From boating to going bush: Essential first aid tips for the holidays

2024 is flying past! It's already March, and that means we're heading fast toward one of the best (long) weekends of the year - Easter! In between your holiday daydreaming and before you write your packing list, we've got some important first aid tips you need to know to ensure you're first aid prepared for wherever the holidays take you!

Tip #1 - Being remote means less access to medical aid

When camping or going bush, one of the main concerns is being far from immediate medical assistance should you require it. Camping in obscure or hard to get to places will make this even more difficult and risky. In these remote environments, having knowledge of first aid and a well equipped first aid kit can be crucial for handling outdoor-related injuries and emergencies. We recommend the Limited Edition Modular Survival First Aid Kit for these situations as it covers a wide range of common injuries we see in the bush.

Tip #2 - It's prime time for Snakes and Spiders

One other major first aid concern for remote camping or going bush in Australia is snake and spider bites, which can be lethal if not treated quickly. The Aspire-Edition Snake & Spider Bite Kit is perfect for treating snake and spider bites, and compact enough to carry everywhere you go.

Featured above: Aspire-Edition Snake & Spider Bite Kit

Tip #3 - Don't neglect your car first aid

When you're going on holidays, you're most likely using a vehicle to get there. It's time to toss that old expired first aid kit you have under your passenger seat in your car to make sure you're properly prepared. A first aid kit equipped with all the essential items is great to have in your car or van, ready for the more common first aid injuries you encounter while your on the road. We recommend either the R1 Vehicle MaxR1 Ute Max, or R1 Emergency Breakdown first aid kits.

Featured above: R1 Vehicle Max, Soft Pack


Tip #4 - Water recreation presents unique first aid risks

Being out on the water presents unique risks, such as drowning, injuries from falls, collisions, or encounters with marine life (think jelly-fish stings, sea snake bites, or treading on a stone fish!). Knowing how to perform CPR is essential, while other water first aid skills include treating seasickness, hypothermia, cuts, and burns. An understanding of how to respond to incidents like near-drownings, fractures, or head injuries is critical as well. Carrying a well-stocked first aid kit like the FastAid Essentials IP67 Waterproof First Aid Kit onboard is highly recommended. 

Featured above: FastAid Essentials IP67 Waterproof First Aid Kit

Other tips to stay well and have a safe holiday

Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun
Dehydration and sunburn are common issues during the Easter holidays, especially if you are spending time outdoors. Make sure to drink plenty of water and wear a hat, sunscreen, and protective clothing to prevent sunburn.

Be aware of potential hazards
When spending time outdoors, it's important to be aware of potential hazards such as uneven terrains, wildlife, and poisonous plants. Make sure to stay on marked hiking tracks and trails, keeping a safe distance from animals, and teach kids to recognise and avoid dangerous plants.

Know when to seek medical help
In some cases, it may be necessary to seek medical help for injuries or illnesses. It's important to know the signs of serious conditions such as heat stroke, allergic reactions, fractures etc. If someone is experiencing severe symptoms, call 000 or seek medical assistance immediately.

Need help choosing a first aid kit for your holiday? We're here to help!

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published