First-aid Kit Test

August 2007

A first aid kit is the in-car equivalent of insurance – it’s something you buy in the hope of never using it.

However, unlike cover, having a first aid kit isn’t compulsory in the UK, although it is in France and some other European countries. Regardless of the law, it makes good sense to carry one, especially on holidays or trips out with children. Not only can it be used in the event of a road accident, but it can also tend to scraped knees, minor cuts and other injuries.

So which is the one for your boot? Using the advice of a paramedic, we tested 9 different kits to find a winner.

The Test
Before we tackled the contents, we looked for a case tough enough to survive in a car boot and that could open to provide a work surface to prepare bandages on. It should also be in the standard green with a white cross, so it’s easily recognised by others.

Inside, we wanted to see gloves – preferably vinyl or nitrile – sterile wipes rather than cotton wool and antiseptic cream, as these are easy for amateurs to use. A selection of quality dressings and bandages was also essential. Scissors needed to work well and we wanted good instructions for those without first aid training.

Verdict

A couple of minor moans didn’t stop the great-value Halfords Large Kit taking the top spot. The Bound Tree package is a worthy runner-up - despite not containing as extensive a range of contents as the Halfords kit, it does offer some unusual extras for more intrepid drivers.

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