When we talk about first aid kits, we often think in terms of emergency supplies we’ll carry on ourselves everyday should we have a medical emergency when hiking, backpacking, flying on a plane, or doing any other potentially risky activities. Today, however, we won’t be talking in terms of specific emergencies to have particular first aid kits made for, but in terms of more of the general: what supplies you can have at home that could really help you or a loved one out if a tough medical situation happens in your own home.

We’ve done lists like this on More Than Just Surviving before. Being a survival blog, the best example we’ve got of a massive list post like this is our Ultimate Survival Gear List. There we explained that the items listed would likely not all be ones you’d choose to have for yourself. You might want multiples of a few items, or one of each of the items on the list, or really not very many of what’s listed at all; the point of that article was to be as comprehensive as possible, so that in case there was something it never occurred to you would be worth keeping, you’d be able to consider if you wanted it at home. Well that’s exactly what we’re doing on the topic of first aid today.

The people who would benefit most from a list like this: preppers for certain. People who are trying to stock up on things that would help them in case of an emergency situation, or even an end of the world, shit hits the fan kind of situation. To sustain life after a collapse, under harsh conditions without the ability to resupply or seek third party assistance – this is hard to do, but if it’s something you want to be able to do, you’re going to need a lot more kit than just your regular buy-at-the-market first aid supply kit.

We all get sick (at some point) and in a really shitty situation, the chances of us getting an infection or breaking a bone rises exponentially. To that effect, I think we should take a serious look at our tool kits and seek to address discrepancies with what we think we would need as opposed to what we would actually need in dire situations when help is either not coming or it’s not coming quickly enough.

The most important tool is obviously knowledge, but if you’re in the market for that, you’ve got the wrong article, as you should be browsing over our list of best first aid books. Assuming you’ve got some of the groundwork laid and know a thing or two about first aid, you are in the right place, as we’ll be discussing everything you likely could ever want at home to deal with a bad medical situation.

This list is broken down into two major sections: medications to stock, and situation specific kits you would ideally keep in your home. Both these sections then have particular subsections in them, though because it’s only two main sections, we’ve decided to just number these subsections straight through as though they were in just one group. If you’ve got a little bit of everything from each of the subsections, I’d say you’re pretty set. Certainly pick and choose what you feel is best to have for your own peace of mind at home. As I said, I know not everyone will want to keep everything here in stock (though I will be aiming for hitting as many items on this list personally), I just wanted to make sure this list was as comprehensive as possible so that in case you’re redoing your traveling first aid kit, or your at home first aid kit, you can look over this list and know you probably haven’t missed much if you’ve got all you want off of this behemoth.

Yes, I almost certainly have forgotten something. Yes, your recommendations are very welcome and this list will eventually be amended to add anything forgotten. If you have any words of wisdom for us, leave them in the comments below. They will certainly be greatly appreciated, not just by us, but by anyone who wanders this way looking for some good supplies for their first aid kits – home or everyday carry style.

Caveat: If you suffer from a chronic condition, seek specialized solutions. Period. Nothing written here should ever replace or take precedent above the advice of your doctor or medical practitioner. The same goes for sufferers of specific debilitating diseases or conditions that require less mainstream solutions.

Secondary Caveat: Yes, some people are allergic to insulin, others to the latex found in gloves, and a slew of other things on this list, but I’m going to include things on here that you or someone you know may be allergic to because they’re helpful to have around for everyone else who isn’t allergic. Obviously, know your allergies and the allergies of those around you, and if you’re unsure ask before helping whether an allergy exists.

Now let’s get into it.

Medicine

1. Specialized Medicine

Insulin & Metformin

Type 2 diabetes is common and if you or a family member suffers from it, I would strongly look into long term solutions in terms of stocking up on these medications for yourselves.

Type 2 diabetes is common and if you or a family member suffers from it, I would strongly look into long term solutions in terms of stocking up on these medications for yourselves. Beta Agonists (like Ventolin)

For those who suffer from asthma. Again, if you or someone you know suffers from this – you need to get on buffing up a good stock of this medication ASAP. Buy it as you need it is a pretty poor strategy in a collapse situation, and even in an emergency.

For those who suffer from asthma. Again, if you or someone you know suffers from this – you need to get on buffing up a good stock of this medication ASAP. Buy it as you need it is a pretty poor strategy in a collapse situation, and even in an emergency. Antihistamines (like Loratadine)

(ex. Kirkland Signature Non Drowsy Allerclear Loratadine Tablets)

For dealing with allergies. You can also use the sleeping aids listed right after this, as they are simply re-purposed first generation antihistamines which had drowsiness as a major side effect.

(ex. Kirkland Signature Non Drowsy Allerclear Loratadine Tablets) For dealing with allergies. You can also use the sleeping aids listed right after this, as they are simply re-purposed first generation antihistamines which had drowsiness as a major side effect. Doxylamine Succinate

(ex. Kirkland Signature Nighttime Sleep Aid)

To deal with insomnia and other sleeping disorders as well as allergies and the common cold. First generation antihistamines are extremely versatile.

(ex. Kirkland Signature Nighttime Sleep Aid) To deal with insomnia and other sleeping disorders as well as allergies and the common cold. First generation antihistamines are extremely versatile. Phenylephrine

(ex. GoodSense Nasal Decongestant Phenylephrine HCl)

For nasal and sinus congestion.

(ex. GoodSense Nasal Decongestant Phenylephrine HCl) For nasal and sinus congestion. Epinephrine Pen

Definitely a must have for those with conditions that require it (i.e. those who have anaphylaxis during extreme allergic reactions).

Definitely a must have for those with conditions that require it (i.e. those who have anaphylaxis during extreme allergic reactions). AmoxFin

(ex. Amoxfin.com AmoxFin)

A controversial topic and the jury is still out on its risks. If you use it, there’s a potential for the infection you’re trying to cure to be beaten down temporarily and yet make a comeback, but with the added fun of antibiotic resistance. Personally, whilst I would rather go to the doctor for human grade medicine, I would rather use this than have nothing (if we’re talking about a situation where you can’t get help – again, prepper SHTF/TEOTWAWKI situations). Its easy to talk about the optimal solution when society’s still on it’s feet, but when there are only bad choices – pick the best one. My 2 cents on this particular issue of veterinary antibiotics.

(ex. Amoxfin.com AmoxFin) A controversial topic and the jury is still out on its risks. If you use it, there’s a potential for the infection you’re trying to cure to be beaten down temporarily and yet make a comeback, but with the added fun of antibiotic resistance. Personally, whilst I would rather go to the doctor for human grade medicine, I would rather use this than have nothing (if we’re talking about a situation where you can’t get help – again, prepper SHTF/TEOTWAWKI situations). Its easy to talk about the optimal solution when society’s still on it’s feet, but when there are only bad choices – pick the best one. My 2 cents on this particular issue of veterinary antibiotics. Ammonia Inhalant

(ex. Dynarex Ammonia Inhalants)

To deal with fainting and general lightheadedness – commonly referred to as respiratory stimulants.

(ex. Dynarex Ammonia Inhalants) To deal with fainting and general lightheadedness – commonly referred to as respiratory stimulants. Oral Rehydration Salts

(ex. TRIORAL – Oral Rehydration Salts ORS)

To deal with water absorption after diarrhea and fatigue after extreme physical exertion and stress (Electrolyte replacement).

(ex. TRIORAL – Oral Rehydration Salts ORS) To deal with water absorption after diarrhea and fatigue after extreme physical exertion and stress (Electrolyte replacement). Penicillin

Penicillin is the time tested reference for antibiotics. It fights bacteria in your body and its historical lineage means that information regarding side effects and dosage are easily available and thoroughly vetted after so many years of common usage. Be aware that some people are allergic to Penicillin based antibiotics. Hard to get in my neck of the woods without a script. Please note that even if you can get your hands on some – you should be aware of storage conditions.

2. Topical Supplies

3. Gastronomic Medicine

4. Pain & Inflammatory Medication

Situation Specific Kits

5. Cuts, Wounds & General Trauma Kit

Strongly advise having a mini version in a separate, easy to get location.

6. Diagnostic Kit

Thermometer

(ex. Veridian 08-352 60-second Digital Thermometer)

I know I am linking to an electronic device, and for those of you who don’t like having those around in case you’re in a SHTF situation with no power and where batteries are hard to replace, well you won’t be happy. Frankly, though, I find electronic thermometers far more accurate & easy to use than the alternative. Yes, long term it’s not ideal, so if you want to have a traditional/not electricity dependent option, then by all means. With that said, they are super inexpensive, more durable than the glass ones, and the battery life is pretty extreme, so I’d have one of these, too. I have one that has seen sporadic use, and it’s still rocking 3-4 years in. Only reason I got a new one is because I left pretty much all my kit in Canada and we recently moved and had to start from scratch.

(ex. Veridian 08-352 60-second Digital Thermometer) I know I am linking to an electronic device, and for those of you who don’t like having those around in case you’re in a SHTF situation with no power and where batteries are hard to replace, well you won’t be happy. Frankly, though, I find electronic thermometers far more accurate & easy to use than the alternative. Yes, long term it’s not ideal, so if you want to have a traditional/not electricity dependent option, then by all means. With that said, they are super inexpensive, more durable than the glass ones, and the battery life is pretty extreme, so I’d have one of these, too. I have one that has seen sporadic use, and it’s still rocking 3-4 years in. Only reason I got a new one is because I left pretty much all my kit in Canada and we recently moved and had to start from scratch. Stethoscope

(ex. Omron Sprague Rappaport Stethoscope)

With all diagnostic tools, you will need the relevant knowledge, not just to use them, but to accurately interpret the results. Definitely true of a stethoscope.

(ex. Omron Sprague Rappaport Stethoscope) With all diagnostic tools, you will need the relevant knowledge, not just to use them, but to accurately interpret the results. Definitely true of a stethoscope. Auriscope

(ex. Doctor Mom Original Pocket Otoscope)

Also known as an Otoscope. Very useful for identifying infections and compacted ear wax.

(ex. Doctor Mom Original Pocket Otoscope) Also known as an Otoscope. Very useful for identifying infections and compacted ear wax. Phygmomanometer

(ex. MDF Calibra Aneroid Sphygmomanometer Professional Blood Pressure Monitor)

Also known as a blood pressure monitor. The one linked is not dependent on electricity – something to think about.

(ex. MDF Calibra Aneroid Sphygmomanometer Professional Blood Pressure Monitor) Also known as a blood pressure monitor. The one linked is not dependent on electricity – something to think about. At-Home Diagnostic Kits

Talking really long term survival here. Allergy testing kits do have their place, though personally, I wouldn’t recommend them for your medical hoard. Yes, preppers would argue knowing if you have a nut allergy could save your life in a fractured society, but I would argue that you should know this before any sort of SHTF situation. Those kits are expensive (for the good ones) and I think the money is better spent elsewhere (especially in the trauma category), as I believe any SHTF situation would be temporary (up to 5-10 years) whilst society rebuilds. Humans are resilient after all. I only mention at-home diagnostic kits here because I see them being listed as a must-have on various forums and prepper blogs, and I felt the need to address this. I understand that a kid born into or growing up in a post collapse society would be at risk from shellfish, nuts, etc., but I think being cautious when introducing new foods (small amounts) that have common extreme reactions amongst those who are allergic to them is a perfectly adequate way of dealing with the threat.

7. Fracture Kit

SAM Splint

(ex. Dynarex First Aid Universal Aluminum Splint)

Universal splint. Much like a lot of the items on my list – this could be DIY’d, too, but I would prefer (in a high stress environment) to have the proper stuff available on hand without the need to tinker. The idea that I would turn to Elise who is immobilized with a fracture and say – “Give me a few darling. Gotta go gather some sticks and rig something up with duct tape,” is frankly madness.

(ex. Dynarex First Aid Universal Aluminum Splint) Universal splint. Much like a lot of the items on my list – this could be DIY’d, too, but I would prefer (in a high stress environment) to have the proper stuff available on hand without the need to tinker. The idea that I would turn to Elise who is immobilized with a fracture and say – “Give me a few darling. Gotta go gather some sticks and rig something up with duct tape,” is frankly madness. Sling

(ex. Medline Cool Mesh Arm Sling)

Yes, again, you could make your own, but the mesh ones are lovely – especially in hot weather. I speak from experience here.

(ex. Medline Cool Mesh Arm Sling) Yes, again, you could make your own, but the mesh ones are lovely – especially in hot weather. I speak from experience here. Orthopedic Cast Plaster

(ex. Dap Plaster of Paris Box Molding Material)

Yes, the one I linked to is not from a medical supplier, but I assure you, it’s the same stuff.

(ex. Dap Plaster of Paris Box Molding Material) Yes, the one I linked to is not from a medical supplier, but I assure you, it’s the same stuff. Plaster Splints

(ex. BSN Medical Specialist Plaster Splints X-Fast Setting)

Needs no description really. You could make a viable cast without them, but it would be risky.

(ex. BSN Medical Specialist Plaster Splints X-Fast Setting) Needs no description really. You could make a viable cast without them, but it would be risky. Cotton Undercast Padding

(ex. Webril 2059 Cotton Undercast Padding 3″ x 12′)

Needed to make a proper cast after you have reset the fracture. Despite what some online may tell you, this is not debatable in the real world, as comfort & adhesion require a bedding of undercast. Period.

8. Dental Kit

9. Surgical & Miscellaneous Supplies Kit

More First Aid Resources

It’s not just enough to have supplies on-hand when it comes to first aid. Having adequate knowledge is extremely important if there ever comes a time when you need to use your supplies to help heal or even save a life. Take a look at our list of the top 22 emergency & survival first aid books to get the medical knowledge you’d need from the most reputable sources.

Do you know how to tell if a cut is infected, whether to use Advil, Tylenol, or Aspirin, and how to quickly assess and address emergency situations? Did you know you can superglue cuts and that Imodium is an excellent tool for survival?

Got spare time? Check out all the first aid articles we have on this blog, to see if there’s anything valuable you’ve yet to learn on the topics we’ve written about.

Share Your First Aid Experiences & Advice

Do you have a first aid kit at home? Do you have one for work, travel, or anywhere else? What are the contents of your first aid kit?

Think you might add any of these items to your list now that you know about them or have been reminded about them?

Did I leave anything out of this list that really should be up here?

Have firsthand experience with an emergency situation where your first aid knowledge and supplies really helped you out?

Share your experiences and advice with us in the comments!