We’ve tested the top 5 first aid kits from BunkerTactical, Surviveware, MyMedia, Uncharted Supply & Swiss Safe, to finally settle on which is the actual best first aid kit for every use case.
If you’re looking for a first aid kit for your home/car, or for your next outdoors adventure or camping trip, you absolutely need to have a first aid kit on hand.
Not only can this save you from a trip to the hospital, having a first aid kit nearby can actually save you in a life or death situation.
We personally asked rangers, outdoorsmen, and newbies on their thoughts on the topic, and compiled a list of the top 5 best first aid kits money can buy in 2023.
What’s in a First Aid Kit?
A first aid kit is basically a collection of supplies and equipment that you can use in case of a minor emergency or injury, whether you’re at home, on the road, or outdoors.
Think of it as your go-to box for "oh no" moments like cuts, scrapes, burns, or even bug bites. It's not a replacement for professional medical help, but it's super handy for immediate, on-the-spot care.
Inside a typical first aid kit, you'll usually find things like adhesive bandages (you might know them as Band-Aids), antiseptic wipes to clean wounds, some gauze, and maybe even tweezers for pulling out splinters.
You might also find some over-the-counter meds like pain relievers, as well as other useful items like scissors, medical tape, and maybe a pair of gloves.
People often keep these kits in their homes, cars, or take them along on camping trips—basically anywhere you might need quick access to basic medical supplies.
Some folks even customize their kits based on specific needs, like adding in an EpiPen for severe allergies or extra supplies for a baby or pet.
What To Look For When Buying A First Aid Kit?
When you're shopping for a first aid kit, what you need will depend on how you plan to use it—whether it's for home, travel, or specific activities like hiking.
But here are 16 things you should always have in a first aid kit:
Gear & Essentials
- Adhesive Bandages: Various sizes for minor cuts, blisters, or scrapes.
- Sterile Gauze: To dress larger wounds or burns.
- Adhesive Tape: To keep gauze in place.
- Antiseptic Wipes: For cleaning wounds or skin.
- Tweezers: For splinter or tick removal.
- Scissors: For cutting tape, gauze, or clothing.
- Pain Relievers: Such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
- Thermometer: A digital one is often easiest to use.
Utility Considerations
- Portability: If you're traveling, you'll want something compact. For home use, a larger, more comprehensive kit might be better.
- Durability: Look for a sturdy container that will protect the contents.
- Organization: Some kits have compartments to help you find what you need quickly.
- Special Needs: Add any personal medications or items specific to your family's needs, like an EpiPen for allergies, baby essentials, or pet supplies.
- Expiration Dates: Make sure the items in your kit are far from expiring when you buy it, and remember to check them regularly.
- Quality: Look for kits that are FDA-approved or meet other safety regulations.
- Price: While you don't want to skimp on health and safety, there are first aid kits available at various price points. Just make sure it has what you'll likely need.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall First Aid Kit: Bunker Tactical 90 Piece Survival First Aid Kit ($74.99)
First Aid Kit With The Most Tools: Surviveware Waterproof 200 Piece First Aid Kit ($149.99)
Best First Aid Kit For Camping: MYFAK 140 Piece First Aid Kit ($169.95)
Highest Quality Affordable First Aid Kit: Uncharted’s 92 Piece First Aid Plus ($83.85)
Cheapest First Aid Kit: Swiss Safe 2-in-1 120-Piece First Aid Kit ($19.80)
Best First Aid Kit Overall: Bunker Tactical Survival Kit
Our Rating: Quality: 5/5 Price: 5/5 Tools: 4/5
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The BunkerTactical 90 Piece Survival First Aid Kit is more than just a collection of medical supplies; it's a lifeline designed to offer peace of mind and control in emergency situations.
Whether you're in the wilderness, on a road trip, or going about your daily life, this kit aims to be your go-to resource for medical and survival needs.
In the wild, being prepared isn't just a good idea—it's a necessity. This first aid kit is a survivalist's dream, packed with 90 essential items that could very well save your life.
The military-grade tourniquet and CPR mask are top-notch, designed for situations where every second counts.
But what really sets this kit apart are the survival tools.
A paracord bracelet with a compass, whistle, and fire starter?
That's not just first aid; that's giving you the tools to navigate, signal for help, and keep warm.
The emergency blanket and glowstick are also fantastic additions for those unexpected nights under the stars.
And don't worry if you're not a medical expert—the included booklet has got you covered with straightforward, step-by-step instructions.
So, if you're serious about outdoor adventures or just want to be prepared for life's curveballs, this kit is a solid investment in safety and peace of mind.
Remember, it's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
The Bunker Tactical Survival Kit is your all-in-one solution for medical emergencies, making it our pick for the best overall first aid kit. It comes loaded with everything from a CAT Military Tourniquet and CPR Mask to specialized items like a paracord bracelet equipped with a compass, whistle, and fire starter.
Need to treat a burn or a blister?
This kit has got you covered with burn care ointment and blister treatment.
Its expansive range of supplies also includes an emergency blanket, instant ice pack, and a splint. The trauma wound dressing and compressed gauze ensure you're prepared for more serious injuries.
Organization is a breeze, thanks to the first aid booklet with instructions and a durable bag to hold everything.
What's more, it even includes a glow stick and a permanent marker, taking preparedness to the next level. With its well-thought-out selection of items, this kit isn't just comprehensive—it's practical and versatile, making it the ultimate choice for overall preparedness.
First Aid Kit With The Most Tools: Surviveware Waterproof 200 Piece First Aid Kit ($149.99)
Our Rating: Quality: 5/5 Price: 5/5 Tools: 5/5
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If you're hitting the water or just want a kit that can handle anything Mother Nature throws at it, the Surviveware Waterproof Premium First Aid Kit is your go-to.
Seriously, this thing is built like a tank but organized like a library—everything has its place, and you can find it in seconds.
The kit comes with a water-resistant case that meets IPX7 standards, ensuring your supplies stay dry. Its robust construction includes welded seams and a durable zipper.
Inside, the kit is well-organized with labeled compartments and features an extensive first aid manual for emergencies.
Other highlights include top-quality cutting and gripping tools, hangable D-Rings, and compatibility with MOLLE systems, allowing you to attach it to almost any surface.
Look, when you're out in the wild, or even just on a boat, stuff happens. And when it does, you want a first aid kit that's as tough and ready as you are.
This Surviveware kit is that and more. The waterproof feature is a game-changer, especially if you're into watersports or live in a hurricane zone.
But it's not just about keeping things dry; it's about being prepared for anything.
The advanced first aid handbook is like having a mini-doctor in your bag, ready to guide you through any crisis.
So, whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just someone who likes to be prepared, this kit is a no-brainer. Trust me, it's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
The kit includes a 600D TPU bag and an assortment of medical supplies like 6-inch shears, various types of adhesive bandages, a first aid handbook, and other essentials.
There are also specialized items like an emergency blanket, pressure bandage, and wound dressings. Items for minor issues like ear buds and safety pins are also included.
The kit offers a comprehensive range of items to address a variety of emergency situations.
Best First Aid Kit For Camping: MyMedic MyFAK
Our Rating: Quality: 5/5 Price: 5/5 Tools: 5/5
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If you're the kind of person who wants to be ready for anything, anywhere, then the MyMedic MyFAK is your jam.
This kit is like the Swiss Army knife of first aid kits—compact yet comprehensive, and perfect for everything from camping trips to keeping at home.
The MyMedic MyFAK is a top-of-the-line first aid kit packed with over 140 essential items, making it your go-to for any emergency.
Its smart, fold-out design means quick access and easy organization, so no time is wasted during a crisis.
It's built to last, with a durable MOLLE panel for tough conditions, and its versatile straps let you mount it almost anywhere—from your car to a tree.
With extra space to add your own supplies, this kit isn't just comprehensive; it's customizable, too. It's far more than a box of band-aids; it's a life-saving toolkit you can make your own.
Listen, life's unpredictable. One minute you're hiking, the next you're dealing with a sprained ankle or worse. That's where the MyMedic MyFAK comes in.
This kit is a lifesaver, literally. It's jam-packed with over 140 items to handle just about any emergency you can think of.
The folding page design is genius—easy access to what you need, when you need it.
And let's talk durability; the Hypalon MOLLE panel means this kit can take a beating and keep on treating.
Plus, the straps make it super versatile for storage. So whether you're an adventurer or just like to be prepared, this kit is a must-have.
Trust me, it's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
Highest Quality Affordable First Aid Kit: Uncharted’s 92 Piece First Aid Plus ($83.85)
Our Rating: Quality: 5/5 Price: 5/5 Tools: 5/5
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Is it a first aid kit? Or a survival kit? Why not both? The Uncharted Supply Co. First Aid Plus is the Swiss Army knife of first aid kits, and it's got the reviews to back it up.
This bad boy is designed to be your go-to for any situation, whether you're on a boat, in a truck, or even in a spaceship (well, maybe not a spaceship, but you get the point).
For those seeking top-notch quality without breaking the bank, Uncharted's 92 Piece First Aid Plus is the ideal choice.
This kit is far more than just bandages and gauze; it comes with 92 essential items, including a full-on CPR kit.
But it doesn't stop at first aid; it also includes survival gear like a flashlight, multi-tool, stormproof matches, and even duct tape.
The 600D tarpaulin shell and watertight zipper ensure that everything stays dry, so you don't have to worry about your supplies getting ruined.
The MOLLE system allows for quick and easy mounting, whether you're attaching it to a backpack or in your car.
Plus, there's a personal section for any additional items you might need, like sunscreen or medication.
Why choose this kit? Its versatility stands out—it's both a first aid kit and a survival kit. The waterproof design offers durability, while the labeled pockets provide easy organization
The extra space for your personal items makes it customizable to your specific needs. All of this for just $83.85 makes it an excellent value for the quality you're getting.
When you're out there facing the elements, you need a kit that's as rugged and versatile as you are.
The First Aid Plus is that kit. It's not just about band-aids and antiseptics; this kit is packed with survival tools that can help you out of a tight spot.
But what sets this kit apart is its durability. The 600D tarpaulin shell is welded and 100% waterproof, so you know your supplies are safe from the elements.
And with the MOLLE system, you can strap this kit to pretty much anything, making it the perfect companion for any adventure.
So, whether you're a seasoned survivalist or just someone who likes to be prepared, the First Aid Plus is a no-brainer.
It's the kind of kit that makes you feel like, "Bring it on, world. I'm ready for you."
Remember, it's not just about having a first aid kit; it's about having the RIGHT first aid kit.
And this one? It's the right one.
Cheapest First Aid Kit: Swiss Safe 2-in-1 120-Piece First Aid Kit ($19.80)
Our Rating: Quality: 3/5 Price: 5/5 Tools: 5/5
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Alright, let's get into it. If you're the type who likes to be prepared for anything, then the Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit is your jam.
This bad boy is not just a first aid kit; it's a full-on emergency preparedness kit. We're talking 152 pieces, including a mini kit. Yeah, you read that right.
Swiss Safe isn't messing around. They're all about high-quality, medical-grade supplies
Whether you're at home, in the office, or out in the wild, this kit has got you covered. And let's be real, the quality here is top-notch.
Swiss Safe is so confident in their product that they're all ears for any questions you might have.
If you're on a budget but still want a reliable first aid kit, look no further than the Swiss Safe 2-in-1 120-Piece Kit.
Despite its compact size of just 9 inches and a weight of 1.2 pounds, this kit is fully stocked with essentials for a range of common emergencies.
Plus, it comes with an 18-page first aid guide to help you navigate medical situations.
Why should you consider this kit? Its versatility makes it ideal for various settings—home, office, travel, or outdoor adventures.
It doesn't skimp on quality, offering medical-grade supplies, and the educational guide is a valuable addition.
At just $19.80, this kit delivers a lot of bang for your buck, proving that affordability doesn't have to compromise quality or preparedness.
When it comes to being prepared, this kit is like having a mini-hospital at your fingertips.
The compact size means it's easy to take with you, but don't let that fool you.
This kit is packed to the brim with essential supplies. And that first aid guide? It's like your personal medical advisor.
So, if you're the type who likes to be ready for anything, this kit is a no-brainer. Trust me, it's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
Final Verdict: The Best First Aid Kits in 2023
First off, let's get one thing straight: A first aid kit isn't a luxury; it's a necessity.
Whether you're an avid outdoorsman, a road tripper, or just someone who likes to be prepared, a solid first aid kit is as essential as food and water.
Overall, if money or space wasn't an issue, the MyMedic MyFAK Pro would our overall pick for the best first aid kit in 2023.
Its extensive array of medical supplies and high-quality, durable design make it the go-to choice for anyone who needs a comprehensive solution for medical emergencies.
However, for those who may be budget-conscious or have limited space, the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight would be our pick for the best cheap first aid kit on the market.
While it doesn't offer the extensive range of supplies that the MyMedic MyFAK Pro does, it covers all the basics and is compact enough to fit into any backpack or glove compartment.
At just a fraction of the cost of the MyFAK Pro, it still provides the essential items needed for effective first aid.
FAQ
Are first aid kits FSA eligible?
Yes, first aid kits are generally eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Check with your FSA provider for specific guidelines.
Do first aid kits expire?
The kits themselves don't expire, but individual items like bandages and antiseptics can. Check and replace expired items regularly.
How to get a free first aid kit?
FEMA offers a free Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK) for financial preparedness, available for download. Some community health fairs also give away basic first aid kits.
Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.
