RVParks.us

Heres what we carry. This isnt the minimal backpacker kit — this is the family-in-an-RV kit where you have space and kids who find new ways to injure themselves daily.

The Basics

Adhesive bandages — multiple sizes including the big ones. We go through these like crazy. Gauze pads and medical tape. Tweezers (splinters and ticks). Small scissors. Instant cold packs — 4 minimum. Elastic bandage wraps for sprains. Antiseptic wipes.

Medications

Childrens Tylenol AND Motrin (different mechanisms, can alternate). Benadryl — liquid for the youngest, chewables for the older two. Hydrocortisone cream for bug bites. Triple antibiotic ointment. Sunburn relief spray. Anti-diarrhea medication (adult and kid versions).

The Extras That Have Saved Us

Epi-pen. Our middle child has a bee allergy. Non-negotiable. Check expiration dates quarterly.

SAM splint. Lightweight, moldable splint for suspected fractures. Used it once on my own finger. Saved a trip to the ER.

Tick removal tool. Better than tweezers for proper removal. We camp in tick country a lot.

Oral rehydration packets. Kids get dehydrated faster than adults. A couple Pedialyte powder packets weigh nothing and can prevent a bad day from becoming a hospital day.

The Most Important Item

A printed first aid reference card. When your kid is screaming and bleeding, your brain stops working properly. Having step-by-step instructions for common injuries right there in the kit is invaluable.

Take a basic first aid course. Know CPR. Carry the kit. Hope you never need it. But be ready when you do.