I've combined my first aid kit and survival kit (for outdoors; hiking, boating,etc.) into one unit. Really just added a small knife, flashlight, lighter and other essential to the FAK pouch.

Its about the size of a small paperback, so rides easily in a pack or cargo shorts pocket.

I have a tiny SAK for my FAK. It has scissors, red LED, and a pen. Keeps the kit small. I use a red pouch for the FAK and an orange one for the survival kit. I have a blue one for the water filter, a white one for the TP and soap etc.

I do the same. Stashing survival stuff in my FAK just seems like a no-brainer since it's the one piece of kit I can realistically seeing myself grabbing and running with.

My day pack always has a basic FAK plus what I term a "core bag," plus possibly other items. I could easily spend a night out using the contents of the core bag - about three pounds of tastefully chosen goodies.

Though a little more substantial, you are describing my EDC. I designed mine when an unexpected overnighter in Dallas was the norm.

Jeanette Isabelle

I'll bet there are substantial differences. I would not be at all happy spending a night in Dallas> I grew up there and was happy to leave for wilder country.

Anyway, here's what is in the core bag:

bivvy sac (bivouac d'urgence, per label)
AA headlamp (Zebralite, variable level)
two candles, in small tins
Esbit stove
three Esbit tabs
Suunto mc-2 compass (w/mirror)
AAA light (Fenix LD01)
spare AA & AAA batteries (lithium)
whistle
match case w/ stormproof matches (25)
small roll duct tape
small bottle hand sanitizer (cleanser & fire starter)
Bic lighter
20' mason twine
DR Mk 5 knife (sharp)
signal mirror
wetfire tabs
aluminum container w/handle (cooking, water purification)

On a typical day hike, I will also have at least one water bottle w/ metal cup, TP, topo map, cell phone, AAA light, PS4 MT, wallet, FAK, full brim hat, bandanna, and appropriate clothing,including at least one lightweight jacket w/hood - maybe another MT or knife, depending. I take food and snacks, enough for at least one unanticipated meal.

I have delved into all this gear on at least two recent occasions, although not for an overnighter. I have spent the night out with much less, but I would not want to make that a habit.

Your EDC will get you through a night outdoors. In my situation, I always had shelter even if there no water or electricity.

Jeanette Isabelle

I'm adding a printed contents list -- including what is not in the kit.
(e.g. no food included)

ANd the usual cash ($20-$100)

I did not think of it in such terms; the medical kit I'm customizing can be considered a comfort kit. After all, it has or will have everything I know how to use within its space restrictions.

Knowing that I have prepared for everything I can prepare for is a comfort.

Jeanette Isabelle