Best First Aid Kit for Any Situation (2023 Reviews and Guide)
Whether you’re traveling or you’re at home, having the best first aid kit on hand is essential. Luckily, the internet is flooded with top-quality medical sets to keep you and your loved ones safe in case of any danger. Here are our top recommendations!
Brief Overview
WhyDoesEverythingSuck is reader-supported. We may receive a commission if you buy through links on this page. However, this doesn’t affect our opinions. Read our full Affiliate Disclosure. Prep Store Elite First Aid Kit
Top emergency medical kit
- Suitable for beginners and experts
- Over 70 medical supplies
- Easy-access compartments
- Highly durable case
10
$74.99
Read Review Adventure Medical Kits Marine 3000
Most popular marine medical kit
- Slip-resistant first aid kit
- Suitable for large crews
- Sturdy case protects contents
- Injury-specific pockets
9.6
$794.99
Read Review American Red Cross Deluxe Family First Aid Kit
Great first aid kit for home
- Suitable for the entire family
- Everything included is latex-free
- Easy to carry around
- 115 pieces for all injuries
9.2
$40.99
Read Review Everlit Survival Emergency Advanced Trauma Kit
Top-rated tactical medical kit
- MOLLE gear compatible
- Includes a premium tourniquet
- Customized by US military veterans
- Uses premium nylon for durability
9.8
$74.95
Read Review My Medic First Aid Kit
Top MOLLE medical kit
- Well stocked and organized
- Exceptional durability
- Contains over 550 supplies
- Velcro straps and MOLLE loops
9.5
$749.95
Read Review REI Adventure Medical Kit
Most popular first aid kit for backpacking
- Waterproof and ultralight
- Has all the basic items you’ll need
- Easy to refill
- DryFlex watertight pouches
9.1
$28.95
Read Review Choice Survival 2 Section Waterproof First Aid Kit
Top-rated car first aid kit
- Color labels for quick access
- Hypoallergenic adhesive tape
- Heavy-duty zippers
- Hard-wearing straps
9.9
$84.99
Read Review Uncharted Supply Co. Triage Kit
Excellent first aid kit for traveling
- Light as a feather and compact
- Resistant to water damage
- Made of 30D double-ripstop nylon
- Coated outer and inner section
9.3
$39.00
Read Review VSSL Adventure Ready First Aid Kit
Great camping first aid kit
- Impact-resistant design
- Waterproof and impact-resistant
- Includes a 200 lumens 4-mode light
- Oil-filled precision compass
9.4
$45.00
Read Review Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Medic
Great first aid kit for rescue
- Suitable for professional use
- Fully adjustable belt
- Hospital-quality tools
- Lumbar pack for comfort
9.7
$399.99
Read ReviewUltimate First Aid Kit Reviews
Now that you’re familiar with our top recommendations, let’s go through each product and see what they offer. We’ll discuss the main specifications, as well as their pros and cons.
Prep Store Elite First Aid Kit
10
Top emergency medical kit
- Number of people: 2
- Weight: 32oz
- Includes medication: No
- Shipping: Free
The Prep Store Elite First Aid Kit is an all-purpose set that includes over 70 medical supplies for treating various injuries at home, outdoors, or even on water. Although you won’t get basic medication, the kit contains everything else you may need, including ice packs, two emergency blankets, and a wire splint.
Overall, this is a high–quality first aid kit for an affordable price. It’s suitable for both beginners and professionals. Besides offering versatility, this kit also has plenty of storage space. All of the supplies are neatly organized in clear compartments that can be securely zipped up. There’s plenty of room for personal items and first aid kit supplies.
Prep Store is one of the rare first aid kit companies that customers turn to repeatedly. We’ve tested one of their highest-rated survival packs in the past, and it also lived up to the hype. If you want a quality first aid kit from a reliable brand, this might be it.
Pros
- + Suitable for beginners and experts
- + Over 70 medical supplies
- + Easy-access compartments
- + Highly durable case
Cons
- − Doesn’t include medications
Adventure Medical Kits Marine 3000
9.6
Most popular marine medical kit
- Number of people: Up to 18
- Weight: 16.25lb
- Includes medication: Yes
- Shipping: Shipping fees apply
If you’re searching for a top-quality survival first aid kit, the Adventure Medical Kits Marine 3000 for adventures on water might be the perfect choice. It’s the biggest Adventure Medical Kit, created for large teams away for over 24 hours. In essence, this medical kit is a compact portable hospital. It contains all the necessary supplies to address any accident, from minor scrapes to severe burns. Hence, it’s a good first aid kit if you need supplies for many people and a lot of different situations.
You’ll also enjoy the fact that it comes with a padded foam case that shields the contents in the kit. Thanks to the texturized rubber bottom, it’s also slip-proof. Although it’s hands down the top first aid kit for travel, we found it a bit heavy. Nevertheless, since you’re likely to be keeping and using it on a boat, this probably won’t be an issue.
Pros
- + Slip-resistant first aid kit
- + Suitable for large crews
- + Sturdy case protects contents
- + Injury-specific pockets
Cons
- − Fairly heavy
American Red Cross Deluxe Family First Aid Kit
9.2
Great first aid kit for home
- Number of people: More than 2
- Weight: 2.05lb
- Includes medication: Yes
- Shipping: Shipping fees apply
Several perks make the American Red Cross Deluxe Family one of the top–rated first aid kits on the market. In brief, this is a 115-piece kit that includes critical supplies for treating sprains, scrapes, cuts, and other common injuries. So if you’re looking for a versatile first aid kit that the entire family can use at home, this may be the right choice.
Thanks to the zippered box with handles for convenient transport, this may also be a great bug–out bag first aid kit. Hence, if you need to evacuate your home fast, you’ll have all the medical supplies you need with you. Although the Red Cross first aid kit is primarily meant for advanced users, it’s also beginner-friendly. Namely, it also includes the American Red Cross Emergency First Aid Guide.
On top of that, since all contents are latex-free, this is also a great emergency first aid kit for people with allergies. Unfortunately, some customers were complaining about the delayed shipping. On the bright side, friendly customer service is always available to help you track your order and deal with any potential problems.
Pros
- + Suitable for the entire family
- + Everything included is latex-free
- + Easy to carry around
- + 115 pieces for all injuries
Cons
- − Some delayed shipping complaints
Everlit Survival Emergency Advanced Trauma Kit
9.8
Top-rated tactical medical kit
- Number of people: 1
- Weight: 1.8lb
- Includes medication: No
- Shipping: Free within the US
You don’t have to be in the military to use a tactical heavy-duty first aid kit. The Everlit Survival Emergency Advanced Trauma Kit is developed by the US military veterans, making it ideal for camping, hunting, and other outdoor sports. Without a doubt, this is the highest-quality military first aid kit for all situations.
You get various valuable supplies in each kit, such as a non-vented chest seal, an emergency thermal blanket, and a universal bandage pack. This product also features one of the highest-quality combat tourniquets (Gen 3), making the Everlit the top first aid kit with a tourniquet.
Although it has a lot of supplies, it’s designed for one person. Also, since it’s an advanced first aid kit, we’d recommend the Everlit to people who are fully confident in what they’re doing. There are many reasons why this is widely considered the best–made first aid kit. For instance, it’s made of premium-quality nylon for maximum durability. Also, this kit is MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment) compatible.
On the downside, we’d love to see a handy guide included for newcomers. That being said, you can look this information up on the internet and even print it out for easy reference.
Pros
- + MOLLE gear compatible
- + Includes a premium tourniquet
- + Customized by US military veterans
- + Uses premium nylon for durability
Cons
- − Doesn’t include a guide
My Medic First Aid Kit
9.5
Top MOLLE medical kit
- Number of people: More than 10
- Weight: 18–24lb
- Includes medication: Yes
- Shipping: Free within the contiguous US
You may be wondering, why is this our choice for the top MOLLE kit, and not the Everlit Survival Emergency Advanced Trauma? It’s because My Medic features unique Velcro straps and MOLLE loops for modular storage and add-ons. Also it provides you with more than 550 trauma and first aid supplies.
That being said, it’s not difficult to see why this professional first aid kit is one of the top choices for outdoor adventures. If you’re venturing out with a larger crew, this portable hospital may be the right first aid kit for you. Unfortunately, this also means it’s a bit on the heavier side. Nevertheless, if you’re not planning to drag it with you all day, this won’t be an issue.
We would have loved to see a complete airway kit included. However, this first aid kit brand has already delivered enough supplies in one kit, and another item might have made it too bulky for other users.
Pros
- + Well stocked and organized
- + Exceptional durability
- + Contains over 550 supplies
- + Velcro straps and MOLLE loops
Cons
- − Doesn’t include a full airway kit
REI Adventure Medical Kit
9.1
Most popular first aid kit for backpacking
- Number of people: 1 or 2
- Weight: 8oz
- Includes medication: Yes
- Shipping: Free on orders over $50
When you’re out and about, you want an ultralight backpacker-friendly first aid kit that has all the necessary supplies. The REI Adventure Medical Kit is one of the greatest options for an individual or a couple planning to stay safe in the wilderness. So, what makes this the top first aid kit for hiking and backpacking? For starters, the kit features a zipped ripstop silnylon outer bag with two inner DryFlex watertight pouches, ensuring your things will stay dry and clean at all times.
Obviously, when on trips, you don’t want to carry around a heavy first aid kit. Luckily, our testing confirms that the Adventure Medical weighs only 8oz. However, don’t let the lightness of the set fool you. This kit contains all the essentials, including wound care items like antibiotic ointments, bandages, medications, adhesive tape, and safety pins.
Even though this is a great outdoor first aid kit for basic needs, you might want to look elsewhere if you want something more advanced. For example, this kit doesn’t include a tourniquet — luckily there is plenty of room to add one. On the positive side, if you want a cheap, light, and compact outdoor first aid kit, you’ll love the REI Adventure Medical.
Pros
- + Waterproof and ultralight
- + Has all the basic items you’ll need
- + Easy to refill
- + DryFlex watertight pouches
Cons
- − Doesn’t include a tourniquet
Choice Survival 2 Section Waterproof First Aid Kit
9.9
Top-rated car first aid kit
- Number of people: More than 2
- Weight: 3.3lb
- Includes medication: No
- Shipping: Free
Just like it’s advisable to always have a reliable headlight restoration kit on hand in case you need it, you should also keep a well-stocked first aid kit in your vehicle at all times. The Choice Survival 2 Section Waterproof First Aid Kit contains all the safety tools and supplies you need to have with you if an accident happens on the road. There are a number of reasons why we believe that this is an excellent first aid kit for an RV or a car.
Since people involved in accidents usually require hasty assistance, this kit features a color-coded label design for the quick location of the needed supplies. For example, if you want to treat trauma, go for the red label. Whereas, if you need to sanitize a wound, reach for blue. If you love to keep things organized, this is the greatest vehicle first aid kit for the job.
In each first aid kit, you get a wide array of valuable supplies. For example, you’ll get adhesive dressings, a CPR card, a first aid booklet, splinter probes, and forceps. You might also like the fact that the included adhesive tape is hypoallergenic. On the downside, due to its increasing popularity, this kit is frequently sold out. This means that you’ll have to hurry up and grab it quickly while it’s available.
Pros
- + Color labels for quick access
- + Hypoallergenic adhesive tape
- + Heavy-duty zippers
- + Hard-wearing straps
Cons
- − Sells out fast
Uncharted Supply Co. Triage Kit
9.3
Excellent first aid kit for traveling
- Number of people: 1
- Weight: 5oz
- Includes medication: Yes
- Shipping: Shipping fees apply
There are countless perks of mini first aid kits, and the most obvious is portability. If you’re on the hunt for a good small first aid kit, check out the Uncharted Supply Co. Triage. It contains only the essentials in just over 5oz. Besides being featherlight, this emergency kit is also extremely durable.
The manufacturer designed it from high-tenacity 30D double-ripstop nylon, ensuring that it’s damage-proof and long lasting. The interior is coated as well, so it’s protected against internal abrasion. The Uncharted Supply Co. Triage is an amazing compact first aid kit because it contains all the basics you might need in any type of emergency.
In the kit, you’ll get duct tape, band-aids, medication, and more, encased in a waterproof carrying pouch. Even though this is a great mini first aid kit, it lacks crucial tools such as scissors and tweezers. Luckily, these are cheap and easy to find, so you can add them to this travel first aid kit on your own.
Pros
- + Light as a feather and compact
- + Resistant to water damage
- + Made of 30D double-ripstop nylon
- + Coated outer and inner section
Cons
- − Missing some first aid tools
VSSL Adventure Ready First Aid Kit
9.4
Great camping first aid kit
- Number of people: 1 or 2
- Weight: 1.06lb
- Includes medication: No
- Shipping: Free within the US
Camping is fun, but you might need to deal with injuries such as fractures, sprains, and cuts. Our top pick for the greatest wilderness first aid kit is the VSSL Adventure Ready, a sleek, easily accessible medical kit. It weighs only 1.06lb, so it’s also light as a feather. So, why is this one of the most amazing camping first aid kits?
First of all, it’s waterproof and impact-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about damage. Secondly, you’ll get more than 60 first aid essentials such as a durable multi-use tape, antibiotic cream, burn cream, and a set of bandages.
On top of that, this is a great first aid kit for survival in case you get lost. Namely, you get a 200 lumens 4-mode light to find your way in the darkness, as well as a precision compass for direction. On the downside, some users claim that folding the kit up and returning it to the tube after use takes some practice. However, there were those who managed to do it the first time they tried, just by committing to a firm roll from the start.
Pros
- + Impact-resistant design
- + Waterproof and impact-resistant
- + Includes a 200 lumens 4-mode light
- + Oil-filled precision compass
Cons
- − Folding the kit might take some practice
Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Medic
9.7
Great first aid kit for rescue
- Number of people: Up to 18 people
- Weight: 7.75lb
- Includes medication: Yes
- Shipping: Shipping fees apply
If you’re a trained professional in search of the best kit for rescue missions, we suggest taking a look at the Mountain Medic. This fully portable expert medical kit has all the equipment you might need in any kind of situation. Ideally, it’s designed for professional rescue squads, outfitter services, and wilderness medical professionals.
If you’re looking for a quality first aid kit for a company of up to 18 people, this is the right choice for you. You get enough supplies in each kit to last a group of this size up to a whole month. But, what sets Mountain Medic apart from other products claiming to be the greatest travel first aid kits? For one, this is an ultra-durable pack. The outer bag is designed from a sturdy 600-denier nylon fabric and heavy-duty #10 zippers. Since it has an adjustable waist belt, it’s also customizable.
Hands down, this can easily be the top trauma first aid kit. All of the tools are hospital-quality and made for professionals by professionals. Unfortunately, beginners may find this kit too advanced. However, with time, patience, and a lot of research, this kit could be suitable for beginners as well.
Pros
- + Suitable for professional use
- + Fully adjustable belt
- + Hospital-quality tools
- + Lumbar pack for comfort
Cons
- − May be too advanced for some
How to Pick the Best First Aid Kit
— Buyer’s Guide —
Eight out of ten millennials think they need life insurance. That being said, we’re becoming more aware of how accidents can happen at any time. Now, there are several important differences between one medical kit and the next. Some of these essential factors are kit size and weight, the included supplies, the size of the group, the pack’s durability, and the type of activity you need it for.
Size and Weight
Ultralight and tiny first-aid kits are typically sufficient for one or two individuals or single-day adventures. However, most minimalistic packs lack the necessary provisions for bigger groups or longer trips. So before you opt for a travel-size product, even from a renowned first aid kit company, consider the size of your group and the number of days you’ll be away.
On the downside, larger kits are heavier, so taking them on a trip can slow you down. Nevertheless, if you’re going river rafting or car camping, the first aid kit’s weight won’t be a problem.
Durability
A durable first aid kit will withstand all weather conditions. For instance, if you’re looking for a good backpacking medical kit, you’ll want a product with a sturdy exterior case. This way, it will resist damage.
Also, since many essential medical supplies are sensitive to water, it’s a good idea to purchase a waterproof kit. A waterproof medical kit is vital for people planning to participate in water-based sports such as rafting or kayaking. If the kit isn’t waterproof, you’ll need a dry bag or a ziplock bag.
What’s Included?
Besides looking for medications and physical materials to treat injuries, you’ll also want to look at the included tools. For instance, consider whether the first aid kit comes with a thermometer, small scissors, tweezers, and ice packs. Overall, a top first aid kit should always include wraps, bandages, and sometimes medication such as pain relievers and antibiotics.
Do You Need It at Home or Outdoors?
If you’re shopping for a great hiking medical kit, you want to look for a set with the proper equipment. For instance, you might wish to have additional supplies, such as a flashlight. Moreover, kits designed for the outdoors typically include MOLLE attachments or a sling for easier use. These are usually always waterproof. For your convenience, we’ve included recommendations for both outdoor and indoor first aid kits, as well as kits that are suitable for all other situations.
FAQ
How much should I spend on a first aid kit?
The amount of money you should spend on your first aid kit entirely depends on your preferences and, of course, your budget. For complete beginners, we recommend choosing kits that contain all of the basic supplies. Typically, kits with more supplies cost more, but this is not always the case.
What are the top 10 items in a first aid kit?
These are the must-haves every first aid kit should include:
- Tweezers
- Elastic bandage
- Different bandages (standard, butterfly, etc.)
- Antiseptic pads
- Surgical scissors
- Latex/disposable gloves
- Sterile gauze/pad
- Antiseptic pads/ointment
- Gauze roll/pads
- Adhesive tape
Where should you put a first aid kit?
You can keep your medical kit at home, in your vehicle, or take it with you on the road when hiking. If you decide to keep it at home, we recommend storing the kit in the kitchen (since that’s where most injuries happen). Because of the high humidity, don’t keep the medical equipment in the bathroom.
How long does a first aid kit last?
Typically, the average medical kit will last you from three to five years. Make sure to stay mindful of when the kit expires and replenish the supplies as soon as you run out.
How often should first aid kits be checked?
Whether you use it or keep it in your storage, a medical kit should be checked once every 12 months. Make sure to check whether the supplies are working and whether they have expired or not. Moreover, check whether all sterile items are sealed.
Do first aid kits have pain killers?
Yes, some medical kits include medication such as pain killers. For example, the Medic First Aid Kit includes ibuprofen, aspirin, and various other drugs.
The Bottom Line
Accidents happen, so it’s critical you have the necessary first aid supplies on hand at all times. Sadly, even a seemingly insignificant injury can potentially become life-threatening if you don’t have the right tools with you. However, with the best first aid kit for the situation and the basic knowledge of how to use it, you’ll be able to save lives.
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Hermina Drah
Hermina believes that every day is a chance to learn something new about the obscure world around us. The driving force behind her writing is her passion for sharing knowledge with others all around the world. After attaining her master’s degree in English language and literature, she has decided to join the team of creative writers dedicated to delivering the hottest content on the web. So what are Hermina’s favorite topics to cover? Animals, good books, health, fitness, self-care—you name it.