This Simple Backpack Hack Makes Finding Your Medical Kit Easier In Emergencies

When you're in an emergency situation, time is of the essence. Whether you're hiking through a national park or camping in a forest, you should always pack a medical kit in case you or someone in your group gets hurt. Especially if you're somewhere rural and the nearest medical facility is miles away. Bringing a medical kit is essential to prepare yourself in case of emergency before traveling. But packing one isn't always enough — you need to know where it is in your bag so you can access it quickly. To save yourself some stress, there is an easier solution for finding what you need that doesn't involve you emptying the entire contents of your backpack. All it takes is small reminder on the outside of your pack telling you where to look. 

For this simple hack, figure out which zipped compartment of your backpack you want to keep your medical kit in, zip it up, and replace the zip with a red toggle. This toggle can be a ribbon, a hair tie, a zip tie, or even a torn scrap of fabric. Just make sure it's secured tightly and is bright enough for you to identify quickly. Additionally, choose a compartment that isn't too deep or filled with other supplies so you have easy access to your kit and aren't wasting precious time digging around.

If you don't want to buy a pre-made medical kit (they can be expensive), they're pretty easy to make. The trick is to make your kit stand out from the rest of the items in your bag, so choose a case that stands out. It can be something brightly colored or with distinct markings that let you know it contains medical supplies. This can also help someone else identify it in your bag if you're unable to access it.

There are a few items you'll need to create the perfect DIY kit for all of your medical needs while traveling. First are the basics such as any medication or vitamin you take daily as well as general medications such as pain killers, allergy pills, and eye drops. Then you can start building the rest of your kit with items you may not reach for as often. Be sure to pack adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, medical tape, antibacterial ointment, a thermometer, and gauze pads. Take your kit to the next level by including CRP masks, duct tape, tweezers, hydrocortisone cream, heating/cooling pads, burn gel, and disposable gloves. If you want to go above and beyond, include a splint, a tourniquet, and an emergency blanket.

This is a lot of stuff to carry around, but it's worth the extra weight to be prepared. If you're traveling in a group, you can assign certain items to others so that your backpack isn't weighed down by them, but they're still available if needed. Before leaving for your trip, check expiration dates and replace the items that are past their best before dates or close to expiring.