First aid kit: full composition according to the new rules and what has changed

From January 1, 2026, updated requirements for contents of a car first aid kit, approved by order of the Ministry of Health No. 108n dated September 15, 2023. The changes affected not only the list of mandatory products, but also the rules for their storage, expiration dates, as well as penalties for violations. If you haven’t yet updated the first aid kit in your car, now is the time to figure out what exactly should be under the seat, and what usual medications you can (and should!) get rid of.

The new rules were introduced taking into account modern medical protocols and accident statistics. For example, from the first aid kit analgin and aspirin were removed — they were replaced by safer and more effective analgesics. But hemostatic tourniquet has now become a mandatory element, although previously many drivers ignored its purchase. In this article we will analyze in detail the current composition of the first aid kit for 2026, compare it with the previous version, explain why some drugs were excluded, and tell you how to avoid a fine of 500–1000 rubles for non-compliance with the requirements.

What has changed in the composition of the car first aid kit since 2026: key novelties

The main innovation is transition to GOST R 58955-2026, which replaced the outdated 2015 standard. Now the first aid kit must comply not only with the list of products, but also with the requirements for their packaging, labeling and shelf life. Here are the main changes:

• ✅ Added: hemostatic tourniquet, hypothermic bag, antiseptic wipes with chlorhexidine, artificial respiration mask with valve.
• ❌ Excluded: analgin, aspirin, activated carbon, ammonia (in ampoules), iodine (in its pure form).
• 🔄 Replaced: gauze bandages to sterile ones - now there should be at least 3 pieces (previously 2 were enough).
• ⏳ Expiration dates: Now all components of the first aid kit must have a remaining life of at least 1.5 years at the time of the traffic police inspection.

Why such changes? The Ministry of Health explains this modern first aid protocols. For example, analgin is excluded due to the risk of anaphylactic shock, and ammonia because its improper use can aggravate the victim’s condition. Instead of iodine, they are now recommended antiseptic wipes, which are safer and more convenient to use.

Complete list of first aid kit 2026: what should be required

According to the order of the Ministry of Health, in the car first aid kit must be present the following components (table below). Please note: if at least one point is missing, the traffic police inspector has the right to issue a fine.

Important: all components must be factory produced with marking confirming compliance with GOST R 58955-2026. Homemade first aid kits (such as those collected from household supplies) are not permitted. Also note expiration dates:

• 🩹 Bandages and napkins - 5 years.
• ⏳ Tourniquet - 6 years (see production date on the packaging).
• 💊 Medicines (if any) - according to the instructions, but for at least 2 years.

What was removed from the first aid kit: why analgin and ammonia are now banned

Many drivers wonder why from the first aid kit eliminated the usual medications. Let's see what causes these changes:

1. Analgin (metamizole sodium): prohibited due to high risk anaphylactic shock and agranulocytosis (blood disease). It is now recommended instead paracetamol 500 mg (10 tablets) or ibuprofen 200 mg (5 tablets).
2. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid): can cause bleeding in injuries, so it has been replaced with safer analgesics.
3. Ammonia in ampoules: excluded due to the risk of burns to mucous membranes if used incorrectly. Instead of him now ammonia wipes are used (if they are included in the kit).
4. Iodine and greens: replaced by antiseptic wipes, since liquid solutions can spill and ruin the first aid kit.

Interesting fact: validol was also removed from the mandatory list, since its effectiveness for heart pain has not been proven. It is now recommended instead nitroglycerin (if the driver has heart disease), but it is not included in the standard package.

Fines for missing or incorrect first aid kit in 2026

According to Art. 12.5 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation, for the absence of a first aid kit or its non-compliance with the new requirements, the traffic police inspector may issue a fine in the amount of 500 rubles. However, in practice the amount may increase to 1000 rubles, if:

• ⚠️First aid kit completely absent (for example, they forgot to put it in after buying the car).
• ⚠️ Expiration date at least one component (even if the others are fine).
• ⚠️ In the first aid kit illegal drugs (analgin, aspirin, etc.).
• ⚠️ Equipment does not comply with GOST R 58955-2026 (for example, no tourniquet or antiseptic wipes).

Important: a fine will be issued even if there is a first aid kit, it is incomplete. For example, if you have bandages and a plaster, but no tourniquet, this is already a violation. The inspector has the right to check the first aid kit during any stop, especially if he has suspicions (for example, when transporting children or goods).

⚠️ Attention! If the first aid kit is in the trunk and not in the cabin, the inspector may regard this as it absence. According to the rules, a first aid kit should be easily accessible - that is, under the seat or in the glove compartment.

How to properly store a first aid kit in your car: 5 mandatory rules

Even if you bought a first aid kit with the correct composition, you need it store correctly, otherwise the components may deteriorate or lose their properties. Here are the key recommendations:

1. Temperature: The first aid kit should be in the cabin, not in the trunk. Optimal temperature - from +5°C to +25°C. In hot weather (>30°C), medications and materials deteriorate faster.
2. Moisture protection: If the first aid kit is in a plastic box, check that the seals are intact. Humidity accelerates the deterioration of bandages and napkins.
3. Availability: there should be a first aid kit at hand - under the driver or passenger seat. In the event of an accident, you will not have time to look for it in the trunk.
4. Checking deadlines: once every 6 months check expiration dates (especially for tourniquets and napkins). Replace expired components immediately.
5. Child protection: if children ride in the car, a first aid kit should be in closed box (many medications and antiseptics are dangerous if swallowed).

Tip: If you often drive long distances, keep it in your car. two first aid kits - standard (for the traffic police) and extended (with personal medications). The second one can be stored in the trunk, but always keep the first one in the cabin.

Where to buy a first aid kit according to the new rules: a review of proven options

Buy a first aid kit that matches GOST R 58955-2026, possible in several places. Here are the most reliable options:

• 🚗 Auto stores: "AutoSpetsCenter", "AutoWorld", "BB" — there are usually certified kits here. Price: 800–1500 rub.
• 💊 Pharmacies: not all pharmacies sell auto first aid kits, but in large chains (for example, "Rigla" or "36,6") you can order a set to order.
• 🌍 Online: on Ozon, Wildberries or Yandex Market look for first aid kits marked "GOST 2026". Pay attention to reviews!
• 🏢 Service stations and driving schools: sometimes they sell first aid kits at a discount for their customers.

When purchasing, be sure to check:

1. Availability certificate of conformity (must be included in the kit or on the packaging).
2. Expiration dates all components (especially the tourniquet and napkins).
3. Packaging tightness - if the box is wrinkled or open, it is better to take another copy.

⚠️ Attention! Do not buy first aid kits "on sale" for 300–400 rubles - most likely this is an outdated version from 2015 or a fake. Average price of a quality kit - 1000–1200 rubles.

Frequent mistakes drivers make when packing a first aid kit

Even experienced motorists sometimes make mistakes when assembling or checking a first aid kit. Here TOP-5 misses, because of which you can run into a fine:

1. Use a home first aid kit. Many people put the same medications in the car as they do at home (analgin, activated carbon, brilliant green). This unacceptable — the composition must strictly comply with GOST.
2. Keep a first aid kit in the trunk. The inspector has the right to fine if the first aid kit is not accessible from the cabin.
3. They don't check expiration dates. Bandages and napkins may look normal, but if they have expired, this is a violation.
4. Buy a first aid kit without a tourniquet. Many cheap kits do not include a tourniquet - check the contents before purchasing!
5. “Extra” medications are added. For example, antibiotics or strong painkillers. This is not prohibited, but may raise questions from the inspector.

Another common mistake is use the first aid kit for other purposes. For example, take a patch or napkins from it for household needs. Remember: a first aid kit must be complete and ready for emergency use at any moment.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the first aid kit 2026