Emergency medical kit

A complete home pharmacy to handle urgent situations, common illnesses and minor medical emergencies. Being prepared can make all the difference.

Important medical disclaimer

This guide is for informational and educational purposes only. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication. Check for allergies, contraindications and drug interactions. Do not self-medicate without qualified professional guidance. In a serious emergency, call 112.

First aid kit

A good pre-assembled kit is the foundation. Then supplement it with specific medications and materials.

Essential

Basic first aid kit

~EUR 15

Compact kit with plasters, gauze, bandages, scissors, tweezers and gloves. Ideal for the car or a backpack. Available at Decathlon, Leroy Merlin or pharmacies.

Where: Decathlon, Leroy Merlin, pharmacies
Recommended

Complete pharmacy kit

~EUR 25-40

A more robust kit with a larger quantity of supplies: assorted plasters, sterile gauze pads, adhesive tape, thermometer, emergency blanket, masks, gloves and antiseptic. For home or car.

Where: Pharmacies, Wells, Amazon.es
Recommended

Waterproof storage box

~EUR 10-20

A sturdy organiser box that is water-resistant and dustproof, with compartments. Protects medications from moisture, light and temperature. Essential for keeping everything organised and in good condition.

Where: Decathlon, Leroy Merlin, IKEA, Amazon

Wound dressing and treatment supplies

Essential materials for treating cuts, wounds, burns and minor injuries.

Material Recommended quantity Use Approx. price
Assorted adhesive plasters Box of 100 (various sizes) Small cuts, scrapes, blisters EUR 3-5
Large adhesive dressings (Mepore / Cosmopor) 10-15 units (10x10 cm and 10x15 cm) Larger wounds, post-operative dressings, absorbent pads EUR 8-12
Sterile gauze pads 10x10 cm 2-3 packs of 20 units Cleaning and covering wounds, absorbing blood EUR 2-3/pack
Elastic bandages 3-4 rolls (6 cm, 8 cm, 10 cm widths) Securing dressings, supporting sprains, light immobilisation EUR 2-3/roll
Medical adhesive tape (Micropore/Leukosilk) 2-3 rolls (2.5 cm width) Securing dressings and gauze pads, suitable for sensitive skin EUR 3-4/roll
Adhesive sutures (steri-strips) 1-2 packs Closing wound edges, alternative to stitches for superficial cuts EUR 5-8
Blunt-tip scissors 1 unit Cutting dressings, bandages and clothing (safe, non-piercing) EUR 3-6
Fine-point tweezers 1 unit Removing splinters, thorns, ticks, foreign bodies EUR 2-4
Safety pins 6-10 units Securing bandages and triangular slings EUR 1-2
Disposable nitrile gloves 10-20 pairs (sizes M/L) Protection when treating wounds, preventing cross-infection EUR 5-8/box of 100
Tourniquet (CAT / SOFT-T) 1 unit Controlling severe limb haemorrhage (ONLY in extreme emergencies) EUR 8-15
Triangular bandage 2 units Arm sling, containment, protecting large wounds EUR 2-3
Organisation tip: Keep wound dressing materials in a transparent pouch or bag inside the main box. This lets you find everything quickly in an emergency.

Antiseptics and disinfectants

Essential products for cleaning and disinfecting wounds, preventing infections.

Product Presentation Use Approx. price
Povidone-iodine 10% (Betadine) 100 ml or 125 ml bottle Disinfecting wounds, cuts and burns. Apply with a clean gauze pad. Do not use if allergic to iodine. EUR 5-7
70% ethyl alcohol 250 ml or 500 ml bottle Disinfecting intact skin, instruments and surfaces. Do NOT apply to open wounds (stings and damages tissue). EUR 2-3
Hydrogen peroxide (10 vol.) 250 ml bottle Initial cleaning of dirty wounds, mild disinfection. Effervescent action helps remove debris. EUR 1-2
Sterile saline solution 0.9% Individual 5 ml or 10 ml doses (pack of 20-30) Cleaning wounds, eyes, mucous membranes. Irrigation before disinfecting. Essential and safe. EUR 3-5
Individual antiseptic wipes Pack of 10-20 Quick disinfection when water is unavailable. Ideal for backpack or car. EUR 3-4
Chlorhexidine 0.5% (Betadine alternative) 100 ml bottle Antiseptic for people allergic to iodine. Disinfecting wounds and skin. EUR 4-6
Disinfection protocol:
  1. Wash your hands and put on gloves
  2. Rinse the wound with saline solution (or clean running water)
  3. Dry with sterile gauze
  4. Apply povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine
  5. Cover with a sterile dressing or gauze pad

Medications: pain and fever

Analgesics and antipyretics for managing mild to moderate pain and fever.

Medication Adult dosage What it is for Approx. price
Paracetamol (acetaminophen) 500 mg and 1000 mg 1000 mg every 8 h (max. 3000 mg/day)
Take with water, with or without food		 Mild to moderate pain (headache, toothache, muscle pain). Fever. No anti-inflammatory effect. Gentle on the stomach. EUR 2-3 (20 tabs)
Ibuprofen 400 mg or 600 mg 400 mg every 8 h (max. 1200 mg/day)
ALWAYS take with food		 Pain, inflammation, fever. Useful for menstrual pain, sprains, injuries, toothache. May irritate the stomach. EUR 3-5 (20 tabs)
Children's paracetamol syrup 160 mg/5 ml Dose by weight (children)
10-15 mg/kg every 6-8 h		 Fever and pain in children. Calculate dose according to weight. Comes with a dosing syringe. Consult a paediatrician. EUR 3-4
Children's ibuprofen (100 mg/5 ml) Dose by weight (children >6 months)
5-10 mg/kg every 6-8 h		 Alternative to children's paracetamol. High fever, inflammation, pain. Give with food or milk. EUR 4-5
WARNING: Never combine paracetamol with ibuprofen without medical advice. Do not exceed maximum daily doses. If fever persists for more than 3 days or pain is severe, see a doctor. Paracetamol overdose can cause severe liver damage.
Tip: Having both paracetamol AND ibuprofen allows you to alternate if one is not effective or if there is a contraindication. Paracetamol is safer for those with stomach problems; ibuprofen is better for inflammation.

Medications: digestive system

For treating common gastrointestinal problems: diarrhoea, nausea, heartburn, cramps and dehydration.

Medication Adult dosage What it is for Approx. price
Loperamide 2 mg (Imodium) 2 capsules initially, then 1 after each loose stool (max. 8 caps/day) Acute diarrhoea. Reduces intestinal motility. Do NOT use if there is high fever or blood in the stool (may indicate infection). EUR 5-7 (10-20 caps)
Hyoscine butylbromide 10 mg (Buscopan) 1-2 tablets, 3-4 times a day (max. 6 tabs/day) Abdominal cramps, intestinal spasms, "gripping" stomach pain. Relieves muscle spasms. EUR 5-6 (20 tabs)
Antacids (Gaviscon / Maalox) 2 tablets or 10 ml suspension after meals and at bedtime Heartburn, reflux, stomach burning. Neutralises gastric acid. Fast symptom relief. EUR 6-8
Domperidone 10 mg (Motilium) 1 tablet 3 times a day, 15-30 min before meals Nausea, vomiting, bloating. Speeds up gastric emptying. Useful in gastroenteritis. EUR 4-5 (30 tabs)
Oral rehydration salts (ORS / Dioralyte) 1 sachet dissolved in 200 ml water, drink after each loose stool or bout of vomiting ESSENTIAL: Rehydration during diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration. Replaces water, salts and glucose. Can save lives (especially in children and the elderly). EUR 4-6 (6-10 sachets)
Activated charcoal 250 mg 4-8 capsules (1-2 g) immediately after suspected ingestion Mild food poisoning, toxins. Absorbs substances in the stomach. Do NOT use in cases of corrosives or petroleum products. EUR 3-5
Omeprazole 20 mg (gastric protector) 1 capsule at breakfast (on an empty stomach) Gastric protection when using anti-inflammatory drugs long-term. Reduces acid production. Use beyond 14 days: consult a doctor. EUR 3-5 (14 caps)
Top priority: Oral rehydration salts (ORS/Dioralyte) are absolutely essential, especially if you have children or elderly people at home. Dehydration can be fatal. Always keep several sachets in stock.
When to see a doctor: Diarrhoea with blood or mucus, high fever (>38.5 C), intense and persistent abdominal pain, vomiting that prevents rehydration, signs of severe dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness).

Medications: allergies and respiratory system

Antihistamines for allergies and medications for respiratory problems.

Medication Adult dosage What it is for Approx. price
Cetirizine 10 mg 1 tablet at bedtime (take at night) Allergies (pollen, dust mites, pet hair), allergic rhinitis, urticaria, itching. May cause mild drowsiness. EUR 3-4 (20 tabs)
Loratadine 10 mg 1 tablet per day (morning or evening) Alternative to cetirizine. Allergies, sneezing, blocked nose, itching. Less drowsiness. Good for daytime use. EUR 3-4 (20 tabs)
Dimetindene gel (Fenistil) Apply a thin layer 2-4 times a day to the affected area Insect bites, jellyfish stings, nettle rash. Itching, skin irritation, mild skin allergies. Fast relief. EUR 6-8 (30 g tube)
Adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen / Anapen) 0.3 mg IM in emergency (inject into the thigh) PRESCRIPTION ONLY: For people with severe allergies (anaphylaxis) to food, stings, medications. Life-saving device. Call 112 immediately after use. EUR 50-90
(prescription)
Salbutamol inhaler (Ventolin) 1-2 puffs when needed (4-6 h interval) PRESCRIPTION ONLY: For asthmatics. Bronchodilator for asthma attacks, breathlessness, wheezing. Essential to keep at hand if you have asthma. EUR 5-8
(prescription)
Saline nasal spray (Rhinomer / Sterimar) 2-3 sprays in each nostril, several times a day Nasal cleaning, blocked nose, colds, allergies. Moisturises mucous membranes. Safe for children and pregnant women. EUR 5-7
Anaphylaxis warning signs: Difficulty breathing, swelling of lips/tongue/throat, widespread urticaria, low blood pressure, fainting. If someone in your household is at risk of anaphylaxis, they MUST have a prescribed EpiPen and everyone must know how to use it. ALWAYS call 112 after administering adrenaline.
Tip: Cetirizine and loratadine are safe and affordable. Having a box of each lets you choose according to the situation (cetirizine at night if itching prevents sleep; loratadine during the day if you need to stay alert).

Medications: skin and eye care

Products for treating skin problems, burns, infections and eye irritation.

Product Application What it is for Approx. price
Antifungal cream (clotrimazole 1% / Canesten) Apply 2-3 times a day for 2-4 weeks Skin fungal infections, athlete's foot, fungal infections in moist areas (groin, armpits). Continue treatment for 1 week after symptoms disappear. EUR 5-7
Burn cream (Biafine / trolamine) Apply a thick layer 2-4 times a day Sunburn, mild thermal burns (1st and superficial 2nd degree). Moisturises and speeds healing. Do not use on severe burns. EUR 6-8
Silver sulfadiazine cream (Silvederma / Flammazine) Apply a thin layer 1-2 times a day on burns 2nd degree burns, preventing infection in burns. Topical antibacterial. Some presentations require a prescription. EUR 8-12
Moisturising eye drops (Systane / Hyabak / Lacryvisc) 1-2 drops in each eye, 3-4 times a day Dry eyes, eye irritation, wind, air conditioning, screens. Lubricates and relieves discomfort. Preservative-free is preferable. EUR 8-12
Sunscreen SPF 50+ Apply generously 15-30 min before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 h. Prevents sunburn, skin cancer, photoageing. Essential for outdoor activities, beach, mountains. EUR 8-15
Insect repellent (Autan / Off / Relec) Apply to exposed skin. Avoid eyes and mouth. Reapply as directed (4-8 h). Protection against mosquitoes, ticks, flies. DEET 30-50% is most effective. Essential in rural areas, camping, tick season (spring/summer). EUR 5-8
Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) Apply as needed Lip protection, blister prevention (feet), lubrication, protecting skin in friction zones. Multi-purpose and inexpensive. EUR 2-3
Hydrocortisone 1% cream Apply a thin layer 1-2 times a day (max. 7 days) Mild skin inflammation, eczema, highly inflamed bites, contact dermatitis. Mild corticosteroid. Do not use on infected wounds. EUR 4-6
Burns first aid:
  1. Cool immediately under cold running water (for at least 20 minutes)
  2. Do not apply ice, butter, toothpaste or other "home remedies"
  3. Cover with a clean, damp dressing
  4. Apply Biafine or a specific burn cream after cooling
  5. If there are large blisters, severe pain or a large area: see a doctor
Ticks: Use DEET-based repellent in risk areas. If you find an attached tick: remove with fine-point tweezers (as close to the skin as possible), pulling slowly upwards. Disinfect the area. Keep the tick in a container. If fever or a ring-shaped redness appears in the following days, see a doctor (risk of Lyme disease).

Special medical equipment

Devices and equipment useful for monitoring and advanced first aid.

Essential

Digital thermometer

~EUR 5-8

Axillary or tympanic (ear) thermometer. Fast and accurate body temperature reading. Essential for detecting fever. Choose models with a flexible tip (more comfortable).

Where: Pharmacies, supermarkets, Amazon
Recommended

Wrist/arm blood pressure monitor

~EUR 15-30

For measuring blood pressure. Important if someone in the household has hypertension or heart problems. Automatic arm monitors are more accurate than wrist models. Brands: Omron, Beurer.

Where: Pharmacies, Wells, Worten, Amazon
Recommended

Pulse oximeter

~EUR 10-20

Measures blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate. Useful for respiratory problems, asthma, COPD, COVID-19. Normal values: SpO2 >95%. If <92%, seek medical help.

Where: Pharmacies, Amazon
Optional

Immobilisation splints (SAM Splint)

~EUR 10-15

Mouldable aluminium-covered splints or inflatable splints. For immobilising fractures or severe sprains until medical help arrives. Lightweight, reusable and easy to store.

Where: Amazon, sports shops, orthopaedic suppliers
Essential

Emergency blanket

~EUR 2/unit

Gold/silver heat-reflective foil blanket. Compact and lightweight. Essential for preventing hypothermia, treating shock or retaining body heat. Keep 2-3 (home, car, backpack).

Where: Decathlon, pharmacies, Amazon
Optional

Pocket CPR mask

~EUR 5-8

Protective mask for mouth-to-mouth ventilation with a one-way valve. Prevents direct contact and infections during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Ideal for those with first aid training.

Where: Pharmacies, Amazon, medical supply shops
Optional

Disposable syringes (without needle)

~EUR 1-2

10 ml or 20 ml syringes (without needle) for irrigating wounds with saline solution or water. Deep and effective cleaning. Pack of 5-10 units.

Where: Pharmacies
Optional

Manual sphygmomanometer (professional)

~EUR 25-40

Manual blood pressure device (cuff + stethoscope). More accurate than automatic monitors, but requires practice. Good for those with training or who want to learn.

Where: Pharmacies, specialist shops, Amazon
Priorities: Start with the essentials: digital thermometer and emergency blankets. If there are people with chronic conditions at home (hypertension, diabetes, asthma), add the relevant monitoring equipment (blood pressure monitor, pulse oximeter, blood glucose meter).

How to organise your medical kit

A well-organised kit can make the difference in an emergency. Follow these guidelines:

Container and storage

  • Waterproof box: Use a plastic box with a hermetic seal, resistant to water and dust. Protects medications from moisture and temperature.
  • Transparent or translucent: Makes it easy to see the contents without opening.
  • With compartments: Dividers or interior pouches help organise by category.
  • Carry handle: Useful for evacuations or moving to another room.

Categorisation and labelling

  • Organise by type: Separate medications, wound dressings, antiseptics, equipment.
  • Clear labels: Medication name, dosage, what it is for and expiry date.
  • Colour coding: Use different coloured zip-lock bags for each category (red = pain/fever, blue = digestive, green = allergies, etc.).
  • Inventory list: Stick a complete contents list with expiry dates to the inside of the lid.

Location and storage

  • Cool, dry place: A cupboard away from heat sources, moisture and direct sunlight.
  • Easy access: All adults in the household should know where the kit is.
  • Out of children's reach: High shelf or cupboard with a child lock.
  • Temperature: Most medications: 15-25 C. Some need refrigeration (check the leaflet).

Regular maintenance

  • Check expiry dates every 6 months: Set a reminder (January and July).
  • Replace what you use: Whenever you use something, note it down and restock on your next pharmacy visit.
  • Update the inventory: Keep the contents list current.
  • Stock rotation: Use the oldest medications first (even if still within their use-by date).
Six-monthly checklist (January and July):
  • Check expiry dates on all medications
  • Confirm packaging integrity (no tears, no moisture)
  • Test thermometer and battery-powered devices
  • Restock used supplies (plasters, gauze, gloves)
  • Update the inventory list
  • Check whether any newly prescribed medications need to be added
Secondary kits: Consider keeping smaller kits in:
  • Car: Basic kit with plasters, povidone-iodine, paracetamol, gloves, emergency blanket
  • Hiking backpack: Plasters, gauze, adhesive tape, individual povidone-iodine, paracetamol, antihistamine
  • Travel: Compact version of the main kit with regular medications + anti-diarrhoeal

Where to buy

Pharmacies and parapharmacies

For medications, medical supplies and professional advice:

  • Local pharmacies: Best option for personalised advice and prescription medications.
  • Wells: Parapharmacy chain with a wide range of health and wellness products at competitive prices.
  • Supermarket pharmacies (Continente / Pingo Doce): In-store parapharmacy, affordable prices for over-the-counter products.
  • Online pharmacies (e.g. Farma Conde, DoceVita): Home delivery, useful for large orders.
Note: Some medications (antibiotics, strong anti-inflammatories, EpiPen, inhalers) require a prescription. Always consult the pharmacist.

First aid supplies

For kits, boxes, wound dressings and equipment:

  • Decathlon: First aid kits, sports supplies, emergency blankets, backpacks.
  • Leroy Merlin: Kits, organiser boxes, protective equipment.
  • Amazon.es / .pt: Huge selection, price comparison, fast delivery. Good for tourniquets, SAM splints, pulse oximeters.
  • IKEA: Inexpensive and functional organiser boxes for storing the kit.
  • Orthopaedic suppliers: Professional-grade equipment, splints, crutches, specialist gear.

Price comparison

  • KuantoKusta: Compares prices for medications and health products across different online shops.
  • Pharmacy apps: Many pharmacies have apps with discount and loyalty programmes.
  • Generics: Whenever possible, choose generic medications (same active ingredient, much cheaper).

First aid training

Having the kit is essential, but knowing how to use it is even more important:

  • Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa (Portuguese Red Cross): Basic and advanced first aid courses (in person).
  • ANEPC (National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection): Free or low-cost training sessions in many municipalities.
  • INEM (National Institute for Medical Emergency): Educational materials and campaigns on BLS (basic life support).
  • YouTube / online platforms: First aid tutorials, CPR, haemorrhage control (complement, not substitute for in-person training).
Recommendation: A 1-2 day first aid course can save lives. It teaches CPR, airway clearance (Heimlich manoeuvre), haemorrhage control, burn treatment and much more. An investment well worth making.

Final checklist: what you should have

Minimum essential kit (approx. EUR 80-100)

  • Waterproof organiser box
  • Basic first aid kit (plasters, gauze, bandages, scissors, tweezers, gloves)
  • Povidone-iodine 10% (100 ml)
  • Saline solution (individual doses)
  • Paracetamol 1 g (20 tablets)
  • Ibuprofen 400 mg (20 tablets)
  • Oral rehydration salts, Dioralyte (6-10 sachets)
  • Loperamide (Imodium)
  • Gaviscon or Maalox
  • Cetirizine or loratadine (antihistamine)
  • Dimetindene gel (Fenistil)
  • Digital thermometer
  • Emergency blankets (2-3 units)
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen SPF 50

Recommended complete kit (+EUR 50-80)

Add to the essential kit:

  • Hyoscine butylbromide (Buscopan, for cramps)
  • Domperidone (for nausea)
  • Activated charcoal
  • Children's paracetamol (if you have children)
  • Clotrimazole (Canesten, antifungal)
  • Trolamine cream (Biafine, for burns)
  • Moisturising eye drops
  • Petroleum jelly
  • Tourniquet
  • Adhesive sutures (steri-strips)
  • Pulse oximeter
  • Blood pressure monitor (if applicable)
  • Pocket CPR mask

Personal medications (always include)

  • Chronic medication for all household members (minimum 1-2 week reserve)
  • EpiPen if there are severe allergies
  • Inhaler (Ventolin) if there are asthmatics
  • Insulin and diabetes supplies (if applicable)
  • Emergency cardiac medication (if prescribed)
  • Copies of important prescriptions
  • List of allergies and medical conditions for each person

Final reminder: safety and responsibility

Having a complete medical kit is an essential step in emergency preparedness, but:

  • This guide does NOT replace a medical consultation or professional diagnosis
  • If in doubt, always contact SNS 24 (808 24 24 24) or call 112 in emergencies
  • Do not use medications past their expiry date
  • Always read the package leaflet before taking any medication
  • Respect dosages and intervals between doses
  • Keep medications away from children and animals
  • First aid training is JUST AS important as having the supplies
  • Update the kit regularly and keep everything organised

Being prepared saves lives. Take care of yourself and your family.