ace bandage vs athletic tape?

I have created an ultralight first aid kit that consists of 2 gauze pad packages, athletic tape, a couple 1 time use neosporin straw capsule things I made, several pre cut moleskin, assorted pills 4 each, claritin, benadryl, aleve, imodium, and thats about it. I figure I can use the athletic tape with gauze for cuts, I use the athletic tape with moleskin to keep it in place.

What I am wondering is can I use the athletic tape like an ace bandage to apply compression to a sprain to stop swelling? The athletic tape has been universal in applications and I think I can eliminate the need of an ace bandage? Also any essentials I am missing from my first aid kit?

Yes, you can, but it takes a LOT of athletic tape. Gives better mechanical support than an Ace bandage, too.

Cheers,