Hiking First Aid kit essentials

Among the 10 essential things you need on a day hike one of the most important is a well-stocked first aid kit. While you can easily find pre-packaged first aid kits in outdoor and travel stores, it is highly recommended to customize your kit based on your personal needs and the type of hike you're planning.

Personalizing your hiking first aid kit helps you become familiar with its contents, understand how to use each item, and keep track of expiration dates. This not only increases your preparedness in case of an emergency, but also ensures you’re carrying only what is relevant and necessary.

Below is a list of basic items to include in your personal first aid kit for day hikes, covering minor injuries, blisters, and other common trail issues.

• Plasters / bandages in a variety of different sizes and shapes (2 of each size)

• Medical / duct tape

• A set of medical gloves

• Antiseptic or alcohol wipes (4) for cleaning wounds

• Butterfly closure strips (2)

• Safety pins (2)

• ​Hemostatic gauze to stop bleeding

• A roll of sterilized, non-stick gauze to treat larger wounds

• Gauze pads

• Elastic wrap to treat strains and sprains

• After bite wipes or gel for insect bites or plant stings

• A small size tube with antibiotic ointment

• A pair of tweezers - for splinter or stinger or tick removal

• Moleskin to prevent blisters

• Alcohol based sanitizing gel

• A multi tool - e.g. Swiss Army knife

• Pocket mask for CPR

• A small whistle

• Space blanket – to preserve body heat

• Lighter or a small box of matches

• A small card listing emergency contact and any important personal medical information

• A variety of medical tablets: Anti-inflammatory (2 tablets), pain relievers (2 tablets), antihistamine in case of allergic reactions (4 tablets), aspirin (2 tablets), Imodium for diarrhea relief (2 tablets)

• Any prescribed medications in a labelled bag

• Personal items - for example, I wear contact lenses, so I always have an extra pair with me and eyedrops

• Electrolyte replacement powder

It is important to note the following:

• Adjust the kit based on your needs, the number of people you are responsible of and the length /days of your hike.

• Check your first aid kit regularly to replace used items

• Medicines should always have labels and check them consistently to make sure they're within their expiry date

• I strongly encourage you to join a First Aid course to gain the knowledge and confidence to deliver assistance in the event of an emergency

• Since your first aid kit will be with you during hikes and all seasons make sure you choose a water-resistant, drop-proof bag

• If you are planning to travel for hiking, you will be experiencing different hygiene levels, perhaps limited access to medical aid and different health hazards (i.e. altitude, insects etc). Make sure to research before your trip and get any additional medication necessary.

I hope you found this post helpful and always be prepared before each hike. Stay safe and enjoy your adventures! Feel free to share with me your comments or any questions you might have!