First Aid/Repair/Survival Kit List

The only thing I would bring would be the compass. But that's just me. I think a first aid kit is something that a person has to fine tune. You probably won't ever use some of the stuff, but you like to have it because it makes you feel prepared. It's all in the mind.

unless you really use moleskin i would take that out and use duct tape for blisters. Also i would just bring one type of duct tape. I took out all my band-aids because I never wear them or they fall off too easy. Also the gauze is not REALLY necessary. Lastly the Neosporin and Sting-eze can go. I don't know the weights on those but they seem to be mostly small items, but like the other poster said some items just make you feel safer/comfortable which is very key (i never go anywhere without my multitool with photon attached). Overall that sounds like a good kit to me. aloha

Thanks for the info so far…

When using duct tape as moleskin, do you just tape over the blister, add a couple layers of tape, or what. Just curious.

My own is similar with these notes. Of course, this is a highly personal thing that sparks endless discussion without any real concensus – in the end, carry what you're comfortable with and those things that you value for convenience (an example from my kit being tiny foldeing scissors)

Core kit
(1) small pc of waterproof paper – I use a small square of baking parchment
(as many as needed) Anti-inflammatories + pain med naproxin and tylenol which can be used together effectively
(2) Pieces of Moleskin, 2" x 3"
(1) Sewing Needle
(4) Band-Aids, 3" Long
(1) Aluminum Tweezers
(2) Gauze Pad, 3" x 3"
(2) Neosporin Packets
(1) Length of Duct Tape, 2" x 36"
(1) Firestarter
(1) ZipLock Bag

Repair stuff carried on longer trips
(2) Safety Pins
(1) Flosscard, Floss in Business Card
(1) small tube of McNett seam seal

I don't have but think is a good idea
(1) Signal Mirror

For longer hikes I add:
Blister pads (bandaid) because they work so well
Small folder scissors for shaping blister bandaging

I'd eliminate because it's redundant with gear I carry anyway (I might put a few back for day hikes)
(1) Button Compass (use regular compass)
(1) Emergency Blanket (use regular shelter)
(1) Golf Pencil (use journal writing implement)
(2) Razor Blades (use small scissors or knife)
(2) Butterfly Closures (use duct tape)
(2) Gauze Pads, 2" x 2" (just carry 2 3×3)
(1) Length of Duct Tape, 3/4" x 36" (tear wider tape to width)
(2) Alcohol Swabs (use puracell carried for washing hands before meal prep)

I'd eliminate because I (personally) question the value:
(2) Sting-Eze Pads
(1) Knuckle Bandage

You asked about the use of duct tape. I use it to cover hot spots before blisters form. Hold moleskin in place after blisters form (I generally pad a blister with moleskin before taping over it…). If needed I'd use it for splinting.

Jack, what do you use to write on the baking parchment?

John – pencil or ballpoint pen both work and are immune to water.

Thanks for all your help… I just weighed my updated kit and its between 3.5 – 4.0 ounces! All depends on if I take my allergy pills which I need in the Southwest (Cottonwood trees are hell).

–Nick–