7 Best First Aid Kits in 2023
We gave our Gear Lovers one job:
Find the best and most popular first aid kits and review them.
Our review team always considers durability, price, quality, and value in their reviews.
Proper first aid is an essential tool that anyone can prepare for. More than half of trauma-related deaths could have been prevented if someone had been able to deliver first aid immediately, before emergency help arrived.
Proper knowledge of first aid and a portable medical kit is always worth the cost. It also cuts the hospital and recovery time of an individual.
Whether for work, household, school, car, or outdoor use, you can find a whole range of kits to buy. Or gather your own favorite first aid products and make your own DIY medkit.
We tested some pre-made portable medical kits to help you decide which best suits your needs. These include jam-packed sets, ultra-minimalist ones, and everything in between.
Read on, and we’ll walk you through how these first aid kits will treat your burns, cuts, aches, and more.
The Top 7 First Aid Kits in 2023
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1
For Outdoors: EVERLIT 250-Piece Tactical Survival Kit -
2
Group Use: Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series -
3
Waterproof: SHBC Waterproof -
4
2-in-1 Deal: Swiss Safe 2-in-1 -
5
Individual Use: American Red Cross 9165-RC -
6
Most Compact: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .3 -
7
Full-Sized Supply: Band-Aid Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose
Our Top First Aid Kits of 2022
If you want an almost perfect premade portable medical kit, this one from EVERLIT is for you. From a US veteran-owned company comes a 250-piece compact medkit packed in a durable 1000 denier nylon, tactical-inspired pouch.
You can easily rip it away from the straps for a quick release when needed, to respond to an emergency in a snap. See everything you need with the ziplock organization secured in a thick daisy chain in its trifold design. It also has spare room left for any extra supplies you want to add. Get this portable medical kit for hunting, hiking, camping or to keep in your car.
You will have all the basics like bandages, safety pins, tweezers, scissors, antiseptic wipes, and gloves. Plus, a couple of glow sticks, an emergency thermal blanket, a CPR mask, a firestarter, a folding pocket knife, a flashlight, and a paracord bracelet with a compass and whistle.
EVERLIT 250-Piece Tactical Survival Kit is a crossover portable medical kit that can simultaneously adapt to regular household use, nature, and survival settings.
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 250
- For: Individual or Group Use
- Pouch: 1000D Nylon
- Dimension: 6.5” x 4” x 8”
- Weight: 1.9 lbs.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Produced by a veteran-owned company, you know they know they're what they're doing when planning for survival -
Durable pouch
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Rip-away Velcro backing to quickly remove without releasing straps
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There's a drain hole at the bottom of the bag in case water seeps inside
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There’s enough room to add another small pouch for additional items
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Clear zip lock organization lets you identify supplies quickly
Things we don't like:
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You need to add your painkillers, medications, and ointments
Whether hiking, car camping, or leading a troop, the Mountain Series portable medical kit is priced well for group emergency aid. Adventure Medical Kits have well-thought out organization, with six labeled compartments and a scissor loop.
Select the size of the kit from AMK to match your group number and type of expedition (ie. more lightweight for backpacking or daytripping).
This portable medical kit can accommodate up to seven people and last roughly fourteen days of continuous use with 164 supplies inside. That’s more than enough for family use or for minor accidents during an excursion with friends. Treat blisters, cuts, fractures, and burns and avoid escalating injuries.
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 164
- For: 7 people
- Duration: 14 days
- Dimension: 10” x 7” x 5.2”
- Weight: 2 lbs.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Well organized with labels on each compartment
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The bag opens to 5 accessible and labeled compartments so you can access everything easily
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Can deal with almost all basic emergencies along the trail
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Lightweight and super packable despite all its contents
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There’s a first aid guide included
Things we don't like:
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No tweezers included
A portable medical kit made to stay dry and practical during rainy seasons, SHBC Waterproof First Aid Kit has 228 supplies inside to care for your injuries. It’s an affordable option ready to serve both individual and group use.
Immediately attend to burns, wounds, blisters, and fractures with its contents, from bandages, tweezers, and a tourniquet to a CPR mask. There is a saber card multi-tool and a whistle for attention. There’s also an emergency shelter! With this waterproof portable medical kit from SHBC, even heavy downpours can’t stop you from dealing with emergencies.
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 228
- For: Individual and Group
- Pouch: EVA Hard Case
- Dimension: 8.3”×6.3”×3.2”
- Weight: 1.63 lbs.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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It comes in a waterproof hard case
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Affordable yet packed with supplies
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There’s a multi-tool card included
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CPR mask, tweezers, and tourniquet are included
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Everything's in a transparent sealed bag, so it's easy to spot items
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Emergency shelter for additional warmth and protection
Things we don't like:
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You need to add your painkillers and medications and ointments
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It can be confusing with the lack of labels
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No first aid guide included
Get two kits for the price of one with the Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit. This portable medical kit comes with a main pack containing 120 supplies and a 32-piece pocket-sized mini-kit that you can carry anywhere. Both are well-thought-out to ensure you can treat injuries as quickly and effectively as possible.
This Swiss Safe portable medical kit has the bonus of including a sewing kit! Add that to the survival tools like bandages, a glowstick, a compass, a whistle, and an emergency blanket, and you have a versatile emergency first aid kit.
Properly treat injuries with this well-thought-out kit for a very reasonable price. Swiss Safe also includes a first aid booklet to help you attend to emergencies effectively. And no worries, they also offer some of the best after-purchase customer service support, reaching out to you to double-check you’re satisfied with your purchase!
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 120 + 32
- For: Individual and Group Use
- Pouch: Woven Nylon + Mini Pouch
- Dimension: 6” x 9” x 3”
- Weight: 1.2 lbs.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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It's a 2-in-1 deal, with one main pack, and a pocket-sized pouch
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There’s a sewing kit included
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Survival tools including an emergency blanket, whistle, glow stick, and compass
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Lightweight and compact, easy to carry anywhere
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Great after-purchase customer service
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There’s a first aid booklet for guidance
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Reasonably priced for a well-thought-out portable medical kit
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CPR mask and ice pack are ready for use
Things we don't like:
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Lacks organization, labels, and additional pockets
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You need to supply your medications/ointments
Get high-quality first aid supplies with this American Red Cross first aid kit. This is a portable medical kit with 73 pieces inside, ready to treat minor wounds and injuries. Get bandages, ointments, medicines, and other valuable items like a CPR mask, thermometer, and ice pack. Everything is latex-free to give you extra peace of mind if you have an allergy!
This individual portable medical kit from the American Red Cross also comes with a guide to help you in your emergency. You can keep all the basics within reach, packed in a lightweight and easy to open red nylon pouch, whether at home or in your car.
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 73
- For: Individual Use
- Duration: A day
- Pouch: Nylon
- Dimension: 7.5” x 9” x 2.5”
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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High-quality supplies
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There's an ice pack, CPR mask, and thermometer
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OTC medicines and ointments are included
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Everything inside is latex-free
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A first aid booklet will guide you
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Lightweight and compact
Things we don't like:
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Not as organized as it could be
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Only for minor injuries
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Price is a bit high for a small pack
Where to buy:
If you prioritize staying lightweight, this portable medical kit from Adventure Medical Kits is only a couple of ounces. Ultralight and Watertight this First Aid Kit is a 33-piece set sealed in a weatherproof resealable heavy-duty plastic pouch. Though it’s one of the most compact options, it serves your minor emergencies with various bandages and dressings, topical relief ointment and Ibuprofen, moleskin, tweezers, and more!
Toss it inside your pocket or bag and have it on standby whether you’re out for a day hike, kayaking, or biking. Treat wounds, cuts, and blisters with this packable waterproof first aid kit from Adventure Medical Kits.
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 33
- For: Individual Use
- Duration: 1-2 days
- Pouch: Resealable DryFlex Waterproof Bag
- Dimension: 5.25” x 5” x 1”
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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It comes in a weatherproof resealable pouch
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Precision point tweezers are included for blisters and ticks
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Topical ointments and OTC medications are helpful
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Super lightweight and packable
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Quality supplies you can trust
Things we don't like:
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Not for serious emergencies
Band-Aid J&J All-Purpose First Aid Kit is another portable medical kit from a trusted name offering immediate treatment with its 140-piece set. Unlike most compact options, this one comes with full-sized supplies instead of single-use sachets. It’s a steal with its affordable price tag!
This kit includes Johnson & Johnson products: BandAid, Tylenol, Benadryl, Bengay, and Neosporin products are all inside. An instant ice pack is also on standby in case you need it. With this portable medical kit from Band-Aid, have the peace of mind that minor injuries within the house, office, or while outside will not get any worse.
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 140
- For: Individual/Group Use
- Duration: 1-2 days
- Pouch: Plastic Hard Case
- Dimension: 3.27” x 9.75” x 7”
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Top-quality supplies from a trusted brand
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It comes with full-sized items, not just single-use sachets
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There’s an instant ice pack included
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You’ll have pain killers and topical ointments
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You get more than what you paid for compared to getting each supply one by one
Things we don't like:
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No tweezers, tape, and scissors
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Only for small injuries
Get the HART Outdoor Multiday First Aid Kit to ensure your group or family’s safety while traveling, hiking, or camping. This portable medical kit includes 75 quality supplies to attend to your wounds, burns, and other injuries.
This HART portable medical kit unfolds and opens wide. It’s made to last for around five days accommodating emergency needs of up to four people. You can see everything inside with clear compartments. Labels and a first aid manual will guide you for effective treatment.
When you opt for the HART Outdoor Multiday First Aid Kit, you’ll have essential medicines, topical ointments, bandages, gauze, moleskin, forceps, scissors, and more.
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 76
- For: 4 people
- Duration: 5 days
- Pouch: Polyester/PEVA
- Dimension: 7” x 6” x 2”
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The pouch opens wide for quick access
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Well-organized items with labels so you can quickly grab what you need
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Quality supplies you can depend on
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There’s a first aid manual included to guide you
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List of items with expiration dates to help you replenish supplies when needed
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There are medications and topical ointments
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It provides good value for its price
Things we don't like:
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A CPR mask, shelter, tourniquet or pressure pad, and icepack would be valuable add-ons
An excellent personal portable medical kit, the 100-piece Surviveware has all the basics. Plus, a CPR kit as well! You can tend to burns, wounds, and cuts and provide proper resuscitation when necessary.
It comes in a lightweight and highly water-resistant 600 Denier polyester pouch. This portable medical kit is effortless to open with labeled compartments. It comes with a first aid handbook and information guide so you can swiftly deal with injuries without confusion.
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 100
- For: 1 person
- Pouch: 600D Polyester
- Dimension: 8” x 6” x 3”
- Weight: 1 lb.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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There’s a CPR kit included
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It comes with a durable and water-resistant pouch
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One of the most lightweight portable medical kits out there
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Clear zip lock bags with labeled compartments for organization and ease of use
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There's also a booklet to guide you
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Well-thought-out supplies included
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You can add more since you have extra space inside
Things we don't like:
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You’ll need to add medications
Be Smart Get Prepared First Aid Kit might not be the best choice for outdoor emergencies, but it’s a practical option for your typical injuries close to home. This super-affordable portable medical kit contains 100 pieces of various supplies meant to clean, treat and protect your scrapes and minor wounds.
You get alcohol wipes, antibiotic ointments, an ice pack, bandages, and tape rolls in a lightweight, compact, durable plastic case for a low price. Slide the latch open instantly, and you can also customize the dividers inside depending on your preference. Not only that, but this portable medical kit from Be Smart Get Prepared also has a small pouch where you can have a bit of everything and slip it inside your pocket without any problem.
Keep it on standby inside your car, work bag, or school backpack. A first aid booklet is also included to guide you.
Specs & Features
- Pieces: 100
- For: Individual Use
- Pouch: High Density Plastic
- Dimension: 7.5” x 2.5” x 6.8”
- Weight: 0.8 lb.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Low price for a packed first aid kit
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It comes in a durable and easy-to-open plastic case
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You can customize/remove the dividers as you want
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Lightweight and easy to store/pack
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There’s another small pocket-sized pouch where you can put a bit of everything
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An ice pack for cold compression
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There’s a first aid guide to help you out
Things we don't like:
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Bandages are cheap
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Ointments are enough for minor scrapes but not for more significant injuries like burns/lacerations.
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No tools included
Related Reviews
First Aid Kits: Buyer’s Guide
Assisting someone with first aid can be the difference between life or death. Being able to treat someone or yourself until an EMS arrives
Usually, such drama is for TV. A portable medical kit will mainly remove the inconvenience of small cuts and bruises and create comfort or peace of mind.
Having a kit and knowing how to use it properly is one of the most basic survival essentials many people overlook. You’ll be grateful to have one within reach, whether for home, work, or outdoors. Having a band-aid when you need it is always so nice, it’s strange when we don’t prepare by having them.
From a small individual first aid pouch to bulkier specialized units, you’ll benefit from the essentials you have on standby to prevent injuries from getting worse. Have it readymade or customize your own.
Read on and know the primary differences between each portable medical kit. Read on to be a bit more prepared when mishaps occur or should a real medical crisis happen.
Purchasing Readymade First Aid Kits
Not everyone has the time and patience to create their portable medical kit from scratch. Sometimes it’s just that you don’t know how to. Going for premade sets is one convenient option. Not only can you choose from lots of variations, but you also won’t leave essential supplies out.
If you decide to purchase your first aid kit, here are some points worth considering:
Individual/Group Use
How many people can it serve? The first thing first aid producers think about is the intended purpose. Do you need an individual medkit, or do you want one for the entire group, like family-use?
A portable medical kit made for groups comes with a more significant ration of supplies like gauze and medicines. Band-Aid J&J All-Purpose comes with full-sized items instead of single-use ones. Adventure Medical Kit Mountain Series can serve up to seven people.
Estimated Trip Duration
Other than the number of people your medkit can serve, it is crucial to know how long it can last for the individual or group. Identify the estimated duration of your trip and look for a portable medical kit with the same capacity. HART Outdoor Multiday First Aid Kit can supply items for as long as five days.
Environment
What environment will you be in? Are you out for watersports, climbing, trail running, or camping? It matters not only for the quality of your portable medical kit’s pouch but also its size.
A waterproof bag will be necessary if you’re boating or kayaking. Lighter alternatives will be ideal for demanding activities like running. For backcountry technical adventures, bulkier and more packed kits will be useful. EVERLIT 250-Piece Tactical Survival Kit is suitable for rugged nature trips, while SHBC Waterproof is great for beach time or any water-related activities. Ultralight/Watertight .3 is a lightweight option for a quick hike.
Specialized Medkits
Some portable medical kits have specific supplies included for a particular type of activity. These will Include special tools and supplies that might come in handy, especially if you’re in a group with medically knowledgeable members.
Making a DIY First Aid Kit
If you prefer customizing your medkit, here’s a guide. First off, look for a pouch or small bag for your portable medical kit. We found packing cubes can double as good alternatives too. Add a little organization inside using tiny pill bottles, zip locks, and tape. It would also help to make labels for each item.
Now that you have a pouch for your portable medical kit, here are the essentials.
Bandages
If you need support for an injury or need a dressing for your wounds, bandages will restrict movement and help stop the bleeding. Standard gauze pads, medical adhesive tapes, elastic wraps, and liquid bandages would be a valuable add-on to your first aid kit.
Treatments/Medication
You need another staple supply in a portable medical kit- ointments, lotions, and medications. These include over-the-counter drugs like Ibuprofen, paracetamol, antacids, and aspirin. Sunburn treatments like lotions with aloe vera will also be handy.
Tools
The most convenient is having a reliable multi-tool knife. Small blunt-tip scissors, thermometer, medical gloves, cotton swabs, small soap, and tweezers shouldn’t be missing.
Additional Thoughts
Whether you choose to purchase a first aid kit or create one, constantly assess possible threats during your trip. If there are many bugs and other insects, pack up insect repellent and ointment. After ensuring that all the essentials are loaded up, don’t forget to carry personal supplies like maintenance medicines. An emergency shelter will also save you from lots of trouble.
If it’s a group adventure, practice packing individual portable medical kits as much as possible. This way, each is customized for the specific needs of every member.
Your readymade medkit comes with a small instruction booklet. If you’re making your portable medical kit, create a guide on administering first aid. In high stress situations like emergencies, it’s easy to panic and forget about go-to procedures. Having a reminder within reach is critical.
A GPS tracker like a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon will be a lifesaver for accidents that no first aid kit can fix. You can alert rescuers, and help will come in no time.
Maintaining your First Aid Kit
A portable medical kit can be the thin line between life and death. Keeping it well maintained and ready for use is the best way to ensure it delivers tip-top services when it’s needed.
Check all the items in your portable medical kit after each use and refresh all the supplies you used once you get back home. Give it an inspection every six months when it ends up sitting in the corner, unused. Check each item’s expiration date, look for deterioration in the tools, and that any sealed and sterile supplies are still secure.
Is First Aid Training Necessary?
One of the obstacles people face when administering first aid is panic, especially if you’re not trained for emergencies. Sure your premade portable medical kit has an instruction manual. And you’ve read how to administer first aid. But once you’re in an actual life threatening situation, it’ll be tricky unless you’re equipped with the proper training.
Locate local courses from certified organizations and sign up. One way or another, you’ll be glad that you did. It’s a wise investment for every outdoor enthusiast and adventurer.
How’s your experience with first aid kits? Did you purchase one or make your own? Let us know in the comments below!
Frequently asked questions about First Aid Kits
Tweezers play a vital role in your portable medical kit, especially if you’re in the woods. You can easily remove any ticks or splinters. Though they’re relatively minor issues, they’re a pain in the long run and will ruin your trip. Having tweezers in your first aid kit won’t let you down.
Yes.
After creating your checklist for a DIY portable medical kit, grab the supplies and tools and organize them in your designated pouch. This way, you can customize the labels and add any special items you might personally need that pre-made kits don’t usually have (like your maintenance medicine). You can keep it as compact or comprehensive as you want, as long as you have all the essentials.
Check. Call. Care.
Check the surroundings. Responding to an emergency shouldn’t put you in danger. Stay alert if there are any fire, traffic, or hazardous threats around. As much as you can, call for help from people within the same vicinity.
Call the emergency hotline. After checking the area and the victim’s pulse, call 911 for immediate response. Relay all information as thoroughly as possible.
Care- provide first aid if you know how to. Investing in a course is a wise investment. The most common need in an emergency is being able to properly perform CPR when needed.
To save you time and stress, here are some of the first aid kits that impressed us:
- For Outdoors: EVERLIT 250-Piece Tactical Survival Kit
- Group Use: Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series
- Waterproof: SHBC Waterproof First Aid Kit
- 2-in-1 Deal: Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit
- Individual Use: American Red Cross 9165-RC First Aid Kit
- Most Compact: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .3 First Aid Kit
- Full-Sized Supply: Band-Aid Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose First Aid Kit
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