Best IFAKs and Trauma Kits for Concealed Carry (2026)
Most concealed carriers will never fire their gun in self-defense, but anyone who spends time at the range, drives or is in public can end up first on scene at a serious injury. An IFAK or trauma kit puts bleeding-control supplies within reach while help is on the way.
This 2026 update replaces kits that are no longer sold, corrects inaccurate statistics from earlier versions of this page, and focuses on the supplies a trained layperson can actually use. Products were checked on October 27, 2026. Concealed Carry Society may earn a commission if you buy through our links. This page is general information, not medical training.
What Is an IFAK or Trauma Kit?
IFAK stands for Individual First Aid Kit: a compact kit focused on life-threatening bleeding and other immediate trauma. A “trauma kit” usually means the same thing, while a general first aid kit adds supplies for minor cuts, burns and sprains. Many commercial kits combine both.
Only carry what you are trained to use. Items such as sutures, needles and IV catheters do not belong in a layperson’s kit.
Why Carry One?
Uncontrolled bleeding can become fatal within minutes, often before EMS can arrive. That is the reason behind the national Stop the Bleed campaign, which teaches bystanders to apply pressure, pack wounds and use tourniquets. A range injury, a car crash or an active-threat event are all situations where a kit and basic training can matter.
What Should Be in an IFAK?
At minimum, a bleeding-control kit should include:
- A CoTCCC-recommended tourniquet such as the CAT Gen 7 (see our best tourniquets guide)
- Hemostatic or compressed gauze for packing wounds that cannot take a tourniquet
- A pressure (trauma) dressing
- Nitrile gloves
- Trauma shears
- Vented chest seals (a pair) for penetrating chest wounds
- A permanent marker to note the tourniquet time
Add minor-injury items (bandages, antiseptic wipes, burn gel) if the kit will also serve as everyday first aid. Keep the bleeding-control items together so you can find them fast.
Best Pre-Made IFAKs and Trauma Kits (2026)
| Kit | Best for |
|---|---|
| MyMedic TFAK | Compact trauma kit for the range, car or bag ($135.96) |
| MyMedic Sidekick | Belt/MOLLE IFAK pouch for minor injuries and severe bleeding ($74.95) |
| MyMedic MyFAK Mini | Small all-around first aid kit ($114.95) |
| MyMedic MyFAK | Larger first aid kit for a vehicle or home ($169.95) |
1. MyMedic TFAK
The TFAK is MyMedic’s “micro trauma kit,” designed with input from medical and firearms professionals for the range, hunting or a vehicle. MyMedic lists 23 supplies, a 50/50 tear-away panel for quick access and a size of about 8 x 6 x 4 inches (1 lb 12 oz). It comes in several colors; Black was out of stock on October 27, 2026.
2. MyMedic Sidekick
The Sidekick is an IFAK pouch built to carry on the move, for minor injuries and severe bleeding. MyMedic lists 65 supplies in the Pro version, a Hypalon MOLLE panel, a metal clip and extra space to customize. It can be used alone or added to a MyFAK.
3. MyMedic MyFAK Mini
The MyFAK Mini is the most compact of MyMedic’s MyFAK line, aimed at full first aid coverage in a small, storable kit. It is a good fit for a range bag or glovebox when paired with a dedicated tourniquet.
4. MyMedic MyFAK
The MyFAK is MyMedic’s flagship first aid kit, with a folding-page layout and both everyday and trauma supplies. It is too large for on-body carry but works well as a vehicle or home kit.
Check each kit’s contents list before buying. Confirm it includes a tourniquet you are trained on, or add a CAT Gen 7 tourniquet separately. MyMedic says it includes a free training course with several kits.
Where to Carry It
A large kit in the car is useful, but it is not on you. Many carriers keep a tourniquet on their person (ankle rig, belt pouch or pocket) and a fuller IFAK in a range bag, backpack or vehicle. Store kits out of direct sun and heat, and check expiration dates on hemostatic gauze and medications.
Get Trained
Gear without training is of limited use. Take a hands-on Stop the Bleed or similar class, and practice with a trainer tourniquet. Local ranges, hospitals and fire departments often host classes.
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between an IFAK and a first aid kit?
A: An IFAK focuses on life-threatening bleeding and trauma. A general first aid kit focuses on minor injuries. Many kits now combine both.
Q: Should I build my own IFAK or buy one?
A: Buying a kit is faster and ensures the contents fit the pouch. Building your own lets you choose a tourniquet and hemostatic gauze you have trained with. Either way, buy medical items from reputable sources to avoid counterfeits.
Q: Do I need training to use an IFAK?
A: Yes. Tourniquets, wound packing and chest seals all take practice. A Stop the Bleed class is a good starting point.
How we reviewed: kit details and prices come from MyMedic’s product pages, checked October 27, 2026. Earlier versions of this page recommended Echo Sigma trauma kits that are no longer sold at our retail partner, and included inaccurate statistics that have been removed. No new physical testing was done for this update.
