I’m a big believer that first aid kits (FAKs) are not once size fits all. I won’t be carrying my expedition FAK on a long run, and my long run FAK is not nearly adequate for an expedition.
Instead, I built dedicated first aid kits for different activity types and trip lengths – saving me from having to take stuff out or restock a kit before every trip. The contents do change based on what I need for specific (longer) trips, but they stay fairly consistent. These are built to fit my specific needs (I get a lot of bloody noses), so be sure to customize them to suit you.
In addition to the first aid items, I also carry a Garmin InReach Mini for satellite communication and backup navigation. It also has an SOS system, in case of a dire emergency.
Even the best, most well stocked first aid kits are useless without the proper medical training and knowledge. If you spend time in backcountry environments, I highly recommend taking a wilderness first aid or wilderness first responder course. They are investments in your and your partners safety while recreating in remote areas.
Here is a breakdown of my current first aid kits.
Fast FAK
for short runs where I might have a bloody nose and want to be prepared
2 bandaids
Leuko tape
1 nose bleed stopper
1 tampon (also for nosebleeds)
Long Run FAK
for long runs and day hikes in the backcountry
2 4×4” gauze
2 3×3” gauze
1 alcohol prep
1 tampon
2 bandaid
Leuko tape
Ibuprofen
Benadryl
Bismuth subsalicylate
Moleskin
2 compeed blister bandaids
Waterproof Matches
Emergency Blanket
Overnight FAK + Repair
2 4×4” gauze
2 3×3” gauze
2 steri strip
1 skin tac wipe
2 alcohol prep
2 burn gel
Leuko tape
Tweezers
Roller Gauze
Bismuth
Tylenol
Ibuprofen
Benadryl
2 antibiotic ointment
Moleskin
6 assorted bandaids
3 tampons
1 pair of gloves
CPR face mask
Repair:
Lighter
Aqua tabs
Hair tie
Mesh repair patch
Gear tape
Sleeping pad repair
Needle
Floss
For bigger trips I’ll add:
Syringe
Sam splint
Sharpie
Coban
Pulse oximeter – monitoring spO2 at elevation
Epinephrine Auto-Injector
And more of high use items like pain meds, bandaids, blister care, and gauze.
Backcountry Skiing FAK
The likelihood of severe trauma on a backcountry ski day trip is so much higher than on a trail run or day hike, which warrants a different first aid kit setup.
Tourniquet
2 4×4” gauze
QuikClot gauze
Roller gauze
Coban
2 alcohol prep pads
4 bandaids
Leuko tape
Waterproof matches
Hex key for binding repair
In the notes app on my phone I have the contents lists of each kit so I can easily restock when items get used!
Am I missing anything?
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