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It goes without saying that an adequate first aid kit is essential for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. A short hike or trek requires only a simple first aid kit however for a more substantial outdoor activity such as overnight camps, a little more thought and attention to detail is required to prepare an adequate first aid kit.

Think about how many people are supported, and what the local dangers might need consideration such as insects and dangerous reptiles, perhaps even dangerous flora such as stinging nettle. Taking into account planned activities and the associated risks that may result in minor injuries, a suggested list of essentials that will cover a broad spectrum of camping activities include:

Flat Bandages. You need a selection of wide crepe bandages and some smaller sizes. It is important to ensure they are still sealed inside a plastic wrapper for sterility.

Triangular Bandages for slings and for a pad dressing if needed to manage bleeding wounds.

Bandaids. Mum's all-purpose 'magic healing strips' that are amazingly handy for those annoying little cuts and scrapes. These little gems are also really effective in controlling tears!

Scissors, tweezers and a splinter remover. Life is definitely going to be uncomfortable in the event of an annoying and painful splinter that would be easily be removed using - if only you remembered to include the right tool!

Sunscreen. Important to protect from sunburn.

Antiseptic ointment or solution to help prevent infections in minor wounds.

Cotton buds. Another one of the basics that can make life so much easier in treating minor injuries.

Cotton balls important to help clean up cuts and abrasions.

Sticking plaster and gauze wound coverings. These are required when bandaids are not quite enough.

Anti-sting solution. This product comes under a variety of brand names and will help relieve the pain of ant stings, bee stings or other minor insect bites that can sometimes cause discomfort.

Insect repellent. Handy spare for use to protect from mosquito bites in the night. Many people overlook this in their packing so by keeping a spare bottle in your first aid kit, you will always have some on hand.

Medical gloves. Often overlooked, yet to protect against cross-contamination through direct contact with blood, these are an essential. They will also help to prevent you infecting the person you are treating by not transferring dirt or germs from your hands.

Plastic container. A small kidney dish or similar in which you can make up a dilute salt solution that will act as a helpful cleansing agent.

Saline solution. These come in small plastic ampule type tubes and are really helpful in the event you need to flush a foreign object from eyes or a wound.

As a minimum, all the above items will easily fit into a medium size lunch box. Keep it in a handy place and ensure everyone in your camping party knows where to find it. As a rule, do not include drugs such as painkillers or antibiotics in the first aid kit because of the danger children may access them. If it is necessary to bring along medications, keep them in a locked container separate from the main first aid kit and ensure only a responsible adult has access.

Learn more about this author, Ian Loft.
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