First Aid & Survival
Being prepared is what keeps a small mishap from becoming a serious problem outdoors. Our first aid and survival range covers kits for every group size, from brands like Kiwi Camping and Wildtrak, plus the emergency essentials, blankets, beacons and fire-starting, that back you up in the backcountry.
Match your kit to your trip and group, and know how to use what is in it. Add backcountry survival items for remote trips, and check and restock before you head out. It is the gear you hope to never need and are very glad to have.
Want help building a kit? call into the Land & Sea concept store at 36 Pollen Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland for a hands on look, or shop online with fast, tracked delivery right across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about first aid & survival
How big a first aid kit do I need for my group?
Match the kit to the number of people and the length and remoteness of the trip. A couple on a day walk needs far less than a family on a week away or a group heading into the backcountry. Size up for bigger groups and longer or more remote trips.
What extra survival items should I carry in the backcountry?
Beyond first aid, consider a survival blanket, a whistle, a reliable fire-starter, a head torch with spare power, an emergency shelter or bivvy, and a means of calling for help. What you carry scales with how remote and committing the trip is.
What is a personal locator beacon (PLB) and do I need one?
A PLB sends an emergency distress signal with your location to rescue services, working where there is no phone coverage. For remote tramping, hunting or fishing beyond cell range it can be life-saving, and beacons can often be hired if you do not want to buy one.
How often should I check and restock my first aid kit?
Check it before every trip and restock anything used or expired, medications, dressings and antiseptics all have use-by dates. A kit is only useful if what is inside is present and in date, so a quick pre-trip check is a habit worth keeping.
What should a day-hike kit contain versus a base camp kit?
A day-hike kit is compact: plasters, a bandage, tape, antiseptic, pain relief, blister care and personal medication. A base camp kit can be larger and more comprehensive, covering more people and more scenarios. Carry the light kit on the move and keep the bigger one at camp.
Do I need anything specific for New Zealand conditions?
Yes, pack for the local hazards: insect repellent and anti-itch for sandflies, blister care for tramping, strong sunscreen and after-sun for our harsh UV, and warm layers or a survival blanket for fast weather changes. These NZ-specific extras get used on almost every trip.