Whats missing from your FAK?

Are you still using that dusty band-aid that’s been at the bottom of your drawer since 2010? It’s time to upgrade your first aid kit game! Here’s what every basic first aid kit should include to ensure that when emergencies strike, you’re more prepared than a Boy Scout on steroids.

The Top 10 Essentials: Or the most widely used items

1. Adhesive Bandages: Because nothing says “I’m a responsible adult” like a fancy variety of a band-aids. Get various sizes for all types of boo-boos (and maybe just one for your ego).

2. Sterile Gauze Pads: For when that cut looks like it could use a little more than just a band-aid. These are the 'big guns' in your kit.

3. Antiseptic Wipes: Let’s keep the germs from having a party in your wound, shall we?

4. Medical Tape: Because sometimes your gauze needs a little assistance to stay put. Also perfect for taping motivational quotes to your mirror.

5. Tweezers: Whether you need to remove a splinter or finesse those rogue eyebrow hairs, these will be your best friend.

6. Cold Compress: (back to those bruised egos) Also to reduce swelling of a hurt elbow or knee.

7. Rolled Gauze: If a little gauze works then more is better right? This is helpful if there is a bit more blood than can be controlled with the gauze pads. Simply apply pressure and then wrap the wound with the rolled gauze.

8. Self-Adhering Rolled Bandages: This is arguably the best invention since sliced bread! Once you have controlled the bleed on a wound with the gauze pads, then wrap with the self-stick bandage that, (wait for it… sticks to itself) so no need for tape or sliding around.

9. A small bottle of normal saline: This is the kinder gentler salt water. This can be good for flushing debris out of eyes or out of a wound before you bandage it.

10: Scissors: Let’s face it, either they were the cause of the injury, or they can be the aid that’s needed. No one ever seems to have a good pair of sheers when needed so this can be a good item to have. Just don’t run with them in hand.

Final Tip: Regularly check your kit! If you find expired items, don’t think of it as waste—think of it as a creative opportunity to start fresh and find more excuses to buy cute first aid accessories!

A good premade inexpensive FAK (First Aid Kit) is hard to find, a lot like a comfortable pair of jeans in your size on sale. They exist but, happy hunting! We will dive deeper into buying vs. building a kit in our future articles. We felt the need to cover the basics first. As a staff, we do sell and build them for individuals and companies. Simply reach out and let us know what you need.