When it comes to compiling all of the supplies for your first aid kit there are 4 areas we believe you need to review first. Below we will discuss those critical areas so that you can have the best first aid kit for you! We say for you because ultimately that is who will be using the first aid kit right?
- What is the intended us of this first aid kit?
- Where will you keep this first aid kit?
- How much do you want to spend?
- What is your level of training?
What is the intended us of this first aid kit?
Do you intend to use this kit for a basic first aid kit in your house that you may use occasionally or is this going to be a specialty kit that you bring attached to your gun bag? Do you need just a couple of Band-Aids and bandages or do you need a tourniquet, chest seal and hemostatic agents? Again the intended us is very important and can lead you to either picking a kit that is specialized for potential massive hemorrhage or just something to cover a paper cut.
Where will you be keeping this first aid kit?
If you want to keep the kit in your car we would recommend a kit bag that is a little more resilient than just your standard backpack. I know my care sees a ton of traffic with my kids and all of our activities. A standard bag will not hold up. Not to mention a purpose built one with more functionality will last you much longer as you grow in your adventures. The I.F.A.K. Elite comes with a rip away pouch so that you can attach it to your headrest or MOLLE and remove as needed to take to the injured person. Maybe you are keeping your kit in your boat so a water proof bag would be more appropriate. Most purpose built first aid bags also have organization that is crucial to being able to use the kit when the time comes.
How much do you want to spend?
This may be perhaps the most limiting topic on the list. First Aid Kits run anywhere from $10 at Walmart to upwards of $500 for long duration trips. If you compile the kit yourself the likelihood of the price skyrocketing is pretty good. The reason we are able to sell our kits at a competitive price is because we have dealer accounts set up with multiple different vendors. Sure you can buy most of these items on Amazon but you need a kit that is smartly assembled to have all of the items that you are looking for. So pick your budget and stick with it, you can most likely find what you are looking for if you look hard enough or wait for coupons.
What is your level of training?
Lastly, and to us the most important part of your first aid kit is you and your training. Once you buy or assemble your kit take the time to research and ensure you know how to use all of the items in your kit. If you buy some hemostatic agents and have no idea how to use them well then they are useless. Likewise if you purchase a tourniquet and are not familiar with the function of it or when to use it the tool will be no good to you. So take a look at our training resources page or find a basic first aid course near you https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/first-aid/first-aid-training and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to us at dave@frontlinemedicaldefense.com with any questions.
Good luck and stay safe!