Creating a family travel first aid kit - Children's National

Wherever you go and however you travel, it's important to bring a first aid kit with you in case of emergencies. Here are some suggestions for what to pack in your family's travel first aid kit.

Family travel first aid kit essentials

• Antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin®
• Antihistamines such as Zyrtec® or Benadryl®
• Antiseptic wipes or spray to clean deeper wounds
• Any prescription medication your family members use, especially as needed medications such as rescue inhalers for breathing trouble and Epinephrine Auto-Injectors for severe allergic reactions.
• Band-Aids in every shape and size
• Cold pack for bumps and bruises
• Gauze and tape for larger wounds
• Hand sanitizer and masks to decrease the risk of getting sick
• Pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Small scissors for cutting gauze, bandages or medication packages
• Thermometer

Other items you may want to include in your family travel first aid kit

• Antacids for heartburn or indigestion
• Anti-itch cream such as calamine lotion for bug bites and poison ivy
• Bug repellant
• Cotton balls or swabs
• Lip balm
• Nail clippers
• Petroleum jelly products such as Vaseline® or Aquaphor®
• Sunscreen
• Tissues

Don't forget to include basic emergency information such as:

• A copy of your child's insurance information
• Phone numbers (including the after-hours number) for your child's pediatrician and dentist
• The Poison Control Hotline (800-222-1222)
• Your child's current weight, for medication dosing

You can download a PDF of our family travel first aid kit checklist here.