When it comes to safety when driving, being prepared for anything and everything is a must. And, having one of the best vehicle first aid kits in your car is the best way to cover all your bases. Not only is a first aid kit vital for when you’re on the road, but it also will give you peace of mind to know it’s in your vehicle for every destination along the way.
Your vehicle first aid kit must be well-stocked. With that being said, we’ve highlighted first aid kits that have a wide variety of supplies. Remember to keep your first aid kit well-stocked by refilling any supplies that you use and routinely checking expiration dates on any medicines or supplies in the kit. The best vehicle first aid kits tend to come in carrying cases making them easy to transport, store, and resupply as needed.
10 Best Vehicle First Aid Kits On The Market Today
Below, we’ve highlighted the 10 best vehicle first aid kits on the market today. With each product, we’ve covered everything you need to know so that you can make an informed purchase. After our buying guide list, we’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding vehicle first aid kits.
In case of an emergency, the first thing you always should do is dial 911. Once you have done that, use your first aid kit to treat any injuries before paramedics arrive.
Best Overall Choice
1. First Aid Only 299-Piece All-Purpose First Aid Kit
This first aid kit is one of the highest-rated vehicle first aid kits on Amazon. The 299-piece set comes in a compact zipper case. Case color varies by availability but you can expect either a blue, red, orange, or green case. Inside, there are two clear compartments so the contents are both visible and easily accessible. The contents of this kit can treat pain, swelling, cuts, scrapes, and burns.
The case is small enough that it can fit into your car’s glove box or center console with plenty of room to spare. It is important to note that while this first aid kit comes with multiples of certain items such as band-aids, gauze pads, and alcohol wipes, there are also numerous single-quantity items. For instance, there is only one sterile eye pad and one disposable thermometer. So, after use, you will need to replace those items.
For a complete list of items, refer to the Amazon product page for the First Aid Only All-Purpose First Aid Kit.
If you’re on a budget looking for just the basics, this ESUPPORT 34-piece first aid kit is the one for you. While this can be a stand-alone first aid kit for cars, you could also stash this compact kit in your glove box for easy access while keeping a larger first aid kit in your trunk.
The zipper pouch itself is lightweight, compact, and water-resistant. With all the items that come in the bag, there is still enough room for you to add a few additional items if needed. This first aid kit contains the following 34 items:
If you plan on taking a long road trip that involves a lot of off-roading and outdoor activity, splurging on the Surviveware Survival First Aid Kit is a great idea. First and foremost, this kit contains all of the basics of a classic first aid kit for cars such as various sizes of bandages, gauze, tape, and pliers. Along with that, this kit goes above and beyond to make certain you are prepared for anything that comes your way as you get off the beaten path.
The survival items in this kit include a premium knife, a multitool, glow sticks, a poncho, a signaling mirror, a wire saw, a paracord bracelet, and a small tactical flashlight. All of the items within this first aid survival kit are of the highest possible quality. While we try not to dwell on possible emergencies, it is smart to be aware that disasters can happen in an instant. Knowing that you have this incredible kit in your car at all times will give you peace of mind in the event you encounter the unexpected.
One other handy feature is the kit comes with a mounting strap that can be attached to a car headrest for easy access during emergencies. Along with that, you can also use the velcro back of this MOLLE compatible pack to securely store it in your vehicle’s trunk.
Coming from a name like AAA, you can expect that this is an ideal first aid kit to have in your car. This AAA first aid kit has 121 items ranging from sterile pads, sting relief, a cold pack, pliers, bandages, and an emergency whistle. It has a secure, hard shell carrying case making it easy to transport and store. It should easily fit in your car’s glove box or trunk.
Upon unzipping the durable, hard-shelled case, you’ll find two separate, clear storage pockets. With this design, you can easily see where everything is which is exactly what you need in a time of emergency. The actual first aid kit is made by the well-regarded company, Lifeline. And having it backed by AAA means it is top-notch in all the ways you are looking for in one of the best vehicle first aid kits.
5. Johnson & Johnson 140-Piece All-Purpose First Aid Kit
This Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose First Aid Kit contains all the name brands that we know and trust. It features a durable, plastic case for easy storage with a convenient carrying handle. With basic instructions for cleaning, covering, and treating any injury that may occur, this kit gives you everything you need.
The kit is well-organized on the inside. Along with that, the back of the case features a comprehensive list of all the included items along with the drug facts for the included medication. There are many items in this kit, so Johnson & Johnson also includes a handy first aid guide so that you can know when and how to use everything.
Reviewers note that this kit does not contain a thermometer. With that, consider purchasing one separately and placing it in this kit.
Everlit makes an incredible vehicle first aid kit that is ideal for camping trips or off-road excursions. The set comes with 241 items making up an extensive first aid kit. In addition, it also contains nine survival items and an EDC emergency kit.
The EMT bag is made of water-resistant nylon. Within the case, there are three large compartments that provide enough room for all the included items and any other items you may want to add. Everlite includes a one-year satisfaction warranty with each purchase. Along with all the first aid items, this kit also includes the following survival items:
Don’t let the compact size of this Protect Life First Aid Kit fool you. This durable zippered case comes with 200 first aid items and a handy carabiner clip. Because this first aid kit is so small, you can take this portable kit anywhere you go. And it can be easily stored wherever is most convenient in your vehicle whether that is a seatback pocket, the glove box, or your trunk.
This kit is made of water-resistant material. The interior is extremely organized with clear compartments that have plenty of room for the included items. Along with that, there is additional room to include any of your own emergency medications.
8. Swiss Safe 200-Piece Professional First Aid Kit
Coming from Swiss Safe, this first aid kit features 200 first aid items along with a few outdoor survival items. The entire kit weighs only 16-ounces. With that, you can store this space-saving kit anywhere in your car for easy access. Lucky for you, this kit was upgraded in 2020 with an additional fire starter rod, wire saw, fishing line, and mylar blanket.
Swiss Safe offers a quality-assurance customer satisfaction guarantee. That means that if for any reason you are not satisfied, they will give you a full refund. The actual case is wear and water-resistant. Within the case, there is a comprehensive first aid booklet that will familiarize you with all of the contents of the kit so you can be prepared for any emergency that may come your way.
This M2 Basics First Aid Kit is anything but basic. With this 300-piece kit, you get all the necessary items to prepare you for an emergency. Along with that, this first aid kit is advertised as having 40 unique items. This includes nice-to-have items like a compass, a whistle, and an emergency blanket.
The zippered bag features clear pockets to keep the contents accessible and visible. Along with the kit, you also get a first aid guide with instructions on how to use the contents safely and effectively. We recommend reading through this guide when you purchase this kit to be as prepared as possible.
Though the color of your vehicle first aid kit is definitely not the most important thing, it doesn’t hurt that you can choose between blue, green, or red for this first aid kit from SHBC. This kit comes with 228 items. The waterproof bag has a convenient carrying handle and zippers.
SHBC offers 100% satisfaction or your money back. Along with all the first aid essentials, this kit also contains two emergency blankets, whistles, and a first aid manual for ease of use. Most of the items included come in a double quantity. With that, we always recommend replenishing items after you use them to keep your kit fully stocked on the essentials.
With These First Aid Kits, You’ll Be Prepared In Case Of An Emergency
While we hope that you never need to use a first aid kit, keeping a first aid kit in your car year-round is crucial. It is especially important in the winter months, as in the event of an accident, it may take emergency vehicles longer to reach you due to weather and road conditions.
For more recommended and researched buying guides from our AutoWise writers, check out our guides to get your car fully equipped and ready to hit the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be in a car first aid kit?
The more supplies you have in your vehicle first aid kit, the better. With that, it’s important to know what the absolute necessities are in terms of supplies.
The 15 most important items to have in your vehicle first aid kit include:
Band-aids
Gauze pads
Hand sanitizer
Antibiotic ointment
Tweezers
Curved medical scissors
A needle
Digital thermometer
Adhesive tape
Hydrocortisone cream
Antiseptic wipes
Allergy medicine
Pain-relieving medicine (Advil, Ibuprofen, etc.)
Cotton swabs
Insect bite relief
Also, knowledge of basic first aid best practices will help you if you ever need to utilize your vehicle first aid kit.
Where should you store a first aid kit in the car?
You should store your first aid kit in an easily accessible area. If it can fit in your console or glove box, store it there. If not, store it in your trunk where you can easily grab it. If you have kids, it’s especially important to store it somewhere where they cannot get into it.
What is the difference between a first aid kit and a car emergency kit?
A first aid kit only has medical supplies while a car emergency kit has numerous automotive tools in case of a car emergency or malfunction. Car emergency kits may also tend a few medical supplies, but they will not be nearly as well-stocked with medical supplies as a first aid kit.
Should I replace items as I use them in my vehicle first aid kit?
If you misplace or use a particular item in a first aid kit that does not have duplicates, it is a good idea to replace it. This will keep your first aid kit fully stocked with everything you may need in case of an emergency. Also, remember that medications and certain medical products do have expiration dates. Check your first aid kit periodically to see if you need to replace these items.
Do cars come with first aid kits?
If you buy a new car, there is a high chance it will come equipped with a first aid kit. Otherwise, you will need to purchase a vehicle first aid kit separately. If the car dealership does supply a first aid kit, it will generally be stored in the trunk.
Joybeth Sullivan is an accomplished content creator. She does it all as a writer, photographer, and videographer. Her work has been published in local and international outlets. She graduated from the University of Georgia in May of 2020 with a dual-degree in English & Film. Today, she is based out of Denver, CO. When she isn't writing, you can find her on long drives in the mountains with her husky, Newman, riding shotgun.
