First Aid Kit Checklist

A checklist of supplies to stock in a home and car first aid kit, organized by category.

Published June 30, 2026

Wound Care and Bandages

Adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
Sterile gauze pads and rolls
Medical tape
Antiseptic wipes or solution
Antibiotic or wound-care ointment
Elastic wrap for sprains

Tools and Protection

Disposable gloves
Scissors and tweezers
A digital thermometer
Safety pins
An instant cold pack
A small flashlight with spare batteries

Medicines and Basics

General pain and fever relief
Allergy relief
Antacids or stomach-settling items
Burn gel or dressings
Hand sanitizer
Keep all medicines in date and suitable for your household

Car Kit Extras

A foil emergency blanket
Bottled water and a snack
A reflective vest or warning triangle
Work gloves
A phone charger or power bank

Information and Maintenance

A first aid instruction card or booklet
A list of emergency contacts
Notes on any family allergies or conditions
Check expiry dates and replace expired items
Restock anything used and review twice a year
For emergencies, call your local emergency number such as 911

Important

This checklist is general information only and is not medical advice; a first aid kit does not replace professional care, so for serious injuries or emergencies call your local emergency number and follow guidance from trained responders
Consider a recognized first aid training course

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A first aid kit checklist lists the supplies to stock in a home and car kit so you are ready to handle minor injuries and stabilize until help arrives. It organizes items by category, from wound care and bandages to tools, medicines, and reference information.

A well-stocked, easy-to-find kit makes a real difference for everyday cuts, scrapes, and burns, and during emergencies. Keeping one at home and one in the car covers most situations.

This list focuses on general categories so you can tailor each kit to your family's needs, your climate, and any personal medical requirements. Review your kits a couple of times a year.

Made for families and caregivers building home and car kits, this checklist is printable and downloadable as a PDF. Tick off what you have, note what to add, and keep the list inside the kit for restocking.

FAQ

What should every first aid kit include?

Most kits include adhesive bandages, gauze, tape, antiseptic, gloves, scissors, tweezers, and basic medicines. Add items for your family's needs, and keep an emergency contact and instruction card inside.

Do I need a separate kit for my car?

A car kit is helpful for travel and roadside situations. It can mirror your home kit with added items like a blanket and flashlight. Keep it where it stays out of extreme heat when possible.

How often should I check my first aid kit?

Review your kits at least twice a year. Replace anything used, expired, or damaged, and update supplies as your family's needs change so the kit stays ready.

Should I include medicines in a first aid kit?

Basic items like pain relief can be useful, but keep them in date and suitable for your household. For anyone's prescription medicines, follow their doctor's instructions and store them as directed.

Is this first aid kit checklist printable?

Yes. Print it or download the PDF, keep a copy inside each kit, and use it to check supplies and restock after any use.