NOTE: I mentioned baby aspirin but the aspirin I carry is actually regular strength (325mg). Baby aspirin is sometimes used as a preventative treatment for some people. I also highly recommend taking a first aid course.
Cardiology/ICU pharmacist opinion: if you think you need to carry ASA for heart attacks (the dose for that is 162-325 mg CHEWED for faster drug levels, given in the ambulance by EMS on the way to the cath lab) then I’d also add nitroglycerin tabs or spray. The vial is pretty small and they are available OTC in Canada technically, although carried behind the counter. But realistically if someone has a significant heart attack in the woods there is really no possibility that they will get medical attention fast enough for a dose of ASA to make much of a difference. You need to get to a cath lab within minutes to 1-2 hours. Heart muscle starts dying within minutes of compromised oxygen supply. If you have risk factors for having a heart attack like uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure or obesity, it’s probably a better idea to check with your doctor before putting yourself in a situation that could lead to permanent disability or death.
@@slkendall85 I'll look into that, thanks! SAR response can be as fast as 30min where I am, but then it's probably another 60+min to get into the heli and into a hospital.
@@slkendall85 so if you were backpacking in the woods and came across someone who was apparently having a heart attack, you would not wish that you had an aspirin to give him or her??
@@glenndorsey9068 Unless they have access to EMS transport to a center with a cath lab, ASA is unlikely to change their outcome. They will either have a near/completed infarct or die. EMS will have ASA, so if that transport is urgently available they would have access to ASA anyway, as well as diagnostics to check that it is appropriate to give.
I have to say I really appreciate this. Most UA-cam backpacking channels really downplay the need for a proper first aid kit. But for the amount of times I have reached for mine it is totally worth the small weight.
I was a little hesitant to put it out because people have pretty strong opinions on first aid kits and the comment sections can get a little wild, but I rather get people thinking about what is in their first aid kit and how to be safe on trail. Everyone has been super constructive and informative so far, so that's good!
When I took Wilderness First Aid, the instructor recommended not packing a commercial irrigation syringe. His advice was to pack a small ziplock. If you need to irrigate a wound, fill it with water, and use a safety pin or needle (which you should have in the kit anyway), to poke a hole in a corner. It works just as well, and takes up way less space. Steri-strip, or butterfly bandage is a must. Another hiker fell and broke his glasses. The frame snapped at the bridge and made a small cut between his eyes that bled like crazy. Nothing else would have worked to patch him up for the two mile hike back to his car. Fortunately, he had spare glasses in the car to drive home. If you carry a Sawyer filter, a spare O ring is a great addition to the repair kit.
A good syringe is very handy. Esp in case of 'bug in ear canal' situation. There you need a little pressure and a syringe can do that. Even for the eye it can give a directed stream of water.
Instead of carrying a syringe in your kit just carry a bottle cap with a small hole. It works great and takes up much less space. Just screw it on your water bottle (like a smart water bottle) and just flush your eye or irrigate a wound.
I rolled an ankle on a steep hike, about 2 miles from the trailhead on my way down the mountain. My ankle didn't roll inward like it had in the past; it rolled outward, causing me to instantly collapse right on top of it, making it worse. At least I got all my swearing done for the year that day. Now I consider my trekking poles a first aid device.
I'm 58, live in Brazil, and have just started backpacking. Thank you so much for your talk! It inspired me to continue practicing and exploring new trails! I was afraid I was too old and actually a little bit discouraged.
That is a pretty solid kit. I love the ferro rod idea, since I usually ditch the toothpick because it's utterly useless. For fire starters, I keep a couple of cotton balls soaked in vaseline. They work pretty well in a pinch.
Wow, the one guy that actually talks about useful FAKs. Everyone else is doing videos on tactical/combat FAKs, with stuff no one is ever going to need or use; as if treating bullet wounds was as common as blisters.
@@TheNewGreenIsBlue if you have to tailor-make your FAK to include bullet wound treatment, maybe that’s a place where you shouldn’t be hiking to begin with. Yes I get it, if you’re a hunter, or in the army, police, security guard, and the like it makes complete sense to do this. But regular hikers are just not going to come across bullet would situations. The other FAK videos have a very heavy emphasis on treating bullet wounds and barely talk about the actual injuries hikers are 100% more likely to suffer in real life.
@@kenjifox4264 Yah, I know... my comment was tongue-in-cheek. Justin's a Canadian, so the idea of protecting yourself with a personal firearm is kind of foreign... even in the inner city. Also, there IS a bit of confirmation bias as well. By far there are more English speaking UA-camrs in the US than in Canada... and I suspect that most of the ones that are IN to reviewing FAKs are into survival and bush craft more than backpacking. The weather has MUCH greater chance of killing you than a gun in most places in Canada. (That's true in the USA as well... but it's less of a sexy thing to talk about getting killed by hyperthermia in a rainstorm or getting lost) In fact, exposure kills way more people than wildlife for that matter.
I’ve got most of this stuff in my kit, but I’m going to organize it better. You are without a doubt the most organized person I’ve ever known. Thanks for this content.
My first aid kit has all that and more. I have Co-band, wound wash, Tagaderm adhesive, Epipen, saline solution, a suture kit, scalpels, an emergency blanket and more. It won’t all fit in the same size bag you are using but a bag about 3 times the size of yours. I have a couple of band aids for the kids in my life but use the Tagaderm and gauze to manufacture bandages. I am allergic to all adhesives except Tagaderm. The hand sanitizer doubles as a fire starter because it is flammable. I also keep a lighter, fat wood, storm matches and a flashlight in mine. I’m ready for almost anything.
You're missing a Triangular Bandage for upper extremity injuries, Ace Bandage for ankle/wrist injuries, Q-tips and superglue for small deeper cuts. Replace Acquatabs for Betadine, which you can use both for wound desinfection AND water purification.
One of the best 1st aid kits I've seen! I see a lot of people whose 1st aid kit is 2 plasters and 3 ibuprofen. Some things I would consider adding: vet wrap- basically a streachy, waterproof, reusable bandage that sticks to itself. Invisible plaster/invisible band-aid (essentially skin-safe glue) is great for wounds in awkward areas or hands because you can get it wet and it won't come off like traditional bandage. A syringe with normal size tip can be used to suction out tiny splinters (the ones that you can't get with tweezers)
Last I checked, 4 baby asprin is the recommended dose for a heat attack and it's best to chew them to get them in your system fast. Feel free to double check me on that. I only saw two in your bag.
Things I have in mine, which are important as I'm Australian. Snakebite kit (bandages and a pen to mark where the bite is) and Tick Removal Spray (using tweezers can squeeze ticks and release more toxins). I have a special freezing spray to remove them. Also good for warts.
I suggest using the edge of the nail file to scrape the ferro. If it isn't sharp enough, take a file to it to get an edge. It'll save the blade on the knife.
Thanks Justin, some great ideas here. I get blisters right under my toes, just on the balls of my feet, and leukotape got pushed off my foot and ended up all bunched up under my toes, and I have lueko adhesive stuck in my socks to this day. It's good stuff, but maybe better on the heels/ankles or top of the foot. Compeed blister plasters, however, saved the day and didn't move at all, and also provided cushioning. I will never walk without Compeed again!
Great content. Just one thing, keep your garmin in reach, within your reach (no pun intended) like a zip pant pocket. If you break your back in a fall it’s easier.
The problem with those ultra lights is that they are great on trails with replenished post and close to towns and roads. As someone that does bushwhacking and long term living in the woods, those light kits would fail. I know because I tried ultralight before. It did not work for me and for my type of backpacking. But still, great video. Also, CPR - mouth to breathing is not recommended anymore. Chest compression until the emergency service arrives and takes over.
My dad when we were elk hunting broke his fibula and a couple tendons. I would really recommend having poles with you if you are hunting or hiking steep country.
Whenever I build a kit, I usually put more advanced equipment but I recommend Everybody to make there kit using the MARCHE algorithm they are as followed M-Massive Hemorrhage (A Tourniquet) (Any type of bleeding) (Buy it from NAR make sure it is real) A-Airway (Could be a airway that you can put into your patient (NPA/OPA)) R- Respirations (Pocket BVM) They are small and easy to use (Or a CPR shield) C-Circulation (Moving blood around the body) (Aspirin, CPR) H-Head Injuries (Concussions, small bleeding) E-Everything else This is the medical Side of your kit, then you can customize it for the needs you are doing, you could have you first aid kit, and your survival kit. Just a recommendation
Pretty similar to mine. Mini multi tool, bandages, leukotape, aspirin+ibuprofen (not taken together but used or given on preference), alcohol wipes, sanitary wipes, thread and needle, antibiotic ointment, tent/clothing patches, gauze, mylar sheet, compass/whistle combo, also a plain, small razorblade in it's paper sheath for precise and sterile cuts if needed. Oh also mini superglue tube and chapstick!
I recommend honey straws, honey has been used for 1000s of years as a sterilizer for open wounds. Salt Tabs. Heavy duty curved Needles. Ace bandage & cordage for sprains & brakes. Ciao:)
Great info! I just recently completed a full trauma class and have since upgraded my IFAK to included trauma items too. A bit bigger but worth it if you can save a life!
I also can't leave home without a major bleed kit now that I've done some wilderness first responder training. A clotting bandage or compressed gauze, gloves, and an Israeli bandage. These aren't small items but I just can't leave them behind anymore.
I also bring Leuktotape. I precut various sizes and attach them to waxed paper. Not the kind you use for food, but the kind that return shipping labels come with from FedEx, UPS etc. I carry plenty to cover big ol' heel blisters, or little side of the toe blisters. That stuff is awesome.
I might have missed it, but I noticed you were missing Tylenol. It's good for treating fever and pain of course. The ibuprofen you have is a great anti-inflammatory but I've generally been advised that it shouldn't be given to individuals with a head injury or suspected internal bleeding.
Yes, I recently had surgery and the doctor advised me not to take ibuprofen, because it can increase the risk of bleeding. Incidentally he also recommended that I didn’t take vitamin C before or after surgery as this can also increase bleeding. Asthmatics can also be sensitive to ibuprofen, worsening their asthma symptoms. However, not all asthmatics are sensitive...if they are sensitive to aspirin then they’re often also sensitive to ibuprofen, and vice versa.
Great video. I personally vary my kit according to what I’m doing. I bring a splint, Israeli bandages, and a tourniquet if I’m out scrambling or in exposed areas. Also pet bandage wrap is an awesome substitute for athletic tape. It’s lightweight, can wrap sprains and wounds, and is reusable. I double up Leukotape for fixit + blisters (I wrap a bunch around my hiking pole).
Awesome kit Justin! I'd just use my small roll of duct tape for an ankle splint. I honestly can't see that big a roll of athletic tape being very useful.
Good stuff Justin, as always. As you said, gloves essential. I also keep gear fixing stuff with first aid stuff. Also important to think about local conditions where you'll be. For example, in Australia, most would swap that roll of athletic tape for at least two high quality compression bandages - enough for an entire limb- to treat snake bites (of course, they also have other uses).
I was given that irrigation syringe when my wisdom teeth were removed, so ask your dentist if you can purchase one for hiking, they might just give it to you for free. I don't carry non-first aid items in my kit, but if you have the space things like ultralight repair kit is not a bad place to carry it if you want to cut down on the number of stuff sacks you use. I wish I could get the Firefly locally as I do carry the Victorinox Classic in my FAKs.
I try to separate My first aid, and the group first aid. My first aid is primaly for when I get hurt. If I guide a group, I carry an extended aid kit. To pack for everyone and anything is hard. Most of the time, my personal kit, can tend to about two persons anyway...
Cool kit. You are missing some cream for Burns! Camping and Bushcrafting you will have a fire going, you will take stuff from the fire and it's a high risk to burn yourself!
About ibuprofen, it is not just an analgesic but and anti inflammatory. That's the important part since it can be protective to your joints and tendons. So take it when you're out an don't let the inflammation get the upper hand.
Great video, I love how organized your kit is and will be buying some of those small ziploc bags for mine LOL. That ferro rod is awesome, I will definitely buy one for my little SAK. My kit is a lot heavier but I also have a lot more stuff in it. A tube of Orajel (numbs wounds as well as gums), a small bottle of benzoin tincture to make any kind of tape stick much better, gauze rolls and pads (2” & 3”), 2-3 feet of StrengthTape (I like it better than Leukotape because it stretches 2X lengthwise and is smoother than Leukotape), small EMT shears, Q-tips, a travel toothbrush & toothpaste, Mountain Soap (low/no suds), alcohol wipes…If I need to irrigate a wound my Katadyn BeFree bottle & filter has an impressive flow rate and filters biologicals down to 0.1 micron (smaller than a coronavirus.) I do need to carry pain relievers & anti-inflammatories, though.
Up-vote just for having Immodium. Amazing how many "experts" don't have that critical resource. I would rate having an anti-diarrheal above fire-starters or shelter in many environments. (Haiti, Africa, Most of Asia, the Oregon Trail)
I keep my 1st Aid , 1st Aid. The only time I would add a means to make fire is if I planned to use a lighter to sterilize a needle to pick out a sliver or something. My fire kit remains a separate fire kit.
Nifty addition of the ferro rod and fire starters! Always nice to have a backup to the lint and mini bic. I also pack after bite for bug bites. I also do some flossers because you never know what could get stuck in your teeth! Was also cool learning about the cpr mask! Great video!
Some great ideas! We don’t do a lot of hiking, so keep our first aid stuff in a metal ammo box, but I think we’ll supplement some of the things now. Great video.
I'm a former Registered EMT - I and cross qualified as a military medic. I have a complete trauma kit, along with all the mentioned OTCs, (a week's worth X2) including famotidine, ASA/Caff/Acet, Hydrocortisone, Betadine, Lidocaine topical, and the Australian EMS snakebite protocol gear. My two largest pouches on my South African combat vest are dedicated to medical. I don't "mix" gear... I keep my Fire, Water, Medical, Etc... in separate pouches. And the Ibuprofen isn't going to completely mask any non visible injury, pain, symptoms - even at 800mg BID. My kit is primarily for MY party/myself. Nothing more than standard first aid/BLS to anyone else. Definitely nothing to taken internally. I have as much faith in the provisions of the Good Samaritan Act as I have in those in DC !
Pretty different from mine. Now I'm not too concerned about weight because I only do day hiking (so far), and don't carry a whole lot of other gear with me. But here's the basics of mine: tylenol and allergy medicine. Basic small bandages and a couple various sizes of gauze, moleskin, antiseptic wipes, afterbite, antibiotic ointment. That's it for the small stuff. Now for the serious injuries I carry quick clot, ace bandage and rolled gauze for a pressure bandage, a splint, and a tourniquet.
Love that Dyneema first aid pouch! Great video Justin. I've just finished putting my first aid kit together, but now I'm going to include that Swiss Army knife and fire starter you have. That is genius! Thank Mate.
I carry a small pill crusher with my ASA in case a patient is unable to swallow a pill. Just crush the ASA and administer sublingually. If the patient is able to swallow the pill, make sure they chew it first. It acts much faster. Also make sure that you get uncoated ASA. There is much debate on whether it works better than enteric-coated ASA. I find it easier to crush and chew. I also use 325mg ASA. No reason to take multiple baby pills when one will do the trick.
Eye drops, burn gel, tweezers, oral gel (toothaches can literally bring on bouts of temporary insanity) and I prefer to bring Tylenol 1’s because as you know you don’t need a prescription for them in Canada (at least not in Yellowknife) thanks
Good kit. But Ibuprofen, aspirin and NSAID slow down the clotting process and can stay in your system for days: on the trail that means it will be harder to stop any bleeding. Ibuprofen is good as an anti-inflammatory and for muscle pain, but I would also carry maximum strength Tylenol which doesn't slow down the clotting process and is great for pain, although not as good for muscle pain. Aspirin is not recommended anymore for laypersons attending to cardiovascular emergencies. Get rid of it, it can make the emergency worse depending on patient and medical history. Great call on the non-alcoholic, antibacterial wipe which has been made widely available as an alternative to alcohol wipes during the pandemic because of shortages, and actually turn out to be much safer for small wounds and better.
I'm not trained to use a TQ at this point and am a little hesitant until myself and people around me are trained in proper use and the scenarios when it should be used.
I cannot stress enough, buy the non-stick woven pads. Regular woven pads will heal into a wound quickly, causing a lot of pain and damage when properly addressing the wound.
Ibuprofen is fine as it will actually help treat the inflammation which is causing the discomfort. Tylenol/Acetaminophen/Paracetamol is what your thinking of where it's telling your brain you're not hurting when you actually are. Also, no safety pins or mini tube of superglue?!?
Just took first aid yesterday for the first time. We got to epipens and I wondered if you could use primatine mist as an allergic alternative treatment?
Definitely! I carry the separate athletic tape because I know I'd use the leukotape down until it wouldn't have enough for taping an ankle. The leukotape gets used quite a bit and I need to replenish it a couple times a year. I may end up creating a labelled 2nd roll of leukotape but have the athletic tape around and am comfortable using it from so many ankle injuries playing soccer.
We teach survival skills, and don't recommend that you put survival and first aid, together. An emergency survival kit needs to be separate and kept on your body. Secondly, include a small lighter - always have two ways to light fire; You also need a signal mirror, some kind of emergency shelter like a SOL XL blanket; water treatment tabs and a whislte; Try wrapping about 3 metres of that tape around an old store card - you don't need to carry an entire roll - it's heavy. You won't need any more than 3 metres in one trip :)
You look like you would be a summer camp councillor, like one with 10-15 year olds specifically. I don’t know if this sounds like a compliment or not, but It’s supposed to be
Do NOT take in Aspirin if you suspect a heart attack!!! Sure it helps IF you have an actual heart attack. But the symptoms of a heart attack can mean a few other things where aspirin could be harmful. For example an aortic dissection (a cut in the wall of your aorta) or a esophageal disrupture (a cut in your esophagus). These things have similar symptoms. Only with an ekg could you definitively say whether it's a heart attack or not. Also Aspirin takes half an hour to work. Instead, rest in a position that unburdens your heart (sitting and laid back a bit) and call the emergency number. If you are in the outback, maybe a helicopter comes that has an ekg and can give Aspirin directly in the bloodstream which is much more controlled and quicker.
Just wanted to comment a little on the ibuprofen philosophy. I agree that it's not good to mask pain. But ibuprofen also serves as an anti-inflammatory to keep swelling down. There's value in that aspect of it if you have an injury that is causing some swelling. You'll be better off if you control it until you get home. I think anyways? Somebody tell me if I'm full of crap here.
NOTE: I mentioned baby aspirin but the aspirin I carry is actually regular strength (325mg). Baby aspirin is sometimes used as a preventative treatment for some people.
I also highly recommend taking a first aid course.
This is a great idea!! I’ll add aspirin. Could save a life, maybe even mine.
Cardiology/ICU pharmacist opinion: if you think you need to carry ASA for heart attacks (the dose for that is 162-325 mg CHEWED for faster drug levels, given in the ambulance by EMS on the way to the cath lab) then I’d also add nitroglycerin tabs or spray. The vial is pretty small and they are available OTC in Canada technically, although carried behind the counter. But realistically if someone has a significant heart attack in the woods there is really no possibility that they will get medical attention fast enough for a dose of ASA to make much of a difference. You need to get to a cath lab within minutes to 1-2 hours. Heart muscle starts dying within minutes of compromised oxygen supply. If you have risk factors for having a heart attack like uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure or obesity, it’s probably a better idea to check with your doctor before putting yourself in a situation that could lead to permanent disability or death.
@@slkendall85 I'll look into that, thanks! SAR response can be as fast as 30min where I am, but then it's probably another 60+min to get into the heli and into a hospital.
@@slkendall85 so if you were backpacking in the woods and came across someone who was apparently having a heart attack, you would not wish that you had an aspirin to give him or her??
@@glenndorsey9068 Unless they have access to EMS transport to a center with a cath lab, ASA is unlikely to change their outcome. They will either have a near/completed infarct or die. EMS will have ASA, so if that transport is urgently available they would have access to ASA anyway, as well as diagnostics to check that it is appropriate to give.
I have to say I really appreciate this. Most UA-cam backpacking channels really downplay the need for a proper first aid kit. But for the amount of times I have reached for mine it is totally worth the small weight.
I was a little hesitant to put it out because people have pretty strong opinions on first aid kits and the comment sections can get a little wild, but I rather get people thinking about what is in their first aid kit and how to be safe on trail. Everyone has been super constructive and informative so far, so that's good!
When I took Wilderness First Aid, the instructor recommended not packing a commercial irrigation syringe. His advice was to pack a small ziplock. If you need to irrigate a wound, fill it with water, and use a safety pin or needle (which you should have in the kit anyway), to poke a hole in a corner. It works just as well, and takes up way less space.
Steri-strip, or butterfly bandage is a must. Another hiker fell and broke his glasses. The frame snapped at the bridge and made a small cut between his eyes that bled like crazy. Nothing else would have worked to patch him up for the two mile hike back to his car. Fortunately, he had spare glasses in the car to drive home.
If you carry a Sawyer filter, a spare O ring is a great addition to the repair kit.
I bring a bottle of saline nose spray and it can be used to irrigate a wound or an eye and they are $1.00 at Dollar Tree.
A good syringe is very handy. Esp in case of 'bug in ear canal' situation. There you need a little pressure and a syringe can do that. Even for the eye it can give a directed stream of water.
Instead of carrying a syringe in your kit just carry a bottle cap with a small hole. It works great and takes up much less space. Just screw it on your water bottle (like a smart water bottle) and just flush your eye or irrigate a wound.
@@DennisMathias bug in ear canal is the stuff of my nightmares.
@@ek8652thanks I will definitely do this to save some space in the kit I am assembling
I rolled an ankle on a steep hike, about 2 miles from the trailhead on my way down the mountain. My ankle didn't roll inward like it had in the past; it rolled outward, causing me to instantly collapse right on top of it, making it worse. At least I got all my swearing done for the year that day. Now I consider my trekking poles a first aid device.
I'm 58, live in Brazil, and have just started backpacking. Thank you so much for your talk! It inspired me to continue practicing and exploring new trails! I was afraid I was too old and actually a little bit discouraged.
That is a pretty solid kit. I love the ferro rod idea, since I usually ditch the toothpick because it's utterly useless. For fire starters, I keep a couple of cotton balls soaked in vaseline. They work pretty well in a pinch.
Wow, the one guy that actually talks about useful FAKs.
Everyone else is doing videos on tactical/combat FAKs, with stuff no one is ever going to need or use; as if treating bullet wounds was as common as blisters.
THANK YOU! haha
Well, I mean it depends on the country that you're hiking in, doesn't it... lol. Japanese hikers probably don't need to treat gun wounds on the trail.
@@TheNewGreenIsBlue if you have to tailor-make your FAK to include bullet wound treatment, maybe that’s a place where you shouldn’t be hiking to begin with.
Yes I get it, if you’re a hunter, or in the army, police, security guard, and the like it makes complete sense to do this. But regular hikers are just not going to come across bullet would situations. The other FAK videos have a very heavy emphasis on treating bullet wounds and barely talk about the actual injuries hikers are 100% more likely to suffer in real life.
@@kenjifox4264 Yah, I know... my comment was tongue-in-cheek. Justin's a Canadian, so the idea of protecting yourself with a personal firearm is kind of foreign... even in the inner city.
Also, there IS a bit of confirmation bias as well. By far there are more English speaking UA-camrs in the US than in Canada... and I suspect that most of the ones that are IN to reviewing FAKs are into survival and bush craft more than backpacking.
The weather has MUCH greater chance of killing you than a gun in most places in Canada. (That's true in the USA as well... but it's less of a sexy thing to talk about getting killed by hyperthermia in a rainstorm or getting lost)
In fact, exposure kills way more people than wildlife for that matter.
I’ve got most of this stuff in my kit, but I’m going to organize it better. You are without a doubt the most organized person I’ve ever known. Thanks for this content.
I would also suggest writing the expiration dates for the different medications on the outside of the mini baggies as well.
My first aid kit has all that and more. I have Co-band, wound wash, Tagaderm adhesive, Epipen, saline solution, a suture kit, scalpels, an emergency blanket and more. It won’t all fit in the same size bag you are using but a bag about 3 times the size of yours. I have a couple of band aids for the kids in my life but use the Tagaderm and gauze to manufacture bandages. I am allergic to all adhesives except Tagaderm. The hand sanitizer doubles as a fire starter because it is flammable. I also keep a lighter, fat wood, storm matches and a flashlight in mine. I’m ready for almost anything.
For all the medicines, would suggest adding expiration date and dosage on label.
Appreciate the thought that went into this video. Definitely not just a "look what's in my first aid kit" video. Nice job
You're missing a Triangular Bandage for upper extremity injuries, Ace Bandage for ankle/wrist injuries, Q-tips and superglue for small deeper cuts. Replace Acquatabs for Betadine, which you can use both for wound desinfection AND water purification.
Triangular Bandage=Can be effected from a compression bandage tied in a loop.
“This is my drug bag”
And labeled too !
Lol, trying to cross the border with that in your pocket! 😅
"Here we have a half a gram of Molly. Just enough to get a light sweat all night and making friends with other trail goers"
😆
😂😂😂😂
One of the best 1st aid kits I've seen! I see a lot of people whose 1st aid kit is 2 plasters and 3 ibuprofen. Some things I would consider adding: vet wrap- basically a streachy, waterproof, reusable bandage that sticks to itself. Invisible plaster/invisible band-aid (essentially skin-safe glue) is great for wounds in awkward areas or hands because you can get it wet and it won't come off like traditional bandage. A syringe with normal size tip can be used to suction out tiny splinters (the ones that you can't get with tweezers)
Great tips!
Last I checked, 4 baby asprin is the recommended dose for a heat attack and it's best to chew them to get them in your system fast. Feel free to double check me on that. I only saw two in your bag.
I have been an ER nurse and first aid kit lover for 40 years and I have never heard of leukotape. What a cool product! Thanks
Things I have in mine, which are important as I'm Australian. Snakebite kit (bandages and a pen to mark where the bite is) and Tick Removal Spray (using tweezers can squeeze ticks and release more toxins). I have a special freezing spray to remove them. Also good for warts.
Australia first aid kits seem like they need to be crazy, haha
@@JustinOutdoors At least we don't have to worry about bears!
@@snowyalice In Australia... nature wants you dead.
Thanks Justin. A lot of people do not put first aid as a priority item. They are a must have for any hike long or short.
Ok the ferro rod swiss army thing is pretty neat
I suggest using the edge of the nail file to scrape the ferro. If it isn't sharp enough, take a file to it to get an edge. It'll save the blade on the knife.
I was going to suggest the back of the knife... but that's not a locking blade.
Thanks Justin, some great ideas here.
I get blisters right under my toes, just on the balls of my feet, and leukotape got pushed off my foot and ended up all bunched up under my toes, and I have lueko adhesive stuck in my socks to this day. It's good stuff, but maybe better on the heels/ankles or top of the foot. Compeed blister plasters, however, saved the day and didn't move at all, and also provided cushioning. I will never walk without Compeed again!
Great content. Just one thing, keep your garmin in reach, within your reach (no pun intended) like a zip pant pocket. If you break your back in a fall it’s easier.
The problem with those ultra lights is that they are great on trails with replenished post and close to towns and roads. As someone that does bushwhacking and long term living in the woods, those light kits would fail. I know because I tried ultralight before. It did not work for me and for my type of backpacking. But still, great video. Also, CPR - mouth to breathing is not recommended anymore. Chest compression until the emergency service arrives and takes over.
Even in a case where emergency would take long to arrive? I'm genuinely curious to know
That mini firesteel in the Victorinox is awesome! Would love to have one.
the firefly firesteel?
Links in video description! I think they are getting new stock soon!
@@JustinOutdoors found it. Unfortunately shipping is to expensive.
I also recommend that you include a small container of Betadine as a highly effective and versatile antiseptic.
My dad when we were elk hunting broke his fibula and a couple tendons. I would really recommend having poles with you if you are hunting or hiking steep country.
Whenever I build a kit, I usually put more advanced equipment but I recommend Everybody to make there kit using the MARCHE algorithm they are as followed
M-Massive Hemorrhage (A Tourniquet) (Any type of bleeding) (Buy it from NAR make sure it is real)
A-Airway (Could be a airway that you can put into your patient (NPA/OPA))
R- Respirations (Pocket BVM) They are small and easy to use (Or a CPR shield)
C-Circulation (Moving blood around the body) (Aspirin, CPR)
H-Head Injuries (Concussions, small bleeding)
E-Everything else
This is the medical Side of your kit, then you can customize it for the needs you are doing, you could have you first aid kit, and your survival kit. Just a recommendation
Pretty similar to mine. Mini multi tool, bandages, leukotape, aspirin+ibuprofen (not taken together but used or given on preference), alcohol wipes, sanitary wipes, thread and needle, antibiotic ointment, tent/clothing patches, gauze, mylar sheet, compass/whistle combo, also a plain, small razorblade in it's paper sheath for precise and sterile cuts if needed. Oh also mini superglue tube and chapstick!
Dose for baby ASA is 4 81mg tablets. Must be chewable! I bring epinephrine too, for asthma or allergic reactions!
I recommend honey straws, honey has been used for 1000s of years as a sterilizer for open wounds. Salt Tabs. Heavy duty curved Needles. Ace bandage & cordage for sprains & brakes. Ciao:)
Great info! I just recently completed a full trauma class and have since upgraded my IFAK to included trauma items too. A bit bigger but worth it if you can save a life!
100%! I plan on doing that advanced training this winte or next spring!
I also can't leave home without a major bleed kit now that I've done some wilderness first responder training. A clotting bandage or compressed gauze, gloves, and an Israeli bandage. These aren't small items but I just can't leave them behind anymore.
Revisiting this 3 years later, best first aid video I know. Do you still have all the same items in your FAK or have you changed anything?
That mini flint is something cool beyond words. Definitely going to run that setup.
Pretty sure that brand he mentioned also makes a fire starter that threads up into the corkscrew on some SAK’s. Then you got an all in one combo
I also bring Leuktotape. I precut various sizes and attach them to waxed paper. Not the kind you use for food, but the kind that return shipping labels come with from FedEx, UPS etc. I carry plenty to cover big ol' heel blisters, or little side of the toe blisters. That stuff is awesome.
I might have missed it, but I noticed you were missing Tylenol. It's good for treating fever and pain of course. The ibuprofen you have is a great anti-inflammatory but I've generally been advised that it shouldn't be given to individuals with a head injury or suspected internal bleeding.
Yes, I recently had surgery and the doctor advised me not to take ibuprofen, because it can increase the risk of bleeding. Incidentally he also recommended that I didn’t take vitamin C before or after surgery as this can also increase bleeding. Asthmatics can also be sensitive to ibuprofen, worsening their asthma symptoms. However, not all asthmatics are sensitive...if they are sensitive to aspirin then they’re often also sensitive to ibuprofen, and vice versa.
Great video. I personally vary my kit according to what I’m doing. I bring a splint, Israeli bandages, and a tourniquet if I’m out scrambling or in exposed areas. Also pet bandage wrap is an awesome substitute for athletic tape. It’s lightweight, can wrap sprains and wounds, and is reusable. I double up Leukotape for fixit + blisters (I wrap a bunch around my hiking pole).
Definitely important to vary it depending on use! Hopefully the video gets people thinking though
Love love love this video! And I am just about to upgrade my first aid kit, so thank you!
Something for bad sun burns could be also very helpful.
Crazy glue is a must.
Sometimes I carry it, sometimes I don't. I wiffle waffle. haha
Awesome kit Justin! I'd just use my small roll of duct tape for an ankle splint. I honestly can't see that big a roll of athletic tape being very useful.
You seriously have the best UA-cam Channel out there. Like, overall. Awesome informative stuff!
Good stuff Justin, as always. As you said, gloves essential. I also keep gear fixing stuff with first aid stuff.
Also important to think about local conditions where you'll be. For example, in Australia, most would swap that roll of athletic tape for at least two high quality compression bandages - enough for an entire limb- to treat snake bites (of course, they also have other uses).
No point carry more than you can use. Key items are only key if you can use them.
I was given that irrigation syringe when my wisdom teeth were removed, so ask your dentist if you can purchase one for hiking, they might just give it to you for free. I don't carry non-first aid items in my kit, but if you have the space things like ultralight repair kit is not a bad place to carry it if you want to cut down on the number of stuff sacks you use. I wish I could get the Firefly locally as I do carry the Victorinox Classic in my FAKs.
I try to separate My first aid, and the group first aid. My first aid is primaly for when I get hurt. If I guide a group, I carry an extended aid kit. To pack for everyone and anything is hard. Most of the time, my personal kit, can tend to about two persons anyway...
Toothpick ferrorod is brilliant!!
thanks for this video! i won't be hiking, but i'll be walking a lot with some family members who aren't in the best shape, so i want to be prepared.
Cool kit. You are missing some cream for Burns! Camping and Bushcrafting you will have a fire going, you will take stuff from the fire and it's a high risk to burn yourself!
I loved every single second of your content my friend! :)
About ibuprofen, it is not just an analgesic but and anti inflammatory. That's the important part since it can be protective to your joints and tendons. So take it when you're out an don't let the inflammation get the upper hand.
Great video, I love how organized your kit is and will be buying some of those small ziploc bags for mine LOL. That ferro rod is awesome, I will definitely buy one for my little SAK. My kit is a lot heavier but I also have a lot more stuff in it. A tube of Orajel (numbs wounds as well as gums), a small bottle of benzoin tincture to make any kind of tape stick much better, gauze rolls and pads (2” & 3”), 2-3 feet of StrengthTape (I like it better than Leukotape because it stretches 2X lengthwise and is smoother than Leukotape), small EMT shears, Q-tips, a travel toothbrush & toothpaste, Mountain Soap (low/no suds), alcohol wipes…If I need to irrigate a wound my Katadyn BeFree bottle & filter has an impressive flow rate and filters biologicals down to 0.1 micron (smaller than a coronavirus.) I do need to carry pain relievers & anti-inflammatories, though.
Splinter out AKA Stainless steel blood lancets are sterile and great for popping blisters or removing splinters.
Hello Justin, thank you sharing this very informative video. I really enjoyed it. All the best to you in the outdoors. 🤗
I like that it’s more robust than most
Awesome video! I definitely agree with making your own first aid kit. I like the way you’ve organized and labeled yours! Thanks for sharing!
Caution do not wash cuts with regular water use salien
Up-vote just for having Immodium.
Amazing how many "experts" don't have that critical resource.
I would rate having an anti-diarrheal above fire-starters or shelter in many environments. (Haiti, Africa, Most of Asia, the Oregon Trail)
As a Physician and former combat medic The materials for immobilizing a break cloth for a sling
Well done Lad, you got the basics covered.
Keep up the safety first approach
I keep my 1st Aid , 1st Aid. The only time I would add a means to make fire is if I planned to use a lighter to sterilize a needle to pick out a sliver or something.
My fire kit remains a separate fire kit.
Nifty addition of the ferro rod and fire starters! Always nice to have a backup to the lint and mini bic. I also pack after bite for bug bites. I also do some flossers because you never know what could get stuck in your teeth! Was also cool learning about the cpr mask! Great video!
You can use floss to stitch up a wound in a pinch with your needle. Probably best not to use the minty stuff though.
Some great ideas! We don’t do a lot of hiking, so keep our first aid stuff in a metal ammo box, but I think we’ll supplement some of the things now. Great video.
I'm a former Registered EMT - I and cross qualified as a military medic. I have a complete trauma kit, along with all the mentioned OTCs, (a week's worth X2) including famotidine, ASA/Caff/Acet, Hydrocortisone, Betadine, Lidocaine topical, and the Australian EMS snakebite protocol gear. My two largest pouches on my South African combat vest are dedicated to medical. I don't "mix" gear... I keep my Fire, Water, Medical, Etc... in separate pouches. And the Ibuprofen isn't going to completely mask any non visible injury, pain, symptoms - even at 800mg BID. My kit is primarily for MY party/myself. Nothing more than standard first aid/BLS to anyone else. Definitely nothing to taken internally. I have as much faith in the provisions of the Good Samaritan Act as I have in those in DC !
Pretty different from mine. Now I'm not too concerned about weight because I only do day hiking (so far), and don't carry a whole lot of other gear with me. But here's the basics of mine: tylenol and allergy medicine. Basic small bandages and a couple various sizes of gauze, moleskin, antiseptic wipes, afterbite, antibiotic ointment. That's it for the small stuff. Now for the serious injuries I carry quick clot, ace bandage and rolled gauze for a pressure bandage, a splint, and a tourniquet.
Love that Dyneema first aid pouch! Great video Justin. I've just finished putting my first aid kit together, but now I'm going to include that Swiss Army knife and fire starter you have. That is genius! Thank Mate.
Not to bad of a kit , needs a Mylar blanket , I carry a complete IFAK for when I’m out !
I carry a small pill crusher with my ASA in case a patient is unable to swallow a pill. Just crush the ASA and administer sublingually. If the patient is able to swallow the pill, make sure they chew it first. It acts much faster. Also make sure that you get uncoated ASA. There is much debate on whether it works better than enteric-coated ASA. I find it easier to crush and chew. I also use 325mg ASA. No reason to take multiple baby pills when one will do the trick.
Eye drops, burn gel, tweezers, oral gel (toothaches can literally bring on bouts of temporary insanity) and I prefer to bring Tylenol 1’s because as you know you don’t need a prescription for them in Canada (at least not in Yellowknife) thanks
You should reeeeeally try compeed for blisters! It's magic!
maybe add a space blanket? Thank you!
Ordered some of those firestarter plugs, on sale, nice. That dyneema sack and poop bag have been sold out for awhile.
Good kit. But Ibuprofen, aspirin and NSAID slow down the clotting process and can stay in your system for days: on the trail that means it will be harder to stop any bleeding. Ibuprofen is good as an anti-inflammatory and for muscle pain, but I would also carry maximum strength Tylenol which doesn't slow down the clotting process and is great for pain, although not as good for muscle pain. Aspirin is not recommended anymore for laypersons attending to cardiovascular emergencies. Get rid of it, it can make the emergency worse depending on patient and medical history. Great call on the non-alcoholic, antibacterial wipe which has been made widely available as an alternative to alcohol wipes during the pandemic because of shortages, and actually turn out to be much safer for small wounds and better.
my kit sucks but you dont have a tourniquet. look into getting a CAT style TQ and learn how to properly deploy it. great videos btw!
I'm not trained to use a TQ at this point and am a little hesitant until myself and people around me are trained in proper use and the scenarios when it should be used.
Justin: your videos are super helpful. This one is especially good! Thank you!
Haha awesome little kit my man! Little ferro rod is so awesome😂
I have that same dyneema pouch!
I cannot stress enough, buy the non-stick woven pads. Regular woven pads will heal into a wound quickly, causing a lot of pain and damage when properly addressing the wound.
Ibuprofen is fine as it will actually help treat the inflammation which is causing the discomfort. Tylenol/Acetaminophen/Paracetamol is what your thinking of where it's telling your brain you're not hurting when you actually are. Also, no safety pins or mini tube of superglue?!?
Caffeine pills are the best! I put these in all my first aid kits. They're great for travel too.
Meds have expiration date. I would write it onto package too.
Just took first aid yesterday for the first time. We got to epipens and I wondered if you could use primatine mist as an allergic alternative treatment?
Alright quick question, could you replace the roll of athletic tape with leukotape that way it serves double purpose? Just curious :)
Definitely! I carry the separate athletic tape because I know I'd use the leukotape down until it wouldn't have enough for taping an ankle. The leukotape gets used quite a bit and I need to replenish it a couple times a year. I may end up creating a labelled 2nd roll of leukotape but have the athletic tape around and am comfortable using it from so many ankle injuries playing soccer.
@@JustinOutdoors awesome thanks! I love leukotape, it definitely gets used on almost every trip 😅
wouldn’t it be better to use a see-through bag?
Literally just threw together my kit for our 8 day trip coming up … I’ll add tweezers! Thanks
One sterile pad is totally insufficient. Replacement pads are essential to protect damaged areas. I prefer the non-sticking to wound variety.
I ordered some of the Leukotape. It came in a huge roll!!Any tricks for bringing less and maintaining the stickiness??
just roll it in on itself!
We teach survival skills, and don't recommend that you put survival and first aid, together. An emergency survival kit needs to be separate and kept on your body. Secondly, include a small lighter - always have two ways to light fire; You also need a signal mirror, some kind of emergency shelter like a SOL XL blanket; water treatment tabs and a whislte;
Try wrapping about 3 metres of that tape around an old store card - you don't need to carry an entire roll - it's heavy. You won't need any more than 3 metres in one trip :)
You need some hydrocortisone cream, antibiotic cream, & burn cream packets.
You need to add a tampon. Excellent for nosebleeds and other bleeding wounds. Small and light and packs well
You look like you would be a summer camp councillor, like one with 10-15 year olds specifically. I don’t know if this sounds like a compliment or not, but It’s supposed to be
So duct tape and vodka isn't enough?
Benadryl can stop diarrhea too. Anticholinergics have constipation as a side effect for this reason.
Do NOT take in Aspirin if you suspect a heart attack!!!
Sure it helps IF you have an actual heart attack. But the symptoms of a heart attack can mean a few other things where aspirin could be harmful. For example an aortic dissection (a cut in the wall of your aorta) or a esophageal disrupture (a cut in your esophagus).
These things have similar symptoms. Only with an ekg could you definitively say whether it's a heart attack or not.
Also Aspirin takes half an hour to work.
Instead, rest in a position that unburdens your heart (sitting and laid back a bit) and call the emergency number. If you are in the outback, maybe a helicopter comes that has an ekg and can give Aspirin directly in the bloodstream which is much more controlled and quicker.
Where can I find a cap like yours? And thanks for all the tips vids!!
Made it myself!
Good information, thank you!!!
Hey can you make a video on how to use the blade of the sd classic to strike the ferro rod, I’m not having much success
The creator of the little ferro rods has some great videos on how to strike! ua-cam.com/channels/1gsz2R8COHdDykplBibqHQ.html
Please add something for bleeding control
Band aids
Just wanted to comment a little on the ibuprofen philosophy. I agree that it's not good to mask pain. But ibuprofen also serves as an anti-inflammatory to keep swelling down. There's value in that aspect of it if you have an injury that is causing some swelling. You'll be better off if you control it until you get home. I think anyways? Somebody tell me if I'm full of crap here.
Very helpful video, thank you!
Dang! I feel like I’ve been hit with a tsunami of information! :)