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This first aid kit is fantastic! I typically loop my tapes around my trekking pole, knife, and toothbrush to save space in my kit. Instead of carrying a separate roll, it's much more convenient. I used to bring along a compact folding scissor, but now I rely on a Swiss knife equipped with tweezers, scissors, and a small saw - it's a game-changer! I also keep emergency toilet paper on hand for those real emergencies. Sting wipes have been a lifesaver for me on numerous occasions, especially since it seems hornets and insects are drawn to me! I found a cheap waterproof first aid pouch on ae, and I absolutely swear by it. Additionally, I believe a satellite device is essential (probably watched too many "Kyle hates hiking" videos). I carry the $6 Coghlan whistle/thermometer, which has proven invaluable for communicating with friends on the trail multiple times. I also make sure to include compression bandages for sprains and as makeshift tourniquets, as well as ice packs or hand warmers depending on the weather. Burn ointment packs are a must for those cozy campfire nights. I always keep a small printout of the map in my kit, along with a basic first aid manual/guide. This summer, I'm planning to take a short wilderness first aid course - hoping it will be beneficial for both myself and those around me!
EXCELLENT TIPS IN THIS COMMENT! The more I think about it, the more I'm thinking I'll ad some small burn cream packs. I don't usually build a fire at camp, but burns still happen (stove, pot, sun burn, etc.) so probably a good idea. And I totally agree about the satellite device. I don't like to be an alarmist, but I ALWAYS take mine. I've never had to push SOS, but I still take it every. single. time. Thanks for sharing all these tips you've found useful for your kit! They are excellent!
Ask through hikers how nasty tape becomes long term when wrapped and exposed on gear. Or hunters for that matter out in the field. Rain, snow, mud. The 'wrap the duct tape around the Nagene bottle' thing was definitely a fail, no good. Especially how often people dunkedthese in feses born bateria filled water or Beaver Fever spots... Just common sense. Now think, you may have to use that tape for medical purposes on the skin. That tape on a trecking pole or germ filled tooth brush, bottle etc....how do you think that will do in regards to creating infections? Or do you have separate tape, additional weight kept fairly sterile and clean atleast? Taking space in your pack. Just asking. On poles and this is interesting think of all the things those poles encounter. Dust, dirt, feses, urine, toxins from plants and insects, poison ivy?, environmental crap. So interesting is a condition called Parvo which is in the urine of some animals, critters, deer, etc.... It can make dogs very sick or dead. They are really just studying this as a thing in these modern times. And dogs get it from just sniffing around pee or crap. Sniffing... How it makes humans sick ? Like Lyme disease it will take years until truth is told my guess. Chances are Parvo is on your tracking poles right now. You still want to use that tape around the pole to tape up a huge deep gash in your leg? It may be your only option. You definately and absolutely can't use the stuff on your tooth brush. Your mouth is probably worse then Parvo. Think ! I used to do that 'wrap tape on stuff' with lighters until I found in storage, sometimes for years in my kits, lighters were almost empty and the sticky on the tape degrades as you re-wrap it on something else. Fact. Every try to get the adhesive off your gear? Go try. You need to use m8neral spirits or Goo gone and there goes whatever, the paint, the finish...murder on plastics. No, dumb stuff. I cut a free everywhere plastic store card in half. I roll my Gorilla tape and Leuko tape on each half. And like him I store in a little zip or plastic wrap. So easy, weighs nothing, fits in a wallet, and I keep mine in the zip pocket in my tiny Sil nylon waiste pack, always with me. Part of MY EDC or every day carry. I incorporate hiking, camping, day trips, all travel and emergency preparedness all into one full system. No 3 tra bags, cost, product, time and energy. No packing separate little bags, 'kits' or a product for each specific kit, circumstance, occasion...whatever. One EDC with the essentials. And tape is one of those essentials.
@@RRavencraft Ya, this is a big reason I started putting it in a bag as well. I had some wrapped on a pen or some wrapped on a trekking pole. The stuff on the pen got dirty and un-sticky from my hand and the tape on the trekking pole was useless when I needed it after being in the sun for who knows how many hours.
@RRavencraft makes sense, I am just a weekend warrior. Appreciate your input! I don't attach medical tape around anything though. It's just duct tape that I do.
@@RRavencraftI agree about the tape on trekking poles or Nalgene, I do have some on those but that is for fire starting or repairing gear, my “medical” duct tape I wrap around an old credit card or gift card, that hard plastic, just a couple of feet, so still very lightweight and keep that in a more sterile field with my first aid kit.
I did a trail race a couple years back, and there was a downed bee hive on the side of a trail cutting across a steep hill. The trail was so narrow that you could only get a max of maybe 4 feet away from the hive while passing by. A bunch of other race participants were just standing back, looking at the hive, trying to figure out what to do. I knew that I couldn't do anything to improve the situation, so I just pressed on and hoped for the best. The bees immediately swarmed me and I got about 8 stings on my calf. Boy was I glad to have one of those sting wipes with me!
My first aid has evolved, after that machete attack on Appalachian Trail in 2019 I include a tourniquet. My main first aid are alcohol pads, gauze pads (2", 4", 5x9") + sports tape, I include the syringe from Sawyer Water Filter to irrigate cuts & wounds, that is all. Walmart sports tape sticks to skin even when sweaty bloody & wet, far cheaper than leukotape, with gauze pads I make my own bandage.
One thing I picked up from the EDC community is to store your zip ties in length of heat shrink tubing. That makes them take up way less space, keeps them together, and doesn't add any weight at all. You don't even need to shrink it, just use it as a holster.
Very smart and comprehensive choice of things. I have watched your previous FA kit videos and I’ve learned a lot. Lighter is useful thing. Yet we cannot pack it in advance - lighters aren’t allowed in airplanes. Then I forgotten to buy one upon arrival. Possibly I’ll add a small sparky rod to always be in my kit. Another thing I’m adding is a roll of compression bandage. For a group of three - me, wife and small kid - it’s higher chance of little injury. Compression bandage can help with deeper cuts, sprains/strains, bleeding. Our kit is for hiking and cycling. I assume there can be more bleeding type injury on the road. I keep having a triangle bandage around but I’m trying to migrate it from FA kit to everyday item. Our triangle is made of colourful fabric and used as bandana, pillow wrap, table cloth etc. We usually take a little FA manual or bandaging and taping book. It stays in the suitcase in the base camp. We’re making little quiz tests while downtime in airports, on buses and trains. Someone mentioned sewing kit in comments. I always have a sewing kit. There’s always something broken. I’m also modifying my gear and I often do that while on bus, train… you can see the pattern. Thank you for sharing your experience All the best. Ps. How do you use the compressed gauze? It takes less space but it’s also folded like harmonica - it’s meant to be for wound packing. Maybe it would be worth trying to bandage something with it. Otherwise you may find in a stress, pain, with blood, in a dark night… it could be hard to use. Maybe it’s great and I’m talking nonsense? Maybe it just needs a bit of practice and finding right technique? Vacuum package saves space but it’s actually same weight as rolled bandage. It’s worth testing it first. My choice is a roll of compression bandage. I assume sprain is as likely as a bleeding wound during a hike. We are not having much guns where I live and travel. Deep penetrating wounds are less likely so wound packing gauze seems less useful in my case.
A contact lens case is a brilliant idea for a tiny lightweight container. Any of your contact lens wearing friends should have lots of those, they come with new contact lenses frequently.
Exactly! And if you don't have contact wearing friends you can pick them up at any walmart or pharmacy for pretty cheap. I thought/looked forever for a small container that would work well and then saw the contact case at the grocery store when I was there getting solution (for my contacts!). You'd think as a 20+ year contact wearer I would have thought of it sooner! haha!
Mirror and pen light! Everyone fails to include these. If you are first aiding yourself, you gotta see the injury, and it’s not always easy to see if you are alone. I also have a small magnifying device for the same reason - good for splinters and other small hard to see boo-boo’s. Also bring regular aspirin (chewable) for heart attacks. For repairs, also bring some nylon thread and a needle. Small tubes of super glue is also very helpful (also good for first aid).
Unless the water purification is meant to treat an entire gallon at a time you might think of premeasuring the ammount of water they are meant to treat into the gallon bag and marking a fill line for that measurement on the outside in permanent marker.
I got some very small tweezers (Tweezerman micro mini tweezers), mostly for things like slivers. I prefer a tick key over tweezers for ticks, as it takes less coordination if I have to work with my left hand. I also include a small fresnel lens, Benadryl, Tums, and a couple packets of bug repellent cream.
I know a lot of people love the tick keys, but so far my tweezer have been best for me. Nice that we have both options! I love the idea of a fresnel lens. I'm going to look into that! Thanks!
I bring a couple of burn gel single satchels in my first aid kit incase someone gets burned (and that includes sun burns - I burn easily, and it really helps if my sunscreen has not done well enough…)
Timely video! I’ve been contemplating how to put together a minimalist “exigency” kit for our summer road trip and day excursions. This kit is a great direction to go. One thing I’ve done in my kits is go old school and replace zip ties with baling wire. Well, actually brass wire. Zip ties are useful, but wire works for anything zip ties do and more. Think MacGyver….
Really nice kit brother! I would add an 3” ACE wrap for sprains/strains, I would ditch the large tweezers and replace with Uncle Bill’s “sliver grippers” tweezer. I would replace the athletic tape with “DuraPore” tape. The tape is nylon and very water resistant and sticks very well. I would add a 3” roller gauze bandage to hold dressings in place and would consider adding a roll of Coban to the kit. Well, that’s my two cents! Thanks for posting the video. Well thought out kit! God bless and safe travels!!
Great list, you definitely brought up things I missed in my emergency kit. A few different things I have in mine include a plasma lighter, hand warmers, a poncho, a small multi-tool (Gerber Dime), a small compass, and leukotape (in addition to mole skin).
I like these additions! Especially the leukotape. I've never used a plasma lighter. But I like the idea of having one standard (with my cook kit) and one plasma (in my first aid kit).
I’m allergic to the glue on almost all bandages, kinesiology tapes, and moleskin, unfortunately. I’ve had to learn how to get around it (using gauze + self-sticking tape), or find another way to heal those kinds of injuries (super glue is something I’m testing currently as a replacement for moleskin, though I’m not sure yet if I’m also allergic to super glue, which does seem to be the case.) I love the suggestions you have! One I also love to take with me is Tiger Balm. I find that I don’t need to take as much ibuprofen or other pain medications, and it is fairly easy to scoop a small amount into a lightweight container (like a contact case.) Excellent video, love your suggestions!
Great video, thank you so much for the info! Love all the useful tips. Side note: I discovered GearSkeptic on my own...you are only the second CZcamsr I have heard mention him as a source! I have learned so much from his videos. Just wanted to give him a shout out :) FYI another good source I have used for my first aid kit is Andrew Skurka.
Gear Skeptic is AWESOME! I first found him their his nutrition videos (like a lot of people). He gets into crazy detail and I love it! I’ve mentioned him a few times and I hope more people find him! I’m definitely going to check out Andrew Skurka! Thanks for the tip!
Mosquito net. My first aid kit doubles as an emergency kit so I keep other things in it. One of them is a mosquito net. I was glad to have it when I encountered thick black flies on the Sierra High Route. I also like to have a P38 can opener in there for can and just as a carry-on safe sharp object since I often go carry-on only.
I am a First aid Instructto and an outdoorsman and I believe in DIY FA Kits. My recommendation to my students : 1) Consider the level of your training 2) What is the environment you will be in, and 3) What injuries have you seen in your environment.
Great kit. That Gear Skeptic video on water purification is very informative. I've added a reflective red & white cross sticker to the outside of my emergency,on the off chance that someone else needs to find it.
Gear Skeptic's videos are EXCELLENT! Adding a red and white cross sticker to the bag is an awesome idea. I have been looking around for some red tape or something to make a cross on it, but I like the idea of a sticker. Thanks for the tip!
I also added a tiny folding knife to my small medical pack, from a Gerber 3-piece bundle, but for a medical knife, I keep a small basic Victorinox in there. Those scissors and tweezers are always so useful, and then you have the file and toothpick too. You should add a flashlight, like a 1xAAA type or USB micro light. Now in 2024, you may want to carry Naloxone as well. For my cheap bulk supplies, I picked up supplies from the dollar store. They have a pretty good selection, even the quality fabric bandages.
Solid tip on the dollar store! Honestly, I need to up my knife game. It's something that's been on my mind. I honestly hardly ever use a knife. I really like the idea of a small flashlight in the kit. I've got a keychain flashlight from Nitecore that would probably be perfect. Genius!
@@DoseofDirt Lookup derma safe folding razor knives. For some reason, no one in the youtube backpacking community ever talks about them. They weigh 8 grams and are included in US military survival kits. They're so tiny, I keep them everywhere, e.g. in my bicycle seat bag.
Thank you for this! You reminded me of a few things I need to add to my kit and great suggestions in the comments as well. One thing I never leave without is a couple packets of electrolytes and a couple packets of emergency immune booster. Thinking about it, green tea or ginseng tea bags could also be useful on a backpacking trip. Another item I have is chapstick & Vasaline. Both are good for surface protection but can also be used to start fires.
In additional to wrapping duct tape around your trekking pole add some 3M Scotch Super 33+ Electrical Tape. So many uses such as bandage and repairs. It's stretches predictably and can be applied loose or tight as needed for the application.
Instead of the moleskin I opt for a few feet of leukotape wrapped around a dull golf pencil. Not as soft, but it STICKS, and really works to reduce friction if I develop hot spots. Plus, it's muli-use for whatever you might need tape for. I also carry a Gerber Dime multi tool. Weighs less than 3 ounces, has light duty pliers and a small, sharp blade. Additionally, it has excellent tweezers and scissors. I will definitely add the poison ivy/oak wipes. I ALMOST avoided getting poison oak last trip.😢
A few people have recommended leukotape over moleskin. I'm definitely going to check it out! And dang, I'm sorry to hear about the poison ivy/oak! that is the worst!
Nice! When you mentioned Gearskeptic, i knew you know what you were talking about:) i added WoundSeal Topical Powder Wound Care First Aid for Cuts, Scrapes and Abrasions
Awesome kit! I've got a small pouch that I keep in mine that contains an eyeglass repair kit, superglue, pins, needles and thread, a razor blade, and nail clippers. I also keep a small repurposed Carmex jar filled with multi-purpose arnica salve that I use on my bad foot and wrist if needed. And a roll of lightweight sports wrap for the same.
Add a Slishman Pressure Wrap (SPW) to your first aid kit for treating major / trauma injuries. They are light-weight (about 1 oz) and are multi-functional. Previously I would have recommended the SWAT-T TQ but the SPW is easier for self-application, also works flawless in wet conditions and comes in bright orange color so first responders/para-medic should be able to easily identify it.
Ok, these are cool. I wasn't aware of these! I was carrying around an ace bandage for a while, but it was bulky and I figured the athletic tape could do just about anything the ace bandage could. These SPWs are freaking awesome. Definitely going to order one and include in my kit. Thank you!
Instead of the poison ivy stuff, I keep some soap to wash with if I get into poison ivy. Initially it was a small thing of Dr Bronners, then a small piece of castile soap bar, now I am carrying a small container of Pika Summit Suds powdered soap. For ticks I carry an Original Tick Key that I keep in my minimalist wallet. It's flat and small. I'll also include small roll of antacid or some Pepto-Bismol tablets (depends on what I have on hand when I restock). Sometimes the backpacking meals and campfire juice doesn't sit well during the night.
@@DoseofDirt I won the Summit Suds from another CZcamsr and he sent them with a small keychain sized squeeze tube. Since you use so little of the suds at a time the tube is the perfect size for backpacking.
Excellent reminder and great suggestions! Worth going thru at least once yearly or pre-season...I carry a couple tiny hydrocortisone packets as well...
Hand and toe warmers and Poison Oak wipes. Heading out to buy those pre-shaped moleskin tabs. Also, soap sheets in those tiny cases for washing hands and dishes. I also bring a few labeled aspirin for heart attack emergencies. Benedryl for problems with allergies.
Fine suggestions. I recommend wart-freezer pens for ticks. Freeze the tick with one or two bursts, THEN use tweezers to safely remove the tick. The body frozen, you cannot accidentally squeeze the guts of an unfrozen tick into your bloodstream. Bulky, but it works great.
@@DoseofDirt You are welcome. I learned about it from a co-worker who knows or knows about "The Tick Doctor" at URI. That guy's one of the world's leading experts on tick-borne diseases.
Toothache pain relievers (Orajel), cold sores or canker sores pain relievers (Orajel). Blister external analgesic (Blistex). Thank you for this video !!!
Excellent suggestions for those dealing with tooth pain. I've never dealt with it on trail, but I know even at home it can just ruin your day, so taking on trail is a great idea!
You need a roll of electrical tape for that first aid kit is a cover all and a waterproof and fireproof bandaid that helps with healing because of the glue on the tape
Tourniquet, tegaderm, aquacel ag, nasopharyngeal airway. Single dose packets of medications, because once they are out of their original packaging they expire faster. Hand warmers to pair with the mylar blankets to prevent shock and aid in clotting.
It may sound useless, but I use light colored gloves not black. If you are running your hands on someone to look for cuts and injuries, blood will show up better light colored gloves, especially in limited visibility or dark conditions. Good looking kit otherwise.
Another commenter recommended a 'Slishman Pressure Wrap' which looks like it could double as a tourniquet if needed. These CAT tourniquets you mentioned look pretty sweet as well. I'll have to do some more research.
Yes! I've got some antihistamine in there (the pink pills on the bottom left). I probably just referred to it as benadryl. Eye irrigant is a good idea as well!
Would highly recommend you adding a CAT tourniquet or at least a RATS tourniquet. One other thing I would recommend is to change you gloves out to blue instead of black. Its really hard to see blood on black gloves
You're the second person to mention the CAT tourniquet. I wasn't aware of these, but they look nice and compact. Definitely considering adding this. I hadn't thought about the blue vs black gloves! Looks like my next box will be blue!
@@DoseofDirt If you purchase a CAT tourniquet make sure to purchase it directly from North American Rescue. A lot of fakes are out there and the last thing you want to fail is a tourniquet.
I mostly hike my backyard, Pisgah National Forest, and bring only the necessities. My first aid, coupled with repair items only comes out to 5oz. Where I backpack is not crazy enough to need more imo. Temperature swings are about the worst of it.
Probably. Someone else commented and mentioned that getting the single use packs would help with the expiration date. That seems expensive, but I guess if I'm throwing away 20 IB or Benadryl every few years, that's not exactly saving money either.
Another commenter recommended a 'Slishman Pressure Wrap' which looks like it could double as a tourniquet if needed. I'm definitely going to add that to my kit!
@@DoseofDirt just checked out that pressure wrap. Looks pretty handy. Could probably be used a makeshift sling as well. Maybe pick myself one up as well. I’m just a day hiker. But I carry enough to make it overnight if needed. Lol
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This first aid kit is fantastic! I typically loop my tapes around my trekking pole, knife, and toothbrush to save space in my kit. Instead of carrying a separate roll, it's much more convenient. I used to bring along a compact folding scissor, but now I rely on a Swiss knife equipped with tweezers, scissors, and a small saw - it's a game-changer! I also keep emergency toilet paper on hand for those real emergencies. Sting wipes have been a lifesaver for me on numerous occasions, especially since it seems hornets and insects are drawn to me! I found a cheap waterproof first aid pouch on ae, and I absolutely swear by it. Additionally, I believe a satellite device is essential (probably watched too many "Kyle hates hiking" videos). I carry the $6 Coghlan whistle/thermometer, which has proven invaluable for communicating with friends on the trail multiple times. I also make sure to include compression bandages for sprains and as makeshift tourniquets, as well as ice packs or hand warmers depending on the weather. Burn ointment packs are a must for those cozy campfire nights. I always keep a small printout of the map in my kit, along with a basic first aid manual/guide. This summer, I'm planning to take a short wilderness first aid course - hoping it will be beneficial for both myself and those around me!
EXCELLENT TIPS IN THIS COMMENT!
The more I think about it, the more I'm thinking I'll ad some small burn cream packs. I don't usually build a fire at camp, but burns still happen (stove, pot, sun burn, etc.) so probably a good idea. And I totally agree about the satellite device. I don't like to be an alarmist, but I ALWAYS take mine. I've never had to push SOS, but I still take it every. single. time.
Thanks for sharing all these tips you've found useful for your kit! They are excellent!
Ask through hikers how nasty tape becomes long term when wrapped and exposed on gear. Or hunters for that matter out in the field. Rain, snow, mud. The 'wrap the duct tape around the Nagene bottle' thing was definitely a fail, no good. Especially how often people dunkedthese in feses born bateria filled water or Beaver Fever spots... Just common sense.
Now think, you may have to use that tape for medical purposes on the skin. That tape on a trecking pole or germ filled tooth brush, bottle etc....how do you think that will do in regards to creating infections? Or do you have separate tape, additional weight kept fairly sterile and clean atleast? Taking space in your pack. Just asking.
On poles and this is interesting think of all the things those poles encounter. Dust, dirt, feses, urine, toxins from plants and insects, poison ivy?, environmental crap. So interesting is a condition called Parvo which is in the urine of some animals, critters, deer, etc.... It can make dogs very sick or dead. They are really just studying this as a thing in these modern times. And dogs get it from just sniffing around pee or crap. Sniffing... How it makes humans sick ? Like Lyme disease it will take years until truth is told my guess. Chances are Parvo is on your tracking poles right now. You still want to use that tape around the pole to tape up a huge deep gash in your leg? It may be your only option. You definately and absolutely can't use the stuff on your tooth brush. Your mouth is probably worse then Parvo. Think !
I used to do that 'wrap tape on stuff' with lighters until I found in storage, sometimes for years in my kits, lighters were almost empty and the sticky on the tape degrades as you re-wrap it on something else. Fact. Every try to get the adhesive off your gear? Go try. You need to use m8neral spirits or Goo gone and there goes whatever, the paint, the finish...murder on plastics.
No, dumb stuff.
I cut a free everywhere plastic store card in half. I roll my Gorilla tape and Leuko tape on each half. And like him I store in a little zip or plastic wrap. So easy, weighs nothing, fits in a wallet, and I keep mine in the zip pocket in my tiny Sil nylon waiste pack, always with me. Part of MY EDC or every day carry. I incorporate hiking, camping, day trips, all travel and emergency preparedness all into one full system. No 3 tra bags, cost, product, time and energy.
No packing separate little bags, 'kits' or a product for each specific kit, circumstance, occasion...whatever. One EDC with the essentials. And tape is one of those essentials.
@@RRavencraft Ya, this is a big reason I started putting it in a bag as well. I had some wrapped on a pen or some wrapped on a trekking pole. The stuff on the pen got dirty and un-sticky from my hand and the tape on the trekking pole was useless when I needed it after being in the sun for who knows how many hours.
@RRavencraft makes sense, I am just a weekend warrior. Appreciate your input! I don't attach medical tape around anything though. It's just duct tape that I do.
@@RRavencraftI agree about the tape on trekking poles or Nalgene, I do have some on those but that is for fire starting or repairing gear, my “medical” duct tape I wrap around an old credit card or gift card, that hard plastic, just a couple of feet, so still very lightweight and keep that in a more sterile field with my first aid kit.
I did a trail race a couple years back, and there was a downed bee hive on the side of a trail cutting across a steep hill. The trail was so narrow that you could only get a max of maybe 4 feet away from the hive while passing by. A bunch of other race participants were just standing back, looking at the hive, trying to figure out what to do. I knew that I couldn't do anything to improve the situation, so I just pressed on and hoped for the best. The bees immediately swarmed me and I got about 8 stings on my calf. Boy was I glad to have one of those sting wipes with me!
DANG! That's crazy! You never know what you're going to encounter in a trail race! Sting wipes for the win!
My first aid has evolved, after that machete attack on Appalachian Trail in 2019 I include a tourniquet. My main first aid are alcohol pads, gauze pads (2", 4", 5x9") + sports tape, I include the syringe from Sawyer Water Filter to irrigate cuts & wounds, that is all. Walmart sports tape sticks to skin even when sweaty bloody & wet, far cheaper than leukotape, with gauze pads I make my own bandage.
It's tragic that stuff like that happens, including on trail, and a reminder that being prepared is so important.
One thing I picked up from the EDC community is to store your zip ties in length of heat shrink tubing. That makes them take up way less space, keeps them together, and doesn't add any weight at all. You don't even need to shrink it, just use it as a holster.
Very smart and comprehensive choice of things. I have watched your previous FA kit videos and I’ve learned a lot.
Lighter is useful thing. Yet we cannot pack it in advance - lighters aren’t allowed in airplanes. Then I forgotten to buy one upon arrival. Possibly I’ll add a small sparky rod to always be in my kit.
Another thing I’m adding is a roll of compression bandage. For a group of three - me, wife and small kid - it’s higher chance of little injury. Compression bandage can help with deeper cuts, sprains/strains, bleeding. Our kit is for hiking and cycling. I assume there can be more bleeding type injury on the road. I keep having a triangle bandage around but I’m trying to migrate it from FA kit to everyday item. Our triangle is made of colourful fabric and used as bandana, pillow wrap, table cloth etc.
We usually take a little FA manual or bandaging and taping book. It stays in the suitcase in the base camp. We’re making little quiz tests while downtime in airports, on buses and trains.
Someone mentioned sewing kit in comments. I always have a sewing kit. There’s always something broken. I’m also modifying my gear and I often do that while on bus, train… you can see the pattern.
Thank you for sharing your experience
All the best.
Ps.
How do you use the compressed gauze? It takes less space but it’s also folded like harmonica - it’s meant to be for wound packing. Maybe it would be worth trying to bandage something with it. Otherwise you may find in a stress, pain, with blood, in a dark night… it could be hard to use. Maybe it’s great and I’m talking nonsense? Maybe it just needs a bit of practice and finding right technique? Vacuum package saves space but it’s actually same weight as rolled bandage. It’s worth testing it first.
My choice is a roll of compression bandage. I assume sprain is as likely as a bleeding wound during a hike. We are not having much guns where I live and travel. Deep penetrating wounds are less likely so wound packing gauze seems less useful in my case.
A contact lens case is a brilliant idea for a tiny lightweight container. Any of your contact lens wearing friends should have lots of those, they come with new contact lenses frequently.
Exactly! And if you don't have contact wearing friends you can pick them up at any walmart or pharmacy for pretty cheap.
I thought/looked forever for a small container that would work well and then saw the contact case at the grocery store when I was there getting solution (for my contacts!). You'd think as a 20+ year contact wearer I would have thought of it sooner! haha!
Mirror and pen light! Everyone fails to include these. If you are first aiding yourself, you gotta see the injury, and it’s not always easy to see if you are alone. I also have a small magnifying device for the same reason - good for splinters and other small hard to see boo-boo’s. Also bring regular aspirin (chewable) for heart attacks.
For repairs, also bring some nylon thread and a needle. Small tubes of super glue is also very helpful (also good for first aid).
Thanks for the info. I am also a motorcyclist, so I also include a couple Rubber Tourniquets, just in case we have a serious accident.
Unless the water purification is meant to treat an entire gallon at a time you might think of premeasuring the ammount of water they are meant to treat into the gallon bag and marking a fill line for that measurement on the outside in permanent marker.
EXCELLENT idea!
I got some very small tweezers (Tweezerman micro mini tweezers), mostly for things like slivers. I prefer a tick key over tweezers for ticks, as it takes less coordination if I have to work with my left hand.
I also include a small fresnel lens, Benadryl, Tums, and a couple packets of bug repellent cream.
I know a lot of people love the tick keys, but so far my tweezer have been best for me. Nice that we have both options!
I love the idea of a fresnel lens. I'm going to look into that! Thanks!
I bring a couple of burn gel single satchels in my first aid kit incase someone gets burned (and that includes sun burns - I burn easily, and it really helps if my sunscreen has not done well enough…)
Smart! I think I may add these to my kit as well. Burns have never been a problem, but of course it's never a problem until it is. Thanks for sharing!
Timely video! I’ve been contemplating how to put together a minimalist “exigency” kit for our summer road trip and day excursions. This kit is a great direction to go. One thing I’ve done in my kits is go old school and replace zip ties with baling wire. Well, actually brass wire. Zip ties are useful, but wire works for anything zip ties do and more. Think MacGyver….
Really nice kit brother! I would add an 3” ACE wrap for sprains/strains, I would ditch the large tweezers and replace with Uncle Bill’s “sliver grippers” tweezer. I would replace the athletic tape with “DuraPore” tape. The tape is nylon and very water resistant and sticks very well. I would add a 3” roller gauze bandage to hold dressings in place and would consider adding a roll of Coban to the kit. Well, that’s my two cents! Thanks for posting the video. Well thought out kit! God bless and safe travels!!
Thanks for sharing your picks! I'm going to look into the 'silver grippers'! I don't love how big these tweezers are but they work perfectly!
Great list, you definitely brought up things I missed in my emergency kit. A few different things I have in mine include a plasma lighter, hand warmers, a poncho, a small multi-tool (Gerber Dime), a small compass, and leukotape (in addition to mole skin).
I like these additions! Especially the leukotape. I've never used a plasma lighter. But I like the idea of having one standard (with my cook kit) and one plasma (in my first aid kit).
@@DoseofDirt Leukotape is the new moleskin.
Always something good from this channel. Every video I've seen has been worthwhile. Thanks for the good ideas.
Much appreciated! Thanks for the kind word and I'm so glad you're enjoying the channel!
I’m allergic to the glue on almost all bandages, kinesiology tapes, and moleskin, unfortunately. I’ve had to learn how to get around it (using gauze + self-sticking tape), or find another way to heal those kinds of injuries (super glue is something I’m testing currently as a replacement for moleskin, though I’m not sure yet if I’m also allergic to super glue, which does seem to be the case.)
I love the suggestions you have! One I also love to take with me is Tiger Balm. I find that I don’t need to take as much ibuprofen or other pain medications, and it is fairly easy to scoop a small amount into a lightweight container (like a contact case.)
Excellent video, love your suggestions!
Great video, thank you so much for the info! Love all the useful tips. Side note: I discovered GearSkeptic on my own...you are only the second CZcamsr I have heard mention him as a source! I have learned so much from his videos. Just wanted to give him a shout out :) FYI another good source I have used for my first aid kit is Andrew Skurka.
Gear Skeptic is AWESOME! I first found him their his nutrition videos (like a lot of people). He gets into crazy detail and I love it! I’ve mentioned him a few times and I hope more people find him!
I’m definitely going to check out Andrew Skurka! Thanks for the tip!
Mosquito net. My first aid kit doubles as an emergency kit so I keep other things in it. One of them is a mosquito net. I was glad to have it when I encountered thick black flies on the Sierra High Route. I also like to have a P38 can opener in there for can and just as a carry-on safe sharp object since I often go carry-on only.
I use a whole contact case - one side is body glide and the other is bag balm.
Oh dang! I LOVE bag balm. That stuff is magic! I’m definitely going to get a full contact case and use one side for that. Genius!!
i prefer leukotape to moleskin. i make premade bandage size pieces and put on sticker/label backing. Reminds me, i need to make some more.
I am a First aid Instructto and an outdoorsman and I believe in DIY FA Kits. My recommendation to my students : 1) Consider the level of your training 2) What is the environment you will be in, and 3) What injuries have you seen in your environment.
EXCELLENT advice! Thanks for leaving it here for us!
Great kit.
That Gear Skeptic video on water purification is very informative.
I've added a reflective red & white cross sticker to the outside of my emergency,on the off chance that someone else needs to find it.
Gear Skeptic's videos are EXCELLENT! Adding a red and white cross sticker to the bag is an awesome idea. I have been looking around for some red tape or something to make a cross on it, but I like the idea of a sticker. Thanks for the tip!
Good kit. I keep some bleed stop in my kit. Gorilla tape is also a good fire accelerant
I recently noticed REI has a fairly small pack of Quick Clot. A lot more packable than what I previously had.
Quick clot is an excellent addition. Looks like you can get 4 small packs for $30. This is definitely something I'll add to my kit. Thanks!
freezer bag to hold water a great idea. I haven't seen anyone suggest this, saves a lot of space.
I also added a tiny folding knife to my small medical pack, from a Gerber 3-piece bundle, but for a medical knife, I keep a small basic Victorinox in there. Those scissors and tweezers are always so useful, and then you have the file and toothpick too. You should add a flashlight, like a 1xAAA type or USB micro light. Now in 2024, you may want to carry Naloxone as well. For my cheap bulk supplies, I picked up supplies from the dollar store. They have a pretty good selection, even the quality fabric bandages.
Solid tip on the dollar store!
Honestly, I need to up my knife game. It's something that's been on my mind. I honestly hardly ever use a knife.
I really like the idea of a small flashlight in the kit. I've got a keychain flashlight from Nitecore that would probably be perfect. Genius!
@@DoseofDirt Lookup derma safe folding razor knives. For some reason, no one in the youtube backpacking community ever talks about them. They weigh 8 grams and are included in US military survival kits. They're so tiny, I keep them everywhere, e.g. in my bicycle seat bag.
Thank you for this! You reminded me of a few things I need to add to my kit and great suggestions in the comments as well.
One thing I never leave without is a couple packets of electrolytes and a couple packets of emergency immune booster. Thinking about it, green tea or ginseng tea bags could also be useful on a backpacking trip. Another item I have is chapstick & Vasaline. Both are good for surface protection but can also be used to start fires.
In additional to wrapping duct tape around your trekking pole add some 3M Scotch Super 33+ Electrical Tape. So many uses such as bandage and repairs. It's stretches predictably and can be applied loose or tight as needed for the application.
I keep a couple Emergen C packets. Plenty off times I have been feeling drained. Like I am coming down with a bug. One or two of those always helps.
Instead of the moleskin I opt for a few feet of leukotape wrapped around a dull golf pencil.
Not as soft, but it STICKS, and really works to reduce friction if I develop hot spots.
Plus, it's muli-use for whatever you might need tape for.
I also carry a Gerber Dime multi tool. Weighs less than 3 ounces, has light duty pliers and a small, sharp blade. Additionally, it has excellent tweezers and scissors.
I will definitely add the poison ivy/oak wipes. I ALMOST avoided getting poison oak last trip.😢
A few people have recommended leukotape over moleskin. I'm definitely going to check it out!
And dang, I'm sorry to hear about the poison ivy/oak! that is the worst!
Nice! When you mentioned Gearskeptic, i knew you know what you were talking about:) i added WoundSeal Topical Powder Wound Care First Aid for Cuts, Scrapes and Abrasions
Awesome kit! I've got a small pouch that I keep in mine that contains an eyeglass repair kit, superglue, pins, needles and thread, a razor blade, and nail clippers.
I also keep a small repurposed Carmex jar filled with multi-purpose arnica salve that I use on my bad foot and wrist if needed. And a roll of lightweight sports wrap for the same.
I like the idea of the repurposed Carmex jar. Genius!
@@DoseofDirt Tiger Balm jars work too.
Add a Slishman Pressure Wrap (SPW) to your first aid kit for treating major / trauma injuries. They are light-weight (about 1 oz) and are multi-functional. Previously I would have recommended the SWAT-T TQ but the SPW is easier for self-application, also works flawless in wet conditions and comes in bright orange color so first responders/para-medic should be able to easily identify it.
Ok, these are cool. I wasn't aware of these! I was carrying around an ace bandage for a while, but it was bulky and I figured the athletic tape could do just about anything the ace bandage could.
These SPWs are freaking awesome. Definitely going to order one and include in my kit. Thank you!
best first aid kit ive seen
Instead of the poison ivy stuff, I keep some soap to wash with if I get into poison ivy. Initially it was a small thing of Dr Bronners, then a small piece of castile soap bar, now I am carrying a small container of Pika Summit Suds powdered soap.
For ticks I carry an Original Tick Key that I keep in my minimalist wallet. It's flat and small.
I'll also include small roll of antacid or some Pepto-Bismol tablets (depends on what I have on hand when I restock). Sometimes the backpacking meals and campfire juice doesn't sit well during the night.
Summit suds are excellent! I take it on longer trips but I should just put some in my FAK as well! Excellent tip!
@@DoseofDirt I won the Summit Suds from another CZcamsr and he sent them with a small keychain sized squeeze tube. Since you use so little of the suds at a time the tube is the perfect size for backpacking.
Excellent reminder and great suggestions! Worth going thru at least once yearly or pre-season...I carry a couple tiny hydrocortisone packets as well...
Yes, always a good idea to just check your first aid kit once a year. Hydrocortisone packets are a great idea!
I Cary a minimum of 2 aspirin in case some one has a heart attack.
good addition!
Same here.
Hand and toe warmers and Poison Oak wipes. Heading out to buy those pre-shaped moleskin tabs. Also, soap sheets in those tiny cases for washing hands and dishes. I also bring a few labeled aspirin for heart attack emergencies. Benedryl for problems with allergies.
Nice! I have some of those soap sheets. Including them is a great idea!
Nice kit. I added a triangular bandage and a Swat T.
Excellent additions!
Having a bad back, I include a lidocaine patch or two now that they are available over-the-counter.
Excellent addition!
Fine suggestions.
I recommend wart-freezer pens for ticks.
Freeze the tick with one or two bursts, THEN use tweezers to safely remove the tick.
The body frozen, you cannot accidentally squeeze the guts of an unfrozen tick into your bloodstream.
Bulky, but it works great.
I've tried this. Cool idea!
@@DoseofDirt
You are welcome.
I learned about it from a co-worker who knows or knows about "The Tick Doctor" at URI. That guy's one of the world's leading experts on tick-borne diseases.
You could pack meds in a straw and crimp/seal the ends with pliers and lighter
I've seen some people do this to make their own firestarters (something I've been wanting to try), but I hadn't thought about meds.
Toothache pain relievers (Orajel), cold sores or canker sores pain relievers (Orajel).
Blister external analgesic (Blistex). Thank you for this video !!!
Excellent suggestions for those dealing with tooth pain. I've never dealt with it on trail, but I know even at home it can just ruin your day, so taking on trail is a great idea!
6.50 those are swabs. Designed to wipe over skin before injecting or taking a blood sample via syringe. That's why they are so small.
ahh, that makes sense. They still work alright, but I'd love to find something that's just a little bit bigger.
Consider tying a zip tie under the bic lighter button to prevent accidental discharge. Nice human repair kit
Definitely going to do this! Thanks for the tip!
You need a roll of electrical tape for that first aid kit is a cover all and a waterproof and fireproof bandaid that helps with healing because of the glue on the tape
Nice! Thanks for the tip!
Tourniquet, tegaderm, aquacel ag, nasopharyngeal airway. Single dose packets of medications, because once they are out of their original packaging they expire faster. Hand warmers to pair with the mylar blankets to prevent shock and aid in clotting.
Awesome additions and great tip about the medications!
Great video dude! Love the setup!
Thanks bro! Now I need to watch your video again and see how similar our setups are!
It may sound useless, but I use light colored gloves not black. If you are running your hands on someone to look for cuts and injuries, blood will show up better light colored gloves, especially in limited visibility or dark conditions. Good looking kit otherwise.
CAT Tourniquet
Another commenter recommended a 'Slishman Pressure Wrap' which looks like it could double as a tourniquet if needed. These CAT tourniquets you mentioned look pretty sweet as well. I'll have to do some more research.
Just added the poison ivy wipes! I didn’t know they existed and I’m super sensitive.
Did I miss it? ALWAYS carry an antihistamine like benadryl and a small botlle of eye irrigant.
Yes! I've got some antihistamine in there (the pink pills on the bottom left). I probably just referred to it as benadryl. Eye irrigant is a good idea as well!
I would recommend to include SuperGlue to your bag.
Good for repairs but also good to close small wounds without stitches for no extra space or weight
The more I think about this the more I think it's a good idea. I'll probably add this on my next round! Thanks for the tip!
Would highly recommend you adding a CAT tourniquet or at least a RATS tourniquet. One other thing I would recommend is to change you gloves out to blue instead of black. Its really hard to see blood on black gloves
The RATS stow pretty small. I keep one in my lunch bag a work too.
You're the second person to mention the CAT tourniquet. I wasn't aware of these, but they look nice and compact. Definitely considering adding this. I hadn't thought about the blue vs black gloves! Looks like my next box will be blue!
@@DoseofDirt If you purchase a CAT tourniquet make sure to purchase it directly from North American Rescue. A lot of fakes are out there and the last thing you want to fail is a tourniquet.
I find both leukotape and Bandaid Hydroseal to be way better options for blisters than moleskin
Sounds like I need to give those a try! Since I rarely get blisters myself I haven't used the moleskin much. thanks for the tip!
Single use hand sanitizer packets. Good for cleaning your hands or a wound, and if they are in your first aid kit you don't have grab your poop kit.
Smart!
I mostly hike my backyard, Pisgah National Forest, and bring only the necessities. My first aid, coupled with repair items only comes out to 5oz. Where I backpack is not crazy enough to need more imo. Temperature swings are about the worst of it.
Pisgah is an awesome place to have as a backyard!
💪
I wonder if you vacuum sealed the meds you carry if that would increase the expiration date
Probably. Someone else commented and mentioned that getting the single use packs would help with the expiration date. That seems expensive, but I guess if I'm throwing away 20 IB or Benadryl every few years, that's not exactly saving money either.
Add a tourniquet to your pack also.
Another commenter recommended a 'Slishman Pressure Wrap' which looks like it could double as a tourniquet if needed. I'm definitely going to add that to my kit!
@@DoseofDirt just checked out that pressure wrap. Looks pretty handy. Could probably be used a makeshift sling as well. Maybe pick myself one up as well.
I’m just a day hiker. But I carry enough to make it overnight if needed. Lol
Where is the Emergency Position Indicating Beacon????
I do also always cary my Garmin inReach mini. I didn't think to mention it as part of my first aid kit, but I should have!
I would have more than one pair of gloves.. if you need to redress a wound or have a second injury.
A second pair could be a good idea!
Better to irrigate/wash wound thoroughly rather than swiping with an alcohol pad. That is accepted ER protocol, not alcohol, betadine or H2O2
Great reminder! Thanks!
How easily can it be made fully automatic? Asking for a friend
It’s an “oh shit kit”
that rolls off the tongue a bit easier than "first aid / emergency / repair kit", doesn't it? haha!
SunFlair WAPI for water pasteurization.
I just looked these up. Pretty cool! I hadn't seen them before.
@@DoseofDirt Gear Skeptic did a video about water purification which included that product.
@@fukenbroken1 Dang, somehow I missed it. I'll have to check it out. Thanks!