Now that the Summer season is here, many of us are getting ready for backcountry adventures. It is the perfect time to start constructing your ideal, light-weight first aid kit. Here are some tips for the kit!

Key considerations: 

• Common injuries happen commonly
• Bring items that have multi-use and hard to improvise

Bandages and Dressings:

• Adhesive bandages (various sizes) 
• Sterile non-stick gauze pads
• Adhesive tape
• Moleskin or blister pads

Antiseptics and Ointments:

• Antiseptic wipes
• Antibiotic ointment

Pain Relievers and Anti-inflammatories:

• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen: For pain relief and reducing inflammation.

Allergy Relief:

• Antihistamines
• Epi-Pen

Gastrointestinal Aids:

• Antidiarrheal medication
• Laxatives/Stool Softeners
• Antacids

Tools:

• Scissors/Trauma Shears or Multi-tool
• Tweezers:

Safety and Survival :

• Communication Device
• Safety pins
• Small mirror
• Duct tape 
• Trash Bag
• Compass/Map

Protection and Comfort:

• Hydrocortisone cream
• Lip balm with SPF
• Tecnu Whipes 
• Bug Spray 

Injury Management:

• Elastic bandage
• Triangle Bandage 
• SAM Spling

Personal Health:

• Disposable gloves
• CPR face shield

Personal:

• Prescription medications: Pack enough for the duration of your trip, plus a few extra days.
• Medical ID: If you have allergies or medical conditions, include a card with details.

Hydration:

• Oral rehydration salts
• Energy gel or glucose tablets
• Water disinfection tablets

If packed properly, all of these items can fit perfectly in a gallon size zip lock bag and condescende down into something that can fit in the palm of your hand. 

 

Happy Trails and Stay Safe Out there! 

 

If you want to learn more hands-on skill about Wilderness Medicine, join us for one of our Wilderness Life Support Courses for the Medical Professional or one of our WFA or WFR classes for the non-medical professionals!