Planning a spring or summer road trip? Whether you’re headed to the Ozarks, down Route 66, or across state lines, safety should always ride shotgun—especially when you’re traveling with kids, pets, and a fully loaded car. Too often, drivers think a single basic first aid kit will cover everything. But the reality is, each passenger—including your vehicle—has unique needs.
From band-aids to jumper cables, pet meds to goldfish crackers, having four distinct first aid kits can help you handle whatever the road throws your way. In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what to pack for your pet, your kids, yourself, and your car—so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
At Brookside 66 Service in Kansas City, we’ve been helping local families prepare for long drives and weekend getaways for years. Before your next adventure, stop in for a quick road trip readiness check—we’ll make sure your car’s as prepared as your packing list.
First Aid Kit #1: For Your Pets
Your pet might be the best travel buddy you’ve got, but they can’t tell you when they’re uncomfortable or feeling off. That’s why packing a dedicated first aid kit for your dog or cat is essential before any long trip. From unexpected cuts to tummy troubles, you’ll be glad you’re ready if your furry friend needs care on the go.
A proper pet first aid kit should include:
Copies of vaccination records and microchip information
Gauze, bandage wrap (like vet wrap), and antiseptic wipes
A digital thermometer (normal dog temp is 101–102.5°F)
Tweezers for ticks or splinters
Pet-safe pain relief (only with vet recommendation)
Hydrogen peroxide (for emergency use under vet guidance)
Extra water, collapsible bowls, treats, leash, and poop bags
Every pet reacts differently to travel. Some love sticking their head out the window, while others get carsick or anxious. Packing their favorite blanket or toy can bring comfort, and planning pet-friendly stops helps break up long stretches. Don’t forget: the Kansas City heat can sneak up fast in May, so keeping your AC running cool is key—Brookside 66 can check that for you before you go.
First Aid Kit #2: For Your Kids
Road trips with kids are full of laughter, snack wrappers, and the occasional “Are we there yet?”—but they also require some thoughtful prep. Little ones are prone to motion sickness, scrapes, and sudden snack cravings, so having a dedicated kit just for them will save you time and stress on the road.
Here’s what to include in your kid-focused first aid kit:
Children’s pain reliever (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
Band-aids, antibacterial ointment, and baby wipes
Motion sickness remedies (chewables or bands)
Thermometer and fever reducer
Child-safe electrolyte drink packs
Healthy snacks (granola bars, applesauce pouches, crackers)
Sunscreen, bug spray, and kid-sized sunglasses
Having these items handy will help you handle everything from a bumped knee at a rest stop to a sudden spike in temperature. It’s also smart to stash their kit in an easy-to-reach spot—somewhere separate from your general luggage. If you’re traveling with car seats or booster seats, double-check that they’re secure and up to date. Brookside 66 Service can inspect your seat belts and buckles during a quick trip check to make sure everything’s safe for your smallest passengers.
First Aid Kit #3: For You
Let’s be honest: the grown-ups need care, too. Long hours behind the wheel can take a toll, and it’s easy to forget about your own well-being while focusing on pets and kids. A first aid kit just for you—complete with health, comfort, and emergency essentials—can make all the difference between a stressful drive and a smooth one.
Pack your personal road trip kit with:
Pain relievers (ibuprofen, aspirin)
Allergy meds and any prescriptions
Hand sanitizer and face masks
Eye drops and lip balm
Travel toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant
Protein bars, trail mix, and a reusable water bottle
A mini sewing kit, nail clippers, and spare phone charger
Keeping yourself healthy and alert isn’t just good for morale—it’s a safety issue, too. Staying hydrated, fed, and well-rested can prevent highway fatigue, especially during longer stretches of driving. If you’re hitting the road solo or as the designated driver, consider rotating with a partner or planning hotel stops when the drive exceeds eight hours. At Brookside 66, we care about your safety and comfort on the road just as much as we do about your engine’s performance.
First Aid Kit #4: For Your Car
The most important kit of all might be the one for your vehicle. Breakdowns and delays can be costly and frustrating—especially when you’re far from home. A well-prepared emergency car kit helps you stay calm and in control, even if you run into car trouble during your trip.
Here’s what to stock in your car’s first aid kit:
Jumper cables or a portable battery jump starter
Tire pressure gauge and a tire repair/inflation kit
Flashlight with extra batteries
Flares or reflective triangles
Spare fuses and multi-tool
Quart of oil and extra coolant
Paper towels, gloves, and duct tape
Emergency cash, water, and blanket
While packing this kit is smart, the best defense against breakdowns is prevention. Before any big road trip, it’s a good idea to have your fluids, brakes, tires, and battery checked by a professional. At Brookside 66 Service, we specialize in prepping Kansas City drivers for every kind of road trip—whether you’re off to visit Grandma or taking a spontaneous weekend detour to a national park.
Visit Brookside 66 Before You Hit the Road
Whether it’s your child’s comfort blanket or a quart of extra oil, what you bring can shape how your road trip unfolds. These four unique first aid kits—for pets, kids, you, and your car—help ensure a safe, happy, and prepared journey from Kansas City to wherever the highway leads.
Make Brookside 66 Service your first stop before the trip begins.Schedule a road trip check-up today and travel with confidence, knowing your whole crew—furry, small, and four-wheeled—is in good hands.