, you will need to apply a Pressure Immobilisation Bandage (a.k.a ‘Snake Bite Bandage’) quick smart.
If you only have normal bandages on hand, they will do the job as well, you’ve just got to remember to pull the bandage firm as you apply it (but not too tight that you cut off the patient’s circulation).
As you’re applying the bandage, make sure the little rectangles on the bandage stretch out to be squares – that way you now you’ve applied the right amount of pressure.
One (SMART) Snake Bite Bandage bandage should be enough for an adult limb, but you can stock two if you like.
▶️ VIDEO: Applying a Pressure Immobilisation Bandage
Here’s a great little video showing you how to use the SMART Pressure Immobilisation Bandage on a snake bite.
It doesn’t hurt to remind yourself occasionally on how to use it, you never know when you might need to pull out this tidbit of knowledge.
Note: Pressure Immobilisation Bandages can also be used for:
- Funnel Web Spider bites
- Blue-Ringed Octopus stings
- Cone Shell stings
*DO NOT use for any other bites or stings.
Surgical Tape
Adhesive Surgical Tape is another essential First Aid item for obvious reasons. You can use it to close up wounds in a pinch, secure dressings and so on.
Tweezers
The Tweezers that come standard in First Aid Kits are ideal as they will be stainless steel that can easily be sterilised. Along with that, they will be the perfect shape for getting out splinters and debris easily, resulting in less pain for the patient.
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Caravan First Aid Kit EXTRAS
Now that you’ve got your absolute essentials for your caravan First Aid Kit checklist, it’s time to add in some additional extras.
Remember, there’s no point having your kit stocked to the hills if you don’t know how to use the stuff. You’ll just end up feeling overwhelmed in an emergency situation, which is less than ideal. Keep it fairly simple and don’t forget to restock your supplies after you’ve used them.
The items that we’ve listed here are more ‘every day’ items, so you can keep them in a box/ bag under the bed or in a handy cabinet in the caravan.
TIP: Remember to regularly check the expiry dates on medications and first aid items.
Aloe Vera
Gel or spray to apply to sunburnt skin.
Antihistamines
To treat insect bites and mild allergic reactions (cream + tablets).
Anti-inflammatories
To ease muscle pain, strains and sprains.
Antiseptic
Cream or ointment for preventing wound infection (like Bepanthen or Betadine). Good for minor skin irritations.
Aspirin
For reducing pain, fever or inflammation, you can use Aspirin. It’s a good remedy for toothaches, muscle aches, headaches and a cold.
Band-Aids
Variety of sizes for small cuts, scratches and wounds.
Burn Cream
For minor and first degree burns. Provides pain relief and helps the healing process.
Calamine Lotion
It’s always handy to have some Calamine Lotion on hand to treat itches and dry out oozy wounds.
Cling Wrap
Can be used as a make-shift bandage to cover wounds or use to splint limbs.
Cold & Flu Tablets
Good for when you’re seriously under the weather and good old rest just isn’t cutting it (especially if it’s a travel day and you’re feeling really crappy).
Cold Packs
Instant cold packs reduce swelling and pain.
Duct Tape
Multiple uses in an emergency situation.
Eye Wash
For dry eyes or if you’ve got something that needs to be flushed out of the eye.
Gastro-Stop
Gastro generally needs to run its course to heal your body. But sometimes you just need to stop or lessen the symptoms.
Hand Sanitiser
Good for quickly sanitising your hands before treating a wound.
Heat Packs
Instant heat packs are good when you need quick heat for pain relief. Wheat Bags and Hot Water Bottles are a better long-term solution.
Hydralyte
Rapid rehydration following excessive sun/ heat exposure, fever or illness. Comes in a powder form (mix with water), as a pre-made drink or in ice-blocks.
Insect Repellent
A spray or cream to prevent midge and mozzie bites.
Notebook & Pen
To write down notes in case of emergency so that you can pass on vital information to medical staff and emergency workers.
Pain Relief Medication
Paracetamol, Ibuprofen & Aspirin (for kids and adults).
Paracetamol & Ibuprofen (eBay) →
Prescription Medication
Any regular prescriptions (including Epipen, Asthma Puffers etc.) that you and your family need.
Resuscitation Mask
Provides a safe barrier between first aider and the patient (with mouth piece).
Safety Pins
For securing bandages and slings.
SAM Splint
Flexible, mouldable split boasting versatility.
Sterile Adhesive Dressings
Variety of sizes to dress different sized wounds (adhesive gauze pads).
Stingose
Minimise pain, itch and irritation.
Sunscreen
An Australian caravan First Aid Kit essential! The higher the SPF the better.
Super Glue
Use it to close wounds. Pinch wound edges together and dab some on the cut.
Thermal Blanket
To hold in body heat and reduce shock.
Thermometer
Under arm or ear thermometer for when fevers arise (especially in children).
Throat Lozenges
Soothers or Butter Menthols for a dry, sore throat.
Ready-Made First Aid Kits
The best way to make sure you’ve got a good, comprehensive camping First Aid Kit for your travels around Australia is to buy a ready-made one. It will seriously take the stress out of wondering if you’ve got the right stuff by simply letting the professionals do the work.
There are plenty of options on the market, but you can’t go wrong if you stick to well-known companies, such as St John and Survival.
We’ve included a good range of ready-made First Aid Kits here that will suit a range of different scenarios during your caravan or camping road trip.
Snake Bite Kit
A complete First Aid Kit to respond to Australian snake bites, funnel web spider bites and cone shell stings.
| CONTAINS: | |
|---|---|
| 1 x Cotton Gauze Swabs – 3 pack (7.5 cm x 7.5 cm) | Permanent Marker |
| 1 x Emergency Blanket (2.1 m x 1.6 m) | 1 x Pressure Bandage (10 cm x 1.8 m) |
| 2 x Gloves | 2 x SMART Bandages (10 cm x 1.8 m) |
| Instruction Cards + Bite Record Register | 1 x Splint (11 cm x 61 cm) |
- Weight: 555 grams
- Dimensions: 18 cm x 12 cm x 8 cm
Handy First Aid Kit (small)
The smaller Handy First Aid Kit is a good one to have in your vehicle or hiking pack.
| CONTAINS: | |
|---|---|
| 20 x Adhesive Dressings | Note Pad & Pencil |
| Adhesive Tape | 2 x Safety Pins |
| Bandage Sheers | 1 x Saline Solution (30 ml) |
| 3 x Cotton Gauze Swabs (7.5 cm 7.5 cm) | 1 x Skin Cleaning Wipes |
| CPR Card | 1 x SMART Bandage (10 cm x 2 m) |
| CPR Kit (Resuscitation Mask, Gloves, Skin Cleaning Wipes) | 5 x Splinter Probes |
| 1 x Emergency Blanket | 1 x Triangular Bandage (96 cm x 96 cm x 136 cm) |
| First Aid Booklet | Tweezers |
| 1 x Gloves | 3 x Wound Closures |
- Weight: Just under 500 grams
- Dimensions: 14.5 cm x 18 cm
Travel First Aid Kit (medium)
The Travel First Aid Kit has been specifically designed with outdoor enthusiasts and campers in mind. Included in this kit is a dedicated Bites & Stings kit, which is definitely a ‘must have’ for a caravan road trip in Australia.
| BITES & STINGS MODULE: | |
|---|---|
| 1 x Instant Ice Pack | 2 x SMART Snake Bite Bandages |
| 2 x Saline Solution (30 ml) | 1 x Tick Removal Spoon |
| 1 x Sewing Kit |
| TRAVEL KIT MODULE: | |
|---|---|
| 50 x Adhesive Dressings | 3 x Non-adherent Wound Dressing (5 cm x 5 cm) |
| Adhesive Tape | 1 x Non-adherent Wound Dressing (7.5 cm x 10 cm) |
| Bandage Sheers | Note Pad & Pencil |
| 2 x Cotton Gauze Swabs (3-packs – 7.5 cm x 7.5 cm) | 3 x Plastic Bags |
| CPR Card | 6 x Saftey Pins |
| CPR Kit (Resuscitation Mask, Gloves, Skin Cleaning Wipes) | 2 x Saline Solution (30 ml) |
| Emergency Blanket | 3 x Skin Cleaning Wipes |
| 2 x Eye Pads | 1 x SMART Pressure Bandage (10 cm x 2 m) |
| Fever Scan Strip | 1 x Splinter Probes (5-pack) |
| First Aid Booklet | 1 x Triangular Bandage (96 cm x 96 cm x 136 cm) |
| 1 x Gloves | 1 x Tweezers |
| 1 x Heavy Duty Bandage (10 cm x 1.8 m) | 1 x Wound Closures (3-pack) |
| 5 x Hydro Gel (3.5 ml sachets ) | 1 x Wound Dressings (No 14 medium) |
- Weight: 1.25 kg
- Dimensions: 21 cm x 19 cm x 11 cm
Home First Aid Kit (large)
The large Home First Aid Kit is one of the most comprehensive kits, which will set you up really well. Although it’s great for the home or workplace, it also serves really well as a fully-stocked caravan and camping First Aid Kit.
| CONTAINS: | |
|---|---|
| 50 x Adhesive Dressings | 6 x Non-adherent Wound Dressing (5 cm x 5 cm) |
| Adhesive Tape | 3 x Non-adherent Wound Dressing (7.5 cm x 10 cm) |
| 2 x Antiseptic Wound Care (30 ml) | 1 x Non-adherent Wound Dressing (10 cm x 10 cm) |
| Bandage Sheers | Note Pad & Pencil |
| 1 x Combine Dressing (10 cm x 20 cm) | 3 x Plastic Bags |
| 3 x Conforming Bandage (5 cm x 1.8 m) | 1 x Pressure Bandage (10 cm x 1.8 m) |
| 3 x Conforming Bandage (7.5 cm x 1.8 m) | 6 x Safety Pins |
| 5 x Cotton Gauze Swabs (3-pack, 7.5 cm x 7.5 cm) | 4 x Saline Solution (30 ml) |
| CPR Card | 10 x Skin Cleaning Wipes |
| CPR Kit (Resuscitation Mask, Gloves, Skin Cleaning Wipes) | 1 x SMART Bandage (10 cm x 2 m) |
| Emergency Blanket | 10 Splinter Probes (5-pack) |
| 4 x Eye Pads | 2 x Triangular Bandage (96 cm x 96 cm x 136 cm) |
| 3 x Fever Scan Strip | 1 x Tweezers |
| First Aid Booklet | 3 x Wound Closures (3-pack) |
| 4 x Gloves | 1 x Wound Dressing (No 14 medium) |
| 5 x Hydro Gel (3.5 ml sachets) | 1 x Wound Dressing (No 15 large) |
| Instant Ice Pack |
- Weight: 1.6 kg
- Dimensions: 27 cm x 21 cm x 12 cm
Where to Store Your First Aid Kit/s
It’s pretty much a given that a single First Aid Kit just isn’t going to cut it for your caravan or camping road trips. Most people stock multiple First Aid Kits to serve a variety of purposes.
TIP: All First Aid Kits should be stored in clear and easy-to-grab locations.
EMERGENCY First Aid Kits
As a rule of thumb, you should have at least two ‘Emergency’ First Aid Kits:
- One for your caravan
- One for your car
Additional First Aid Kits to also consider:
- Snake Bite Kit (alternatively, you can add 1 – 2 SMART Bandages to your existing kits)
- Compact First Aid Kit (for your hiking pack)
EVERYDAY First Aid Supplies
Since you shouldn’t need to access your Emergency First Aid Kits very often, it’s much more convenient to keep your everyday medical items in a cupboard or separate bag/ box in the caravan.
Extra Caravan & Camping Safety Items
While we’re on the topic of caravanning and safety, it’s not just medical supplies that are necessary when you head off the beaten track. Here are a few other items that you may need to add to your caravan First Aid Kit checklist.
Fire Extinguisher & Blanket
All new caravans come with Fire Extinguishers these days, but it pays to make sure you’ve got one. We even have one in the car as well (beside the passenger seat), just in case.
Hydration Packs
If you’re likely to be doing lots of bush walks and hikes, Hydration Packs are the best way to make sure each family member has their own water supply. You can even slip some food and other small supplies into the backpack as well.
Matches (or lighter)
Matches are always handy when caravanning and camping, mostly for starting a fire for warmth or cooking. Store them in a waterproof bag or container.
Alternatively, you can pack some Flint & Steel (eBay).
Offline Maps
Australia is one vast continent and our data reception here is pretty crap. It’s all good when you’re in major cities and even in small towns (as long as you’re with Telstra). But when you leave the boundaries of the town, you’ll notice the GPS will lose its signal.
Make sure you pre-load your maps for ‘offline use’ before you hit the road.
Paper Maps
While digital maps are fantastic, it’s always good to carry paper hardcopies with you as well. Finding yourself stuck in the middle of nowhere without a direction is not only stressful, but it can also be outright dangerous.
Hema have an extensive range of maps for the various states, territories and regions of Australia.
PLB (Personal Locator Beacon)
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) – eBay →
Never heard of a PLB before? It’s basically a safety device to alert search and rescue services of your exact location in the event of emergency. They are recommended for travellers and hikers who venture out beyond where phone reception will reach.
We’ve never had need of one yet, but once we head into really remote areas we’ll definitely add one to our kit.
Satellite Phone
Satellite Phones allow you to make phone calls beyond where mobile phone reception will go (as they run off satellites). Again, if you’re likely to be travelling through remote Australia, it’s worthwhile to consider getting yourself a Satellite Phone.
Solar Power Bank (+ Charging Cables)
These little Solar Power Banks are super handy for the day pack, if you’re one who is likely to go on long hikes. They’re even good just as a back-up power source to recharge your phone off-grid.
Torch & Batteries
Every caravan road trip needs a good torch with plenty of batteries handy. Although we all run off solar these days, there is always a place for the humble torch.
UHF Radio
The topic of whether a UHF Radio is essential or not often comes up. If you’re travelling around Australia and planning to get off the main highway, then yes, a UHF is a definite must.
It’s the best way to stay in contact with other drivers on the road, including trucks and oversized load pilots, just to name a few.
Here’s everything you need to know about UHFs for caravanning and camping.
Whistle
A whistle is one of the easiest items you can have in some emergency situations. They make a very loud noise with very little effort if you’re stick or lost and need to be located.
Hopefully, this article has helped with your caravan and camping First Aid Kit checklist stock-up.
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This is such a comprehensive list that I think I’m going to be using even though I don’t have a caravan! You’ve thought of everything and I’m kind of ashamed I have been so slapdash in putting mine together (if I even remember to bring one). Hopefully you never need to use it though!
I know how you feel! Spending so much time in more remote areas of Australia really makes you aware of how self-sufficient we need to be. But as you say, I hope we never have to use any of it!
I’m glad I bumped to your post about first-aid kit since we like going on a road trip and camping here in the U.S. There are items that I think we need to add, like trauma sheers and snake bite bandages. Talking about snake, my son said we must be extra careful when traveling to Australia. Like you said, 100 of the snakes there are venomous!
So glad you found it helpful. Yep, snakes are a big factor to consider here in Australia.
Great list! Very thoughtfully made to face any kind of situation during travels in caravans. And so generous of you to make it printable and save it. 🙂
Thanks Indrani.
I must admit we do not regularly travel with a well stocked first aid kit. Although when we start to travel again, the kit will be filled with key safety items like wipes, masks and gloves! You had some things on there list that I would never have thought of – cling wrap, super glue or locator beacons. I think it is time for us to buy a bigger first aid bag!
You really don’t think too much about it until you need it. Always better to be prepared I think.
wow, this is the most comprehensive fist ad kit checklist I’ve ever seen! This truly covers just about any accident or issue that may pop up while traveling. It is so useful!
Thanks Samantha. Fingers crossed we never actually have to use any of it, but it’s there if we do.