Affordable DIY First Aid and Health Supplies

When you venture into the wilderness, preparing for minor injuries or health issues is crucial. First aid and health supplies are key elements of any survival kit, ensuring that you’re able to address cuts, scrapes, burns, and other common medical concerns that arise during outdoor adventures. While accidents can happen, being well-equipped to deal with them quickly can prevent minor injuries from escalating into serious problems.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best affordable DIY first aid and health supplies for your outdoor survival kit, how to use them effectively, and key tips for maintaining your health and safety while exploring the great outdoors.

Why First Aid and Health Supplies Are Essential for Survival

When you’re far from civilization, medical help might not be immediately available. Having a well-stocked first aid kit enables you to treat injuries on the spot, reducing the risk of infection or further damage. Health supplies such as insect repellent, sunscreen, and hydration aids are also essential for preventing environmental hazards like dehydration, sunburn, or insect bites, which can quickly turn a fun trip into a difficult situation.

With some careful planning and a few affordable DIY solutions, you can assemble a comprehensive first aid kit without spending a fortune.

Key Components of a Bushcraft First Aid Kit

When choosing a first aid kit for bushcraft, it’s important to ensure it contains all the essential items for treating common outdoor injuries. Here are the must-have components for a beginner’s bushcraft first aid kit:

Bandages and Dressings: Adhesive bandages, gauze pads, and medical tape for treating cuts, blisters, and minor wounds.
Antiseptic Wipes and Ointments: For cleaning wounds and preventing infections.
Tweezers and Scissors: Useful for removing splinters, cutting bandages, or trimming damaged skin.
Pain Relief Medications: Basic over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or aspirin for pain management.
Burn Treatment: Gel or ointment to soothe minor burns, which are common when working with fires.
CPR Mask and Gloves: For providing first aid while protecting yourself from bodily fluids.
Emergency Items: Items like a whistle, emergency blanket, or survival guide can be invaluable in emergencies.

Top Affordable DIY First Aid and Health Supplies

Here are some budget-friendly items to include in your outdoor first aid and health kit. These supplies are versatile, compact, and affordable, making them essential for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists alike.

1. Adhesive Bandages

Cost: $1 to $5 per pack
Why they’re essential: Adhesive bandages are your first line of defense for minor cuts, scrapes, or blisters. They protect wounds from dirt and infection while promoting healing.
Key functions:
- Covering minor cuts and scrapes
- Preventing blisters from forming on your feet during long hikes
- Providing a barrier against infection
Pro tip: Carry a variety of sizes, including small bandages for minor cuts and larger ones for blisters or bigger wounds.

2. Sterile Gauze Pads and Medical Tape

Cost: $3 to $7
Why they’re essential: Gauze pads are perfect for treating larger wounds that bandages can’t cover. When combined with medical tape, they provide breathable protection and allow the wound to heal properly.
Key functions:
- Dressing larger cuts, scrapes, or burns
- Applying pressure to control bleeding
- Absorbing fluids from wounds
Pro tip: Look for multi-packs that include gauze pads of various sizes. Make sure to also carry hypoallergenic medical tape for sensitive skin.

3. Antiseptic Wipes and Ointment

Cost: $2 to $5
Why they’re essential: Preventing infection is a top priority when treating wounds in the wild. Antiseptic wipes and ointment help to sterilize cuts and scrapes, reducing the risk of bacterial infections.
Key functions:
- Cleaning wounds before dressing them
- Preventing infections in cuts, scrapes, or blisters
- Soothing minor burns or insect bites
Pro tip: Include individually wrapped antiseptic wipes in your kit for easy and mess-free wound cleaning. Neosporin or a similar antibacterial ointment is lightweight and highly effective.

4. Tweezers and Safety Pins

Cost: $2 to $4
Why they’re essential: Tweezers are an invaluable tool for removing foreign objects like splinters or ticks, while safety pins can be used to secure bandages or even make temporary repairs to gear or clothing.
Key functions:
- Removing splinters, ticks, or debris from wounds
- Securing bandages in place
- Repairing torn clothing or gear in emergencies
Pro tip: Choose fine-point tweezers, as they are more effective at removing splinters or tiny debris. Safety pins are incredibly versatile, so bring a variety of sizes.

5. Elastic Bandage (Ace Wrap)

Cost: $3 to $6
Why it’s essential: An elastic bandage is key for immobilizing sprains, reducing swelling, and supporting injured joints. It’s also great for creating pressure dressings to control bleeding.
Key functions:
- Supporting sprained ankles, wrists, or knees
- Reducing swelling in injured areas
- Applying compression to wounds to stop bleeding
Pro tip: Opt for self-adhering elastic bandages that don’t require clips or pins to stay in place. They’re easy to use and stay secure even during movement.

6. Pain Relief Medication (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen)

Cost: $1 to $5
Why it’s essential: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are critical for managing pain from injuries, as well as reducing inflammation and fever.
Key functions:
- Relieving pain from sprains, strains, or minor injuries
- Reducing swelling or inflammation
- Treating headaches, fevers, or muscle aches
Pro tip: Keep a small supply of each type of pain reliever in your kit, as ibuprofen is better for inflammation, while acetaminophen is gentler on the stomach.

7. Moleskin for Blisters

Cost: $4 to $7
Why it’s essential: Moleskin is a lifesaver when it comes to preventing and treating blisters, especially during long hikes. It reduces friction between your skin and shoes, allowing blisters to heal faster.
Key functions:
- Protecting blister-prone areas of your feet
- Reducing friction to prevent new blisters
- Cushioning existing blisters to reduce pain
Pro tip: Pre-cut your moleskin into shapes that can easily cover common blister spots like heels and toes.

8. Sunscreen and Lip Balm with SPF

Cost: $3 to $10
Why it’s essential: Sun protection is vital in the outdoors, even on cloudy days. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause sunburns, skin damage, and even heatstroke.
Key functions:
- Preventing sunburn and skin damage
- Protecting lips from chapping and sunburn
- Reducing the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration
Pro tip: Look for waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Choose a lip balm with at least SPF 15 for all-around sun protection.

9. Insect Repellent

Cost: $5 to $10
Why it’s essential: Insects like mosquitoes and ticks are not only annoying, but they can also carry diseases like Lyme disease or West Nile virus. Insect repellent helps protect you from bites and the potential health risks they bring.
Key functions:
- Preventing mosquito and tick bites
- Reducing the risk of insect-borne illnesses
- Keeping flies, gnats, and other pests at bay
Pro tip: DEET-based repellents are effective but can be harsh on the skin. Natural alternatives like lemon eucalyptus oil also provide protection with fewer side effects.

10. Emergency Blanket

Cost: $2 to $5
Why it’s essential: An emergency blanket is a lightweight, compact item that can be used to treat hypothermia, cover wounds, or create makeshift shelter. It reflects body heat, helping you stay warm in cold or damp conditions.
Key functions:
- Treating hypothermia by conserving body heat
- Creating shelter from the wind or rain
- Acting as a makeshift bandage or sling
Pro tip: Always carry at least one emergency blanket in your first aid kit. It’s affordable, easy to pack, and has multiple uses beyond just warmth.

Essential First Aid Techniques for Outdoor Survival

Having the right supplies is crucial, but knowing how to use them properly can make all the difference. Here are some essential first aid techniques you should practice before heading out:

1. Treating Cuts and Scrapes

Clean the wound with an antiseptic wipe, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover with an adhesive bandage or sterile gauze. Change dressings regularly to prevent infection.

2. Managing Sprains and Strains

Use an elastic bandage to wrap the injured joint snugly, applying compression to reduce swelling. Elevate the injured limb and take pain relievers like ibuprofen to minimize discomfort.

3. Blister Prevention and Care

Prevent blisters by using moleskin or adhesive bandages on friction-prone areas. If a blister forms, cover it with moleskin or a bandage to protect it from further irritation.

4. Treating Burns

For minor burns, cool the area with water, apply an antiseptic ointment, and cover with a sterile gauze pad. If the burn is more severe, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

5. Addressing Dehydration

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. If you suspect dehydration, rest in a cool, shaded area and slowly rehydrate with water or electrolyte solutions.

Final Thoughts: Affordable DIY First Aid and Health Supplies for Outdoor Adventures

A well-stocked first aid kit is an essential part of any survival kit, ensuring you can treat injuries, prevent infections, and stay healthy in the wilderness. By including affordable, multi-purpose supplies like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and elastic bandages, you can handle a wide range of medical issues without breaking the bank.

Learning how to properly use these supplies is just as important. Take the time to familiarize yourself with basic first aid techniques, so you can act quickly and effectively in case of an emergency.