How To Build Your Backcountry or Wilderness First Aid Kit

Rethink your “little red box”!

• Discover how to make sure you have what you need — when you need it — and not an ounce more!
• No sales pitches—just solid information from an expert.

How To Spec Your Kit

• Using the PAWS method to audit your wilderness first aid kit (FAK)
• Survival Med’s 7-point checklist for upgrading an off-the-shelf FAK

Learning From Real-Life Mistakes

• Real-life kit fails – what went wrong & why
• Critical life & death FAK mistakes & how to guard against them

Clinical Perspective

• OTC & Rx meds for pain, infection, GI issues, sleep/alertness & more
• The “never list” – FAK supplies that cause more harm than good
• Packing a FAK for chronic medical conditions
• Why you should almost always pack a pregnancy test
• Common questions about expired meds, using someone else’s Rx, etc.

Nuts & Bolts Recommendations

• Detailed supply and gear recommendations for injury, illness, wound care & water purification
• Special FAK needs for hunting, climbing & other high-velocity scenarios
• Natural alternatives to retail products
• Underappreciated FAK extras
• Choosing the right FAK container – how to balance durability, weight, rapid access