When seconds count, the way you set up your first aid kit can make all the difference. Whether you're treating yourself or someone else in an emergency, knowing what to keep on the outside vs. inside — and how to organize it all — is key to fast, effective care. Let’s break it down.
Start with the Right Mounting System
A quality first aid kit should feature a versatile mounting system. We highly recommend a MOLLE system — ideally on the back and the front — to allow for full customization and easy access. MOLLE gives you the ability to attach essential gear directly to your kit or utilize external pouches and Velcro straps for expanded storage.
Outside the Kit: Items for Fast Access
These tools should be immediately accessible — not buried inside — because they may be needed in life-threatening situations within seconds:
- Tourniquet: Critical for stopping arterial bleeds. You have 30 seconds to act — make sure it's mounted on the outside.
- EMT Shears: Use these to cut seatbelts, clothing, wraps, or gauze.
- Sharpie: Write down tourniquet time, vitals, or notes for responders.
- Mini Flashlight: Essential for low-light or night-time emergencies.
- Mini Multi-Tool: Adds versatility for unexpected situations. If there's no room outside, store it in Tier 3.
Inside the Kit: Tiered for Strategic Use
Before using any first aid kit, take it apart and reorganize the contents. Remove shrink wrap or unnecessary packaging from key items to ensure they’re ready to go. Then separate everything into tiers based on priority and usage:
Tier 1 – Immediate Response
- Compressed gauze
- Hemostatic gauze or QuikClot
- Chest seals
- Nasopharyngeal airway (NPA)
- Nitrile gloves
Keep these items front and center. These are your life-saving tools for critical trauma management.
Tier 2 – Wound Management
- Burn gel
- Eyewash and wound wash
- Antiseptics
- Wound closure tools (ZZips, sutures, etc.)
- Bandages and Band-Aids
This tier belongs in the middle section of your kit. It’s for follow-up care and less urgent but essential wound treatment.
Tier 3 – Meds & Essentials
- Pain relief (OTC or prescription)
- Antihistamines
- Electrolytes and glucose gel
- Splints, wraps, duct tape
- Mini tools and hydration mods
These items support recovery and comfort. Store them in the back of your kit.
Final Thoughts
Fast on the outside. Smart on the inside. That’s the key to a well-built first aid kit. Take the time to train, know your gear, and stage everything for worst-case scenarios. Seconds count — your setup matters.