Good points, but I'm not too sure if i agree with you 100% - practical knowlage is extremely important, yet the gear that you use to apply that knowlage is also important.

I have been pondering over the use of small band-aids (and a lot o other equipment) in a PSK. I still don't know the answers to many of my questions, so i will continue to carry what other people (experts?) suggest. Untill i can answer these personal question, I would rather carry something that i probably want NEED, than not have it when I need it.

Quote" <<Do you actually know when to take these medications?>>

Yes I do. I have a level 3 first aid qualification, I have 350+ hours of experience in varied environments, I come from a medical family and often our supper time conversations include "wilderness medicine/first aid" (I get my love of the outdoors from my father).

Quote: <<If you took a wrong turn and got lost, and while trying to attract someone's attention you fall and gash your leg, do you really want to improvise a sterile dressing from a shirt you've been wearing for five days?>>

No, but I also can't carry a a sterile dressing that size. I can carry a small bit of moleskin to treat blister on feet which could fester and become infected if not treated. If you can't use your feet properl;y in a survival sitution i'd think your chances odf survival diminsh greatly.

Quote: <<Basically, your body is trying to heal itself; do what you can to assist it.>>

I agree. How can you help your body heal itself? By apllying you knowlage and using the equipment you have with you. You cannot carry a fully equipped jump-bag with you when you go hiking. but you still can carry minimal gear in a small first aid kit. Your first aid kit will also be adapted to the anticipated environment.

quote: <<Maybe, instead of simply listing every OTC medicine you think you might need, ask yourself "What's the worst that can happen to me if I take this? What's the worst that can happen if I leave it behind?">>

The point of this thread is to discuss exactly that.

I hope I don't sound like I am attacking you, because I most definantly am not. Just a difference in opinions.