If you like hiking and backpacking on the trails and spending some time away from civilization, you’ll need to have a first-aid kit by your side. It’s one of the essentials that should always be carried when you’re taking a hike and it’s especially important that you pack one for an overnight camping trip. The kit should include some items that would be used regularly, such as bandages and pain relievers along with other items that would be useful in a critical emergency.
The size of the kit would all depend on how many people will be hiking and the length of the trip. You can either build your own or you can purchase one that has been pre-packaged at a local hiking store. If you’re buying a prepackaged type, you’ll need to add certain medications on a case-by-case basis. For example, if you or someone in your backpacking group has allergies, you may need to bring along allergy medication and an EpiPen.
First-Aid Kit for Hiking
Here are some of the items that should be included in your first-aid kit:
- Bandages
- Butterfly closures
- Dressing pads
- Gauze roll
- Adhesive tape
- Small knife
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Cotton swabs
- Safety pins
- Malleable splint
- Thermometer
- Antiseptic wipes
- Antibiotic cream
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Pain relievers
- Antihistamines
- After Bite
- Rehydration salts
- Sterile gloves
Also, if you spend a lot of time out in the wilderness, it’s a good idea to take a first-aid course sooner than later. Should an emergency situation arise, your skills will prove to be valuable. You’ll also understand injury management and will have a better understanding of treatment options for stings, bites and other common outdoor injuries. Find out more about our first-aid courses and when one will be available in your area by visiting our site today at www.heart2heartCPR.com.