Camping is one of Canada’s favourite summer pastimes. Whether you’re heading to Algonquin Park or pitching a tent in your backyard, one thing should always be packed before the marshmallows: a well-stocked health kit.
From bug bites to blisters, minor injuries can quickly ruin a good time outdoors. Here’s your guide to building the ultimate camping health kit approved by pharmacists and designed for the Canadian wilderness.
First Aid Essentials
Let’s start with the basics:
- Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
- Sterile gauze pads & medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes or hydrogen peroxide
- Antibiotic ointment
- Tweezers (for splinters and ticks)
- Scissors
- Cold compress
Why it matters: Even small scrapes can get infected when you’re off-grid. Clean wounds immediately and cover them properly to avoid complications.
Medications to Have on Hand
Pack both over-the-counter (OTC) and any personal prescription medications in clearly labelled containers:
- Allergy meds (antihistamines like Benadryl or Claritin)
- Pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
- Anti-diarrheal and laxatives (changes in diet can trigger issues)
- Motion sickness tablets
- Hydration salts or electrolyte packets
- Heartburn relief (antacids or acid reducers)
If you take daily medications, store them in a waterproof pill organizer and bring extras in case of delays or weather changes.
Bug & Sun Protection
Don’t underestimate the Canadian summer elements:
- Insect repellent with DEET or icaridin
- After-bite cream or antihistamine gel
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
Lip balm with SPF - Aloe vera gel or burn relief spray
Bonus tip: Apply sunscreen before bug spray for maximum protection
Personal Hygiene Must-Haves
Staying clean keeps bacteria and bugs away:
- Hand sanitizer
- Biodegradable soap
- Toilet paper & wet wipes
- Menstrual hygiene products
- Trash bags to pack out waste
- Towels & washcloths
Don’t forget: even campsites with facilities may run out of supplies, especially during long weekends.
Items You’ll Be Glad You Packed
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Emergency whistle
- Water purification tablets
- Health card & copy of prescriptions
- Allergy alert ID (if applicable)
If you’re camping in remote areas, consider carrying a basic emergency phone or GPS tracker cell signals can be unreliable.
Visit Us Before You Hit the Trail
At Dundas West Pharmacy, we’ll help you put together a camping health kit that fits your needs, trip duration, and destination. Drop by for:
- Advice on OTC medications
- Travel-size essentials
- Prescription refills
- Custom recommendations based on your health history
Don’t wait until you’re in the woods to realize what you forgot. Stop by Dundas West Pharmacy and get camping-ready, health-wise. Safe travels and happy camping!
