November 2025

Key takeaways

• Check expiration dates regularly: Ensure items in your first aid kit are up to date to maintain their effectiveness.
• Use a checklist: A first aid kit checklist can help you stay organized.
• Replace expired items: Understand why first aid kits expire and avoid using expired medications or ointments.
• Consider specialized kits: Options like individual first aid kits, car first aid kits, and dog first aid kits can address specific needs.
• Inspect your kit regularly: Use a first aid kit inspection checklist to ensure your kit is always ready for emergencies.

Whether you buy a first aid kit or make your own, make sure it has all the necessary items. Include personal medications. Check first aid kit expiration dates regularly, and replace any used or out-of-date contents. You might wonder, “Do first aid kits expire?” the answer is yes—many items in a first aid kit, such as medications, ointments, and adhesives, have expiration dates. Using expired items can reduce their effectiveness, so it’s important to stay on top of your first aid kit inspection checklist.

The Red Cross recommends that all kits for a family of four include:

• 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
• 25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
• 1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)
• 5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram)
• 5 antiseptic wipe packets
• 2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each)
• 1 blanket (space blanket)
• 1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
• 1 instant cold compress
• 2 pairs of non-latex gloves (size: large)
• 2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each)
• Scissors
• 1 roller bandage (3 inches wide)
• 1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)
• 5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3 inches)
• 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)
• Oral thermometer (non-mercury/non-glass)
• 2 triangular bandages
• Tweezers
• First aid instruction booklet

If you’re creating a first aid box checklist, make sure to include all the items listed above. For added convenience, consider downloading a first aid kit checklist PDF to ensure you don’t miss anything. 

Specialized First Aid Kits 

In addition to a general first aid kit, you may want to consider specialized kits for specific needs: 

• Individual first aid kit: Ideal for personal use, particularly for outdoor activities like hiking or camping. 

• Car first aid kit: A must-have for road trips or emergencies while traveling. 

• Dog first aid kit: Perfect for pet owners to address minor injuries or emergencies for their furry friends. 

• Why Do First Aid Kits Expire? 

You might be wondering, “Why do first aid kits expire?” Many components, such as medications, ointments, and adhesives, have a limited shelf life. Over time, these items can lose their potency or become unsafe to use. It’s important to check your first aid kit expiration dates regularly and replace any expired items. 

Can You Use an Expired First Aid Kit? 

While some items, like bandages, may still be usable after their expiration date, others, like medications and ointments, should not be used if expired. If you’re unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and update your kit. 

Stay Prepared with Regular Inspections 

Performing regular inspections of your first aid kit ensures that all items are in good condition and ready to use in an emergency. Use a first aid kit inspection checklist to make this process easier. 

Source: American Red Cross