What’s Actually in a Mission-Ready IFAK and Why It Matters.
IFAKs aren’t just checkboxes, they’re life-saving tools that need to perform when seconds count. Whether you're law enforcement, military, or a prepared civilian, your IFAK should be built on proven components, not filler.
Here’s a comprehensive 2025 checklist, based on what comes in most IFAK systems, along with insights into why each item earns its spot.
Included in Your IFAK Kit: The 2025 Essentials
Tourniquet Selection - Choose One
- Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T Gen 7) - Most Common
- SOF Tactical Tourniquet
- SWAT-T Tourniquet
Why It Matters: Tourniquets stop extremity hemorrhaging, the leading cause of preventable deaths in trauma. All three models are field-proven and easy to deploy under stressful situations.
1. ISRAELI Trauma Bandage
A multi-functional pressure dressing designed for large wounds. Known for its ability to wrap quickly and apply direct pressure—ideal for self-application or buddy-aid.
2. Vacuum-Sealed 12" Z-PAK Gauze
Compact and pre-folded for efficient wound packing. Designed for deep wounds and junctional hemorrhaging, especially when paired with a trauma dressing.
3. 3” x 24” QuikClot Hemostatic Gauze
Infused with kaolin to promote rapid clotting—"Stops the bleed 5x faster." Essential for life-threatening bleeding where standard gauze isn’t enough.
4. 2 Vented Hyfin Mini Chest Seals
Compact, twin-pack design for treating both entry and exit wounds. Vented seals reduce the risk of tension pneumothorax—critical for penetrating chest trauma.
5. Nasal Airway + Lubricant
Simple and effective airway adjunct for unconscious or semi-conscious patients. Helps maintain airway patency until higher-level care is available.
6. RTS Tactical Trauma Shears
Durable enough to slice through denim, gear, and seat belts. Engineered for fast exposure of wounds when every second matters.
7. Triage Marker
A Sharpie-style marker for noting tourniquet time, injury info, or patient details directly on skin, gear, or tape. Crucial for EMS continuity.
8. Hypoallergenic Nitrile Gloves
Two pairs minimum. Protects you and your patient from cross-contamination. Hypoallergenic and durable under high-stress use.
9. 3M Medical Tape
Reliable adhesive tape for securing bandages, NPAs, or even improvising quick fixes. Compact but critical.
10. Glow Stick
Low-profile illumination source for marking casualties or working in low light. Doesn’t compromise night vision or attract unwanted attention like a flashlight.
11. CPR Mask with 1-Way Valve
Protects both the responder and the patient during rescue breaths by preventing cross-contamination. The one-way valve allows for safe and hygienic CPR administration. Small, flat, and easy to carry, this item brings big value without taking up space.
Train With It. Don’t Just Carry It.
An IFAK is only as effective as the person using it.
- Practice with your tourniquet.
- Know where every item lives in your pouch.
- Replace expired components and used items.
Ready to Upgrade?
RTS Tactical’s IFAKs are built for the realities of modern response, from law enforcement to preparedness-minded civilians. Every kit is packed with mission-essential components (no fluff, no filler) just trauma-grade gear tested in real-world conditions. Whether you’re building out your duty belt, go-bag, or home readiness kit - RTS IFAKs deliver the speed, reliability, and performance that save lives when every second counts.
Explore RTS Tactical’s Variety of IFAK Pouches Today!
RTS Tactical Rapid Deploy Complete Belt-Mount IFAK - with CAT
RTS Tactical Rapid Deploy Mini Belt-Mount IFAK - with CAT
RTS Tactical Rapid Deploy IFAK