There are basic first aid supplies and then there are supplies relevant to situations and environments. The basic kit might include elastic bandages, eye pads, sterile sponges, bandages, tweezers, scissors, ointments, band aids, disinfectant, aspirin, a first aid instruction booklet, and first aid for bee stings. Inhalants, burn and pain treatments should also be included. Hydrogen peroxide is an invaluable product to have in your kit. Different situations might include trips to areas where there are contagions or diseases not common to your home territory. Traveling companions who are at risk might need special items packed in their kits to ward off catastrophe. Blood pressure kits and treatments for diabetes and other known ailments should be included in the basic kits.

For those traveling to frigid climates different items might be needed. Emergency space blankets, water proof matches, candles and a fire starter might be included in the kit. For hunters traveling to remote areas whistles, compasses, sewing kits, water purification tablets or the new containers that purify water might be included. Fishing kits, flash lights, splints and communication devices might be needed. A knife and small axe should be included. If someone breaks a leg or is traumatized, these items could be used to make a splint, stretcher or travois. When survival depends upon the items that are contained within your kit , it needs to be complete.

Traveling to areas where temperatures are high and heat can be a life threatening factor require certain precautions. Extra water and water containers should be packed. Insect repellents, snake bite kits and instructions on ways to salvage water and moisture from the environment should be included. Ice packs could be packed for emergency situations. Compasses and a GPS could be used with great effectiveness. A booklet on small game trapping techniques could be a life saver.

Traveling to new environments require extra precaution. If a trip to Africa is on your agenda, plans must be initiated to handle all situations that might be encountered in that country. Inoculations and shots are sometimes mandated for trips to the areas of your choice. Sleeping sickness and concentrations of teste flies call for the inclusion of appropriate medical supplies in your kit. Clothing should also be a part of your first aid plans. Inappropriate clothing can lead to extreme medical problems. Clothes that breathe and good head gear that protect your body from the sun are invaluable. A small poncho or some type of rain wear can also protect your body from serious problems.

First aid kits are available in many different sizes. They are offered in basic packages that reflect that level of protection. The larger and more expensive units offer products that can cover many medical situations. Whether you are at home or on an exotic trip to a foreign land first aid kits are invaluable. The kits can save lives. They can prolong life until experienced medical care can become available. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.