MERE First Responder First Aid Kit Review - Does It Live Up to the Hype?

First aid kits are one of those bits of gear you buy hoping you’ll never really need, but when you do, you want one that actually holds up when it matters most. On paper, the MERE First Responder First Aid Kit ticks a lot of boxes for everyday carry, hiking, car kits, or as part of a bug-out bag. But does it stand up to real scrutiny when you get hands-on with it? Today we take a closer look!

The first thing that stands out is the bag itself. It feels chunky and tough in the hand, with water-repellent nylon, decent stitching, and smart touches like the waterproof zip and MOLLE webbing all over the outside. There’s also a big Velcro panel for morale patches, with a large MERE First Aid patch already pre-attached.

One thing worth noting: the bright orange colour is very visible, which definitely helps in an emergency, but it’s a bit neon for my taste. If I were buying again, I’d probably choose the tactical looking black version, though you can’t argue with the logic of high-vis gear when you really need to find it fast.

MERE First Responder First Aid Kit Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Tough, water-repellent nylon construction

• MOLLE compatible, belt compatible, plenty of attachment points

• Generous Velcro panel for morale patches

• Well-stocked with quality essentials

• Rear access storage and internal elastic keep gear secure

• Good value for money

• MERE morale patch included

• Multiple colours available

• Local UK company

❌ Cons:

• Neon orange is practical but not for everyone

• Not fully waterproof - but neither are most first aid kits

UKSN Rating: ★★★ (3/4)

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Durability & Design

The First Responder First Aid Kit uses the MERE Responder Pouch Pro which is manufactured from durable water-repellent nylon to keep rain and splashes out. The waterproof zipper is another smart touch that helps keep all your gear dry and protected when its raining. Just be aware, there is a 'drainage' hole built into the bottom of the kit so should not be submerged in water.

Inside, the numerous pockets, and elasticated sections hold your supplies firmly in place, even when the kit gets knocked about. The rear access pocket is handy for tucking away gloves or a small dressing you want to grab quickly. A mini removable velcro pouch is also included which is super handy.

Size-wise (23H x 14W x 19L), it’s big enough to hold a good range of supplies, but compact enough to stay out of the way when attached to your gear. With MOLLE and belt compatibility, you can adapt it to whatever setup you carry, from a bug-out bag to vehicle kit.

What’s Inside?

When it comes to contents, the MERE First Responder Kit covers the basics well. You get reliable essentials for minor injuries and quick first aid: dressings, wipes, plasters, swabs, tape, a CPR shield, an emergency blanket, shears, a light stick for signalling, and more.

One standout is the pupil pen light, something you don’t often see in smaller kits and genuinely useful for quick checks when needed.

It’s worth mentioning that if you’re after a true IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit) for serious trauma response, this kit is missing a few core items like a tourniquet. But that’s not what this kit is designed for - it’s meant to cover everyday incidents and common emergencies. If you’re looking for something more advanced, MERE have you covered with a wide range of kits to suit different situations and budgets.

Everything inside is laid out well, so you’re not rummaging around when time matters. Compared to premium first aid kits like those from Survival, the MERE kit is much simpler, but covers what most people actually need, and for a fraction of the cost.

Contents List:

• CPR Face Shield

• First-Aid Guidance Leaflet

• Waterproof Plasters X20

• Triangular Bandage X2

• Foil Blanket (Civilian)

• Skin Closure Strip X5

• TraumaFix Dressing (10X18cm)

• Large Dressing

• Medical Tape

• Alcohol Wipes X10

• Sodium Chloride Pod X2

• Shears

• Emergency Light Stick

• Pupil Pen Light

• Non Woven Swab X10

• Eye Pad Dressing

• Burns Gel Sachet X2

• Gloves X2

• MERE Morale Patch

  
  

Price & Value

This is where the MERE First Responder Kit really proves itself. The Responder Pouch Pro bag on its own is £30, so for only £5.50 more you get a complete stocked first aid kit ready to go. Even if you just want a tough utility pouch, the full version is a smart buy that saves you the hassle of sourcing first aid bits separately.

Final Thoughts

The MERE First Responder First Aid Kit is a well-made, well-priced piece of gear that gives you a solid, adaptable pouch plus the basics to handle everyday emergencies.

The bag is the highlight here: durable, practical, with smart touches like the MOLLE, rear storage, waterproof zip, and big Velcro panel for your morale patches. The bright colour isn’t for everyone but it does its job when seconds matter. If you prefer a more low-key look, the black version is the obvious choice.

While there are more premium first aid kits out there, they cost a lot more. If you’re building a kit for your car, your hiking bag, or your a prepper with a B.O.B, this is a great way to get started without emptying your wallet.

UKSN Members Save 5% at MERE!

Did you know UKSN members get 5% off MERE first aid kits? If you didn't, you do now! To access our exclusive discount, simply visit the members area. A small saving on kit, that could make a big difference when you need it most.

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