Backpacking First Aid Kit Checklist

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Backpacking is an ideal way to see the great outdoors and invigorate the spirit. Be prepared for accidents that may happen on your backpacking adventure by having first aid supplies on hand. Creating a checklist of the first aid kit supplies you may need ensures that you buy the essential items pertinent to your outdoor activity.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Snake-bite kit Mosquito repellent Sunscreen Gauze pads Medical tape Adhesive bandages Antiseptic ointment Alcohol wipes Cortisone cream Tweezers EpiPen Sling Stretchy bandage Roll of gauze bandage Instant icepack Pain reliever Antihistamine ointment Thermometer Triple antibiotic cream Latex disposable gloves
Snake-bite kit
Mosquito repellent
Sunscreen
Gauze pads
Medical tape
Adhesive bandages
Antiseptic ointment
Alcohol wipes
Cortisone cream
Tweezers
EpiPen
Sling
Stretchy bandage
Roll of gauze bandage
Instant icepack
Pain reliever
Antihistamine ointment
Thermometer
Triple antibiotic cream
Latex disposable gloves

Step 1

Create a list of the places you will visit while you are backpacking. You will base your first aid kit supplies on your destination and the unique elements found there. Are you going backpacking in deep woods, the desert, a coastal region or rugged terrain?

Step 2

Note that each destination requires a modification of first aid supplies--a snake-bite kit for the desert; mosquito and tick repellent for the woods; sunscreen for coastal regions; gauze pads, medical tape and adhesive bandages for tending blisters while navigating rugged terrain.

Step 3

Include on your checklist first aid supplies for insect bites and stings such as antiseptic ointment, alcohol wipes, cortisone cream and tweezers. Should any member of your party be allergic to bee stings (hymenoptera venom), an EpiPen (Epinephrine) for anaphylaxis should be included on your supply checklist.

Step 4

Pack a sling, a roll of stretchy bandage, rolls of gauze bandage, an instant icepack and pain reliever/fever reducer for strains and sprains. Pack antihistamine ointment for topical relief for allergic skin reactions and a thermometer. Disposable latex gloves are essential items to pack to protect you from body fluids.

Tips & Warnings

Take a cell phone with you; it may end up being your lifeline to emergency help.

Avoid backpacking in areas prone to flash flooding, especially box canyons.

Article Written By Victoria Ries

Victoria Ries is a freelance writer whose work has been published in various print magazines, including "Guideposts," "BackHome," New Homesteading" and "Mother Earth News." Ries enjoys working on diverse topics such as travel, animal rescue, health and home business. Ries is currently working on her B.A. in psychology.

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