Field Notebook: Portable Preservation & First-Aid Kit — A 2026 Re-Test for Heritage Teams

Field Notebook: Portable Preservation & First-Aid Kit — A 2026 Re-Test for Heritage Teams

Hook: We re-tested the classic portable preservation kit in 2026 to reflect advances in materials and refined field procedures. This field notebook summarises what to include now and why.

Kit Essentials — 2026 Edition

Updated essentials include:

• acid-free wraps and microfibre padding;
• small humidity-stable pouches and indicators;
• stabilisation putty in resealable blocks;
• portable desiccant sachets and re-usable humidity trays;
• a compact, tamper-evident chain-of-custody set and labelled evidence bags.

For detailed guidance and hands-on notes, conservation teams often consult the field-tested review at Portable Preservation & First-Aid Kit (2026 Hands-On Review).

Procedural Updates

Key procedural changes since earlier editions are:

1. document context first, then move object;
2. standardise minimal metadata capture on-device to avoid later disputes (see privacy-first capture guidance);
3. use microgrants to pay community stewards for initial handling and reporting.

Packing and Transport

Use modular cases with labelled compartments. Avoid overpacking; leave breathing space for items that may off-gas. Cross-reference portable preservation kits with pop-up toolkit reviews to combine display and conservation needs.

Training & Volunteer Onboarding

Short, practical sessions on kit use and metadata capture reduce long-term errors. Provide laminated checklists and offline installer packages that include standard forms and label templates (see offline toolchain reviews for packaging best practices).

Concluding Notes

2026 kits are compact but more specialised. Prioritise consumables that preserve context, and make digital capture minimal, consented and local. The field notebook approach ensures teams learn and adapt quickly.