First Aid Kits - We Test Ten

It is no accident that many European countries have made it compulsory to carry a first aid kit in your car.

Having one can prove crucial in dealing not only with a road crash, but also less serious mishaps such as cuts, scrapes and burns. So which are the life-savers?

We checked out 10 of the latest kits on the market.

Life can be tough in the boot, so a hard case is a good idea as it prevents damage and can sometimes provide a handy working surface. Ideally, it should also be in the international colours of green with a white cross. We looked for good instructions and a decent selection of products.

As many injuries happen during under-bonnet repairs, where burns and scalds are more likely, we wanted to see non-adherent dressings, plus at least two pairs of vinyl or nitrile gloves and sterile wipes.

We sought a balanced selection of dressings and bandages with tough scissors, strong tape and safety pins. No sample had antiseptic cream or cotton wool, as they’re a nightmare for paramedics when used together.

Contacts

*Burton McCall (Adventure Medical) 0116 234 4600 www.burton-mccall.com

*Classic Car World (Draper) 01522 888178 www.ccw-tools.com

*Draper 023 8026 6355 www.drapertools.com

*Halfords 0845 762 6625 www.halfords.com

*Metro 01488 689400 www.saxonind.co.uk

*Ready to Leave (Weekender) 0800 195 6638 www.readytoleave.com

Despite its case size, the Bound Tree kit ticks the right boxes and is the same price as the impressive Halfords Large kit. And although twice the price, the Weekender would cover all bases on an adventure break.