What is Your First Aid Kit Missing? Modern Essentials for Kids, Elderly, and Everyone between.

August 15, 2025

Written by Christina Gerecke

Child sitting outdoors with a red first aid kit, applying a bandage to their finger while hiking in the mountains.

August 15, 2025

Written by Christina Gerecke

When it comes to being a parent, caregiver, or simply looking out for loved ones, few things are more important than being prepared and proactive. One may wonder... what should be in a first aid kit? Needs will vary depending on who the kit is for--whether it be a baby, elderly family member, or sending your kid off to summer camp. One thing is for sure; a well-stocked first aid kit isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. According to the Mayo Clinic, keeping a comprehensive first aid kit on hand is one of the best ways to respond to everyday injuries and unexpected emergencies. In moments of crisis, your kit might be the only immediate support available.¹

Being Prepared Matters

A 2023 study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found that higher levels of preparedness were strongly associated with lower anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City². In particular, adults aged 26–35 experienced significant mental health benefits when they had access to emergency resources. A type 1 first aid kit is stationary and designed for indoor use. However, when sending your child to camp, you may need to keep in mind other complexities that may occur outdoors or on the go. Bruise gel or scar gel, for example, may be precautionary additions to consider adding to your checklist.

First Aid Kits Have Evolved—Is Yours Up to Date?

In recent years, first aid kits have become smarter, safer, and more user-friendly.

Many modern first aid kits now include:

Contact cards for emergencies
QR codes linking to how-to videos and user guides
Customizable compartments for age- and need-specific supplies
Smart thermometers with more accurate readings³
Preventative cosmetic products, such as scar and bruise therapies.

Close-up of a hand organizing a modern first aid kit with labeled compartments, supplies, and a compact red pouch—showcasing the evolution of today’s emergency essentials.

A 2024 clinical study comparing modern thermometer types found tympanic (ear) thermometers to be the most reliable non-invasive option—quick, effective, and easy to use.⁴

Which Thermometer Should I use for my First Aid Kit?

comparison chart showing the best thermometer types for different situations—rectal, tympanic, temporal, wearable, and oral—with pros for each. Which Thermometer Should I use for my First Aid Kit?

Created with information from 2024 Study

For the Kids: Send Them Off Ready for Anything

In your kid's summer camp first aid kit, don’t forget to include silicone scar gel and strips.

A scar can form from any cut in the skin, whether they’ve scraped a knee, picked off a mosquito bite, or had a minor procedure. Pure, medical grade silicone is one of the safest, most effective ways to manage scars—especially for sensitive skin. There are gels and strips available with this ingredient alone.

A clinical review published in JCAD found that silicone gel reduced scar texture by 86%, improved color by 84%, and decreased height by 68%. ⁵

Prefer an all-in-one solution? Choose a UV-protected version with mineral SPF, so they can stay safe in the sun and protect healing scars.

Three side-by-side photos showing a child’s forehead before treatment, after 3 months, and after 9 months of using silicone scar gel—visibly reduced scarring over time.

NewGel+ Before and After

Scar Care FAQs for Parents of Kids with Sensitive Skin

What scar gels are safe and effective for kids?

Choose dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free silicone gels or sheets to include in your child's first aid kit.
Look for pediatric products labeled hypoallergenic
Daily use improves scar texture, color, and elevation⁷

Should I send scar gel to camp in the first aid kit?

Yes, if allowed label and inform camp staff
Sun protection is essential: use SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen on closed wounds⁸

Tips for On-the-Go Scar Care at Camp:

Clean and dry scar before use while also ensuring it is no longer an open wound
Apply a thin layer and let it dry
Choose non-greasy, clear-drying gels
Reapply after swimming or sweating
Use silicone strips or silicone tape for optimal precision, and thicker is better

For Aging Loved Ones: The Power of Prevention

Are your loved ones prone to injury or complaining about excessive bruises as they get older? This is not uncommon. There are oral capsules suitable for adults in addition to a topical gel suitable for children and adults to treat the appearance and healing of bruises.

Consider updating your elderly loved one’s first aid kit with BruiseMD:

Arnica (flower extract)
Bromelain (pineapple enzyme)
Hesperidin (citrus bioflavonoid)

These ingredients help reduce bruising and inflammation common in aging skin. It is another handy product to add to your first aid kit to reduce the appearance of bruises for any occasion.

Why Silicone Gel Belongs in Every Kit

Silicone gel is one of the most clinically recommended treatments for hypertrophic and keloid scars. Especially for sensitive skin, it offers non-invasive, effective healing.

✅ 2023 case study: significant improvements in irritation, itching, and scar appearance⁹
✅ 2020 meta-analysis: statistically significant improvement in pigmentation, pliability, and scar height¹⁰

Final Checklist: Must-Haves in a Modern First Aid Kit

You may wonder: what do I absolutely NEED in a first aid kit? It really depends on you and your family members' circumstances. Age, allergies, diagnoses, environment, and activities all play a part. If you care about aesthetic prevention, bruising and scarring products can come in clutch.

At the very least, a preventative first aid kit should include:

Digital thermometer (ear or wearable preferred)
Bandages (ACE wrap) for sprains and strains, gauze (sterile gauze pads), sterile eye pads antiseptic wipes, alcohol pads
Antibiotic ointment
Scissors and tweezers
Cotton balls and cotton swabs
Instant cold packs
CPR mask
Non-latex gloves
Hand sanitizer
Blanket (keeping this one int he vehicle as part of your travel first aid kit)
Emergency contact info & instruction cards
Pediatric scar gel and SPF
Bruising treatment for elderly care
Medications & epinephrine (as needed)
QR code access to how-to videos

Disclaimer: If you have concerns about using NewGel Plus products, especially if you have sensitive skin, allergies, or are treating scars resulting from surgery, burns, or medical conditions, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use.